Some of you might be aware this organization was originally founded as BWellBStrongBPD. Going forward, BWellBStrongBPD will be known as BWellBStrong.

Rest assured, I’m not suspending my focus on borderline personality disorder, I’m adding two of its two its well-known concurrent disorders – major depression and eating disorders, both of which I have also recovered from

In the same way, I want to let those who are suffering from BPD know they are not alone, I want to let those who are suffering from depression and eating disorders know that they don’t have to take this journey alone.

I feel strongly that given these unprecedented times, I’d be remiss if I didn’t expand the scope of the disorders for which I’m offering my first-hand experience, as well as my clinical knowledge, just as I have with BPD this past year

 Wellness and strength are markers in life to strive for, not absolutes. I know there were many times – and there are currently many days in my life – when I do not feel particularly well or strong – or both.

I was diagnosed with anorexia, major depressive disorder, and borderline personality disorder in my late twenties.  Through hard work in therapy, including both DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) and TFP (transference-focused psychotherapy), I've recovered from these illnesses. Recovery was definitely not linear - I like to compare it to a dance of two steps forward, one step back over and over again.

In 2000 I graduated with my master's in social work from Fordham University. Being in therapy, I'd become fascinated by the process.  Now, having worked for over twenty years in the field and experiencing the stigma as a patient, and listening to my fellow clinicians, it's time to give back. That's why I started BWellBStrong, a mental health advocacy and awareness organization. I want people who have been diagnosed with a psychiatric illness and their loved ones to know that full, sustained recovery is possible.