San Rafael CA – November 12, 2012 – San Rafael resident and author, Connie Clark, whose expertise is the subject of Joy, will be speaking at Book Passage, in Corte Madera, Sunday, December 2 from 1 pm to 2 pm. A practicing psychotherapist, Clark presents principles and practices inspired by the science of happiness. Clark will be discussing her book, Joy After Fifty: A Woman’s Guide to Purpose, Passion, and Lasting Happiness, and also leading the audience through easy-to-learn, joy-enhancing techniques.

Scientific research has proven that happy women are more successful professionally, financially, creatively and sexually. In addition, joyful women actually increase their chances for a long and healthy life. Research shows that optimistic women suffer 25% less breast cancer. Learning how to shift from stress to joy is an essential skill .

Clark specializes in the research-based practices that can enhance every woman’s vitality, mental clarity and quality of relationships. “Women learn to transform feelings of stress and fatigue into enthusiasm and a zest for life,” says Clark. “From a state of joy, women summon the unflappable courage to reach for their dreams and express who they truly are.”

A licensed psychotherapist since 1993, Clark grew up in a dysfunctional family, and was far from joyful. She discovered how to comfort herself and find true joy. Her grandmother’s home provided a safe haven where music, play, and nature obviated her sadness and restored her happiness

At 40, Clark studied psychology at The California Institute for Integral Studies where she earned an MA in Counseling Psychology, specializing in women’s psychology. Licensed as a LMFT, she began her practice in Sausalito. Additionally for the past 20 years, Clark has led transformational retreats for women, most recently “Joy After 50+ Retreats”.

With her expertise in the new science of happiness, Clark taught her clients how to alleviate their depression and anxiety. Encouraged by the transformational results, she wrote her first book, Joy After Fifty: A Woman’s Guide to Purpose, Passion, and Lasting Happiness.

“The ability to activate innate inner joy is the key to establishing resilience, strength and effectiveness allowing women to flourish”, explains Clark. “It’s the lighthouse beacon.”

“For women over 50, I offer a simple blueprint for an extraordinary life. It’s a woman’s time to shine and make the world a better place. I wrote my first book at 63. It’s never too late to achieve your dreams.”