The Journey Inward

My path to becoming an expert in grief, loss, and trauma was not one I chose, but one that was forged through profound personal loss. It began when my stepson, Logan, died suddenly in a head-on train collision. In the wake of that tragedy, I explored the depths of compounded losses through the Phoenix Project with Jungian Psychologist Dr. Jack Miller.

I learned early on that grief work is inner work. It requires stillness, listening for internal guidance, and an openness to the mysteries of life—from the power of synchronicity to the felt presence of those who have transitioned.

Professional Foundations

Looking back, I can see how my path toward "purpose and meaning" was being laid out through the very losses I endured. I pursued a career in psychotherapy to help others navigate these same deep waters. My clinical background includes:

• Assistant Director of Mental Health at GMHC, a major HIV/AIDS organization in New York City.

• Adjunct Faculty at the School of Visual Arts (MPS Department), teaching Graduate Level Multicultural Issues in Art Therapy.

• Private Practice specializing in grief, loss, and trauma.

The Second Wave

In 2014, twenty years after Logan’s passing, my life was again upended. My adult son, Richard—my only child—passed away suddenly.

Shocked and devastated, I found myself back in the deep waters of emotion. The question of "Why me?" eventually shifted into a humbling "Why not me?" This experience further refined my philosophy that: "Life is not fair", "Bad things happen to good people" and "Everyone grieves differently".

The journey of healing has no GPS. It is not a straight line, but a process of becoming through the complexities of emotional distress and opening to a deeper experience of life.

My Philosophy: From Mental Illness to Emotional Wellbeing

Since Richard’s passing, my focus has shifted from a "mental illness" lens to one of emotional wellbeing. I believe that grief is a natural part of the human experience. Those navigating life-changing losses are not "broken," even if they feel that way.

Today, I combine clinical expertise with heart-centered coaching to support others on their journey of becoming.

Credentials & Leadership

• CPQC | Certified Positive Intelligence Coach

• Certified Grief Educator (David Kessler)

• Licensed Psychotherapist (Specializing in Grief, Loss, and Trauma)

• Keynote Speaker | The Compassionate Friends National Conference (2018)

• Presenter | American Art Therapy Association (AATA) National Conferences

Community & Service

I believe in the power of clear headed action and support in service to others:

• Board Member: The Compassionate Friends USA.

• Co-founder: Humanitarian PQ Coaches, providing Positive Intelligence™ coaching to those on the front lines in Ukraine and worldwide.

• Founder: The Compassionate Friends Newport Beach Chapter.

"The journey of healing is as unique as a fingerprint. The journey does not follow a straight line, and there is no GPS. But there are 'helpers' along the way."