About Me
My background
I've been a health and wellness coach since 2011, with a National Board Certification in 2018. In addition to working with diverse clients in my own business, I coached in a medical setting for three years, where I collaborated with providers, therapists, and dieticians to help patients make sustainable and impactful health changes.
I became a Certified Divorce Coach® in 2023 to help people navigate the upset of divorce in a clear and empowered way. Coaching is very meaningful and fulfilling for me; I am always honored to be able to walk alongside someone as they grow and learn new ways of being. I recently finished training as a Pre-Mediation Divorce Coach® in order to offer specific, actionable tools for those entering that process.
My yoga journey began with my first teacher training in 2011. I have studied with many amazing master teachers but am most aligned with Judith Lasater and her restorative yoga approach. My passion is helping clients learn to access their nervous systems to create calm in the midst of turmoil or increase energy when in a downspell. I believe our bodies know first and it can take the brain a while to catch up.
CDC®, PMDC®, NBC-HWC, CNTP, RYT500, E-RYT200, Y12SR, Yoga for Parkinson's, Level 2 Rest & Renew Restorative yoga teacher.
How I got here
My path began like so many, with a health issue that scared me into making some big changes. These changes turned into a desire to learn more: yoga teacher training, coach training, nutrition school, and starting a business. At the time, I was married with young kids, so working for myself and making my own hours was ideal.
After divorce, kids moving away for college, a new home, and a new job, I was looking for ways I could make an even bigger impact.
My end-of-marriage story and the tools I used and the resources I found were so critical to my making it through the way I did, that I felt compelled to share.
I realized that if I could merge my coaching experience with a yoga and movement background anchored in calming the nervous system, plus the perspective and insight I gained during my divorce then I could help people move through one of the most stressful life events they may encounter with calm, competence, and compassion.
My approach
I believe wholeheartedly in the power of the coach model to help facilitate change - I've experienced it for myself and have seen the impacts on so many clients and patients from all sorts of backgrounds, cultures, ages, etc.
I describe the difference between therapy and coaching like an onion: therapy is peeling the layers of the onion; coaching says you have an onion, what do you want to do with it?
Rather than looking backwards to the past like we do in therapy (very critical healing work!), we start crafting your future. We look at where you are today, where you want to get to, and what stands in your way. We talk values, motivators, and strengths. We harness your innate wisdom to make a plan. Then we talk first steps.
By helping clear away the mental clutter, focusing on realistic goals, and offering accountability I help you set out on this journey with confidence and courage with an eye on the new story of you.
Speaking and Presenting
I love talking! I am an engaging and knowledgeable speaker with a knack for making complex subjects accessible and even fun.
In my past business I created several nutrition and personal goals curricula for small groups; offered free monthly nutrition talks; and served on community boards. I was invited to demonstrate mindfulness practices at a K-12 educators retreat; spoke with high school students and staff about mindfulness practices; taught large group yoga at a national nutrition conference for three years; created an annual all-day community yoga event; sponsored health fairs; appeared on radio; and spoke at other events.
If you are looking for a sharp and lively presenter to speak to your group, in person or virtual - please reach out.
Topics include:
- Divorce Coaching - What is it? Do I need it?
- How can Pre-Mediation Divorce Coaching Benefit Me?
- Values - How to Connect to, and Nurture What's Truly Important
- Creating Calm in the Midst of Chaos
- Self-Care - What Does That Really Mean?
- Goal Setting and Habit Building
- Mindfulness Practices
- Nutrition Basics
