In 1995 I graduated from California State University, Chico Cum Laude, with Honors in the Major in Psychology. Having loved my study of perception, behavior, and social interaction it was a simple decision to move on to California State University, Sacramento where I studied Marriage and Family Counseling in the Counselor Education program. I graduated in 1997 with a Master of Science degree. By then I was working for Families First, a foster family agency, working one on one with children who had been severely abused by their parents.
My work at Families First gave me a deep understanding of just how severely damaging the wrong kind of interaction can be and how positive connections can help. The work was difficult at times and full of setbacks with the young men I worked with. The rewards of seeing change over time was wonderful and a reward worth the effort.
By the time I graduated from California State University, Sacramento I had 2 beautiful girls so I decided it was time to buy a house. That decision required that I find different work. I reluctantly left the foster family work to continue working with abused children at Child Protective Services (CPS) in Sacramento County.
At CPS I continued my work with abused children. This was a rewarding position that I loved. Unfortunately, the amount of work was overwhelming so I lasted just one year. I sought similar work, with less of it, in Placer County were I remained until 2006. By then I was blessed with two additional children. With four children that I longed to spend more time with I left the County and started a private practice.
As to my belief system, I am a Christian. If you wish, let me know and we can use scriptural reference to our work together. If you are not interested that is fine as well. Sometimes making a connection spiritually or rooting a connection in scriptures can help.
In addition to my family I love spending time out of doors. I am a runner and have begun running races of up to a half marathon. Longer races to come I am sure. I also enjoy hiking, boating, swimming and other outdoor activity. With my father I restore antique tractors from the teens through 1930. We have also restored 2, and started on a 3rd combined harvester (wheat harvesters). They are the oldest operational harvesters in existence. We show them around California every chance we get.
I look forward to meeting you and hope I can Add Life to Your Years.......
