I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Life Purpose and Career Coach based in North Carolina. I have a BA in Psychology with a minor in Women’s Studies from Rutgers University in NJ as well as a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the Graduate School of Social Work , Rutgers University.. I have training in Psychodrama from the Montclair Institute of Psychodrama in NJ. I have been in the field for over 18 years most recently working as a Behavioral Therapist and Program Coordinator of the Lifestyle Coaching Program at the Duke University and Medical Center Diet and Fitness Center in Durham NC.. I left there after 9 years to go into private practice. I have worked for many years in the area of weight loss and weight maintenance from the behavioral perspective – one’s relationship with food. Within this focus I have had the opportunity of working with clients on the issues that often lead one to overeat.. ” its not what you are eating – its what is eating you”. Usually the issues have to do with other challenges in their lives and the way that they are dealing with them. .Some examples of this are anxiety, depression,marital issues, communication issues within interpersonal relationships, anger, grief, stress as well as other life challenges. I help my clients acknowledge and identify their challenges and concerns by asking key questions – “peeling back the onion”- then developing a plan of action to put into effect to challenge and overcome these concerns . I combine a client centered focus with solution based focus, cognitive behavioral therapy as well as approaches using a coaching model. I also will incorporate psychodrama techniques when I feel it would be helpful My style is warm and interactive. I am skilled in CBT ( cognitive behavioral therapy), Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, as well as incorporating some DBT skills as needed. As a life coach I am aware how important it is to not only gain insight into the issues but also develop a realistic plan to over come the challenges. When it may seem helpful I will also use some techniques used in Psychodrama to assist in the therapy . I truly love what I do and honor , respect and show deep compassion for all my clients. I believe that their trust in me is essential for our work together to be successful. I do not take that trust lightly. It takes great courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support, motivate and empower you. I look forward to working with you!