Growing up, Rebecca always knew she wanted to work in Human Services or healthcare. Having to deal with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease when she was young helped her understand the ways in which the healthcare system could be improved. “I wanted it to be more patient-focused and more integrated so that people are offered holistic care that encompasses mind, body and spirit,” she explains. “Many patients face not only health obstacles, but insurance and financial obstacles as well. I chose to become a clinical social worker because the profession embraces values of compassion, empathy, cultural competence and critical thinking.”

Rebecca strongly believes that each patient brings to the table their own life experiences. “I aim to learn about each person’s strengths and goals for getting well, and then collaborate with the patient to make use of that knowledge to build a plan for wellness. In many situations, healing can begin with mindfulness as we become aware of our feelings and the way our body responds to stress. With a different mindset or new awareness, we can begin to transform challenges into passages for growth and understanding.”

Rebecca is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement De-Sensitization and Reprocessing), which is a specific method for treating trauma and is a level 1 and level 2 certified practitioner. She also has advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as experience with meditation and mindfulness to help patients calm anxiety and alleviate negative emotional experiences. She also has a Master of Social Work and a Master of Public Health.