I am a writer, a trauma therapist, and an educator.
I help people of different identities, histories, and geographies understand the emotional and historical context of our current moment. I see my work as collaborating with others, sharing the tools and embodied practices that can enhance personal and collective power.
I believe that individual growth alone won’t get us to the systems-wide change we need. Instead, I see personal work as preparation for change, so we can get our of our own way and “show-up,” as best we can, for social transformation.
I have over ten years’ experience as a trauma therapist. I currently have a private practice, where I work with my clients not only to understand and overcome their personal and familial challenges, but to place their struggles in the larger contexts of structural violence and oppression. Before I had my own practice I worked at the VA, specializing in military sexual trauma, combat trauma, and substance abuse. I’ve also worked in community mental health, addressing trauma, economic inequality, addiction, and mental distress.
In addition to my practice, I deliver trainings and courses to universities, colleges, and organizations. I have over 25 years’ experience as a trainer, workshop facilitator, and professor. I’ve taught courses and trainings on subjects such as structural violence and oppression; trauma and secondary trauma; gender, power and identity; grief and loss; meaning and purpose, critical thinking and radical pedagogy.
I’ve been told by the people I work with that I am at once tough and supportive; that I make complex ideas easy to understand; and that I bring a combination of humor, humility, curiosity and patience to my work. I work best in collaboration, tailoring my approach to a client’s specific needs.