I have an RN degree from Providence Hospital School of Nursing. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Health Behavior Science, and a Master’s degree in Counseling from Oakland University. Prior to entering the counseling field, I was a nurse for 25 years. I became a professional mental health counselor to round out my interpersonal nursing skills, in order to help my patients manage their emotions as they encountered physical problems. This makes me uniquely suited to provide therapy for those with chronic illness, as well medical field related stresses.
Many life challenges and transitions are difficult, creating feelings of hopelessness and fatigue. Both physical and emotional reactions are common when dealing with psychological distress. My background in nursing combined with counseling allows me the unique ability to guide in navigating the interplay between the emotional and physiological responses and symptoms that often accompany psychological distress.
My clients in the medical field benefit from my unique understanding and connection to their world and their very specific struggles.
I specialize in helping adults in mid-life and older adults in their life transitions. I have extensive training and experience in the area of profound grief and loss. I am a certified grief threapist and educator, and I am the practice liaison for various suicide loss groups and organizations. Additionally, I facilitate a monthly suicide loss support group.
My approach to therapy is eclectic and humanistic, combining strengths-based, cognitive behavioral and compassionate mindfulness.
Each person comes into counseling with their own set of skills and behaviors that have served them in the past. Working together as a team, we can identify and modify problematic behaviors to better serve your current needs. In the area of grief and loss, I walk with my clients, joining them in their process of learning to live with their loss. I will help you set intentions and take the steps necessary to work through whatever challenge you are facing.
Areas of Specialization for adults struggling with: