I am a Massachusetts licensed clinical social worker with nearly twenty years of direct clinical and research experience in the areas of mental health illnesses, complex medical issues, and addictions. My work is based on the following principles: There is inherent worth and dignity in each person. Stigma and shame are never helpful. Recovery is possible for anyone. There is always hope. Recovery means something different to everyone, and everyone is on their own journey. Self determination is essential for healing. Healthy social connections are also essential to healing. There is always more to learn about addiction, chronic pain, treatment, and recovery.