About

 I am a clinical psychologist. I have always been interested in people, in truth telling, and in responsible expression and attuned listening to emotional experience. Paralleling these human interests has been a lifelong connection to all other animals. As long as I can remember I have had a sense of other animals as sentient beings, and sometimes friends, as well as a love of nature and a connection to the natural world. I believe that connection with nature can help sustain long-term health and happiness for people.
 

   I graduated from Harvard-Radcliffe College in 1984.  I learned a lot about people from bar tending and from working at McLean Hospital.  I went on to proceed through a variety of therapy-related settings and academic learning sites to eventually receive a Doctorate in Psychology in 1991 from The Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology. I received my Massachusetts Psychologist license and started a private practice in 1992. Additionally, I spend much “work” time as an animal welfare activist and wildlife photographer.

Nowadays I love the IFS (Internal Family Systems) model, which is a lens from which I view much of the world. Given my clinical expertise in trauma and dissociation (my 1991 doctoral dissertation was on the phenomenological experience of dissociation), I have trained in many areas, including group dynamics, hypnosis, EMDR, and addictions.  I have let my heart and sense of what is true be my guides. This includes knowledge of and fondness for the 12-Steps and a concern with human addiction and greed as it destroys the not only the planet, but also the others who share it with us, and also destroys us. In spite of my deep concerns and thoughtful nature I have a great joy in life and love to laugh.

 

   My philosophy and orientation as a psychologist have been informed by over 30 years of experience, education, my own life experiences, and, most significantly, by the feedback I have received (and continue to welcome) in working with my patients/clients. I like the word “patient” because of its’ meaning in the Greek language: one who suffers. I like the idea of our work together as providing balm to suffering. My desire is to help those who suffer to feel better, suffer less, lead more fulfilling and productive lives, and to enjoy deeper and more intimately connected relationships with other people and the natural world. Towards this end, my approach is eclectic, not a one-size-fits-all. I believe that when you enter my office and we agree to work together, the operative word is together. We are a team. Someone once shared with me that ‘you don’t have to be sick to get better.’ I believe that’s true. I also believe that people come by their problems honestly -- the way we do things and what we believe made sense at one time may end up being unhelpful in a current context.

Working together in therapy, I try to help my patients solve their problems with the same sincerity and integrity with which they come to me for help. I love my work and feel both lucky and grateful for this gift of a career.

 

This website was created with much help from my dear friend and colleague, Dr. Patti Levin, who has shared with me many of the numerous articles and links that we have used in our daily practices.  We have done this with the belief that knowledge is powerful. Please feel free to download, copy, and disseminate anything from this site. Don’t hesitate to contact me for any further information.

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