My goal is to build a therapeutic relationship where individuals feel heard and respected, support individuals through their struggles, assist them in achieving change, and encourage them in building a natural support network to assist in maintaining those changes.

Life is about balance and balance is not something you find, but something you create.  Therefore, I utilize a variety of different therapy techniques to help individuals, couples, or families improve and grow in their mental health by exploring the imbalance in their life and by focusing on how they can feel better through change.    My role as a therapist is NOT to solve problems for people but to help guide them on their journey to find resolution for themselves.

I started my professional career in 2001 at a local Community Mental Health working in a variety of roles through my time there.  I initially was a case manager providing direct face-to-face care and coordinating services. Later I was promoted to crisis residential services clinician and assistant supervisor of mental health treatment.  Following my work at CMH, in 2006 I became employed at a private Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Abuse agency. I worked for 10 years (6 years as a site supervisor overseeing clinical and clerical staff).

My clients represented a broad range of populations experiencing a wide spectrum of mental health and substance related concerns and struggles.  I have experience facilitating groups aimed at increasing coping skills, improving self-esteem, and managing anger and stress. I also provide guidance for problem solving, mental health education, substance abuse education, and women’s specific issues.   Throughout my 15 years, I have continued to further my knowledge through attending a variety of Continuing Education Courses.

Masters Degree in Social Work from Michigan State University

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC)

• Perinatal Mood Disorder Treatment
• Substance and Co-Occurring Treatment
• Trauma Focused CBT
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Solution Focused Therapy
• Motivational Interviewing

National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Life adjustment/Transitions
• Grief and Loss
• Perinatal Mood Disorders
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Parenting Issues
• Relationship Issues
• Stress Management
• Substance Use Issues
• Psychoeducation

Providing treatment to women struggling with post-partum issues including developing more comprehensive treatment/support programs for women suffering in the Bay City and surrounding areas; Treating couples with relationship issues who want to work together to improve their relationship

Spending time with my three boys typically in outdoor activities such as sports, biking, boating; creating photo books; traveling