MA, MCAP

The philosophy I see the world through is that we are all humans trying to navigate this experience we call life. I believe we are doing the best we can at any given moment with the skills and knowledge we have available to us at that moment. Having grace toward ourselves and others and remembering we are not alone in our human experience can lessen the shame and guilt so we can shift into having a new experience.

Initially, I was inspired to join this field after listening to newly recovered addicts share the suffering they had been through, the dreams and desires they still had for themselves, and then witnessing the struggle they were having to make progress toward their dreams.  I wanted to be part of the healing process and be more active in their journey.  My motivation and focus have shifted over the decades of being in this field.  I am still motivated to be part of the solution, yet my understanding of the challenges has become clearer.  I have spent the better part of the last decade supporting family members and having them understand their part and role in the recovery process.  Attuning to the entire system and the environment in which everyone lives makes all the difference in recovery efforts.

After completing my undergraduate degree, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a program that supports men and women recovering from addiction.  Through that experience, I decided to seek a Master’s degree in addiction counseling through Hazelden’s graduate program in Minnesota.  After a few years of experience, I left to immerse myself in modalities that incorporate both body and mind and learned from some of the top leaders in the industry treating trauma.  I also completed a coaching certificate in the San Francisco Bay Area during these years.

When I am not working I am loving on my children and reinforcing the importance of relationships and family.  I have an identical twin with whom I love spending time, and we are raising our kids to be like siblings, not just cousins.  Let’s face it: modeling for our children can be both a blessing and a struggle.  I have a fantastic group of women with whom I connect regularly and can get both support and a safe space to vent and “be human.”  They are my Tribe, and I trust them completely.  I create space for connection with my church to support my spiritual health, focus on working out and nutrition for my physical health, and utilize the support of a mentor for my mental well-being.