About

My Approach

My caring and collaborative approach utilizes your strengths to address life’s challenges. Of primary importance is establishing a supportive relationship built on mutual trust. I want you to feel comfortable. I find that a holistic, integrative framework is most effective in its ability to heal, transform lives, and create overall wellness.  Within this holistic, integrative framework I make use of current trauma treatment methods as well as relational dynamic approaches. In the course of our work together, I may suggest dietary adjustment, exercise, breath work, or relaxation treatment. These lifestyle elements can be a tremendous support to talk therapy. I am particularly interested in the connection between food and mood. Research has proven the effectiveness of these changes in improving certain symptoms and creating health and wellness. These changes may be needed as part of a whole-person focus on reducing stress and discomfort, improving mood, and moving towards a happier and more fulfilling life.

Bio

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing since 1976 when I received my Master in Social Work degree from Saint Louis University. My experience has been in private and public agencies, court advocacy, and, since 2009, private practice. During this same period I also devoted time to being a stay-at-home mom to my 3 now-adult children. In my free time, I enjoy biking, hiking, and almost anything that gets me outdoors and I practice Chi Gong regularly. In the long Chicago winters when I’m stuck inside, I add reading and listening to music to the list of things that I find enjoyable.

Education

• BA in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin
• Master in Social Work from Saint Louis University

Professional Affiliations

• National Association of Social Workers
• Academy of Certified Social Workers

In order to continue to be an effective therapist, I believe that it is important to keep up with the latest research and as a life-long learner I regularly attend trainings and seminars. Some of my more recent trainings include the following:

The Center for Mind Body Medicine, Washington, DC
Food as Medicine
Mind, Mood, and Food

Institute for Geriatric Social Work at Boston University
Certificate in Aging

Chicago Center for Integration and Healing
18 month Fellowship in trauma treatment

Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute
Level I: Training in Affect Dysregulation, Survival Defenses, and Traumatic Memory