As a young girl, I dreamed of being the next Dr. Jane Goodall or Diane Fossey to further develop an understanding of our intrinsic connection to the animals and landscape around us.  The majority of my research explores and examines the unseen, subtle complexities inherent to human-animal interaction. More specifically, the topics of my work explore intersubjectivity, wellness, Shinrin-Yoku (forest-bathing), and play to draw out the subtle characteristics and qualities that hold reciprocal health and wellness benefits.  

 

I hold a B.S. in cognitive psychology, a M.S. in mind-body medicine and a Ph.D. specializing in healthcare research that I apply to the field of anthrozoology.

 

My professional background includes roles as an adjunct professor teaching research methods, a deputy director for one of the nation's leading farmed animal sanctuaries in NY, a leader in one of the Bay Area's largest animal shelters, and a research assistant at the University of Pennsylvania's Behavior Medicine Clinic and at Temple University's Language Lab.  I've also done extensive counseling and guidance to businesses and private families on the topic of human-animal wellness.   

 

Preview my CV here.