Bella Vida Counseling grew out of years spent listening, learning, and slowly realizing I wanted to do this work differently. After working twenty years in education, including fourteen years as a classroom teacher, and even early on I noticed something consistent—students naturally came to me when they were struggling emotionally because I could see there was a WHY behind their emotional and behavioral struggles. I loved building relationships with them, but I often felt limited in how deeply I could help. That curiosity was what first drew me toward counseling.

Opening Bella Vida Counseling allowed me to create the kind of practice I had always envisioned—one rooted in compassion, depth, and a whole-person approach. My work is shaped not only by professional training, but also by lived experience. Like many of the clients I serve, I’ve navigated seasons of stress, transition, and growth, which reinforced my belief that resilience is about pushing through, but also about understanding yourself with more clarity, kindness, and intention.

The name Bella Vida, meaning “beautiful life,” reflects this philosophy. I believe life can be challenging and still meaningful. Through Bella Vida Counseling, I strive to create a space where people—especially helpers, caregivers, and those who feel overwhelmed—can slow down, feel understood, and reconnect with their strengths. Today, my work centers on helping clients move beyond survival mode and toward lives that feel more grounded, intentional, and aligned with what matters most to them.