I would be honored to assist you on your path toward a more hopeful today and a better tomorrow. You will be treated warmly, with patience, and without judgement. Together we will look at what is concerning you and how to overcome your current challenges.
I have learned, without a doubt, that self-acceptance in the here-and-now, is the key to finding peace, and moving toward a more meaningful, joyful and healthy future. You will be supported in taking a risk to explore and experience your feelings and beliefs, and I will share with you strategies to overcome unhelpful thinking and behaviors.
I will help you to understand your attachment wounds and triggers and teach you how to improve your boundary-setting and communication abilities. We will discover which coping methods work for you.
I will also pass on to you what has helped the people I have worked with previously in community mental health settings, in a forensic treatment program, through court recommended therapy, and in counseling on school sites.
Currently, I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing difficulties with their relationships, parenting, a life transition, or trauma. Often depression, anxiety, or anger is initially present.
I have specialized training in EMDR (for trauma), ExRP (for obsessions and compulsions), Seeking Safety (for substance abuse recovery) and a 40-hour Domestic Violence Certificate. Additionally, I use Voice Dialogue (parts work), CBT (for negative thinking), and a Rogerian approach with my clients.
Most importantly, I seek to create a caring and compassionate space for you to feel that you can talk about anything. My clients often tell me that they feel able to share with me what is really going on. Although it is not easy to open up, I assure you it will be worth it.
If desired, I am able to provide therapy in Spanish, having served Spanish-speaking individuals since 1990 when I returned from working in Spain for two years.
I completed my undergraduate studies at San Diego State University. I received my master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach in 1995. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#22022) since 2004. I am honored to have 15 years of experience as a therapist. I also have 3 years of experience as a clinical supervisor of therapists in training.
I very much look forward to getting to know you, and walking beside you as you grow and become what your heart and soul desires!