I did not choose a career in addiction counseling, it chose me. I needed to find a place to complete my internship for my Social Work degree and was given the opportunity at an outpatient facility for addiction treatment. It only took a couple of days for me to realize this was the path I was destined to pursue. My decision was reinforced time and time again by the opportunities that were offered to me and the doors that were opened.
I engage with my clients in an empathetic and motivational manner which leads to a trusting and effective therapeutic relationship. My greatest personal skill is probably listening and asking questions to clarify the tiniest details which can be the most important parts of the story. I find it most rewarding when my clients realize something significant about themselves that may lead to greater success in their journey.
I am a third generation native Arizonan. I grew up in a small town with a lot of family, animals, and friends. I have always been fascinated with the way people think and why they behave the way they do. After my youngest child left home for college I decided it was time for me to pursue my dream of higher education. I received my BA in human behavior from Northern Arizona University and my MS in addition to counseling from Grand Canyon University. I am currently completing my dissertation for my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from California Southern University.
I am a certified hospice volunteer at Good Samaritan Hospice, and I am also involved with the Prescott chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.