About

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor licensed in the state of North Carolina. I have been practicing for almost 30 years. During my RN student rotation at a psychiatric hospital, I found my passion. Following graduation, I went to work at that hospital and stayed, as the Director of Crisis/Admissions for almost 19 years. I also became a Licensed Professional Counselor during this time.
Shortly after the Iraq war escalated, I was hired at Camp Lejeune MCB where I spent the last twelve years working with the wounded, ill and injured at the Wounded Warrior Battalion as a Licensed Clinical Consultant. My work included intake assessments, crisis counseling, consultation with other disciplines and psycho-education. I retired in September 2021 and am currently a consultant for Apogee Solutions, Inc in Chesapeake, Va.
In my counseling approach, I view anxiety (both developmental and traumatic) as the catalyst for toxic thoughts and behavior. I teach my clients about the Default Mode Network (past and future ruminations that make up 85% of our thought processes) and incorporate a therapeutic approach that recognizes the DFN and utilizes techniques which are intended to slow or stop these thoughts. The use of mindfulness and meditation becomes central to this approach. I anticipate the next “new wave” approach to therapy will include currently outlawed substances (MDMA, psilocybin, ketamine, cannabis,etc) and I am able to address questions and concerns with clients who may express interest in pursuing this course of treatment