I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Psychology from Boston University and a Master’s degree in Social Service from Bryn Mawr College. My professional foundation includes clinical training at Hahnemann University Hospital and the Council for Relationships, where I developed a strong understanding of mental health care, substance use, and the systems that shape treatment access and outcomes.
My early clinical work included serving as a Drug & Alcohol Specialist at Mazzoni Center in Philadelphia, a nonprofit healthcare organization dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. Working at the intersection of mental health and substance use—particularly during the height of the opioid crisis—deepened my interest in how individuals seek relief, manage symptoms, and navigate complex treatment landscapes.
It was during this time that I was invited to consult for a cannabis company, which prompted a deeper re-examination of cannabis beyond prevailing stigma and oversimplified narratives. Through continued education and hands-on consulting, I became increasingly focused on understanding both the potential benefits and the real risks of cannabis use, particularly as it relates to mental health, safety, and informed decision-making.
Since then, I have consulted with a range of cannabis organizations in product development, educational event planning, e-commerce retail, digital marketing, and coaching. This work has allowed me to translate complex, often conflicting information into clear, accessible education for both professionals and the public.
I am the founder of Calm, Cool & Collected, an educational resource dedicated to providing unbiased, unstigmatized information about cannabis, CBD, and mental health. My work now includes cannabis education programming and supporting DOT-regulated employees through SAP evaluations related to cannabis use. Across all settings, my focus remains the same: helping people understand the benefits, limitations, and risks of cannabis so they can make informed and responsible decisions.
My background uniquely combines psychotherapy, healthcare education, and strategic communication. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked in advertising at agencies such as Young & Rubicam and McCann Erickson, managing national brands including Coca-Cola, Lowe’s, Mastercard, and Microsoft. That experience continues to inform my approach to cannabis education—bringing clarity, balance, and precision to a topic that is often misunderstood.
