In May 2008, I faced the most challenging moment of my life as a parent. My oldest son, then 20 years old, called me from across the country, his voice filled with desperation. He was failing his classes, about to lose his job, and drowning in an alcohol problem that had spiraled out of control. 

In that moment, I didn’t waste time asking “Why me?” or go searching for someone to blame. Instead, I took a hard look at my own parenting and how it had contributed to the crisis my son was facing. I knew this was a life-threatening situation, and the work to change it—for both of us—had to start immediately. 

Through his struggle and into his long-term recovery, I stood by my son. I supported and encouraged him but never did for him what he could do for himself. It was excruciating at times. Still, I knew for him to heal and thrive, I needed to make changes in how I parented—not just him, but all of my children. 

I began to shift my focus inward, prioritizing my own mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I educated myself, not just on addiction and recovery, but on how to build healthier, more connected relationships. I let go of outdated parenting models that focused on control and domination, and instead, I embraced guiding, collaborating, and leading with compassion. 

The results were transformative. Today, my son is over a decade sober. My five children, now ranging from their late teens to late-30s, and I share relationships rooted in mutual respect and trust. 

But my journey didn’t stop there. What began as a personal transformation evolved into a calling. I immersed myself in research, devoured parenting and personal growth books, and completed my degree in psychology. I interned with parents whose teens were in outpatient addiction treatment and discovered a passion for helping other parents navigate similar struggles. 

In 2016, I earned my parent coaching certification through the Jai Institute for Parenting. I came to believe deeply the quality of our relationship with our children has the power to change lives—not just our own, but theirs, and even future generations. 

In 2021, I published my memoir, Becoming Me While Raising You: A Mother’s Journey to Her Self (available on Amazon). In it, I share the raw, honest account of parenting through addiction and mental health challenges, along with the powerful shifts I made to become the mom my son needed—and the woman I was meant to be. 

Today, I am the parent coach I wish I’d had back then. With compassion and zero judgment, I help parents create healthier, happier, and more functional relationships with their emerging adult children. Whether you’re navigating addiction, mental health challenges, or simply the complex transition into adulthood, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. 

Together, we can create a new path toward connection, healing, and growth for your family. 

Parents (especially moms) are the emotional barometers in the family. When you are ready, I can help you find what I have found with my adult children…peace, mutual trust and respect, playfulness, camaraderie, and above all else…unconditional love and acceptance for who they are.