I began my career working with clients challenged by addiction in 1989 after becoming certified as a Hypnotherapist, and continued with this practice while obtaining my AA degree in Liberal Studies from Mesa College in San Diego, BA in Psychology from Sonoma State University (SSU) in Northern California, and my Master's in Psychology, also from SSU.
I participated in a two year internship program as a psychotherapist at Santa Rosa Junior College and later went into private practice as a Psychological Assistant. I worked for several years managing various residential treatment programs for people who were addicted to various substances and/or mentally ill. As the Program Director at a Northern California residential program for people who were dual diagnosed with both substance abuse and mental health issues, I worked with my staff to develop the curriculum for an onsite day treatment program, as well as providing supervision and education for the onsite staff.
I've also spent many years facilitating groups and providing individual counseling for individuals who have come into contact with the criminal justice system as a result of their addiction. In my spare time, I am an avid researcher of alternative health practices. I am an Ayurvedic Health Educator and yoga teacher and have done much research into natural and easily accessible health practices that heal, nourish, and rejuvenate body, mind, and Spirit. As a firm believer in the practice of community service I currently volunteer as a Law Enforcement Chaplain as well as sing with a large choir in Sonoma County, CA
