I love working with children and families

I understand the feeling of being stumped by a child’s big, mysterious behaviors. I’ve spent my entire grown-up life figuring out what’s going on with kids who are struggling. My first real adult job was as a school counselor in a rural town. We had about 900 students in preschool-3rd grade. I was the only counselor. I learned a lot!

There was the day a kindergartner brought a stray kitten to school in his backpack.

There was the day a first grader managed to call 911 because he had a stomach ache. 

There were so many big tantrums, sad stories, hard days, and triumphs. 

Being the only counselor for so many really young children was an enormous challenge. I got really good at listening to what people weren’t saying. I got really sharp at figuring out what feelings were under big (and small) behaviors. Playfulness, a little bit of silliness, and a lot of empathy helped me help some pretty tough children. Remaining curious is a key part of figuring out the puzzle, too. I’ve sought out training all over the world to try and support young children and their parents.

Since then, I’ve worked in residential care for middle school girls, earned a PhD and taught in a graduate counseling program, coordinated international research for a non-profit therapy agency, helped raise 3 boys, adopted and fostered SO MANY kittens, cats, puppies, and dogs. Now I’m back in NC, in private practice. 

I’m still figuring out what’s under that big baffling behavior. I’m still listening to what people are and are not saying out loud. I’ve learned that a little playfulness and humor can go a long way towards healing. 

I’ve learned so much from all of these people and experiences, and I’d love to work with your family. 

Biography and Credentials

• Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Supervisor, NC
• Licensed School Counselor, NC
• Registered Play Therapist Supervisor
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor, IN
• PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision from University of Florida
• BS/M.Ed. from UNCG