I am happily married and "stepmom" to 6 adult children. I was a lawyer and then a judge for many years. As a judge, I observed that some people’s lives seemed to be "locked into" life’s challenges without breaking through to authentic wholeness and happiness. Those people who received help and encouragement in finding different and effective ways of dealing with life’s challenges seemed to "make it" to wholeness, becoming free to lead meaningful and satisfying lives. With this in mind, I undertook studies to become a Mental Health Counselor and a Marriage and Family Therapist. I felt that as a therapist I could more directly help others make the changes needed to better their lives and relationships. 

     I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and a Juris Doctor (law degree) from the University of Florida; a Master of Pastoral Studies degree (theology/ministry) from Loyola University – New Orleans; and a Master of Arts in Counseling degree from Rollins College.         

     I am licensed in Florida as a Mental Health Counselor and a Marriage and Family Therapist.  I am desigated as a National Certified Counselor by the National Board of Certified Counselors.  In addition to my professional licenses, I am a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator. This qualifies me to work with couples who are divorcing or have post-divorce issues to try to settle their cases through the mediation process as opposed court trial. I am also a Parenting Coordinator in the 9^th Judicial Circuit of Florida. In that capacity, through appointment by the family court, I assist divorced couples in working together for the benefit of their children.