My why
In a time of crisis, you deserve to feel safe about who you are placing your trust in.
I do this work because I’ve been where you are. Growing up with a mentally ill family member shaped my world early, and my own recovery journey through addiction led me to this calling. Those experiences, together with decades of professional work, help me ease the fear and confusion families face when navigating a daunting system.
I create customized treatment solutions for individuals and families facing substance use, mental health challenges, behavioral issues, special needs, and co-occurring disorders. My goals are long-term success, stability, and dignity for every client.
Before fully stepping into this work, I traveled the world as a Cruise Director and have called the Midwest, East Coast, and now West Coast home. I earned degrees in advertising, marketing, sociology, and psychology.
I’ve been married to my husband for over 40 years, am the proud mom of four sons, and now a grandmother too.
My passions are my family, and helping to break the stigma that still surrounds recovery. I believe deeply in bringing hope, healing, and connection to those who struggle in silence.
Whether you find support through me or another professional, know that taking the first step is the most important one. And you don’t have to do it alone.
Credentials & experience
MA
Masters Degree in Education | Certified Educational Consultant
MS
Masters in Behavioral Health
BASICS
Brief Alcohol, Screening, & Intervention for College Students
CADC-II
Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor
CCDP
Certified Co-Occurring Disorders Professional
CFRS
Certified Family Recovery Specialist
CIP
Certified Interventionist Professional
AOD
Certified Drug & Alcohol Tester
MAT
Medication-Assisted Treatment Plan Professional
Private Practice
Counseling, interventions, transport & program placement
Thelma McMillen Center
14 years as an alcohol & drug counselor for adults/teens
Marymount California University
Wellness Counselor, Adjunct Psychology Faculty & Advisor to the Sober Solutions Club. Students (affectionately) nicknamed me “Buzz Kill” Ecker - a title I wear proudly, knowing it made them think twice about risky choices.
Clear Recovery
Facilitate process groups and educational lectures.
Giving back & speaking up
I volunteer at House of Hope in San Pedro, raising funds for women in treatment and leading educational talks for parents and teens about addiction awareness.
I also speak about substance abuse prevention and recovery at schools, churches, and many organizations.
Find more details on my talks and my speaker biography here.:


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Describe the key features of the service and how users can benefit from it.

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Describe the key features of the service and how users can benefit from it.
