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Education |
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- Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA - Master of Arts, Theology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy - August 1985
- University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI - Bachelor of Science, Secondary Education with a concentration in Psychology. Graduated with Honors - June 1981
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Licensure |
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- State of California license as a Marriage and Family Therapist, MFC24489 - October 1, 1988
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Professional Memberships |
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- American Society of Reproductive Medicine, Mental Health Professional Group
- California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
- RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
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Since my husband and I didn’t marry until our early 30s, after a year into our marriage we decided it was time to start our family. Neither of us suspected there would be any difficulty in conceiving. What came next is what you may have already experienced: a year of trying naturally, followed by diagnostic tests, surgeries, low-tech and high-tech procedures and lots and lots of hormone shots! After five years of treatment, including one IVF, it didn’t look like we would conceive a biological child.
Our emotional journey was probably also similar to yours. We rode the rollercoaster of emotions, the highs and lows of hopefulness and despair each monthly cycle, whether we were in treatment or not. We saw many of our friends and family create their families effortlessly. We came to realize we were not in control and could not make a pregnancy happen. Fortunately I found a therapist and a support group through RESOLVE to share my struggles with. Here were people who really understood what it was like to not be a parent in a world filled with children!
Eventually I also began leading support groups and when our IVF cycle was unsuccessful, my husband and I chose to adopt domestically and welcomed our newborn son later that year! I then chose to focus my therapy practice on infertility and adoption counseling. I continue to lead support groups through RESOLVE and participate in the Mental Health Professionals Group of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Connecting with other professionals in the field of reproductive medicine keeps me up to date on the latest issues involved with infertility treatment.
Although I also enjoy providing general counseling services for individuals and couples, my heart’s desire is to be a beacon of light and hope for those struggling to create their family. I understand the journey and would be honored to walk with you through yours.
Don’t go through this on your own. Call today!
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