I am a National Board Certified Counselor, a member of the Illinois Mental Health Counseling Association and have completed level three training of the Gottman Method of couples counseling as well as a 40 hour trauma-informed certification. My areas of interest and expertise are working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, mood disorders, self esteem issues, life transitions, trauma, abuse, loss and bereavement, chronic pain, parenting and marital/couples counseling.I bring a combined experience of over 30 years which began in the health field as an Intensive Care nurse. I have worked in gerontology, with youth and family services, addiction counseling and eating disorders recovery at Eating Disorder Recovery Center. Along with my husband of 33 years, we owned and operated a holistic pharmacy in Chicago. I have extensive experience working as a client advocate for people dealing with chronic illness and pain as well as counsel and advocate for survivors of sexual assault.My focus and specialty turned toward couples counseling after seeking support for my own marriage utilizing the Gottman Method approach. I believe that whether you are in a long term committed relationship or just starting one, a foundation of connectedness helps build and maintain true lasting love. The quality and mindset of your most important relationships determines your physical well being and mental happiness. In utilizing the research based Gottman Method to couples counseling, I can assist couples back on track to the connection and intimacy they once shared by first coming to understand each partners inner world.As an engaged, self aware, caring therapist, I understand how to skillfully forge connections with my clients. Through my mindful presence, I create a safe, non judgmental, supportive environment for change and recovery.My clinical work is informed by the Collaborative Stage Model with additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and strength based models. By utilizing an integrative, holistic approach, I am devoted to helping my clients gain skills and self awareness to overcome thought and belief patterns that stand in the way of living a happy and fulfilled life.