I went into the counseling field mostly because I had a great experience leading a consciousness awareness group for one of the professors in the psychology department of my university. I was two years into a master’s degree in computer science when I facilitated the group and decided it was time for me to work with people again, rather than live in the world of mathematics and machines. I changed my major and went on to earn a master’s degree in Counseling and Human Development from Montana State University in Bozeman.
On my first day of counseling classes one of the professors asked us to answer the question “Why do people change?” When I sat down to write I was surprised to find that I thought people were motivated to change because they were in pain of some kind – physical, mental, or emotional pain. That was a long time ago. I now believe that people have an innate need to grow and change, to become their best selves, and to express their unique gifts and talents. And pain is often a great catalyst.
During the last year of my graduate work I was awarded a scholarship designed to help Native Americans become psychotherapists. This was a great honor and a great gift. In order to show my appreciation I went to work as a drug and alcohol / high school counselor on both the Hopi (AZ) and Zuni (NM) Indian Reservations. Both tribes were generous with their help and their friendship. I treasure the relationships, the learning, and the memories from this time in my life.
I also spent several years working with inner city students in Boston. I ran a GED program for high school drop outs from the projects. Another great learning experience – especially for me.
I have been in private practice since 1992. I love listening to individuals speak of their life experience. I am endlessly fascinated by the people I work with and the challenges they face. Never have I heard the same story twice. Each of us experiences our lives in a unique way. The variables are endless – as are our moods, perceptions, and decisions.
I became interested in Brief or Solution Focused Therapy through my study of hypnosis. I liked the idea of moving quickly toward new behaviors, thoughts, and feelings and not spending a lot of time focusing on pathology or its origin. Really, if we want something to be different, we have to change and try new things, no matter what the label or the diagnosis.
From Brief Therapy to Coaching was a short ideological jump for me. I began to follow the work of Cheryl Richardson which I found highly practical. I decided to add coaching to my work and after graduating from Coach U in 2004, I became a Professionally Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation. I enjoy the collaborative nature of the coaching relationship.
My greatest hope for my clients is that they come into their own in a deeply satisfying way. I hope that they feel inspired and supported in initiating and bringing into being the changes that they seek in their lives. I feel honored to be a part of their process.
