From the time I was a first grade student, I have been fascinated by people.  Most anyone who casually enjoys “people watching” can relate.  My interest was even more intense, and extended to noticing behavior patterns, personality styles, nuances of facial expressions, the rhythm of conversations, and what causes people to laugh, cry, get angry, and be emotionally moved in other ways. 

As I got a little older, I felt a similar passion for music, poetry, literature, art, symbols, and metaphors as ways to be in touch with feelings and understand the deeper meaning of life more fully. Other kids my age began coming to me and telling me their feelings and their problems. I enjoyed being able to help and in the process learned more about myself.

By the time I got to college, I figured it was time that I stopped practicing psychology without a license, and the rest is history.  I’m truly fortunate to be able to do what I love, and to share the journey of self-discovery and finding effective solutions with my clients.
 

A psychologist is a specialist in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating emotional and behavioral problems. Psychologists have a doctoral degree and typically spend about seven years in graduate study after completing their undergraduate degree in college. A psychologist with a Ph.D. also writes a lengthy, scholarly research paper called a dissertation in an area of special interest and must present an oral report on that research in front of a panel of faculty members from the university. A practical pre-doctoral (before the degree) and post-doctoral internship with supervision from experienced clinicians must be completed before a psychologist can practice independently.

Psychologists are licensed in the state where they practice and must pass a standardized written test and oral examination by the board of psychologists after completing their degree and internships in order to be licensed.

Psychologists are subject to a strict code of professional ethics, must complete continuing education classes, and are accountable for demonstration of ongoing clinical competence.