I received both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from The University of Kansas in 1991 and 1998 respectively. Throughout my social work career, I have had the honor to work in various capacities, such as beginning as a case manager with adults diagnosed with a mental illness, hospital social work, being a behavioral health specialist in integrated health clinics in Oklahoma, Maine and Oregon. In that role I was able to work with people of all ages, ethnicities, various socioeconomic backgrounds, various faiths, etc. I have held clinical licenses in Kansas, Missouri, Maine and Oregon and am currently licensed in Kansas. For the past two and half years, I have been employed as the Mental Health Specialist in the Chaparral School District in Anthony, Kansas.
I am excited to be working for TotalLife as it will allow me to focus on my passion to support older adults which has always been instilled in me as I was brought up in a multi-generational home which gave me exposure to the unique needs of older adults as they make various transitions in life.
About
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years experience focusing on medical social work and mental health in hospitals, integrated care clinics and long term care facilities. My primary goal is to help others reach their goals, and the best way to do that is to align myself with you in a safe, nurturing, relaxed atmosphere. I primarily use the following evidence based practices; cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused based therapy, reminiscence therapy and grief counseling. I am experienced in working alongside a diverse clientele with various issues, such as, anxiety, depression, chronic and acute medical needs as well as aging and grief. Many of my clients have referenced my approachable, non-judgmental demeanor and ability to develop rapport quickly.
In my spare time, I love to cook, decorate, read mysteries and play with my dog, Sadie.
One of my favorite role models is responsible for my favorite quote as it refers to my outlook on being human, ” Connection is the energy that is created between people when they feel seen, heard and valued-when they can give and receive without judgment.”