Seeking an alternative to traditional therapy? That’s why I’m here. My tools range from innovative new mind-body modalities (e.g., Energy Psychology) to the most ancient spiritual/energetic modality (shamanic healing). These tools enable me to help clients address most of the problems that licensed mental health professionals do – plus some they can’t. And usually do it more efficiently. This is the main reason I almost always have one or more licensed therapists as clients. See the testimonials on my website.

Since 1977 that I am working with divers men and women clients as well as I was fortunate to live in three different countries, plus constantly continuing education and updating my knowledge related to human behaviors, made me a knowledgeable and strong therapist working with individuals and families during their hard time of life.

I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults, and my areas of focus include anxiety, grief & loss, spirituality, life transitions, and relationship issues. I offer a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your story. I believe that healing occurs in the context of authentic and caring relationships, and use a relational, trauma-informed approach to therapy. Originally from Virginia, I graduated from the University of Virginia with a B.A. in Religious Studies & Biology. After a time of working with adolescents, young professionals, and adults in a church in the D.C. area, I moved to Orlando and graduated with a Masters in Counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary in 2018. ​ I have since returned to my home state of Virginia, and am currently a Resident in Counseling working towards my license as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am practicing under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Gutierrez, LPC, CSAC. I maintain professional memberships in American Counseling Association (ACA) and the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC).

I provide professional, results-oriented counseling with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Hypnosis, methods that more quickly and effectively brings about positive changes. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I also work extensively with couples and family members on relationship issues.

My approach is collaborative with the individual or family, providing therapeutic pathways & education to promote existing strengths & abilities to sustain achieved outcomes long after counseling is completed. Because of my experience as an Adoption Worker and an adoptive parent, I offer specific supports in the area of adoption and complex childhood trauma.

My approach to counseling is that each individual has the potential within them to accomplish anything. My job is to help you realize that potential and to make peace with the issues that you face. Notice I never said anything about “getting over” what you have going on, because I believe that there are some things that make that impossible. But, I believe that if you are willing to work with me to achieve your goals, you can achieve the recovery you truly want My journey to the present day has been unconventional to say the least. I’ve worked in the mental health field since graduating with my Master’s Degree in 2007. I’ve worked with many different populations in many different settings. Most recently I have been working with clients who desired to end their lives, or who were too sick to go about their daily lives. I’ve also supervised others, taught at a college level, and made presentations to other professionals. In the real world, I’ve worked in the medical field, customer service, and I’ve owned my own business. I believe this varied experience allows me to be more emphatic as well as take a more common sense approach to treatment. I invite you to take a step toward something difficult and do something that is good for you. You always have the opportunity to go back to the way things were; that isn’t challenging in the least.

It's completely understandable to have feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, stress and depression--especially now. Being a human is tough stuff! I want to be your go-to companion as we figure out a way to make these feelings a little easier for you to deal with on a daily basis. I'd love to talk for an initial consultation (totally free!) to see if you think we'd work well together!

I am a certified coach, Kellogg Executive Scholar in leadership, materials scientist, and Chopra Center certified instructor in Primordial Sound Meditation. And, I don’t quite fit the mold. I see invisible things. As an experimental materials scientist, I studied delicate nanometer structures using high-resolution electron beams. Often, that meant balancing power and sensitivity while patiently retaining focus for an extensive period to notice the subtle unfolding of something new - before it turned visible to anyone else. As a coach, I bring the same optimism, joy, and discipline of discovery when we shine the light on invisible things that a client is looking to bring into focus in a coaching session. I enjoy witnessing my clients’ wonder and awe as they encounter new elements of self for the first time. I listen to the sixth sense. I have cultivated systems thinking in my roles as an engineer and business leader, and I pay close attention to patterns, trends, and interdependencies. I found synchronicity and a sense of timing to hold the most significant power among all variables. In coaching, we directly experience the significance and power of moments big and small as we expand our wisdom to include strategic intuition and a sense of timing. Not all moments may hold equal leverage, but each one is indispensable as they combine to form a unique symphony of our lives. I trust the process and the resourcefulness of our creativity. Growing up in the former Yugoslavia during the civil war and disintegration of the country, I directly witnessed the complexity, strain, and tremendous resilience of the human spirit. Through those experiences, I gained a humbling appreciation for the regenerative powers of hope, curiosity, and love amid uncertainty and sustained collective trauma. In my coaching sessions, I aspire to provide unconditional positive regard, radical acceptance, and full presence for my clients who navigate the deep and cloudy waters of personal transformation.

When you experience trauma or stressful life situation, it is not uncommon for your life to feel out of control. I have a passion to help others who have experienced a traumatic event or a stressful life situation. It is my goal to help others to find healthy perceptions of themselves, and to strengthen interpersonal relationships. If you're looking for extra support and guidance to help you know yourself better or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.