I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Truckee, California. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno, in 2005 and have been practicing as a therapist for the past two years. I specialize in working with teens and adults, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and challenges related to work, life, and school. My therapeutic approach integrates mindfulness and compassionate inquiry, ensuring a holistic and supportive experience for my clients.
In our first session, we will focus on the issues that have brought you to therapy at this point in your life. We will discuss your goals for therapy and explore what strategies you have tried in the past, identifying what has been helpful and what has not. This initial session is a valuable opportunity for us to get to know each other and to determine how we can collaborate effectively to achieve the best possible outcomes for you.
I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, supported, and compassionately challenged, fostering an environment conducive to lasting change. I value authenticity in my practice both for myself and clients.
The ideal client possesses a sense of curiosity and a willingness to observe their patterns of behavior, thoughts, and actions to identify what is no longer serving them. They are open to working towards small, lasting changes and are ready to take responsibility for the challenging yet rewarding journey of personal growth.
Acceptance and commitment therapy focuses on helping individuals accept their thoughts and feelings rather than trying to control or avoid them. It encourages commitment to actions that align with personal values, promoting psychological flexibility and a more meaningful life.
Mindfulness is complimentary to every therapeutic approach I use. It allows space for all thoughts, emotions and situations to exist without judgment or shame and can help with increased awareness, reduce stress, aid in emotional regulation, improve focus and enhance self-compassion.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) helps clients explore and resolve ambivalence about change, which can enhance their intrinsic motivation to make positive changes in their lives. By focusing on the client’s own reasons for change, MI empowers them to take ownership of their decisions and actions, fostering a sense of autonomy.