Many people experience feelings of anxiety about the future, struggle to find the motivation or energy to successfully face current problems, or feel misunderstood by others. Having support in the process of adjusting or changing your patterns of thinking and actions can help you fulfill your aspirations and enjoy greater happiness. I will help you work towards aligning your dreams and goals with productive and healthy ways of thinking and acting. My therapeutic approach allows you to identify and build upon your strengths while developing new skills and strategies that foster hope and help you face life challenges more effectively.

An essential part of the growth process for people making their path forward includes learning from interactions and relationships within the family and community. My open and non-judgmental approach has allowed me to build rapport and successfully navigate cultural differences with my students and clients.

I have supported students, parents, and families for three decades as teacher, coach, principal, and, most recently, psychotherapist. I am Pennsylvania PK-12 School Counselor certified and Licensed Professional Counselor eligible. My perspective embraces inquiry-based systems theories and empirical researched interventions in cognitive behavioral, EMDR, and solutions-focused brief therapy.

Education 
2018 – University of Pennsylvania, M.S.Ed., School and Mental Health Counseling
1993 – Harvard University, Ed.M., Experienced Teachers’ Program
1985 – Bates College, B.S., Mathematics

Counseling/Education Experience
2017-2018 – Outpatient Clinician & Intern, T.W. Ponessa & Associates Counseling Services (Lancaster, PA)
2017-2018 – School Counseling Intern, J.P. McCaskey High School Campus (Lancaster, PA)
2016-2017 – School Counseling Practicum, Wheatland Middle School (Lancaster, PA)
2009-2016 – Head of Upper School, Lancaster Country Day School (Lancaster, PA)
1998-2009 – Assistant Head of Upper School & Academic Dean, Cary Academy (Cary, NC)
1995-1998 – Mathematics Department Head, coach, & student advisor, The Park School (Baltimore, MD)
1993-1995 – Teacher, coach, & student advisor, The Rivers School (Weston, MA)
1998-1992 – Teacher, coach, & student advisor, Tilton School (Tilton, NH)
1985-1987 – Teacher & coach – U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, Chanel College (Western Samoa)

Licenses/Certifications
Pennsylvania Certified School Counselor PK-12
Certified Prepare/Enrich Marriage & Relationship Facilitator
Licensed Professional Counselor – Eligible (Passed National Counselor Exam in 2018)
Massachusetts Certified Secondary School Mathematics Teacher

Other Endeavors
Past-President of the Board, Horizons at LCDS (Lancaster, PA)

Supervisor
Michael Hoober (License #: PC006505 Pennsylvania)