Hello, I'm DDS.
I’m a catalyst and I work from a place of deep empathy and respect.
A beloved teacher of mine once told me that our goal in life is to become increasingly better at being at odds with ourselves, and I felt that to be true deep in my soul. I notice that accepting this to be true and welcoming this into one’s experience requires shift; shifts in the ways we act, think, and feel, the ways we make-meaning from our experiences, and the ways in which we show-up for our Self, other Selves, and within life itself.
I believe that true shift happens through a process of hard human kindness; of immense empathy and love along with a good dollop of nerve and candor. I also believe that shift happens most sustainably - and alchemically - through a greater acceptance of, and connection with, the person you really are; when you are fully you - your youest you - life, and everything in it, can be gorgeous, fulfilling, and joyful. Each of these philosophies underpin my approach and my work.
I am often described as a guiding presence in the landscape of mental health and activism, embodying compassion and scholarly rigor. My work and dedication reflect a steadfast light, offering direction and hope to those navigating the complexities of personal and societal well-being.
With over three decades of corporate experience and an extensive academic background, I am recognized as a thought leader whose professional journey is deeply intertwined with my profound commitment to personal authenticity and social justice. I hold an MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) and credentials in neurolinguistic psychotherapy from the Academy of NLPt, further strengthened by my degree in further and higher education from the University of Wolverhampton. As an adjunct faculty member at CIIS from 2020 to 2024 and at Southern Connecticut State University since 2024, I have played a crucial role in molding future licensed mental health professionals, sharing my wisdom and experience with a blend of scholarly acumen and my lived experience as a white, queer, trans/nonbinary, neuro-spicy, temporarily able-bodied individual.
I am currently moving toward the dissertation phase of a PhD in critical sexuality and gender studies, and my award-winning research is creating a new narrative that challenges the joy deficit in the social sciences by highlighting trans joy as an act of activism and resistance. As a prolific author, I have published two best-selling psychology-based business books and numerous scholarly articles in esteemed journals such as Sexuality & Culture and the Harvard Business Review. My work covers a dynamic range of subjects and is informed by a deep understanding of human psychology and a passion for creating environments where individuals can thrive as their truest selves. My approach to therapy and teaching is anchored in the principle of "hard human kindness," a method that combines deep empathy with radical candor to foster genuine transformation.
My holistic perspective is also enriched by my role as a Reiki Master and Crystal Bowl Sound Healer, integrating spiritual practice with activism. This blend of skills and insights was crucial during my tenure as the Board President of the Pacific Center for Human Growth from 2020 to 2022 (and again as a Board Member at Large since 2024), where I advocate for LGBTQIA2+ mental health as a core social justice issue. Now as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Newtown CT, my private practice, SoulFull Therapy, provides a sanctuary for individuals to heal and flourish, especially those within the queer and trans communities. My work, deeply resonant with the need for societal shift and acceptance, is a testament to the power of embracing one's multifaceted identity to effect change within oneself and the broader community.