I was born in Idaho and have made my home in the Portland, Oregon metro area where I completed my education. I have specialized in working with recovering adults and have been a practitioner for over 30 years. I have both a personal and professional connection to recovery from chemical dependency addictions. I have been involved in the treatment of substance abuse, serving clients in group and individual settings through out my professional career. I have seen substance abuse trends ebb and flow over my career and see it as a continuing challenge for many members of society. I have been licensed as a clinical social worker by the State Board of Social Work and the Oregon Health Department since 1988, and I complete continuing education through the national certification board on an annual basis.