LCSW, 30 years of experience
New to Grow
I have been providing safe spaces for over 25 years in highly energetic medical settings. I approach each individual with empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity to prioritize autonomy and self-determination. Much of my work has been with people with CPTSD, PTSD, Grief, Complex medical issues, Co-Dependency, LGBTQ+, Alcohol/Drug use. I specialize in individualized treatment plans by assessing needs, providing reflective listening and clarifying goals. Checking in to make sure that we are moving at a pace convenient for you. Are you struggling with anxiety/depression? Are you tired and ready for change? Trauma-informed therapy creates a nonjudgmental, supportive environment. Together we collaborate to develop a treatment plan that is catered to you. I practice from a combination of psychodynamic and humanistic treatment approaches incorporating CBT/DBT, and Motivational Interviewing with a combination of somatic exercises, such as TRE. I am TRE Certified. Healing from trauma and seeking therapy is a deeply personal journey. I'm so glad you are taking this step to look for someone to support and guide you. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with you. I’d love to work with you to help you to cultivate hope, healing and resiliency.
Our first visit will consist of attaining a psychosocial, which is basically an overall snapshot of who you are. We will talk about what your goals are and how you would like to be able to show up in the world. We will discuss what isn't working now and what you think would be helpful for your future. Coming from a trauma informed lens, you are the driver of the session. We get to discuss the things you prefer to focus on.
I have been a social worker for 30 years. I have worked with people from all backgrounds and cultures with so much adversity. I am always humbled by the work and the people that sit in front of me. I am honored to have been a part of so many people's lives. My clients have put so much trust in me. I am always thankful and grateful for that. I value the NASW code of ethics and I live by that code in my profession and personal life.
I provide trauma informed therapy. Are you overworked and exhausted? Do you feel dysregulated often? Most of my work has been with women experiencing IPV, medical issues, grief, codependency, narcissistic abuse and substance use disorders. I am certified in EMDR, TRE, MI, DBT and CBT. I work with clients who may be experiencing depression/anxiety or trauma related to their relationships or families. Clients who work with me can expect to: improve communication, become more in touch with their true self. Be able to express that self, challenge negative core beliefs, think more positively, develop coping skills and strategies and increase self-awareness.
I am learning EMDR and working toward certification through EMDRIA. I have been trained through the EMDR Institute, which was founded by its developer, Francine Shapiro. EMDR is useful to help those with trauma, depression and anxiety. It's useful to help you feel "unstuck". EMDR can help you break the "freeze" cycle by allowing your brain to process memories in a less painful way.
I have been using CBT for years while at UCSF Medical Center and find it quite successful if you are struggling with maladaptive thoughts, depression and anxiety.
I have used DBT for years while working at UCSF Medical Center. This modality is useful for people with emotional dysregulation, PTSD and eating disorders to name a few.
Mi is used to address substance use disorders and medical issues. It is helpful to move clients through an indecisive state.
MBSR is useful for those who are overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. They are a combination of tools that help people to cope with stress and a variety of health conditions.