Hey there, I'm a Millenial/Gen-Z Fil-Am Licensed Clinical Social Worker residing in Ventura County. I have worked with young adults to seniors who have gone through significant life struggles or might have a curiosity toward their reactions and perspectives in life. I have worked with clients to alleviate symptoms of overwhelm, anxiety, depression, psychosis, sleep issues, and hopelessness. I believe that the power of therapy is found in being able to be seen and because of this, 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.” I received my Master of Social Work degree at California State University San Marcos, where I was a clinical intern for an alternative middle/high school and an intensive outpatient program with Sharp Hospital. I earned my Bachelor of Social Welfare degree from University of California Berkeley. While at Berkeley, I interned for a grassroots agency that served persons experiencing homelessness in the Tenderloin.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During the first session, we will discuss your experience with psychotherapy along with limits of therapy services. If this will be your first time in therapy, this may be a good time for me to provide you with 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.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I provide a warm and light approach during therapy sessions. I strive to understand your individuality, allowing you to be seen despite the difficulties you may be experiencing. In my previous work, I worked with individuals diagnosed with severe mental health diagnoses (schizophrenia, bipolar, etc.), along with their families. Working with folks undergoing severe symptoms while having to navigate difficult healthcare and benefit systems has enabled me to strengthen my empathy, while also emphasizing the importance of individuality despite clinical symptoms that are occurring.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am best suited to work with high school aged or young adult (18-30 years old) clients who are experiencing a life transition, navigating new stages of life such as transitions during high school, after college or in their early career, and those who are second-generation/children of immigrants. 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 tele-therapy to adults and minors over the age of consent (12+ in CA and if the minor is deemed clinically appropriate to self-consent). I am not able to provide couples/marriage/family therapy.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
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.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
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.
Motivational Interviewing
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.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
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.