About Me

I knew that I wanted to be a high school counselor when I was in the eighth grade. At 14 my interest inventory indicated that I would enjoy being a bus driver or a nurse. After failing parallel parking and fainting at the sight of my own blood, I quickly ruled those out. Growing up, I experienced the loss of a parent, so life at home was less than ideal. After becoming a school counselor, those hardships helped me connect to the students with genuine empathy and understanding.

After 20 years of working in the educational setting as a high school guidance counselor, crisis counselor, college academic advisor, and pre-pharmacy coordinator in student affairs, I was starting to feel very burned out. I thought I could make it a few more years, but then COVID happened. My priorities shifted, and I retired early.

My husband and I have been married for 38 years, and he was a Navy pilot for twenty-three of those years. I have a heartfelt appreciation for all veterans and their family members. I have also been my husband’s primary support system when he had colon cancer and more recently open-heart surgery. When I learned about the KFG Project, I had already completed a coaching program to become a certified coach with the intent of working with veterans and their families. Everything happens for a reason it seems.

Coaching Experience

Although I am new to coaching, I have years of experience in a supportive role for students, teachers, and parents. As a crisis counselor, I was the calm center in the eye of the storm. I used breathing exercises, guided imagery, reflective listening, and open-ended questions to explore feelings and build trust and rapport. As a coach, I use these same tools and motivational interviewing to promote change and growth.

I understand that change can be scary, and life tends to throw us curveballs. I will meet you where you are with respect and dignity, not judgement. You will set the pace and direction of our collaborative journey. When you are ready to fly solo, we will both know it was your hard work that made your vision a reality.

Certifications & Credentials

  • Health and Wellness Coach Training program completed May 27, 2025. I am working towards becoming a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach. I adhere to ICF Ethical Standards.
  • Masters in Educational School Counseling from Old Dominion University
  • BA in Psychology from Texas Tech University

I have been a diabetic for most of my life, so I have personal knowledge of living with a medical condition.

Let’s Connect

My top five-character strengths are honesty, love, spirituality, gratitude, and humor. I believe in the power of unconditional positive regard, living in the moment and post traumatic growth.
“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”

― Viktor E. Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning