Hey there, I'm a Filipina-American Licensed Clinical Social Worker residing in Ventura County with experience working with young adults to seniors who experience life stressors and self-esteem issues. I have worked with young adults to seniors who have gone through significant life struggles or might have a curiosity towards their reactions and perspectives in life. I have worked with clients to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, psychosis, sleep issues, and hopelessness. I believe that the power of therapy is found in being able to be seen and I strive to authentically listen to those I work with. While I acknowledge that evidence-based practices are important, I genuinely believe the root power of therapy is within the connection between therapist and client. My practice is driven by “meeting the client where they are at.”
During the first session, we will discuss your experience with psychotherapy along with limits of therapy services. If this would be your first time in therapy, this may be a good time to provide brief psychoeducation on how therapy can be helpful. Additionally, we will discuss what brings you to therapy at this time and what your goals and timeline may look like.
I have been a mental health clinician with pre-licensed/licensed experience in community mental health over the last 4 years in SoCal. In my previous work, I worked with individuals diagnosed with severe mental health diagnoses, along with their families. That experience has enabled me to strengthen my empathy, while also emphasizing the importance of individuality despite the clinical diagnosis.
I am best positioned to work with clients who are experiencing a life transition, navigating new stages of life such as after college or early career, navigating familial relationships, and those who are second-generation Asian American. That being said, I also have past experience working with clients from Southern California of a diverse array of socioeconomic backgrounds. I can provide ample service to clients who would like to increase self-awareness, insight, and are ready to take small or big steps towards meaningful, value-based change. I currently only provide individual therapy and do not provide couples/marriage/family therapy.
I utilize ACT interventions through acceptance and encouragement of understanding your thoughts and emotions. In doing this, we validate your experience and then commit to making meaningful, value based changes.
There are times where using an objective view against your thoughts, feelings, and emotions can positively help. I've used CBT when appropriate to encourage intellectualizing what you may be experiencing.
I have utilized MI in my practice for when one may be ambivalent (wishy-washy) about making change. Ultimately, change is up to the client, however, with MI we can utilize the "spirit of MI" to move you closer to taking small steps towards a desired goal.
I enjoy using SFBT as a simple, evidence based treatment to hold one accountable in resolving personal issues. I have used SFBT with clients who have wanted to decrease particular mental health symptoms and with clients who want to make small steps to bigger goals, such as getting a job, being more social, etc.
My practice is particularly driven by a humanistic perspective, which means (when clinically appropriate) I highlight a client's individuality through unconditionally accepting your values, personal goals, perspectives, and life story.