I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I’m also the author of two books and the producer of two videos on grief, loss, and healing. I am the voice behind several blogs and podcasts. Through cathartic satire, I share and explore my passion for mental wellness. I often lampoon my relentless desire to improve the quality of my life. I aim to inspire others to do the same.
I’ve personally lived through the chaos and trauma of addiction. I am celebrating 20 years in recovery. I consume alcohol in a limited and controlled manner. This helps me avoid all of the nasty pitfalls of the past. I have also experienced financial devastation, bankruptcy, and homelessness. Infidelity and near-divorce were part of my journey. I endured the death of two infant children.
And yet… I’ve also backpacked through Europe. I chatted with the Pope (in Italian, no less). I played basketball with Michael Jordan. I was named Illinois’ Clinical Site Supervisor of the Year. I had my picture taken with the Stanley Cup.
I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. Since 2006, I’ve worked in private practice and served as a clinical supervisor, program developer, eLearning producer, and compliance manager. My therapeutic programs have been nationally recognized by JCAHO and NAMI.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked in advertising and corporate communications. I also worked in marketing and broadcast media. My roles included show producer, host, director, and writer.
I trained and performed with Chicago’s Players Workshop of Second City. I performed improv comedy with Comedy Sportz and Improv Olympics in the early 1990s.