About Me

I graduated from the New York University School of Social Work in 1983 and have lived and practiced in Naples since 1984. I attended the Rutgers Summer School of Addiction Studies in 1987 and 1990 and have extensive post-graduate training in addiction studies and co-dependency.

For over thirty years I have presented workshops and seminars on “Therapeutic Value of Humor and Play” on a national level, and have published several articles on humor, geriatric issues, and improvisational comedy. I am an active member of the National Association of Social Workers and the Florida Chapter of NASW.

I work with PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression using techniques such as Mindfulness Meditation and Visualization. I treat various medical issues, such as traumatic brain injuries, dialysis, and pain issues. I also work with caregivers for the chronically ill and elderly. My professional and personal experience with pain issues and caregiving for an elderly parent with Parkinson’s Disease gives me a unique perspective to help others. Although many of our life issues are certainly not funny, by developing “humor strategies” we can confront and cope with our difficult situations, dialysis, and pain issues.

Using Improvisational Theatre exercises combined with cognitive-behavioral education, I assist people suffering anxiety disorders, Parkinson’s, and those in recovery from addictions. I offer a wide range of “Wellness through Improv” classes and workshops. Click to read more about available classes

Awards

• Social Worker of the Year Collier County Unit Florida NASW, 2001
• Social Worker of the Year Southwest Unit, Florida NASW,
  Honored for my work in developing the first behavioral required course for mental health providers in Florida, “Prevention of Medical Errors in Behavioral Health”

Qualifications

Years in Practice: 34+ Years
School: New York University School of Social Work
Year Graduated: 1983
License No. and State: SW1708 Florida