I began my studies at SUNY Potsdam, Crane School of Music, decided to change my path and went on to transfer to SUNY Geneseo, earning a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Spanish.  I decided to work in the field and worked a domestic violence shelter and then as a drug counselor in a methadone clinic.   I then completed a Master's in Social Work from Syracuse University.   Prior to my time in private practice, I worked at a Community Mental Health Clinic.  While there I provided therapy, engaged in supervision, ran and assisted groups, supervised staff and interns, assisted with local program partnerships, ran a small case management department and supported the integration of mental health clinics in the local school districts.