ABOUT ME

For 34 years as a school counselor, I helped high school students grow emotionally and academically and I fully understand the complex process of exploring life after high school. Working as an independent college admissions counselor for 5 years now, my goal is to understand and focus on the unique needs of each student and their family, so I can support them in finding the right college or deciding if a gap year might be the best next step.

I am also passionate about Restorative Practices, an approach that fosters healing and strengthens relationships when harm has occurred. I offer training on the restorative framework, which includes building community (through circles) and facilitating restorative conferences when repair is needed. Additionally, I provide restorative conferencing to families or communities of any size who may benefit from the process.

What sets me apart?

I intentionally work with a small number of students so I can give them the personalized attention they deserve. Much like a private school counselor, I provide one-on-one guidance and encouragement throughout the entire process. My flexible schedule allows me to meet with students at times that work best for them, including after school, in the evenings, on weekends, and during the summer. To stay current and informed, I regularly attend workshops, conferences and webinars, and I have visited more than 150 colleges and universities across the United States and abroad.

~ Over thirty-five years as a Secondary School Counselor at State College Area School District

~ Seven years as Head Counselor, State College High School, State College Area School District

~ Two years as K-12 Family & Community Engagement Counselor, State College Area School District

~ International Institute of Restorative Practices: Trainer & Practitioner since 2013

~ Frequent workshop presenter at PASAP (Pennsylvania Association of Student Assistance Professionals)

~ Author of “The (Death) Life of the School Counselor: & the Call for Change in Public Education” (2024)

Education

~ M.Ed in Counselor Education, The Pennsylvania State University

~ B.S. in Rehabilitation Education, The Pennsylvania State University

Professional Affiliations

~ Member - National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)

~ Member - Pennsylvania Association of College Admissions Counselors (PACAC)

~ Member - American School Counselor Association (ASCA)

~ Certification - ASCA Grief & Loss Specialist

~ Certification - IIRP Trainer

~ Guest Speaker - The Pennsylvania State University

~ Former Coach - State College High School Track & Field and Cross Country

Community Affiliations

~ Centre County Community Conferencing: Steering committee and volunteer Restorative Conferencing Facilitator

~ Centre LGBT+ Support Network: Founder and past board member

~ Centre Helps Crisis Hotline: current board member and trainer on LGBTQ+ issues

~ Restorative Practices Facilitator & Trainer