I’ve had three careers: 10 years as a stay-at-home parent for three children, work in both small business and corporate environments, and now, a marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and art therapist (ATR). These life experiences have contributed to why I became a therapist and who I like to work with.

Eventually, two of my three children were diagnosed with ADHD, one with hyperactive and impulsive tendencies while the other struggled with inattentive-type ADHD. I often felt alone, discouraged, exhausted, and unsupported as a parent. With a husband also having ADHD tendencies, I’ve become an expert in helping adults learn to manage their own symptoms to live with more ease. I also work with and encourage parents of children with ADHD learn new ways to parent that brings cohesiveness and calm to the family.

Cancer is a life-changing diagnosis. Surviving my own cancer experience has led me to work with people living with cancer, survivors of cancer, or current/former caregivers to manage the big thoughts and emotions that accompany a diagnosis. You will find a sense of peace, realign with a new identity, and find a new normal in spite of the C-word.

We will work together, no matter what you are navigating. People tell me I have a calming presence and that they leave therapy feeling better. Your words will be heard and your emotions validated. Expect laughter and tears, clarity and creativity, and more inner strength and confidence.

Families are very important to me. When families (and the individuals within families) are healthy and doing well, they can face anything. My first career as a teacher showed me that many families need help and support. It’s what drove me to go back to school to become a therapist (licensed clinical social worker, LICSW).

As an experienced former elementary teacher, I enjoy working with children (5 YO and up). I help children (and their parents) understand their BIG emotions and learn strategies for calming down. Sometimes children need therapy to face their fears, decrease anxiety, and learn to manage ADHD symptoms. When kids do better, family feel better.

I learned skills to navigate messy, busy, and challenging circumstances as a single parent. As a Parent Coach, my goal is to help parents strengthen the relationships in the family, learn to set reasonable boundaries, and increase communication skills. Parenting is tough work. It’s worth it, though, when you find unexpected and pleasing discoveries through positive change.

I became a single parent through divorce. Even when divorce is amicable, there is a lot of tension and anxiety for each family member. I work with families to manage that tension or high-conflict, and if needed, repair relationships. Together, we find unique solutions to address issues related to divorce or separation as a new definition of “family” is created. I am Minnesota qualified neutral rule 114, parent time evaluator, parent consultant, and a family therapist trained in parent/child relationship repair.

Therapy and coaching can happen individually, with some family members, with the whole family, or all of the above! You can expect a nonjudgmental space, compassionate listening, lots of encouragement, and therapeutic play — because the child in all of us learns best when playing.