I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1999 in a mid-life career switch, bringing 30 years of life experiences and lessons to the table. During and since those defining student years, I have worked across several realms of therapeutic, and social work practice, including community mental health, non-profit program management, hospice, and grief counseling.  Throughout these diverse settings, a common thread emerged for me:  fellow humans in emotional, physical, and/or spiritual pain, who are hoping –or trying to summon up hope– for something better. 

As a social worker, I look through the lens of bio-psycho-social-spiritual or person-in-environment.  In other words, each person is unique in how he/she is shaped by genetics, life experiences, and beliefs, and the way he/she has learned and chosen to respond to the world, people, and society.  Counseling can be thought of as a unique conversation, with opportunities for growth, problem-solving, gaining insight and new perspective, and ultimately feeling better.  Whether a person is stuck in a personal crisis of identity or conscience, an unhealthy habit or dependence, an untenable living situation, a major life decision, or relationship strains or battles… grappling with mental health challenges… or making his or her way through the dying or death of a family member or friend, there is hope for a better chapter ahead.   I consider it a privilege to work with people in their respective journeys, wherever they might find themselves.

After sixteen years in the Tampa Bay area, I relocated a few years ago to Brevard.  While continuing to provide online tele-therapy for Floridians, I have enjoyed being in the mountains of Western North Carolina and serving the community of Transylvania County.