I received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Fresno in 1993 and have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1996. I am certified as a Substance Abuse Specialist by the State of Wisconsin to provide counseling and therapy for those affected by substance use disorders. I am also a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
Education and Experience
Experience
My experience includes: over 25 years in psychotherapy private practice helping individuals, couples and families heal and grow; adjunct faculty at the Family Therapy Training Institute of Milwaukee; Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor at the Sequoia Center, a drug and alcohol treatment center in Redwood City, California; Levels 1, 2 and 3 Training in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy; working with many couples around core communication and conflict resolution techniques based on the Gottman Method Research; teaching and lecturing on addiction, parenting, mindfulness, and self care for professionals; multifamily group therapy facilitation for families affected by a loved one’s addiction; and group therapy for codependency and Adult Children and Alcoholics.
Additional Info
I began my career in my home state of California, and after moving my private practice in 2012 to the Milwaukee area have continued my passions — working with couples, addiction and codependency issues, and addiction and the family system. I work collaboratively with several of Milwaukee’s most experienced clinicians, providing coordinated care for couples and families.
Fun fact about me — I also play the cello! I am assistant principal cellist and have served on the Board of Directors for a local community orchestra. I am passionate about my family, music, reading in all subjects, travel, and living life to the fullest.
Studies & Licences
Clarke College, Dubuque, Iowa
Bachelor of Arts, English, 1980
California State University, Fresno
Master of Science, 1993
Marriage and Family Counseling
Certification: Substance Abuse Specialty
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Licenses: Marriage and Family Therapy 912-124, State of Wisconsin
Marriage and Family Therapy 33456, State of California (currently inactive)
Recent Trainings
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Levels 1, 2 and 3
The Gottman Institute, Seattle, WA
Couple Recovery Developmental Approach, utilizing the Gottman Method
Robert Navarra, PsyD., Center for Couples Recovery, Mental Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA
Treating Affairs and Trauma
The Gottman Institute, Seattle, WA
Revitalizing and Maintaining Sexual Desire,
Barry McCarthy
Are you ready to take the first step?
My Values
Confidentiality
All communication between you and myself will be held in strictest confidence unless you provide written permission to release information about your treatment. There are some exceptions to confidentiality which will be explained in our first session.
Creativity
I look for creative ways to approach our work together and am constantly learning and updating new skills, utilizing best practices, and finding creative solutions to problems.
Compassion
I approach each client with compassionate care and concern. I also try to help cultivate for my clients compassion for self and others.
Acceptance
I accept each client/couple where they are, and approach situations from a non-judgmental perspective.
Reach out to me today!
Please complete the form below to schedule an appointment.
I will try my best to accommodate your request and will be in touch ASAP.