About
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Life experiences brought me from almost twenty years in the field of music into the world of counseling in 1998 when one of my children was diagnosed with an autistic spectrum disorder. Seeing therapists provide transformative services for my child was both intriguing and inspiring. I wanted to learn more and to be able to help others. Through parenting two children with autism and other mental and physical health challenges, I discovered my strengths, passions, and true self. Along the way, I faced my own anxiety and history of adverse events, learning to identify, manage, and transform the effects of these on my life. My personal journey, including raising two autistic children (now adults) with complex special needs, and embracing my own life challenges, deeply informs my work as a clinician. My growing suspicion of being autistic and having ADHD myself, was confirmed at age 57, providing me with new insights and clarity.
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This podcast was recorded in March 2023. In it, I talk about neurodiversity in my journey, and about Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
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I'm noticing an increase in adults who are wondering if they are autistic or have ADHD. It is helpful to have more information and understanding of some of the roots of life's challenges. It is more than okay to have a brain that is not typical! No two brains are identical or operate in exactly the same manner!
Since my diagnoses over 3 years ago, I've been in the process of "unmasking" - meaning identifying and appreciating my own neurodivergence and the challenges and gifts that come with it. I have been an advocate for neurodiversity awareness for a long time, which started with parenting two neurodivergent (ND) kids. My goal for sharing, is to help other ND individuals recognize that all parts of them are central to who they are, that challenges and gifts not only co-exist within, but are inseparable from who you are, and can be appreciated and embraced! |
License and Certifications
In addition to these, I have training and experiences with many other practices including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing(MI), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), mindfulness, and self-compassion. |
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Education and Work
- Master's degree in psychology, Marist College
- Additional postgraduate coursework: psychopharmacology, chemical dependency, and crisis intervention
- Bachelor's in Human Development, SUNY Empire State
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Prior to opening my practice, I worked with individuals, families, and groups in intensive outpatient programs as a therapist and clinical supervisor. I've presented at conferences including the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists, the New York State Mental Health Counselors Association (NYMHCA), and the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (NYAPRS).
I provide training for clinicians in:
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