About Me
Training and Experience
I have 38 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in New York and Connecticut. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work as well as membership in the National Association of Social Workers.​​
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Clinical Experience – Lyme Disease
Over the past 34 years, chronic Lyme disease patients have become a growing focus of my practice as I recognized the enormity of the illness and its impact on many of my clients. I am committed to working with adults, adolescents and children with Lyme disease, many of whom have complex cases.
In my view, a Lyme-literate psychotherapist needs to understand not only Lyme disease, but of course the co-infections, and what symptoms may be caused by each. In addition, Lyme-literate psychotherapists need to learn about whatever comes along - PANDAS, PANS, neurotoxic illness caused by toxic mold exposure in their home, school and workplace. The learning could come from webinars, books, and networking on professional forums.
Almost from its inception, I have been a member of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS), a nonprofit, multi-disciplinary medical society dedicated to the diagnosis and appropriate treatment of tick-borne diseases. As a member of ILADS, I maintain a commitment to ongoing Lyme disease education for myself. In addition, I take a role in providing education for others, by accepting opportunities to speak at ILADS annual conferences, as well as conferences held by the University of New Haven and Lyme Connection.
Philosophy and Scope of Practice
I believe in a comprehensive approach to counseling looking at many aspects of a problem as I help my clients search for solutions. Considering the profound effect of Lyme disease on so many facets of a person’s life, a comprehensive approach is crucial. At times, my work includes consultation with the Lyme patient’s physician or other professionals in order to help my clients find solutions to problems associated with their illness and their ability to function. When children or adolescents are involved, there may be a need for me to provide input regarding school planning, either to the parents, or in a collaborative effort involving the parents and the school. I work with parents on deciding the extent to which my involvement would be helpful.
Advocating for the educational needs of children has always been important to me. It has, however, become a more significant feature of both my professional and advocacy work as I have seen many young Lyme patients who have difficulty succeeding in school, due to the impact of Lyme on their cognitive and executive functioning. I have attended workshops, conferences and webinars regularly on education advocacy.
Family Focus Adoption Services
I began my psychotherapy practice in 1987 in New York State, where I then lived. That same year, some people I knew founded a new and unique adoption agency, Family Focus Adoption Services. Right from the beginning, I was impressed with their unique approach - an adoption agency founded by adoptive parents! They and I stayed in touch.
Almost 20 years ago, I moved to CT, but rather than decreasing my connection with this agency, I increased my involvement. I have been the Clinical Consultant for Family Focus for many years now.
I have worked with them on the creation of several programs, always with the focus on the kids, many of whom no longer have homes. This website highlights this wonderful agency, always focused on the needs of these kids.
Never in my professional life have I had the privilege of working with so many people who are committed to focusing on the youth (YDMs - Young Decision Makers) that are often neglected by society. We focus on what the kids need, and not what we expect of them.