I grew up in Southwestern Pennsylvania (aka the rust belt) during the Reagan years. Growing up there along with my involvement in the 90’s punk /hardcore music scene shaped my values, world view, and counselor identity. Through punk rock, I learned about racism, sexism, homophobia, fascism, and other oppressive forces through zines, educational tabling at shows, and song lyrics. I have been rooted in the Pacific Northwest since the late 90’s but maintain inspiration from my Pennsylvania roots. This all reads Gen X and that is accurate! In all honesty, I spend a great deal of my time engaging, thinking, and developing this work, but I can also be found drinking coffee, hiking in the Gorge, and I still go out to shows (when I don’t give away my pre-purchased tickets, lol). I've been a professional counselor since 2002 and have sought to forge an independent career less bound by systems & institutions.