Introduction: I offer years of experience in the counseling field. Having worked in all kinds of settings such as detox, inpatient, outpatient, residential and even methadone maintenance treatment, has increased my understanding of the condition of substance use abuse, compulsion and addiction. I have worked alongside, and learned from the best - addictionologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, brain-based specialists, trauma specialists, etc etc.
I consider it a privilege to help those with compulsions and addictions and have as much experience counseling those who also have depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, personality disorders, etc as I do those only with problems with addiction. I have many years of experience listening to and guiding the loved ones - the friends and family members of those with addictive/compulsive problems. It is my honor to help them, as others helped me when I was in extreme turmoil and pain from family addiction.
There is something very special when we pass on what has been given to us. It makes our own pain of our past worthwhile and meaningful. I have years of training and education, on a master's degree level, and also offer personal understanding that provides a foundation of acceptance, patience and caring about you, your problems, struggles and your life. We can change - at times it is hard, but NOT impossible,when we reach out for help from someone who understands.