About

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 32 years, graduating from a school of social welfare . I hold an undergraduate degree in Psychology. I am married and have two college age Children. I currently work in an urban Community Mental Health setting helping people with mental health issues,(diagnosed with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Personality disorders)as well as issues with major life stressors and relationship issues. I am the Assistant Director supervising 13 clinicians, and I have a caseload myself. Prior to being promoted in 2000 I was a full time therapist. I also have experience working at the local Correctional Facility, and at our County Social Services Department. I have dealt with all kinds of people and a variety of issues.

I am open minded and do not judge people for their actions, believing respect for everyone is very important no matter what their background or current circumstances. I also believe in the safety of the therapeutic relationship, allowing people to experience their feelings without judgments or fear of ridicule.

Grief and loss are common issues, along with depression, anxiety, vocational issues, stress and especially relationship issues( which can cause distress). I also try to motivate people to be healthy, reach out to people and feel better about themselves. I have some experience with addictions and how they get in the way of people reaching their goals. I have an eclectic approach using Motivational Interviewing, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which can include homework that works to examine and change thoughts and feelings), Person Centered , Problem Solving and Supportive Therapy. My approach is supportive and I start where the person is. I work hard to create a safe environment where people can feel free to express themselves. I am also accessible, allowing daily contact when needed or wanted.

I have also been trained on helping people with smoking cessation. Therapy along with working with a prescriber for nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can be very effective for quitting.

I do operate from a strength based position. I am going to help highlight what is going well and build on that. Many people don't realize they have strengths or what things are going well. I also like to set small goals that lead to bigger changes. I like to use work sheets and homework as appropriate. You are always part of this decision making process as this is your treatment.

I know it can be hard to reach out for help, but making positive changes in your life can only help. I want you to reach the goals you set for yourself. I look forward to helping you through this process. Please also note, I may respond more than once a day, but on occasion, I may not answer until the next day. It does not mean I do not want contact with you, it means I am thinking about the appropriate answer to your question/issue. one last thing. If at any point you feel that you no longer need/want services or will be unable to continue, please don't hesitate to let me know ahead of time so that we can bring things to a close when we need to.

Of note, . I have a lot of experience with bipolar, depression, relationship issues, stress and anxiety as well as others. Please talk to me about your particular issue before you decide if I have the experience you are looking for. Welcome and I look forward to working together!

**I do not provide letters for Social Security, Therapy animals, Court, Motor Vehicles or employment or other types of letters. so if you are seeking treatment/therapy/counseling for those reasons, please seek out another counselor****