I was living in Santa Fe, New Mexico and had a group practice dealing with bi-polar and addiction clients. I needed continuing education credits and I went to a conference on stress and the family. I thought it was so impressive and that the treatment and honesty involved in practice was wonderful. Upon moving to Washington, I decided to open up my own Sex Addiction practice.

Much of my preparation I owe to formal education. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Temple University and went on to receive my MSS degree from Bryn Mawr College. I also received my certification as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Multiple Addictions Therapist from the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals. I went for 1,920 hours of clinical supervision and I still continue my education.

Prior to opening my private practice, I worked in various hospital settings in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Santa Fe, New Mexico. My hospital background includes addiction, family and group therapies.

The disclosure process in my field is very difficult for clients. Getting a client, usually male, to be comfortable exposing themselves to get to the root of their addiction can be challenging.

I am compassionate, non-judgmental, have no religious ties to the work that I do, and though it is excruciatingly difficult to be in a solo practice, I manage it well.

My two greatest accomplishments are my lovely daughters and seeing people do well after treatment. I also opened my own Ashtanga Yoga Practice that I am very proud of.

My colleague and I have a goal of starting a clinic to be extend our services and help more people. We both have another year on our leases, but we are looking for another location.

What has inspired me most is the realization that what is important in life, are the relationships that we have with others. I am inspired by the prospect of helping people to be themselves in a relationship or get out of it.

I want to be remembered as someone who is generous, open and kind. I want to be known as caring, patient and one who accepts imperfections.

International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals

Phi Beta Kappa - Temple University

American Foundation for Addiction Research (AFAR)

Voices from AFAR
Voices from AFAR is an ensemble performing music of healing and recovery. The band performs with Dr. Patrick Carnes and is featured on the Gentle Path Press audio series Spiritual Skill Set.

Feeding the homeless

I enjoy Yoga, hiking, biking, traveling, and watching old movies and the symphony.