I hold a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Minnesota (2009) and a Masters-Ed. S. degree in school psychology from the University of Wisconsin (1985). Prior to earning my Ph.D., I worked as a school psychologist in an urban school setting. My career has included working professionally as a psychologist with the Minneapolis Police Department, tending to 911 emergency with officers in order to immediately assist survivors of trauma.
I have also worked in two local hospital Emergency Rooms, providing assessments and interventions within the ER/crisis moments. Prior to professional training as a Licensed Psychologist, I earned a teaching license through the MN Department of Education and worked in the field of education. I continue to actively teach, though I no longer teach children and instead, I teach licensed Health Professionals in therapeutic skill development.
I am an avid proponent of giving back to my community. As such, I am a volunteer on the MN Behavioral Health Unit Medical Reserve Corps (MN BH MRC), reaching out to persons involved in Disaster incidents.
Professional research has validated that we humans improve exponentially when utilizing treatments that call upon the engagement of both mind and body. I utilize evidence based practices including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mind-body therapy/Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I am able to provide longer sessions and longer durations of treatments (if desired by a patient) than what is often available in managed care settings, due to owning my private practice.