About
Conflict has been a theme in my life. I’m fascinated by how people disconnect, how they make up and the dynamics that occur in between. I can trace this back to my early years growing up in a large family in which emotional outbursts were an everyday event. People often quit speaking to each other for hours or days at a time, but somehow mysteriously patched up the quarrel and continued on, until the next breakdown. My family also taught me about love and loyalty. We stuck together, but the price was resentment and anxiety.
At the age of 21 I began healing and changing my learned family behavior patterns through meditation, yoga and therapy. Deep and lasting transformation took off when I began learning and practicing the mindfulness and communication skills of Nonviolent Communication 20 years ago. Finally I had a roadmap that led me to consistently connect with my own emotional, psychological and spiritual inner landscape and navigate the complexity of relationships. I learned how to be present and shift my most uncomfortable emotions. I learned how to connect with my deepest values and needs while still being present with and respectful of others, even when I didn’t agree with them.
My life has been a fascinating, sometimes challenging, and joyful journey of immense growth. I was in a long marriage, divorced and have a son in his thirties. I’ve encountered illness, my parents’ declining health, and family substance abuse. My training and personal experiences, along with my willingness to learn and grow through life’s challenges, allows me successfully guide others in their journey to more fulfilling lives.
My mission is to help people understand and change their own patterns and behaviors that are no longer working, and to grow in their capacity to create mature relationships. I am a warm and supportive coach, helping my clients move forward with curiosity, compassion, confidence and skill in creating thriving relationships that are the foundation for their success and joy in life.
Training
Certified Trainer, Center for Nonviolent Communication 2016 – present
Relational Life Therapy- Level 1
Courses in trauma healing and the neurobiology of relationships
The Couples Institute
Mediation Training, Mediation Training Center of the Pacific
B.A. Anthropology, University of Alaska