Accepting help figuring things out can be uncomfortable, so I’m a pretty down to earth person who knows that we all share in the need for help now and then (and my Westie, Ginsburg – picture to the left – agrees and will often be seen behind me making things more comfortable).

I am a cisgender white Jewish queer woman (she/her/hers) who has been an active part of the queer community for 40 years. I also had the unique experience growing up with two parents who were social workers and social activists.
These experiences engendered in me a sense of responsibility for speaking and acting to further the rights and well being of those in the community, particularly those who are marginalized. I value and support the brave activists who participate in furthering equality, justice and human rights in their’s and other’s communities, and make a commitment to providing a safe place for activists to share and get support with the existential concerns they may be experiencing in this scary time in history.

Professionally, I have been a licensed clinical social worker providing child and family counseling for 25 years; helping adults, kids and families through the different they may be experiencing. I received an undergraduate degree in sociology, human sexuality, and gender and women’s studies, and a Masters in Social Work (MSW) at UNC at Chapel Hill. I earned my license as a clinical social worker (LCSW) in 2000. For over 35 years, my studies and experience, including volunteer work, have been in the areas of understanding and supporting people’s exploration of sexuality and gender.

I was the Advocacy Chair at the NC Society for Clinical Social Work for about two years, and now serve as Clinical Advocate, with the NASW-NC; participating in and advocating for the needs of clinical social workers and those who seek psychotherapy services at statewide committees to enhance treatment services to those in NC. Originally from the NY/NJ area, I have resided in and been providing counseling and psychotherapy services in Raleigh for more than 30 years. For more information about my experience, especially with kids, families and the LGBTQ+ community, you can resume here.

Outside of my professional and volunteer work, I love a good project. You already met one of my faithful companions Ginsburg above. My other pup, Thoreau, is goofy and is usually in another room chilling out. I love to bake for friends and family (experimenting with chocolate chip cookie recipes is my idea of a good time). And while I am not particularly skilled, I am somewhat crafty and have been working on making my thumb greener.

Contributing Expert to News & Observer’s Mom 2 Mom