I call myself the Starfish Thrower because I believe my mission in life is to guide and make a difference in others’ lives just like the child did in the famous “Starfish Story.” I also identify with the resiliency of the starfish and I love the beach. I have been in the helping profession in one way or the other since college.

I began my writing journey as a child, writing my first book at the age of 10. I dabbled in poetry and fiction for many years before becoming a professional journalist, working in TV, radio and newspapers. I left the field to become a stay-at-home parent, avid volunteer, a nonprofit leader and eventually a mental health professional.

Aside from the written work I’ve done as a journalist, I’ve had several poems and articles published. I self-published a book of poems for family in 2013.

The road to my debut nonfiction book, Be Still & Be Bold, began in 2012 when I became a full-time caregiver for my ailing father. Upon his death the following year, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery that led to the writing of the book. I’ve since written two more books and am preparing to write a fourth. My second book, Writing Through Your Grief, will be released sometime in 2024.

When I’m not wearing my writing cap, I am the mother of six children, primary caregiver for my mother, licensed grief counselor, and CEO of my two businesses, Throwing Starfish LLC and Starfish Counseling for Grief and Loss. If you are interested in receiving therapy services and live in the state of Pennsylvania, please go to my therapy website - www.starfishcounseling.biz .