Substack is my home on the internet. Here I write about psychotherapy as a messy, deeply human process—not a packaged fix. I challenge the commercialization of mental health and the pull of tidy narratives, and I advocate instead for reflective, compassionate approaches that honor complexity.
Through stories, psychodynamic ideas, and lived experience, I explore healing, identity, and the unseen forces that shape us. My hope is simple: to invite readers to think more critically and more kindly about their own journeys.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pittsburgh. Over a long career I’ve worked in Community Mental Health—primarily with children who suffered abuse and neglect—and that work remains the foundation of how I understand trauma and resilience. Now I see both children and adults in a suburban practice while also writing and preparing for retirement. Working as an independent contractor has allowed me to balance clinical work with this quieter life of reflection and craft.
I don’t run seminars, sell tickets, or offer video performances. What I do offer here are essays, stories, and reflections—written in real time from my experience as a clinician and a human. I continue to learn and to sharpen my craft, and I’m grateful to share that process with you.
My AI Policy
The writing you read here is my own voice and thinking. I do use Large Language Models as a sounding board—to test ideas, improve clarity, and check for errors. I also use AI tools sparingly for grammar and synonyms. For visuals I prefer my own photography or the work of other artists (always credited); occasionally I may use AI-generated images, but it’s not my default. Above all, the substance and perspective you find here remain authentically mine.
Why subscribe?
Uncover the hidden stories of your past and discover a deeper sense of self and belonging. As a writer and psychotherapist, I help you explore the messy, strange aspects of life by uncovering the connections between personal and family history and the broader historical context. My audience seeks not only validation and clarity but also a sense of coherence, identity, and belonging. I'm especially drawn to intriguing events and fascinating ideas, which I weave into my storytelling, offering both psychological insight and a deeper understanding of yourself, your family, and your place in history. Subscribe today and start your journey of self-discovery.
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