About

I began my clinical social work practice at a community mental health center in 1986. From there, I moved into the field of pain management, then worked in an inpatient/outpatient psychiatric unit. This led to an opportunity to work in the field of Employee Assistance Programming, and after a consultation experience with Central MI University I was invited to apply for a faculty position. I enjoyed this appointment up until the present time, providing counseling services to students and supervising the internships of several graduate students at the university. I am also an adjunct faculty member at Grand Valley State University.
My approach to counseling is simple. Social work education stresses the importance of a therapeutic relationship- supportive, non-judgmental, focusing on my clients strengths and working at establishing clarity regarding what changes they would most like to make in their lives. I emphasize the value of self care, accessing support from trusted family and friends, and self compassion during the change process.

No Shows/cancelations: I try to be flexible and understand that occasionally life gets in the way of our plans. I hope that subscribers understand there is a strong demand for counseling visits at this time. After a second no show for a scheduled visit I typically check in and see if there is scheduling concern that can be remedied. If there is a third no show I typically refer subscribers back to the platform for a different provider.
If there are three cancelled visits, I follow the same procedure- a check in to see about scheduling conflicts, or perhaps suggest a hiatus from therapy or again, a referral.