My story begins at the dinner table where loud and loving discussions infused me with the values of social justice at a very young age – a passion that has carried me into the fields of human development, psychology, coaching and more recently, restorative practices. I hail from a family of activists, and I was bred for social work.

I started my career as a school counselor, and when I left to open a private therapy practice for adolescents, I quickly yearned for more collaboration with my clients. I wanted to partner with them, rather than watch from the sidelines. Coach training was the obvious next step, and now I find myself circling back to schools and organizations with a mission to create safe and inclusive spaces for courageous conversations.

As an introvert, it wasn’t always easy growing up in a boisterous household. Along with my “peopley” pursuits, I’ve always needed down time to re-charge my battery. Ever since I figured that out, I’ve felt a sense of freedom, and I’m good with it. So good, that I want my clients to feel the freedom that comes with knowing their worthiness has nothing to do with the opinions and validations from society, co-workers, family or friends. It’s an inside job, and has everything to do with believing you are enough.

To honor my core value of equity, I’ve served on boards and volunteered for a variety of educational and social justice non-profits. When I’m not crusading for the shame-free revolution, I am an animal and nature lover, traveler and gardener. I live with my husband, dog, chickens and cats. I’m the mother of adult children and grandmother of two.

The mess is what makes us human. The harder we hustle to sweep it under the rug, the more likely it will come back to bite us.

We live in fear of being seen as flawed and therefore unlovable.  We strive for unattainable perfection to protect ourselves from the perceived judgement of others.

Shame has the power to stifle creativity, deter innovation, and turn us off from the love of learning. Silence is shame’s superpower. Telling our stories is the antidote.

When we practice vulnerability we allow ourselves be seen and loved for all of our parts: the good, the bad and the ugly.

Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator-Consultant
THE DARING WAY™ – HOUSTON, TX

Certified Professional Co-Active Coach
THE COACTIVE TRAINING INSTITUTE – SAN RAFAEL, CA

Masters in Counseling Psychology
LESLEY UNIVERSITY – CAMBRIDGE, MA

Bachelor of Arts
HAMPSHIRE COLLEGE – AMHERST, MA

Vice Chair, Board of Directors (2014 – 2016)
LIGHTHOUSE HOLYOKE – HOLYOKE, MA

Case Coordinator & Circle Keeper
COMMUNITIES FOR RESTORATIVE JUSTICE – CONCORD, MA

Trustee (2005-2012)
HAMPSHIRE COLLEGE – AMHERST, MA

Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
INTERNATIONAL COACHES FEDERATION

Membership
ICF New England

Non Violent Communication training (NVC)

Center for Mindful Self Compassion – Training
Christopher Germer, PhD & Kristin Neff, PhD

Basic Restorative Practices & Facilitating Restorative Conferences – training
INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF RESTORATIVE PRACTICES