Welcome, Lionheart.

Life is often not as easy or enjoyable as advertised.  In fact, sometimes it can feel like walking through a field of landmines blindfolded.  We suspect life isn't supposed to feel this hard, and we have tried to make things better, but the struggle stubbornly remains or is replaced with new struggle.  Even worse, when we talk about our suffering, some people minimize the problem, dismiss our emotions, tell us we're nuts, or give us pat answers - it can feel like people just want us and our problems to go away.  Ouch.    
 

We was me once.  I had to carry heavy problems and overwhelming feelings all by myself for too long.  My relationships with partners, family, and even some friends, were shockingly painful at times.  I couldn't concentrate on what I wanted to, thought too much about painful things I didn't want to think about.  I often felt frustrated, lonely, and desperate for change.  Then I found a counselor who hung in there with me as I learned how to handle all that heavy and big stuff.  I found relief and hope for my future.  Joy and ease became more frequent experiences.

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Grateful for my continual healing, my life's passion is to be that support for others.  Now I have the honor of empowering people on their courageous journeys to find ease and joy in living again.  The word "Lionheart" in my practice name is a tribute to the incredible bravery it takes to be vulnerable, and to explore the depths of one's heart and mind.  My therapeutic style is affirming, interactive, and with a focus on finding creative ways to practice new skills outside the therapy room via guided life "experiments."  I also work with a smaller number of clients than most clinicians, so I can be more available to the clients I work with, and so I can best tailor a bespoke treatment plan.

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A bit about me: I grew up a third generation San Franciscan, and have since lived in CO, AZ, VA, and OR.  I proudly call the St. Louis, Missouri area my home now and, while I haven't made friends with provel cheese yet (sorry Imo's), I do love just about everything else about living in this wonderful place, especially the people.  When I'm not working, you'll probably find me hiking with my kids along the Mississippi or Missouri Rivers, reading books, volunteering with the National Weather Service as a Severe Storm Spotter, or listening to live jazz wherever I can find it.

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Welcome, Lionheart.  I'm glad you're here and I hope for the chance to meet you soon!    

- Deb -