I grew up in the Netherlands in a family of mixed European origin. I came to the US for a year as a young adult, and later immigrated. Having experienced different ways of living and believing from early on, I am curious about and respectful of what is meaningful to each person. I also have a special interest in integrating more than one identity, and finding out what creates a sense of belonging. Being a mother of two young adults has given me a chance to learn first-hand about parenting and keeps me engaged in the topic. I have been a student of Tibetan Buddhism since 1988.
Education & Training
• B.A. degree in Child Development and Political Science from the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 1979
• M.A. degree in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University in Orinda, CA, 1987
• Marriage, Family Therapist license obtained in 1991 (MFT# 28369)
• Training in Non-Violent Communication, beginning and intermediate series, at Bay NVC in Oakland
• Parent Effectiveness Training, Menlo Park
• Online training with The Couples Institute (1 year)
• Member of a professionally led Consultation & Training Group in Group Psychotherapy (4 years)
Work Experience
• Bereavement Counselor at Hospice of the North Coast (3 years)
• Counselor at the Wellness Community–a clinic for people with cancer (1 year)
• Private Practice 1991 – current
Clinical Memberships
• CAMFT (California Association of Marriage, Family Therapists), since 1991
• CAMFT-East Bay, since 2003
“Whether one moves slowly or with speed, the one who is a seeker will be a finder.” — Rumi
