I have been studying Nonviolent Communication since 2005 when I discovered Marshall Rosenberg’s life-changing book "Nonviolent Communication, A Language of Life." In 2011, I participated in a yearlong program, "Compassionate Leadership," which, unknown to me at the time, was the beginning of my journey to certification.

I participated as an assistant in the Parent Peer Leadership Program, created by Imbal Kashtan and facilitated by Ingrid Bauer and Stephanie Bachmann Mattei for seven years. This program focuses on helping parents integrate the NVC processes into their own families and then supports them in sharing NVC with other parents with a workshop called "Parenting from the Heart." By far, my greatest learning has come from my own children, growing my NVC understanding and consciousness through daily challenges and celebrations.

I spent several years as a teacher in various daycare and preschool situations, including at a Montessori school. I was also a special education teacher in a rural elementary school. I created and taught an art program for children ages 3-6 which allowed them to experiment with acrylics, watercolors, and pastel chalks, ultimately culminating in their matted works being displayed in an art gallery. For many years, I was a houseparent at an emergency shelter for abused and neglected children in a large city.

Throughout my life, I have been drawn to working with children, family systems, and schools. Creativity and experiencing the natural world are also powerful influences helping to connect me to myself and the flow of Life. In addition, I am visually impaired and have navigated the physical, emotional, and social challenges that come with this journey for most of my life. As I journey along life’s path, I am supported by: authentic expression, meaningful contribution, creativity, heart-centered connection, and immersion in the beauty and wonder of nature. I look forward to sharing my journey with many of you as our paths come together.