The stress of day to day life often challenges the best of us. I offer an empathic, confidential place for you to bring your troubles. Genuineness and respect are the core of my practice. My approach combines developmental sensitivity, evidence-based techniques, and an ability to adapt communication and intervention to meet the needs of different ages and presenting concerns.

Clinical background and training

• Education: B.A. Journalism University of Idaho; B.S. in Psychology Benedictine University; Masters Social Work Aurora University

• Experience: 5 years Senior Mental Health Counselor inpatient Linden Oaks Hospital; 2 years ANAD eating disorder specialist; 18 years clinical social work private practice at Rago & Associates, Naperville IL; 15 years Kaneland High School Social Worker

• Specialties: National speaker on adoption and related issues; Vistage Executive Group speaker on the effects of social media on adolescent develpoment; Nationally renowned practice in the treatment of eating disorders

Clinical skills and techniques

• Integrate multiple evidence-based approaches—play therapy, TF-CBT, attachment-focused interventions, family therapy, CBT, DBT skills training, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based strategies—tailoring the method to developmental stage and presenting issues.

Common presenting concerns

• With children: behavioral problems, anxiety, school-related issues, developmental or neurodivergent presentations (e.g., ADHD, autism spectrum), grief and loss, attachment difficulties, and trauma-related symptoms.

• With adolescents: mood disorders, identity development and autonomy struggles, peer and family conflict, academic stress, substance use, self-harm and suicidal ideation.

• With adults: depression, anxiety, relationship and marital concerns, parenting stress, trauma recovery, life transitions, and co-occurring medical or substance use conditions.

Outcome focus and measurement

• Use measurable goals and periodic outcome measures to track progress (behavioral charts, symptom inventories, functioning scales) and adjusts treatment based on response.

• Emphasizesstrengths and resilience, helping clients and families build practical skills they can sustain after therapy.

An experienced counselor who works across the lifespan bridges developmental knowledge with flexible clinical skills, offering tailored, practical, and ethical care that supports healing and growth for children, adolescents, and adults alike.