About

My purpose in counseling is to provide a holistic approach to wellness, using art, movement, education, counseling, and inner healing to those of all ages suffering from emotional, mental health, or substance use disorders - especially, but not limited to, victims of childhood neglect and abuse, human trafficking, military combat experience, and/or other forms of trauma. I am down-to-earth and I give you my full attention and active listening skills, focusing on your unique perspectives and experiences without making assumptions or judgements. Once we discuss together and determine what goals you would like to achieve in therapy, we choose the best approach. Since I am trained in several psychological approaches, such as, client-centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, EMDR and more, you will find an approach that fits your needs. Therapy is fluid and differing approaches may be better suited for each treatment goal. I have a great deal of hope, compassion, and understanding to offer with a wide and varied array of life experiences, education, and tools from which to draw.
Before I became a counselor, I attended Penn State and worked in the steel mills of Western PA on summer breaks. When my parents divorced, I dropped out of school and joined the military and completed my undergraduate degree. I served for four years in the US Navy as a Chinese Linguist assigned to the National Security Agency. After that, I programmed computers for John Hopkins Applied Physics Lab. My work history also includes providing administrative assistance in differing marketplaces and educational institutions. I completed my Master's degree through a graduate assistantship while raising three girls as a single mother. After completing ministry school in NC, I was a singles and evangelism pastor for a short time until I met and married my husband. I've been married now for 19 years and have raised a blended family of 7 children who are all grown. This is why I believe in your resiliency and your ability to overcome the hardships in which you find yourself. I am very invested in your wellness. Though at times you may think that nothing will improve, you've made a really important first step in the right direction by choosing Find A Therapist. And I hope to use all of my experience and education toward understanding where you are while helping you move forward and achieve your counseling goals.