The Center for Counseling Arts

Prior to my work as a licensed professional counselor, I was the director of two innovative private schools and a child care center. I was also an adjunct Social Sciences faculty member at Robert Morris University.

I am married, divorced, remarried and widowed. I have one marvelous child and two marvelous grandchildren.

In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, thought stopping is a detailed, effective treatment that empowers an individual with certain techniques to consciously change the pattern of negative or obsessive thoughts, which may be at the root of panic disorders and anxiety attacks that include physical symptoms. Thought habits can be altered; negative thoughts, replaced with positive alternatives. Researchers do recognize the possibility of a rebound effect: monitoring for a thought may encourage the thought we would like to avoid. But I believe there are still successful techniques that are part of the larger therapeutic relationship, which does result in release and healing.

CBT can provide a successful framework for those facing chronic and serious concerns such as adjustment disorder, acute stress disorder, antisocial behavior, bipolar and borderline personalities, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

I also have a particular strength in helping individuals experiencing eating disorders, which are persistent abnormal eating habits, fears or phobias that can result in either insufficient or excessive food intake. Laxative misuse may occur while an individual seeks to maintain an unhealthy weight. Ultimately eating disorders can be recognized through their effects on our lives: the detrimental behaviors, thoughts or feelings that connect with food and self-image. Often there is an underlying over-evaluation of shape and weight, no longer within our control; or forms of perfectionism and low self-esteem. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating and purging are common expressions. Eating disorders, and the underlying processes that form them, can be treated successfully with an open-mind, trust and the desire for wellness.

I believe the success of most therapy has to do with the human bond. In the therapeutic alliance, we share a relationship of responsibility and good-faith, with understanding and recovery available at each occasion.