As a child survivor of my mother’s suicide when I was almost four years old, I remember the anguish and confusion that followed her death. My world turned upside down. I learned that relationships are impermanent and can end at any time. I became more acquainted with uncertainty and isolation. But I also learned over time that I had courage and grit, the ability not only to survive, but also to flourish. I discovered that healing is a process—gradual and slow, with bouts of sadness, anxiety and anger. I learned about the resilience of the human spirit and the strength of my own.

Today, as the child/teen bereavement services director at Sutter VNA & Hospice in Santa Rosa, California, I lead grief support groups for adults, teens and children anticipating the loss of someone special or coping with the aftermath of a loved one’s death from suicide, illness, accidents, homicide. I also train volunteer facilitators, and provide crisis intervention to schools and community groups facing bereavement situations.

I graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara and the master's program in clinical psychology at Sonoma State University and now live in Sebastopol, California, with my husband, Mike. We have two grown sons, Adam and Brian. I enjoy traveling, being in nature and exploring the world. I also like gardening, cycling, hiking, and spending time with friends. But most of all, I love to be with my family.