My calling to the world of health and wellness began over 40 years ago when I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Daily glucose monitoring, insulin maintenance and nutritional tracking have been a daily part of her life ever since. Unfortunately (or fortunately), at the age of 7, I knew the difference between dietary, dietetic and diabetic.

Along the way, I’ve learned a lot about the need for individuals to be informed and function as their own medical advocate. After the high-risk birth of my daughter, I began to seek preventative, alternative and more holistic approaches to my family’s health and care.

I received training and certification to practice Health Coaching at The Institute for Integrative Nutrition which is the only nutrition school integrating all different dietary theories—combining the knowledge of traditional philosophies with latest research and alternative and holistic concepts. The training emphasizes the concept of bio-individuality and that no one nutritional approach works best for everyone. I also received certification as a Holistic Health Counselor from the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP) and SUNY Purchase.

Soon after completing my IIN coaching certification, I realized my passion for health and helping people required more in-depth scientific training. I went on to complete my Master of Science degree in Human Nutrition from the University at Bridgeport with highest honors. My Master’s degree from Bridgeport is a Functional Medicine based program and training. My nutrition education continued with a passion for Functional Medicine and I completed a 14 month Advanced Practitioner Training with Erin Holt at FNA - the Functional Nutrition Academy.

I’m thrilled and energized when working with clients whether it involves preventative steps to increase wellness or Functional and holistic approaches to modern health issues brought about by the standard American diet. I often find myself working with clients who don’t seem to get the time and attention from doctors they need to help figure out HOW to feel better and WHAT is happening with them individually.  I believe strongly in the idea of looking for why a health issue began and asking if it can be turned around through diet and lifestyle changes first. I always say prescription solutions should be the last stop on the train, not the first!

Prior to having a private health counseling practice, I worked in magazine publishing as a creative services director for titles such as Rolling Stone, US Weekly, Men’s Journal and Spin. And I graduated from SUNY Stony Brook with dual degrees in Art History and Psychology before I became a wellness nut.