As a child, I was born into an unstable environment, starting life bouncing between foster homes and endured some of the worst child abuse in case history. In 2000, I was presented the "Hero Award" by Congressman Duncan Hunter as well as an American Flag that had been flown in my honor at the California State Capitol Building - a nod to the years that the system grossly failed not just myself, but every child who has ever endured such atrocity. It is clear that my life was meant to challenge me from the start, but even more clear was a knowing that I had important work to do in my life.
The trauma and chaos was my first classroom; an accelerated learning environment that was teaching me great life lessons. As the great Maya Angelou has said, "When you Learn...Teach. When you Get...Give." My mantra, as it would turn out.
Though I have many blessings, life didn't quit being an unrelenting "teacher" over the years. And now, as my life's work calls me to action, I use the presence of genuine connections with others, a commanding voice, a vulnerable self, and a personal story of triumph to help teach what I have learned ---
* We carry "warrior energy" within our wounds. What does that energy look like when this is acknowledged? How can the energy of our wounds help us to be warriors of strength in our lives, rather than victims of our past?
As an adoptee with a harrowing story of extreme child abuse within the Foster Care System, as well as a long battle with C-PTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), I have the ability to connect deeply with those who have experienced trauma in many forms.
As a Motivational Speaker, I offer more than one modality to connecting to and helping others. Whether you are looking for a TED-Talk type speech, a more interactive dialogue with a group, or clinical hypnotherapy for stress relief and positive change, there are many ways that I can assist. I am a licensed Clinical Hypnotherapist who can offer seminars and group sessions (large or small) that assist with the following:
* Motivation
* Trauma
* Fears and Phobias
* Stress/Anxiety Relief
* Test Taking Preparation (focus, retention)
* Positive Manifestation for Wealth, Business Growth, Success
I have been a public speaker for the San Diego Health and Human Services for over 10 years, speaking as an adult adoptee to soon-to-be adoptive parents, social workers and psychologists who are trying to better understand 'The System'. I have been a Clinical Hypnotherapist with a private practice for 4 years, devoted to the health and wellness of groups and individuals. You get to choose the type of assistance I would offer!
With a wide variety of topics, personal and professional experience, and multiple ways that I can assist, I do hope to have the chance to speak for your seminar, event, or class!