Training

I received my Masters in Social Work (MSW) in 1982 from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where I previously earned an undergraduate degree in psychology. Subsequently I have been privileged to benefit from over 1000 hours of post-graduate training at a number of Gestalt Therapy Institutes around the country, most notably the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland.

Work

For six years, I served as the Director of Psychotherapy for Horizons Community Services, Chicago's gay and lesbian social service agency. Other professional affiliations have included the Howard Brown Health Center and Chicago Connections, which is part of the Heartland Alliance. I was also on the Counseling Center Staff of the Oasis Center for Human Potential for five years. I have maintained a psychotherapy practice in Chicago since 1987, working with individuals, couples, and groups. I have also presented nationally to professional as well as lay audiences on a variety of topics related to areas of my expertise.

Gestalt

With its emphasis on moment-to-moment awareness and creativity I have long been fascinated with Gestalt Therapy, which was an easy match with my enthusiasm for bringing myself fully to the present with as much awareness, wisdom, and compassion as I can. In 1992, I was invited to author an audiotape series entitled Gestalt Training: The Psychology of Self-Regulating Success (Nightingale-Conant). I currently sit on the Executive Committee and am the Treasurer of the international Association for the Advancement of Gestalt Therapy.

What led me to become a therapist?
My own years as a therapy client gave rise to insights into myself and others, overall growth and maturity, and significant life changes. The beneficial effects I experienced were so profound that I knew I wanted to help others traverse their own life's paths. After working with emotionally disturbed children in a small residential treatment facility, I decided to get my Masters in Social Work. While I was in graduate school I discovered my interest in Gestalt Therapy and have continued to study and work with a Gestalt approach.

Currently
I am currently in full-time private practice with individuals, couples, and groups. I also run Body Image Workshops for gay men about four times a year. Aside from serving as Treasurer for the above-mentioned AAGT, I also sit on the Program and Training Committee of the Illinois Group Psychotherapy Society and am a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

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