I get it - you are busy, tired, and overwhelmed. Therapy may seem like just more on your To Do list. Sustainable change does require effort and time - I will not waste either of these precious resources of yours! Together, we will find a reasonable and compassionate way forward. Together, we determine the goals you want to work towards and develop an action-oriented plan to get there. Together, we identify barriers to progress as they occur and creative, realistic ways to move beyond. I bring 37 years of experience in healthcare to my work, first as a physical therapist, specializing in neurological disorders. Shifting focus from physical to mental health, I completed graduate studies at Naropa University, earning a Master's in Mindfulness-Based Counseling Psychology. On retreat, I have trained in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction with Jon Kabat-Zinn and Saki Santorelli formerly of the Center for Mindfulness at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and studied Buddhism and meditation in sangha with Lloyd Burton, a Dharma teacher from Spirit Rock Meditation Center. Recognizing the impact of spirituality on health, I also studied pastoral care at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver. I have worked with clients in hospital-based, private practice, and home-based family-directed care. I have taught mindfulness meditation, stress management, and health behavior change nationally to doctors, allied healthcare professionals, businesses, and government agencies, as well as an invited speaker at professional conferences and universities. I also have a long history as a corporate trainer, with a specialty in coaching nurses and health educators to deliver disease management and health behavior change services. When not working, I enjoy vintage car shows with my son who is on the Autism Spectrum and rock climbing.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During this first session, my intention is to understand your current needs and goals for therapy, as well as your strengths. I do this by asking questions and seeking understanding. I also invite you to bring your questions about doing therapy with me to our conversation, as well. By the end of this session, we will determine together the next steps - which could include us doing work together or guidance on finding the best fit for your therapy needs.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Mindfulness-based counseling offers you a new way to move forward. I have found, with patient and compassionate support, we are far more capable of responding to challenges than we tend to believe. I believe we can all access a deep well of peace, wisdom, and courage within. I would be honored to partner with you for a few steps on your lifelong journey.