As a neurodivergent and hard-of-hearing member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to navigate the healthcare system. Thankfully, as a board-certified patient advocate, you do not need to wander alone. I am here to help my community get the health care you need. My goal is to help your voice be heard and for you to receive the care you deserve! Whether I advocate with/for you or help you find your voice to advocate for yourself, I am here to help.

I began my role as an advocate in 2006 while working on my PhD in health communication by working in the only STI/HIV clinic in Milwaukee founded by the gay community for the gay community. In my seven years there, I served as a risk counselor, phlebotomist, and HIV coordinator for new diagnoses. Since then, I have gained training in Trauma-Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing and, most recently, finished a certificate in LGBTQ-affirmative cognitive-behavioral therapy. Given this background, my greatest asset is my ability to help you have and process difficult conversations. No matter who the conversation needs to happen with, I can help you navigate the discussion and provide you with information and, most importantly, support.

Beyond advocating with/for my patients, I also work with organizations and clinics to improve their communication and cultural understanding. I have led trainings on everything from gender-affirming care to being an ally and advocate for patients to conflict mediation and implicit bias. I have trained nurses, doctors, social workers, educators, and the general public, and I will continue to offer training to any group that is seeking to improve communication and care for the LGBTQIA+ community.