ABOUT ME
I am continually in search of a deeper understanding of myself and the human condition. I find the workings of the world, people, and life in general, to be endlessly fascinating. In my work, I am able to use my passion for growth and understanding, to help others. I now have over 20 years of experience helping individuals develop the internal resources to minimize suffering, and maximize Peace. Combining my personal and professional experience with my education and training as a Licensed Master of Social Work, Certified Iyengar Yoga Instructor, and Certified Ericksonian Hypnosis Practitioner, I offer a unique mix of therapeutic tools. My work includes stress management, hypnosis and self hypnosis training, yoga - (which includes physical postures, breathing, meditation, and philosophy), psycho-education, emotional competency training, dialogue, and body-centered awareness. As well, an integral part of my understanding of psychology and spirituality comes from classical yoga philosophy. I teach yoga philosophy for the Yoga Haven teacher training program, as well as at The Lake House and other venues, and integrate it into everything I do.
In 2006, I opened my center, The Lake House, in the little town of Tuckahoe in Lower Westchester County, where I offer a safe space to explore all that I offer through group and private classes, and workshops. I also teach around Westchester County and the tristate area.
Before discovering yoga, I earned a 2nd degree black belt in Shotokan Karate. I fell in love with the art of Shotokan Karate at 18 and it profoundly impacted my life in many ways. Over the course of 14 years of study I cultivated strength and understanding in body and mind and learned to be centered and aware physically and mentally.
I discovered the healing properties of yoga after I became ill with an autoimmune disease in 1992. Due to my health issues, as well as physical limitations due to congenital defects in my joints, eventually, I was unable to continue to practice Karate. I struggled to stabilize physically and psychologically, but through disciplined work and study in Iyengar Yoga, and other healing modalities, I learned how to maximize health, and cultivate strength and flexibility in body and mind, in spite of these limitations. I gradually learned how to take care of myself, effectively heal on all levels, and ultimately to live a healthy and balanced life.
I endeavor to share the knowledge that my teachers have so generously shared with me, and that I have cultivated through my own practice, and to do so with compassion, connection, and openness. I am thankful for Errol Bennett, my primary Shotokan teacher, who taught me so much about strength of spirit, practice, discipline, and life. I feel deep gratitude for Mr. BKS Iyengar for offering his whole Self to the study and teaching of yoga. As an Iyengar Yoga practitioner I am also grateful for the lineage of teachers who studied directly with Mr. Iyengar. They have passed on, and continue to pass on his teachings through their deep understanding from their intense studies and practice; Specifically my teachers, Mary Dunn (passed away in 2008), Mary Sinclair (passed away in 2013), Patricia Walden, Carrie Owerko, and other senior Iyengar Yoga Instructors whom I study with when possible, John Schumaker, Lois Steinberg, Manouso Manos, and Gabriella Giubilaro.
License and Certifications:
Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher - Intermediate Junior II Level
Certified Yoga Therapist - International Association of Yoga Therapists
NYS Licensed Master of Social Work
Certified by NYSEPH in Ericksonian Hypnosis