I didn't plan on being in business I was not sure if I wanted to pursue a career in criminal justice or in psychology. It was psychology versus criminal justice. Psych won out and I pursued my career working for various social service entities so that I could self fund my education and become a clinical psychologist. My husband's need to relocate to the Twin Cities, where my parents had a business drove me closer to the home front. I had never wanted to go into the family business, but both my parents had to abruptly end their careers within a month of each other. I maintained my private practice, and reluctantly became involved in their business which I grew and has morphed into Orion. 

I received the following degrees: a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Psychology and Criminal Justice, a Master of Science degree in Psychology, with an emphasis in Rehabilitation Counseling, a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology, a Masters’ Degree in Psychopharmacology, a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Management, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. 

I am:

• Board Certified Expert in Traumatic Stress, a Diplomate, American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress
• Fellow, American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress
• Board Certified in Emergency Crisis Response

At times as a business owner I have been challenged by financing as most businesses are, but since I mostly self funded my education and ventures so that was a minimal challenge. I have faced the subtle challenges that women face in the work place.

I am persistent, determined and I see barriers as challenges to turn into opportunities. I am optimistic and intuitive, so I am able to see what's coming and trending. I love learning and I take every opportunity to learn what I can. I believe in servant leadership, and try to model that. 

My family, my three sons are my greatest sources of pride. That said I am proud of having the opportunity to work with people to create a community committed to others - to full fill the love I have for community. It is  my privilege to teach others, volunteer and give my help.

I had amazing mentors and I live for "Soul Moments"- those are the moments when I am able to connect on the most basic human level with people. It fuels me to keep going and doing. 

We live on through our children ... we develop the next person in line to carry our message forward, our kids perpetuate our mission. I want to be known as a good parent, a giving person who loved family and community. 

Reading, the water and spending time with family.