About
History & Background
I am originally from Toledo, Ohio, and have lived in the Seattle area since 1993. I received a B.A. in Psychology, and Master’s of Science Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University. I have worked in the health and fitness industry for 20 years, with experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor for adults and kids. I was instrumental in establishing the Committed to Kids Pediatric Weight Management Program from Louisiana State University at PRO Sports Club in Bellevue. This program is now 20/20 Kids.
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My role included collaboration with physicians, nutritionists, therapists, and other personal trainers. I have been involved in the 20/20 Lifestyles Program at PRO, which also utilizes collaborative efforts. I have experience serving youth and families in the public health care system at Renton Area Youth and Family Services. My role included being in the public school system where I worked with principals, teachers, counselors, and school staff to serve middle school children.
I use my education, training, and experience in all of these areas to allow me to help people attain their goals of emotional, physical, and spiritual health. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Washington (LF00002667), and a Clinical Member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). I have been credentialed as an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor.
How I Found My Passion
My own personal experience with divorce is what led me to the field of family therapy. My divorce attorney works from a team approach, and recommended both career www.careerdiscoveryinc.com and financial www.milleradvisors.com counseling to me during the time of my divorce. This process led me back to school to finish my college education in psychology. Career counseling helped me to discover a direction and another path of learning for my interests and talents. Sharing health and wellness with others is my passion, and my goal was to round out my knowledge of physical health with mental health to assist others in feeling better in mind, body, and spirit. I have experienced divorce, single-parenting, and remarriage, and desire to help guide others through these processes. Divorce is a process, not an event, and my family continues to adjust and adapt to the changes that life continues to bring such as remarriage and new siblings. I began my private practice as a family therapist so that I can share my experience, wisdom, and education with individuals and families who are requesting assistance with their lives, whatever the challenge or situation may be. I look forward to seeing how I can be helpful to you - whether through therapy, resource suggestions, and/or referrals to other providers.