Great to meet you!
My own journey into mental health advocacy began when my oldest son was diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder. As I learned to navigate his diagnosis, I immersed myself in education, support, and advocacy, eventually becoming certified through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to teach all of their signature education programs.
During my seven years with NAMI, I served my community by teaching mental health education classes, leading support groups, collaborating with community organizations, and offering seminars aimed at reducing stigma and increasing understanding.
That work inspired me to return to school and deepen my ability to help others. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University and began clinical practice in crisis intervention and trauma‐informed care at the Children’s Advocacy Center and Emerald Coast Behavioral Hospital. I now have my own private practice providing personalized therapy as well as psychoeducational and therapeutic groups throughout the year. I also continue to educate local businesses and community members through professional seminars focused on compassion, early intervention, and mental health awareness. In addition, I serve as an adjunct professor at Florida State University Panama City.
Beyond my professional life, I’ve been married to my high‐school sweetheart for 37 years, and we have two adult sons. I find joy in spending time with family, reading, studying human behavior, walking on the beach, watching sunrises and sunsets, exploring Pinterest, playing the piano, and creating a warm, welcoming home.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to walk alongside you as you discover new possibilities, reclaim your sense of self, and create a life worth living.