I hail originally from the East Coast of the United States where I enjoyed the diversity and seasons of New England. I knew at a young age that I wanted to be in the helping profession, and had decided at the age of 8 years old that I wanted to become a psychologist, once a favorite aunt of mine told me what they were! Even though this left some of the adults in my life incredulous, I knew it was my calling, and set about the task with singular focus. After university graduation, I spent roughly the second half of my life in Southern California where I enjoyed the progression from graduate student into my professional career as a clinical psychologist. I was lucky to be surrounded by talented, fun, smart, and open-minded clinicians working in progressive treatment settings.

 

Though I had frequently traveled, it wasn't until I tango danced my way into the heart of my spouse who was a native of Geneva, Switzerland, that I made the decision to live in Europe. I placed my California License on "inactive status" and launched into my new culture with a sabbatical that included taking language classes, joining local groups, and volunteer activities. It also gave the me time and space to explore my new host countries along with my creative instincts which involve dance, cooking, ceramics, and painting. After 7 years in Switzerland, we moved again, this time to France, which has it's own system of healthcare, administration, and culture to understand.

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Living this unique transition and acculturation experience in mid-life has been an interesting "swerve" to be sure. It is an experience I wouldn't trade for anything, and one in which I have been utterly humbled  - quite literally feeling at times like an infant trying to string a sentence together in a foreign language! Though my language skills have progressed substantially, being a foreigner in a culture where I did not initially speak the language of the medical community, raised my attention to the unique issues that the immigrant and expat community face. I became aware of the need for English speaking individuals to work outside of the traditional medical and mental health model, and outside of imperfect human-drawn barriers to wellness services.

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No matter where I have been, a constant in my professional and volunteer passions has always included wellness and helping others in novel and creative ways. In 2010, the potential benefits of telemental health services intrigued me, so I began researching platforms and related ethical issues, and thereafter began an independent study course with the Telemental Health Training Institute where I became a recognized Advanced Certified Telebehavioral Health Professional and I started an online practice. Though I am no longer practicing as a licensed clinical psychologist, it is my belief that the very best wellness services take into account the real needs of those looking for help, and reduces barriers to services wherever possible.

 

If virtual sessions are desired, various platforms that adhere to the highest levels of security and end to end encryption will be considered and discussed, depending on your needs. Depending on privacy needs and convenience, onsite or in home visits may be available and are offered with flexible timeframes. It is my desire to exceed your expectations, and to help you make your sessions work for you!

 

At this time, my Cybertherapy wellness services are available in English, and English-French bilingual only, and are open to individuals who wish to work with me outside of the medical model of traditional treatment and insurance. Acute mental health cases, and individuals needing extra professional support will be encouraged to seek qualified traditional medical model services in their area.