A Little Bit About Dr. Sharon...

I was born and raised in Massachusetts. The majority of the time, up into my late twenties, was spent residing in a suburban town with my family. I grew up being involved in at least 1 extracurricular activity per season (school choir concerts, drum and bugle band, volleyball, yearbook, and creative writing). I enjoyed a lot of time with my family during day trips, holidays, band competitions, outdoor events, and other special occasions.
I started my professional career in Mental Health/Social Work in April, 1994. During my second year in these fields, I relocated to Virginia, privileged to experience being a part of countless souls who chose to transform their lives in wonderful ways. Now I'm back in my home state to see what glorious moments await me at Inspired!  

 

WHY DID YOU BECOME A THERAPIST?

I actually thought I was going to become a music writer/producer. My dream was to become the greatest to ever pen a song. Music was my life growing up: I wrote music, recorded myself singing and blending the
four parts of harmony together. I even started out as a music major in my first year of college. One day, I received a personal revelation. After listening to a childhood friend talk about some challenges, my heart felt an empathetic tug. When I reflected upon what had occurred, I quietly stated out loud, "I should become a counselor." I realized that this was one of the things that God had created me to do. I started on this venture, becoming an ordained member of the Clergy in the process, and never looked back. I have no regrets for the journey has and continues to be  amazing.

 

CREDENTIALS:

• BA in Psychology, Concordia University (Saint Paul, MN);

• MS in General Counseling, Springfield College (Massachusetts);

• MDIV in Theology, Virginia Union University (Richmond, VA);

• PHD in Counselor Education and Supervision with Spiritual and Pastoral Integration Neumann University (Aston, PA).

 

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE:

• 30+ years working with children, youth, adults, and families in the fields of Mental Health and Social Work.

• Well versed in Client-centered, DBT, CBT, IFS, Family Systems, Grief and Loss, Parenting Education, and Behavioral therapeutic interventions;

• Licensed and ordained as Clergy;

• Church Ministry - 35 years working with children, youth, adults and families.

 

RANDOM FUN FACTS ABOUT ME:

• I won multiple awards in music festivals as a vocalist in middle/high school.

• I learned to play piano, organ, guitar, mellophone, and keyboards as a child (you might not want to ask me to play anything now, as that was another lifetime!!)

• I am an avid sports fan (football is my favorite); you will find me watching several games at once on Sunday afternoon.

•  I am in love with chocolate!

 

Best Goal: 

To be a better version of myself than the day before, so that I may inspire others to do the same for themselves.  

 

Best Habit: 

Operating from a strength-based perspective, which allows me to encourage others in living a happier, healthier quality of life.  

 

Best Reason to be Happy: 

My relationship with God and the unwavering support of my loved ones. 

 

Best Legal Route to Joy: 

A peaceful Sunday and chocolate cake. 

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Best Flaw: 

"Big Sis Syndrome!" I am protective of my loved ones.

 

Best Accomplishment: 

Many might say that obtaining the PHD is my biggest accomplishment. I disagree. My best accomplishment was turning out like my parents - Mommie and Poppy were the most phenomenal souls I've ever known. The values they exemplified in word, action, and deed have sustained me to this day. I am forever grateful to them.

 

Best Motto

"Leave people better than you find them."

 

Best Under-Appreciated Skill: 

Discernment and compassion.