Welcome and thank you for taking the time to check out my bio. As a passion advocate for mental health and well-being, I have dedicated over 20 years to transforming lives through trauma -informed care and psychoeducation. My journey as a psychotherapist, started in 2001. I have worked along side of first responders throughout my career in the trenches of Child Protective Services, Court Investigations and Corrections. It was in the trenches that my respect and understanding for First Responder Culture developed.
While the average individual experiences 2 traumatic events a year, First Responders are exposed to 5 to 6 per shift with very little time to process events before moving on to the next incident.
Our bodies literally store trauma - its called "cellular memory." When we store trauma without fully processing and healing it, the trauma becomes unconscious and we develop unconscious patterns of behavior to protect ourselves, such as substance abuse, eating disorders, overworking, people pleasing, etc. These patterns are repeated on autopilot until we consciously break the cycle through awareness, and safety.
According to Bessel Van der Kolk in the Body Keeps the Score, "Being validated by feeling heard and seen is a precondition for feeling safe, which is critical when we explore the dangerous territory of trauma and abandonment." The core of neurobiology of trauma is that healing and change takes place with authentic connection and a positive environment.
Through a range of initiatives, I offer a unique and holistic approach to therapy and teaching. Rooted in the neurobiology of trauma, my mission is to guide individuals toward ultimate brain health and wellness to over toxic stress and trauma. I include humor, genuineness, and empathy to create a safe space for individuals to explore and overcome challenges. I am certified in Brainspotting, Natual Lifemanship, Animal Assisted Pyschotherapy, Trauma Informed Care, Trauma Informed Yoga, and Critical Incident Debriefings.
Through these interactive sessions, I aim to empower individuals with practical tools and knowledge to enhance their mental health and overall quality of life. In addition to working with individuals, I facilitate workshops, seminars covering a wide range of topics, including neurobiology of trauma, attachment theory, suicide awareness, and resilience building. I also work with local government, schools and workplaces to develop tailored psychoeducational programs to provide early intervention for trauma.
I am committed and honored to walk alongside individuals on their journey of self discovery and healing.
