I was a fat kid

Until I was age 14, I was fat. My family was all about food. We used food as a way to get together, and to reward ourselves.

But I was determined to live, and live fully, without that limitation. I learned all I could about nutrition and exercise, and began to look at things differently and adopt better behaviors.

When I saw the changes in my own body and how much better I felt, I dedicated by career to helping myself and others to achieve their optimum weight and quality of life.

---

Weekend Appointments

It's important to me even today to continue working with clients individually, so I offer weekend-only appointments to individuals seeking counseling.

Although my specialty is eating and weight issues, I work with all individuals who wish to improve their quality of life. Common issues include stress, relationships, sexual functioning/sexuality, self-esteem, grief, career, time management, and obstacles to change.
 
I do my best to provide an atmosphere of safety without judgment for each client, recognizing that each person is unique. Therapy is a collaborative process: we work together to clarify your concerns, validate your strengths, and find strategies to improve your life.

I have been in clinical practice for more than 20 years, and was the Behavioral Health Director at Duke University Diet and Fitness Center. From 2000-2012 I led workshops at the Rice Diet Program on topics such as Enhancing Motivation, Recovering from Relapse, Dealing with Emotional Eating, and Positive Self-Affirmation.

I am also a Consulting Professor at Duke University School of Medicine and Professor Emerita at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Department of Health Studies, Førde, Norway.

Contact me to discuss an appointment.