Clinical Background
I have over 30 years of experience in the field of psychology. Direct clinical experience has included over 30 years of private practice work with children, teens, adults and families. Work in community mental centers and residential treatment programs has served to enhance my overall understanding of significant mental health issues and the impact of life situations on emotional well being.
Prior to my clinical experience, I trained as an elementary school teacher and special educator. I have training in teaching children with cognitive challenges, learning differences, physical handicaps, and mental health issues. This training has afforded me an excellent perspective on understanding how academic and school issues impact a child’s well being and an adult’s ultimate self-concept and success. Numerous consultation opportunities at preschools and private schools have allowed me to continue my interest in this area.
Extensive training in Hospital Child Life work has furthered both my interest and understanding of health related issues for children and adults. The importance of all phases of preparation, (before, during and after), has provided a framework for guiding individuals through various medical experiences. My work in hospital settings focused on supporting the education of children and adults as well as their emotional well being.
Intensive training in the area of divorce and divorce mediation has guided my work with children, adults, and families navigating the divorce process and the aftermath of settlement. At the request of the Cuyahoga County Courts, I co-authored materials utilized by parents to support their understanding of the impact of divorce on children.
Participation in a national effort to design curriculum for foreign adoptees enhanced my understanding of adoption. Adoption is clearly a life long process and each adoptee brings to their journey a unique narrative and their own path of processing their story. Besides the development of materials to be utilized for group work with adoptees, I have helped design many Life Books for adoptees.
I have over 30 years of experience in the field of psychology. Direct clinical experience has included over 30 years of private practice work with children, teens, adults and families. Work in community mental centers and residential treatment programs has served to enhance my overall understanding of significant mental health issues and the impact of life situations on emotional well being.
Prior to my clinical experience, I trained as an elementary school teacher and special educator. I have training in teaching children with cognitive challenges, learning differences, physical handicaps, and mental health issues. This training has afforded me an excellent perspective on understanding how academic and school issues impact a child’s well being and an adult’s ultimate self-concept and success. Numerous consultation opportunities at preschools and private schools have allowed me to continue my interest in this area.
Extensive training in Hospital Child Life work has furthered both my interest and understanding of health related issues for children and adults. The importance of all phases of preparation, (before, during and after), has provided a framework for guiding individuals through various medical experiences. My work in hospital settings focused on supporting the education of children and adults as well as their emotional well being.
Intensive training in the area of divorce and divorce mediation has guided my work with children, adults, and families navigating the divorce process and the aftermath of settlement. At the request of the Cuyahoga County Courts, I co-authored materials utilized by parents to support their understanding of the impact of divorce on children.
Participation in a national effort to design curriculum for foreign adoptees enhanced my understanding of adoption. Adoption is clearly a life long process and each adoptee brings to their journey a unique narrative and their own path of processing their story. Besides the development of materials to be utilized for group work with adoptees, I have helped design many Life Books for adoptees.
License
I am licensed as a psychologist in the state of Ohio and maintain continuing education.
I am licensed as a psychologist in the state of Ohio and maintain continuing education.
Education
Case Western Reserve University: Ph. D.
University of Pennsylvania: M.S.
University of Michigan: B.S. Ed.
Case Western Reserve University: Ph. D.
University of Pennsylvania: M.S.
University of Michigan: B.S. Ed.
Professional Affiliations and Board Activities
American Psychological Association: Life time member
Ohio Psychological Association
Cleveland Psychological Association
Past President Cleveland Psychological Association Education and Service Board
National Register of Psychology
Bellefaire /JCB: Executive Board Member/ Adoption Committee Chair
American Psychological Association: Life time member
Ohio Psychological Association
Cleveland Psychological Association
Past President Cleveland Psychological Association Education and Service Board
National Register of Psychology
Bellefaire /JCB: Executive Board Member/ Adoption Committee Chair
