Each day presents many challenges and joys. Through my own experience in life & therapy, I have learned (and keep learning) to ride the waves of emotions fully and presently, knowing that the intensity of each moment will peak and fall. Like the children’s book, “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” says, “we can’t go over it, can’t go under it, can’t go around it, we have to go through it!” Regular mindfulness practice helps me stay present with feelings as they are, rather than resisting the bad ones, and clinging to the good ones. This practice reduces my day-to-day stress, and increases my clarity and effectiveness in working with clients.  Mindfulness is one of many interventions that I teach and encourage clients to use to manage the many emotions in life.

I have been working in the counseling and social work field for 20 years.  As an experienced therapist I help adults with a wide range of concerns including: addictions, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, relationships, and post-partum anxiety/depression.  I will help you mindfully discover your relationship to your self, others, and the world. 

My background includes a Master's Degree in Social Work — I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan.  I also hold a post-graduate certificate in meditation and psychotherapy from the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy.

I have participated in leading meditation groups through the Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness, and highly endorse their services.  Check them out at http://grandrapidscenterformindfulness.com. I was a volunteer advocate for the YWCA Sexual Assault Program for over five years:  http://www.ywcawcmi.org. I also led General Anxiety Groups at the Anxiety Resource Center: www.anxietyresourcecenter.org.  

Mindfulness is a state of active, open attention on the present. When you're mindful, you observe your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them good or bad. Instead of letting your life pass you by, mindfulness means living in the moment and awakening to experience.