Education. I received an MA Degree in Art Therapy from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and have been actively engaged in the mental health field using art therapy and creativity in healing since 1998.  

Training. My professional experience spans across the life span, focusing on trauma-informed work in both long-term educational and therapeutic settings, as well as clinical behavioral mental health hospitals. I have implemented and supported the development of art therapy programs in various mental health agencies throughout the Twin Cities. Over the years, I have expanded the reach of art therapy to include its creative and healing potential in areas such as cognitive and developmental abilities, dementia and Alzheimer’s care, oncology, and school-based social-emotional learning (SEL) art therapy programming.

In my career, I have engaged in teaching, supervising, and mentoring, including contributing to the development of Minnesota's first accredited art therapy program including expanding field experience partnerships developing sites that provide and support art therapy training. I have supervised and consulted with mental health and art therapy professionals, supporting their professional development and identity journeys. Currently, I have extended my scope beyond mental health by providing professional consultation and mental health and wellness support services to agencies and corporations that value employee creative health and sustainability.

Passions. I enjoy spending time in nature through activities like hiking, biking, and relaxing by the lake. Connecting with loved ones is important to me, whether it's over a cup of coffee with friends or while exploring new places around the world. I also have a passion for art and creative experiences. One of my favorite hobbies is baking, and I make an amazing blueberry pie! In my art practice, I love experimenting with unexpected or non-traditional media and materials in innovative ways. Recently, I've become excited about 3D altered book arts and handmade paper. I find great joy in the fluid, often spontaneous, and uncontrollable aspects of watercolor painting; this reflects the unpredictability of life. I'm always eager to learn new skills, techniques, theories, and knowledge that foster creativity and stimulate the mind!

Commitment. To provide neuroscience-informed trauma community care, promote social justice, and advocate for re-indigenizing and empowering practices within supervision and training. Emphasizing holistic health and wellness, and de-stigmatizing mental health is crucial; creativity is a fundamental human right. I support the health and well-being of agencies and organizations.