I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is a new transplant to the beautiful state of Florida. Prior to moving to Florida, I spent the majority of my life in the upper mid-west and northern plains, having practiced in Fargo, ND for 23 years prior to making the life decision to move south to be closer to family. By the time I entered high school I knew that I wanted to work in some capacity helping others, especially those coping with emotional and medical issues. Fortunately, I had a mentor who introduced me to the field of Medical Psychology where I was able to meld my interest of helping those facing medical challenges and the psychological and life changes that often accompanied them.
During my graduate work and early career, I primarily worked with children and adolescents with cancer, and their families, as well as those experiencing other medical disorders that disrupted their ability to function in daily life. I have also had the privilege to work with children, adolescents, adults and families coping with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, separation and divorce, ADHD, stress, and family and parenting issues. I have worked in multiple settings including hospitals, outpatient medical clinics, large health systems and private practice. I feel greatly honored that individuals and families allow me to join with them, and enter into their lives, as they learn new strategies to cope with life challenges and overcome problems.
I also enjoy working with adults, and have particular interest working with those experiencing anxiety, including OCD, habit disorders, depression, adjustment problems, coping with grief/loss and medical illness, parenting and family problems, and coping with stress. I believe it is important to develop a plan of treatment that helps individuals and families meet their goals for change, and create a safe space for that change to take place. In psychotherapy, I believe it is important to employ treatment strategies that are considered to be best practices for the presenting concerns. Depending on the presenting concerns, these strategies may include cognitive behavior therapy, exposure therapy, skills training, relaxation and meditation, and parent training.
