I am originally from Bennington, Vermont. I have worked with children for the great majority of my life beginning as a camp counselor when I was a teen. As an adult I became a childcare provider before returning to college. In college I majored in Human Services and Education/Early Childhood Education and worked as a peer tutor/counselor. After graduation, I traveled to American Samoa where I taught elementary school for two years.

 

I returned to Vermont and opened the only independent therapeutic foster care home in the State of Vermont. We provided residential care for difficult adolescents and sex-offending youth. 

 

A career move brought me to Wildwood, Florida at which time I returned to University to attain my Masters of Social Work. I had the time of my life going to school with so many wonderful young people so full of energy and life! I sat for licensure two years later and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

I am active in The National Association of Social Workers and a past Chairperson of the Lake/Sumter Chapter. I was awarded Social Worker of the Year for 2008.

 

As a professional Social Worker I worked for many years with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I specialize in women's issues, expressive therapy for youngsters,  and adolescents struggling with the stressors of independence and impending adulthood.

 

I use an eclectic mix of treatment modalities. I work from a humanistic stance which places therapist and client on a level field of interaction.  I focus on helping people find solutions to problems and learning to appreciate the positives and beauty in their lives through mindfulness and awareness.