Meet the new member of your team on your path to wellness

I became a coach because I have had several friends, clients, and family members become ill with life-altering chronic diseases. This made me start to research science-based information on what was in our control and how our own behaviors (such as stress reduction and choices that build our resilience) affect our health. 

When I put the research together with what I already had seen from my own meditation, mindfulness, and exercise practices, I came to the realization that we must have an  integrative approach to our wellness that includes the body, mind, and a sense of purpose or meaning. When these approaches are all balanced we are able to find our own optimal wellness.  

Teaching meditation and yoga developed out of my own 25+ year yogic practice.  I found yoga and meditation continually help me stay anchored and able to navigate the changes in my life over the years. 

I enjoy working with people who have been diagnosed with chronic disease who are open to change and have the desire to grow. My clients have ranged in age from their early 20's to their 70's.  

I have worked with clients with breast cancer, brain cancer, throat cancer, non-Hodgkins lymphoma, diabetes, heart disease, trauma, anxiety, and dementia, as well as other chronic illnesses. I have also worked with their caregivers and was privileged to work at the Mayo Clinic Hospital with patients in treatment for chronic conditions for several years. 

The NBC-HWC designation stands for Nationally Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach. Currently there are only about 10,000 national-board certified coaches. To earn this designation you have to complete a Master Certified coaching program and then pass a 4 hour scenario-based exam that covers topics such as chronic disease, lifestyle choices, and various types of coaching.  

I am also a faculty member at a college and  teach classes in Wellness Anatomy and Chronic Conditions and Disease to students who are getting ready to take this exam.