Education: I am a graduate of the University of Michigan, where I obtained a Master of Science with Distinction in Clinical Health Psychology.  Clinical Health Psychology is a specialty that uses science’s knowledge of the mind and body to help people cope better, manage their physical or emotional pain, and empower themselves. Think of it as the place where emotional and physical health meet. I  have extensive training and expertise in psychological testing, anxiety, depression, and trauma.

Background: My natural curiosity has fueled both my personal and career development. I grew up in Australia and like many of my compatriots, wanted to see the world. At 21, I began a career in Australia’s foreign service, working in the Australian Embassy in Algeria. During this time I traveled extensively throughout the Middle East and Europe and became conversant in French, with a passing familiarity with Arabic.

After completing my undergraduate degree at Macquarie University in Sydney, I worked in the radio and television industries as a researcher and producer on news, lifestyle and documentary programs. I immersed myself in topics of immense personal interest, such as mind-body medicine, eating disorders; alcohol-related violence; children’s perceptions of divorce; the challenges facing gay teens; health ‘myths’; hormone replacement therapy; and cultural taboos. Many programs won awards.

In my spare time, I volunteer at Freedom House Detroit, a temporary home for survivors of persecution and torture from around the world who are seeking asylum in the United States and Canada. I enjoy tap dance, working out at the local Y, long walks in nature with my husband and our retired rescued greyhound, cycling, travel, and French conversation classes. I take at least one trip to Australia every year to visit much-missed family and friends.

Professional Memberships: I keep up to date on the latest research and treatment via consultation, continuing education, conferences, and membership of numerous professional associations, including the American Psychosomatic Society (APS) and the Society for Personality Assessment.

I specialize in assessing and understanding your symptoms and concerns – whether they are physical or emotional. Many people are dealing with chronic stress, which disrupts multiple systems of the body. This can lead to physical, emotional, and cognitive (thinking) problems, and a feeling of being disconnected from others and loss of purpose and hope.

You can view my current licensure status here and search for me by name or license number: 6301015346.

I am licensed by the Michigan Board of Psychology to provide individual psychological assessment and treatment and I use only evidence-based methods. The LLP credential governs all Michigan clinicians with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. A Michigan Limited License (LLP) permits practice under the supervision of a Michigan licensed (PhD) psychologist.  I am supervised by Carrie Hatcher-Kay, PhD, of Partners in Healing (Michigan license 6301011682) and John Varani, PhD, of the Institute for Christian Counseling (Michigan license 6301004055).