Recent Professional Practice

Life Coach, 2014-present

Focus on realistic goal-setting and progress, stress management, personal growth, and self-care for caregivers.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 2006-present

(Licensed in California only)
Primary clinical focus on individuals with trauma-related issues

Sexual Assault Program Manager / Clinical Supervisor and Consultant, 2006-2013

WCS-DdM with Monarch Services in Santa Cruz, CA
Clinical supervision / training of social work associates, therapist trainees and interns.

Clinical Supervisor, 2006-2012

Community Connections in Santa Cruz, CA
Supervision of social work associates

University Faculty Posts

Adjunct Faculty, 2015 – present

Palo Alto University M.A. Counseling Program

Adjunct Faculty, 2009 - present

JFK University Graduate School of Professional Psychology

Adjunct Faculty, 2009 - present

JFK University Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology-Holistic Degree Program

Sampling of Recent Professional Presentations / Trainings

• Bridges to Intimacy and Desire through Movement and Dance
• Understanding and Working with Shame
• Creating a Safe Space: Advanced Skills in Queer-Friendly Mediation
• Working with People with Disabilities
• Careers in Art Therapy
• A Somatic Approach to Working with Vicarious Trauma
• Using Movement in Your Work With Groups
• Cultural Competency: Race, Sexual Orientation and Ability
• Anxiety Management Techniques

Professional Licenses and Certifications

• Prepare/Enrich Certified Facilitator and Pre-Marital Coach, 2014
• Continuing Education Certificate Program in Expressive Arts Therapy, JFK University, 2013
• Hakomi Experiential Psychology Professional 2 Year Training, Hakomi Institute of California, 2011
• EMDR Basic Training, 2005
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in 2003

Formal Education

• Masters of Social Work (MSW), Arizona State University, 1992
• Bachelors Degree, Oberlin College, 1985

Other Talents, Skills and Interests

Dance Instructor

Individual and Group Dance Instructor, 2001-present

Styles of Dance: Partnered Salsa, Salsa for Individuals, Casino Rueda, Salsa Fusion, Bachata, Blues, Urban Line Dance, Waltz

Zumba and Zumba Gold Certified Instructor, 2008-present

Dance Performer

• Candela Dance Troupe – Choreographer, Co-Director and Performer, 2006-2010
• La Suca Dance Company – Co-Director and Performer, 2004-2005
• Salsa Rueda Santa Cruz – Performer, 2004

Culinary Arts

• Culinary Coordinator of WWTMC outdoor kitchen feeding up to 800, Summers 1987-2013
• Executive Catering Associate, Howling Cow Café, 1992 - 1996
• Baker, Monica’s Bakery, 1988- 1989
• Collective Member, Baker Production Chef, Brunch and Lunch Cook, Takoma Café, 1985-1987
• Catering Assistant, Seven Oaks Retreat Center, 1985