NEW: How to Interview a Therapist
Finding a therapist who works WITH you is not an easy task. Here are some questions to get you clearer about what you want to know about a potential therapist.

"Finding the Courage to Trust" Ladies Home Journal

"Can One Simple Question Jumpstart a Stale Relationship?" Senior Living
In the early days of a new romance, a couple delights in pleasing one another. Each is eager to learn what the other needs to feel safe and loved.... After too short a time, the unspoken permission to ask about or volunteer preferences tends to wither. A request to change a small habit or to ask for a favor is taken as criticism or imposition. Read more...

"Hiring Great Employees" North Bay Biz

Owners and managers hope for candidates with great résumés who are already trained. But this may not be the best way to staff your company if you're looking for loyal, customer-oriented staff. With all the choices clients have when shopping for goods and services, a positive personal interaction is essential to clinch a sale or contract, and promote customer satisfaction. To find the right mix of personality and skills, it's often wiser to weigh your choices toward people who naturally care about others. Read more...

Here are essays that I have used for trainings

"Beyond Sympathy: Learning to Serve with Compassion" Hospice and Chaplaincy training

Choosing the company of those who are hurting requires courage. Even professionals trained to assist those in pain or grief instinctively want to pull away. Self doubt may bring up feelings of inadequacy, to the point of being afraid we'll say or do things that make people feel worse. What do we have to offer those who are ill or must face life without their parent, child, or partner? There is nothing anyone can say to take away pain and fear. There is no magic incantation that reduces suffering. What you can do is to listen without judging. Your willingness to be genuine and kind is all you have to offer. This is the starting point for acting from compassion. Read more...

"Learn to Trust Yourself: Coping with Uncertainty" stress management presentation

"When you come to the edge of all that you know, you must believe in one of two things: there will be earth upon which to stand, or you will be given wings." Anonymous. Read more...

"Who Cares: articles about volunteering on the Mendocino Coast"

Information on volunteer activities in Fort Bragg and Mendocino