About

I am certified as an Educational Consultant, Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Intervention Professional, and Co-Occurring Disorder Professional. In my private practice, I specialize in customizing treatment solutions and recovery options for those in crisis.

“Hole to Whole”

After my own struggles with addiction and going through treatment, I found my calling in the recovery field. This has been an excellent fit for me and my clients, as it allows me to integrate my own experiences while working with others, and come from a place of understanding. In crafting effective, rehabilitative care for struggling families, I strive to be direct while maintaining a calming sense of humor in difficult situations. I work hard to maintain and strengthen my reputation for providing excellent and ethical clinical care. 

For the past 18 years, I have worked as a Sober Coach, Life Skills Counselor, Educational Consultant, Family/Group Counselor, and Advocate while assisting families to navigate through alcohol/substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.

Concurrent Positions

In addition to my private practice, I spent several years working at Marymount California University in the Student Development Services Department as the Wellness Counselor. I organized health-related events, fundraising events, facilitated recovery groups, and presented on topics related to substance abuse/addiction.

As an adjunct faculty member, I taught a psychology course called ‘The Art of Being Human’. I was the faculty advisor for the Sober Solutions Student Club, which facilitates a safe rides program and substance-free dorms. The students have endearingly nicknamed me ‘Buzz Kill’ Ecker. This is my favorite credential of all! Just knowing that when they think of engaging in risky behavior, my name pops into their heads and they think twice – that’s golden. I also worked for 14 years as an alcohol and drug counselor for adults/teens at the Thelma McMillen Center, an intensive outpatient program at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

Volunteer/Educator/Speaker

I donate time speaking to parents and teens at local schools, churches, and philanthropic organizations to inform and educate the community about substance abuse. My most popular lecture is ‘Just Say Know’. 

Currently, I work part-time at Clear Recovery in Redondo Beach, facilitating process groups, and presenting lectures on educational/recovery topics. I can be retained for speaking engagements on a variety of topics as appropriate for your organization or group.

I also volunteer at the House of Hope in San Pedro, to raise funds for under-served women seeking treatment. I am committed to educating and informing people about addictions and mental health illnesses. My goal is to help remove the stigma and shame associated with these issues. The message is, “There is hope, healing, and help available.” Sometimes these supports are all too hard to find.

On a personal note, I have been married to my husband for over 40 years, and have four sons. In addition to training in the field of recovery, I earned degrees in advertising, marketing, sociology, and psychology. A former Cruise Director, I have traveled extensively and lived in the Mid-West, the East Coast, and now on the West Coast.

My hope is that if you need assistance, whether you consult with me or another professional, you do seek it out and begin the journey to recovery.