Before returning to college at the age of 33, I was a stay-at-home mom providing family day care. My life was busy, but I had this deep yearning to do more. I chose occupational therapy because of its holistic foundation, the belief that healing is possible through meaningful occupation.
My career as an occupational therapist and rehab manager satisfied my need to be of service for only a short time. In my personal life, my children were beginning to graduate from high school and were preparing to head off to college. That deep yearning to do more was present, once again, and I knew my life was changing.
Perhaps it was my passion for learning, or the desire to hold onto my youth a bit longer, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in organizational psychology. Workplaces, I decided needed to become a place for personal growth and development rather than a “job to pay the bills.” Quite idealistic, I know.
I completed my degree in the Spring of 2003 and then that summer my rehab manager position was eliminated and I was out of a job. It was a very painful experience even though it was anticipated and a good decision on the part of my employer. In addition, I had begun experiencing poor health due to a chronic medical condition. This painful period was an opening or portal to my personal journey towards health and wellness. It has been a bumpy ride.
My season of Winter (from the Seasons of Change Model) lasted four years during which time I continued working as an occupational therapist on an as needed basis and taught at MATC and UW-LaCrosse. My goal was to create passionate work in service to others and the planet. I became certified as a Mindful Coach, Appreciative Inquiry Practitioner, Reiki Practitioner and a Seasons of Change and Purpose Clarity Coach. There have been many starts and stops on this journey, lots of ups and downs. In December of 2007, I stopped working as an occupational therapist due to ongoing health issues…I am learning as I go, committed to living life full out and loving what is — the good, the bad, and the ugly.
The gifts of this time in my life have been many. Though my formal employment has ended, I am so grateful for the opportunity to create my “work.” I have plenty of time to explore new ways of being as well as pursue my own personal healing. And now, it is time for me to give back. I invite you to join with me to be the change we wish to see in the world through creating heart connections.
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Summary of Education and Training
BA – Occupational Therapy
MS – Organizational Psychology
Certified Mindful Coach
Appreciative Inquiry Practitioner
Sixth Sensory™ Practitioner
Certified Seasons of Change/Purpose Clarity Coach
Reiki Practitioner
SoulCollage® Facilitator (2011)
