I have over 30 years of substance use disorder counseling including- detox, outpatient, inpatient, moud, school-based tx, jail-based tx. In Cortez and Durango, and even an aftercare group in Window Rock, AZ. Been wieth the Southern Ute Behavioral Health for almost 4 years. I work at the Behavioral Health office conducting assessments, individual sessions and group sessions virtually and in person. I also travel to the detention facility to meet with incarcerated individuals and conduct group sessions. 

I began in detox in Cortez after realizing I wanted to work in counseling. That job wasn’t “counseling” it was more of an overnight shelter for intoxicated individuals to stay safely. Rarely did an individual detox fully. They were monitored over night with vital signs checked hourly, fed in the morning before leaving. I was not disillusioned, due to my motivation to help. I was then employed at Durango Detox which was at the community hospital, ran by the hospital district which also had a residential treatment program for sud. I was allowed to assist that program as needed. I learned most of what I know from working the front lines of treatment – detox. 

I enjoy working with people, seeing individuals make positive change, using my skills in helping others. Working with defensive or resistive people is a challenge, knowing trauma is usually at the core of substance use disorders. I still don’t fully understand stigma of substance use disorders, why would you blame anyone wanting to feel better? Usually use is initially the solution before it becomes the problem. Counseling is teaching skills to cope with life, heal trauma and live a life worth not needing to change feelings. 

I was born and raised in Cortez and Mancos. Graduated from Fort Lewis college on the 30 year plan. I lived in cities in my twenties- Long Beach, Miami, Phoenix. Moved back to this area after becoming pregnant to be home and near family. 

Currently live in Mancos with teen daughter, dog, cats, and chickens.