meet our team

I started The Wellness Place in 2021 in the middle of the Covid pandemic after observing a need for nurse-led mental health care to help children, teens and young adults experiencing unprecedented challenges in our community. My goal is to create an accepting, supportive, and non-judgemental environment where we partner to address each person and family’s unique needs while celebrating diverse strengths and experiences. I believe we have a tremendous ability to overcome even the most difficult traumas when given the space and support to face our fears.

I have over 15 years of nursing experience working with people with mental health concerns in the hospital as well as a wide range of community settings, including specialty mental health care, primary care and substance use programs. I graduated in 2004 from The George Washington University with my bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in exercise science. I went to graduate school at Yale University where I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in 2008 and later attended Oregon Health Sciences University where I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2014. In addition to my practice, I am also an Associate Professor and the Director of University of St. Joseph's psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program.

I am nationally board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, accredited to treat people across the lifespan. I am also nationally board-certified as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist, accredited to care specifically for children and adolescents. I am licensed in Connecticut to provide therapeutic interventions and prescription medication.