Hello & Welcome. My journey and decision to become a counselor began with my own and loved one's challenging personal life experiences. These challenges led me to completing a program to become a Licensed Addiction Counselor and finally expanding my studies by completing a master's degree in clinical social work with an undergraduate minor in Native American Studies. Social work is important to me because of its holistic view, which considers how major life factors (health, relationships, psychology, culture, socioeconomic status and environment) impact a person's sense of self and wellbeing. I started working in inpatient treatment for those in the beginning stages of recovery related to substance use disorder, and eventually worked as the outpatient counselor for individuals with co-occurring disorders. I feel honored to work with individuals, facilitating the desired changes needed, to decrease stress and enhance overall wellbeing. Living the life, one envisions as optimal.