Thank you for the opportunity to share my background with you. It takes courage to reach out to a professional therapist, and you've already taken the first step. I welcome your call to discuss any questions about your interest in therapy.

A lifelong New Yorker, I have over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I believe that human beings are inherently resilient, with the ability for tremendous growth.

In therapy, I will encourage you to explore your understanding about the world, uncovering insights about past behaviors and finding deep self-compassion. I provide an atmosphere that is collaborative, non-judgmental and supportive.

With training in chronic illness and wellness, I focus on the mind-body connection to help you replace negative thoughts with healthy ones as you find more balance, self-empowerment and stress reduction. I offer specifically tailored techniques for reducing anxiety and increasing feelings of happiness and fulfillment.

With particular specialization in relationship counseling, I work with couples of all definitions to improve communication and build intimacy & playfulness, finding deeper satisfaction and connection together.

Over the years, I have developed an eclectic and effective therapeutic approach, including an extensive network of resources and specialists, to help individuals, couples and families thrive.

My work focuses on the following areas:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Couple's Therapy, Relationship Issues and Sexuality

• Mindfulness, Relaxation Techniques, Hypnotherapy, Tapping and the Mind-Body Connection

• Creative Expression and Overcoming Procrastination

• Life Transitions

• Grief, Loss and Bereavement

• Coping with Illness

• Parenting and Family Issues

• Professional Supervision and Consultation

Educational Background:

• Columbia University, Master of Social Work, Health/Mental Health Clinical Field of Practice

• Columbia University, Master of Public Health, Division of Population and Family Health

• Duke University, Bachelor of Arts

Professional Experience:

• CancerCare - Supervising Clinician, Staff Supervisor and Field Instructor, Program Director of Online Services, Program Coordinator of Advocacy and Survivorship

• Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center - In-Patient and Out-Patient Psychosocial Services, AIDS/HIV Unit

• ORBIS International - Nonprofit International Health Organization dedicated to fighting blindness worldwide

• New York University Medical Center - Blood Donor and Transfusion Services

Additional Background:

• Clinical Fellow and Supervisor for the Post-Masters Advanced Training Certificate Program for End-of-Life Care,
  Smith College School for Social Work, Center for Innovative Practice

• Recipient of the Mae L. Wien Memorial Prize for Outstanding Competence in the Field of Family Planning, Counseling and Population Control, Columbia University School of Social Work

• Volunteer Trauma Therapist for 9/11 survivors and bereaved

• Certified Crisis Counselor, HELPLINE

Publications, Speaking Engagements and Support Group Facilitation on Selected Topics, Such As:

• Health and Emotional Wellness

• Coping with Chronic Illness

• Improving Communication for Couples

• Parenting and Family Issues

• Grief, Bereavement and Loss

• Narrative Therapy Through the Use of Family Photographs

• Online Communication and Utilizing Technology Therapeutically

• Understanding Internet Safety, Bullying and Cyber-Bullying

Speaking engagements and workshops have been conducted in a variety of settings, including:

National and International Conferences and Panel Discussions, Social Service Organizations, New York City Schools, Health Clubs and Spas, Doctor's Offices, and Hospitals.