My Background
I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science – Psychology from Mount Mary University in 2001 and my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Marquette University in 2004. I am dually licensed and board certified as both a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
My Philosophy
After graduating with my BA in behavioral science/psychology, I had to figure out what my focus was going to be for graduate school. My first thought was that I really wanted to work with people. I am so glad that I chose counseling because the greatest joy I get from my work is seeing clients become happier, lighter, more confident, less worried and more optimistic about their future. If there is one thing I know for sure after years of working with clients experiencing significant issues within their lives, everyone has the capacity to heal and to change. You are not broken. You are not damaged. There is nothing wrong with you. Things really can get significantly better. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and everything that goes along with these conditions does not need to define you or your life. You have the capacity for healing and change, and that is what I am here to help with.
I utilize the important connection between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to help individuals gain a better understanding of themselves and their reactions, deepen their understanding of how past experiences may affect the present, and help them confront these challenges so that they may reduce self-defeating patterns and develop healthier life habits.
More about Me
I was born in Wisconsin, and although it is a beautiful state with wonderful people, my own happiness called for me to move to year-round sun and warmth. During my free time I enjoy anything having to do with the arts, family and friends, animals, being near the water, spending time outdoors, and traveling to places where I am able to meet new people and learn about interesting cultures.
Notable Training Experiences
Solution-Focused Therapy – I have had years of instruction and consultation in SFT with Eve Lipchik, one of the original core members of the Brief Family Therapy Center in Milwaukee Wisconsin; the creators of Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
EMDR – EMDR Training Level I and Level II through the EMDR Institute, founded by Dr. Francine Shapiro, the originator and developer of EMDR. I was trained by Roger Solomon and Roy Kiessling. I am an EMDRIA Certified EMDR therapist.
Licenses
MH15819 LMHC Florida
3823-125 LPC Wisconsin
Board Certified – National Board for Certified Counselors
Professional Affiliations
EMDRIA – The EMDR International Association
ACA – The American Counseling Association