Physical Disability

Unfortunately, ableism is alive and well in our society and is rarely talked about, let alone addressed. My approach is firmly grounded in the belief that disability is a part of human diversity and does not need to be fixed. The harm caused by ableism runs deep and is pervasive. My personal experiences guide my work with clients who have disabilities and I use holistic techniques to help folks care for themselves, and provide a space that is validating, empowering, and empathetic.

Coping with partial hearing loss, tinnitus, or chronic health challenges lead to fatigue and overwhelm. Irritation sets in and others don't seem to fully understand you. I will work with you to feel empowered and discover coping strategies to let you lead the life you desire.

As someone with lived experience with a physical disability, I can support you on your journey from acceptance to adaptation. We will explore the beliefs about yourself that might be holding you back and help you reclaim your identity and the life you want to live.

Director of Psychology, Neuropsychology & Behavioral Medicine Encompass Health Rehab Hospital, with current privileges. O’Donnell, P. J. (2013). Psychological Effects of a Strength-Based Intervention Among Inpatients in Rehabilitation for Pain and Disability. (Doctoral dissertation). ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. ISBN: 978-1-303-53639-7

As a person with a physical disability myself (Cerebral Palsy), Effective and impactful counseling for individuals living with disabilities is a passion area of mine. In addition to staying on top of best practices, and operating from a lived understanding, I am actively engaged in research to improve this area of counseling.

"Sophisticated Hearing is a modern hearing care facility, provides personalized patient care in Bergen county NJ. Our professional audiologists are using top hearing aid technology to help individuals with the following services: hearing test & eval, hearing aid cleaning, hearing aid repair and more. We work with top hearing aid manufacturers to ensure our patients have the best hearing technology that meets their listening and lifestyle needs as well as their budget.

I have worked with many individuals over the years who suffer from physical and intellectual disabilities. I believe in empowering individuals to support and be able to advocate for themselves. I believe in an inclusive community, enabling all individuals to live to their full potential.

I have been visually impaired since infancy. Through my personal and professional experience with disability, I help clients adjust psychologically to lifelong or acquired disabilities and live well in an ableist world. I have worked extensively both with young adults with disabilities needing help navigating the grownup world and with older adults with recently acquired disabilities.

Disabilities, both seen and unseen, can impact how you navigate the world and how the world navigates you. Together, we can work to help you meet your challenges head-on, savor your triumphs, and examine the emotions that arise from both.

I have personal experience with the visually impaired/blind community and professional experience as a paraprofessional working with those who dealt with physical disabilities in addition to mental health concerns as well as the unique challenges caregiving presents to the family system. Additionally, I facilitate a weekly support group for cancer patients.

I help people figure out life again after an injury, medical change, diagnosis, or disability. As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, my training and experience has offered me unique insight in helping people with disabilities or medical conditions thrive.

My work experience includes caregiving responsibilities, live-in, travel and hourly, for people living with challenging physical disabilities such as quadriplegia and muscular dystrophy.