How I view problems

Have you ever felt like there was a part of you that felt one way, but another part of you felt something completely different? We all have different parts of our personality that were formed as we grew up and learned how to be in our family system. This is a normal and natural.

Ideally, as we grow our core Self will remain in a position of leadership over our parts. Problems arise when our Self is not leading, and our parts take on rigid and extreme roles. This may show up as anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, relationship problems, etc.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy

IFS is an evidence based model of psychotherapy developed by Richard C. Schwartz, Ph.D. To me it is a way of being in the world in a calm, non-reactive way. I have written more about how I use IFS in my work, please find my article entitled Self and the System here.

For more information on the Internal Family Systems Model please visit the website: www.selfleadership.org. 

How did I decide to become a therapist?

After a long career in the insurance industry, I took some time to focus on child rearing and think about what I wanted to do when I was ready to return to the workforce. I have always been a creative problem solver and curious about people. Pursuing therapy as a career seemed a natural fit for me. I completed the Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy (MSMFT) program at The Family Institute at Northwestern University had a Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy in 1998. In addition, I completed the Level One training in Internal Family Systems Therapy.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (IL180-005049) with over 20 years of experience in various settings; such as, private practice, post adoption, parent education, community mental health, domestic violence, and HIV/AIDs.

I am an Affiliate member of the American Association of Marital and Family Therapy (AAMFT).