Though a writer these days, I am an all around creative. But I'm also someone with the desire to help people. So I practice psychotherapy for a living and am incredibly lucky to be able to be doing it remotely. But I also consider myself a serious writer of short stories and novels, mainly--though I still struggle to give it that time it deserves. I was also a visual artist once with ten years of studio training.

If I could clone myself and spend an extra few hours every day painting, I would. But I also believe in digging one deep hole rather than five shallow ones, if you get me. So, maybe in the next life? :P

If you're into Meyers-Briggs, I am an INFP.

Cannot manage to upload recent photos, the website is being funny! But I look much the same , minus the black hair dye and Morticia Adams aesthetic. ;)

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

To make new friends from different parts of the world, and especially in the UK where I'll be traveling. To make genuine connections and immerse myself in places.

Why am I traveling? Would also be a good question.

The interests that I've listed are virtually inseparable from my writing. I have taken trips for research around Scotland, and I suppose I'm doing that again. But this time the desire is more self-research, as well as to set aside some quiet time to finish a draft of the first novel I will (saying "will"!) finish this year.

I also had a formative experience in Wales as a teenager (Swansea, Mumbles) that I'm probably looking to recreate.

Interests

• folklore
• coffee
• folk music
• hiking
• psychology
• cultural immersion
• novels
• hillwalking
• the arts
• creative writing
• yoga and meditation
• celtic music
• celtic cultures
• exploring new cities
• spiritual seeking
• getting back to nature

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: There is a post-punk, goth side to my musical DNA: Dead can Dance, Sisters of Mercy, Claire Voyant, Delirium, Nine Inch Nails, All About Eve, Unto Ashes. I also like electronic artists like Moby and Phaleah. I also love Scottish and Irish folk-trad, anything that involves fiddles, bodhrans, and old ballads.

I also enjoy moody singer-songwriter types: Fiona Apple, Kate Bush, Tori Amos, Damien Rice, and most recently, Martyn Joseph (from Cardiff).

I am currently reading Intermezzo by Sally Rooney (love her!) and The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Some other writers I enjoy: Ian McEwan, Molly Aitken, George Orwell, Neil Gaiman (in small doses lol).

I keep saying I will watch all the LOTR movies. Can someone hold me to that? ;P

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Travelled across the Scottish Highlands on the back of a motorbike--we were going at 100 mph sometimes and weaving in between traffic (still never told my mom that).

Teach, Learn, Share

Cultural musings
Psychology
Writing craft
Languages
Book and movie recs
Spiritual reflections
Stories

What I Can Share with Hosts

Friendship, a refreshing perspective, and thoughtful cultural exchange from a young(ish!) New York-area woman with an appreciation for your hospitality. Please know that I value my connection with you as you are local, and know much more than I could.

The friend implicated above (motorbike guy) once said to me that I had the heart of a country girl. That's always stuck with me. So I do see myself settling in the country at some point. But in the meantime, I'm just going to steal a week of quiet where I can.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belize, England, France, Guatemala, Iceland, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Scotland, Wales

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States