I am a native of Chicago and have lived here my entire life. I have been in the "helping" profession since 1995, when I graduated from The University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelors of Science in Human Development and Family Studies and a minor in Psychology. Upon graduating, I got my first job working with children and families who were dealing with many life challenging issues. I was able to advocate on behalf of my clients, and ensure they were receiving the most beneficial services to aid them through their situations. I then went on to earn a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Adler University in 2000.
I have also worked in specialty areas such as adoptions, crisis intervention and stabilization, therapeutic level treatment for adolescents, coaching and mentoring, training and consultation on trauma and it's effects on physical and neurodevelopment, and as a Clinical Supervisor and Director. I began my private practice in 2002 and am also currently working as a Graduate School Professor in Psychology where I teach future therapists in areas such as Couples and Family Counseling, Clinical Skills, Human Development and Community Mental Health CounselingAdvocacy and Outreach. I am beyond passionate about helping others on their own personal journeys through life.
While life does present with it's challenges, always remember the most important thing to know is that you do not have to go through it alone. Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect....it means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.
