I am a licensed clinical social worker who has had extensive experience working with individuals, families and couples struggling with a variety of challenges. My workplace experience involved treating both those who have struggled themselves with addictions and eating disorders, but also many of the problems that accompany them such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, parenting issues and family of origin issues. I have also worked with those family members who struggle to understand and help their loved ones dealing with with these issues. As such, I am well-versed not only in 12-step philosophy and program, but also in other approaches including therapeutic community settings, cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapies, motivational interviewing, structural family therapy and internal family systems therapy. I’ve also had significant experience with individuals who struggle with the effects of having grown up in families in which their needs were not well-met, and are looking to explore their experiences and make changes that will help them to move forward in a more positive way. Often these clients struggle with anxiety and depression, relationship issues and challenges with their own parents, spouses and children. As a “mature” woman, with family and experiences of my own, I believe strongly that blame and shame are destructive, and that self-understanding, self-acceptance (of past and present experiences and emotions) and healthy relationships are the key to overcoming the challenges and obstacles we face. I work with my clients in a supportive, interactive setting and aid them in establishing their goals, guiding them as they work toward achieving those desired outcomes. I approach my clients with admiration and respect, understanding the courage required to begin working with a counselor, and the necessity to take cues from my clients as to how quickly we move forward and what areas we explore. I believe that my clients actually best know themselves and what they need. With that said, I also know that it is my job to be reflective, challenging, honest and encouraging. I appreciate the opportunity to be invited into my clients’ lives and to share in their progress.