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Meet Your Next Right Step Therapy
My Story:
Hello- so glad you found us here! Do you feel overwhelmed, find life challenging or have an obstacle to overcome? If so, join me in a supportive and open environment in which to learn, grow and thrive. Together we will identify your strengths and explore solutions that allow you to live with meaning and purpose. While here you will step aside from the busyness of life, take time to breathe, and feel whole. In the words of F. Scott Fitzgerald, “For what it’s worth…it’s never too late, or in my case too early, to be whoever you want to be.”
My motto is "There is always a solution." I have more than 20 years of experience in helping teenagers and adults with dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, mood management, stress, substance use, burnout, grief and loss, life transitions, gambling and relapse prevention. My passion is helping people find fulfilling and rewarding lives in whatever space they are in. There is always a solution and I can help you find it.
More about me:
My background
I am a clinical social worker, licensed in Kansas and Missouri. I also have a license in addiction counseling and a certification in problem gambling counseling. I completed my master of social work at University of Missouri, Kansas City (UMKC) and my master of business administration in healthcare administration at Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri.
I have worked in numerous roles in the field of mental health and addictions including in various capacities (front-line staff, therapist, team lead, director) in crisis services, developmental disability programs, inpatient psychiatric units, inpatient substance use treatment facilities, outpatient dual diagnosis programs, and as a private practice therapist.
I have presented in numerous conferences/trainings including: Mental Health First Aid, Dual Diagnosis, Medication Assisted Treatment and with Johnson County's Leadership Empowers All People program.
I have completed certificate trainings in Community Reinforcement Approach and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as well as full coursework to obtain addiction and gambling credentials.
Why I do what i do
After many years doing "agency work" I decided it was time to focus on what I love best in a setting that allows more balance in my own life. I have a passion for serving people and am skilled at recognizing their strengths and accomplishments. My clients are ready to tell their story and are looking for a supportive, open and encouraging confidant to help guide them in finding their blind spots, connecting the dots to help find a path forward and someone that listens without judgement and with kindness. I enjoy helping guide people to utilize their strengths in ways to reach their goals. I invite you to take Your Next Right Step with me!
on a personal note
On a personal note, I’ve been with my husband for 28 years and married for 22. We have two wonderful children — a young adult son who attends a local university and still resides with us, and a young adult daughter living and studying at an out-of-town university.
I’ve been a lifelong resident of the Kansas City metro area, though I’ve greatly enjoyed traveling throughout most of the United States and visiting several countries around the world. I absolutely love experiencing and learning about various cultures, beliefs and people!
In my free time, I love spending time with my family and our Flat-Coated Retriever. I also enjoy biking, going to the gym, reading (usually with a cat in my lap), relaxing on my deck (often with my large dog in my lap), traveling, and connecting with friends.