My Approach to Helping

More Info About My Practice

My greatest strengths are my ability to connect with my clients and collaborate in creative problem-solving. Because I have navigated my own personal and professional challenges, I can both draw on those experiences and support you as you face your own difficulties and opportunities.

I am available for phone and teletherapy consultation from any location, and face-to-face meetings by appointment in Ohio. My hours are flexible, so we can get together at times that are convenient for you.

I have extensive experience in supervising other clinicians seeking independent licenses, and providing case consultation to others in private, group and agency practices.

Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With

Those contemplating, in the midst of or recovering from divorce. Particular expertise in addressing the emotional impact of money on relationships, personal development and inter-generational philanthropy. I work closely with other professionals - lawyers, financial planners and advisers and others - to provide closely coordinated service to our clients. Because I have a business and consulting background, I bring a unique perspective to these issues.

My Therapy Focus

In addition to a private practice focused on couples, individuals and family business, I provide supervision for those seeking independent social work and marriage and family therapy licenses in Ohio, and case consultation for other clinicians. I am a solid sounding board about business development resources for those starting andor building a private practice.

How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist

I have dealt with the opportunities and challenges associated with being a working mother and wife, holding management and consulting roles in corporate America, changing careers, returning to school as an adult learner, losing parents and friends, coping with some surgeries and navigating the aging and increasing frailties of my siblings. Raised in a family business and part of a large extended family, I approach my own and my clients' issues from systems perspective, a way of thinking that has been deeply integrated into the way I work. Seeing the humor in even the most difficult situation helps my clients' gain perspective about their challenges.

Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance

My clients and I benefit enormously from the collaboration we shape together. My life, education and training have informed my work as a therapist and life coach. My clients report that they find my problem-solving approach both creative and practical. I have extensive professional and personal experience in initiating desired change, making more satisfying choices and managing the stress of transitions. Most important of all is my authenticity in the therapycoaching process - I will not judge you and I do not have preconceived notions about what the partnership we create should be or what the best outcome is - you are the expert on your own life. I will encourage you to experiment with trying out new rules and behaviors, a strategy that supports your managing risk comfortably and opens up new options in your life.

My View on the Nature of 'Disorders'

I am not focused on diagnosing psychological "disorders" nor do I pathologize other people's dilemmas and ways of coping. Rather I see distress as a reflection of challenging life circumstances, difficult decisions and disruptive life transitions. I am particularly interested in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), a values-based approach that focuses on making healthy choices to live a more meaningful life.