Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and have been practicing for 25 years. I bring a collaborative and engaging approach to therapy, infused with a sense of humor to help ease the journey. I believe everyone has the power to change and "grow," and I'm here to support and cheer you on in that process. My goal is to help you accept and navigate the challenges that seem insurmountable, fostering resilience and a renewed sense of hope.
In our first session, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where we will begin to get to know each other. We'll discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, and any concerns you may have. I'll ask about your personal history and current situation to gain a better understanding of your unique experiences.
One of my greatest strengths as a psychotherapist is my belief in teamwork. I view our therapeutic relationship as a collaborative effort, where we work together to achieve your goals. While I bring expertise and experience to our sessions, I recognize that you are the true expert on yourself. Your insights and self-knowledge are invaluable in this process. I strive to create a warm, energetic, and accepting environment to make our work together effective.
I love working with clients who are curious about their feelings and open to exploring their inner worlds. Those who are willing to be vulnerable and honest about their experiences, even when it's uncomfortable, will find a supportive and empathetic environment here. If you can appreciate a touch of humor in the therapeutic process and are ready to confront challenges with courage, you'll thrive in our collaborative journey toward healing and growth. In order to maintain the highest level of personalized care, I am not accepting insurance for couples therapy. Cash payments for couples therapy is accepted, ensuring that the focus remains solely on your therapeutic experience. This allows for greater confidentiality and flexibility in our sessions. Please reach out if you have any questions or wish to discuss this further.
In my practice, I implement trauma-informed care to ensure a safe and supportive environment for clients who have experienced trauma. This approach involves recognizing the widespread impact of trauma, understanding its signs and symptoms, and integrating this knowledge into all aspects of treatment. By prioritizing safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment, I tailor therapeutic interventions to respect the unique needs and experiences of each client. This compassionate and collaborative method not only aids in healing but also helps clients build resilience and regain control of their lives.
I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help clients develop essential skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness. I assist clients in building a life worth living by balancing acceptance and change. I empower clients to manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their mental health challenges. By focusing on the interplay between thoughts, emotions, and actions, CBT empowers clients to develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their overall well-being. We work collaboratively to set realistic goals, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and practice new skills, fostering lasting positive change in their lives.
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences and distressing memories. EMDR involves using eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to facilitate the brain's natural healing process. This approach allows clients to reprocess traumatic events in a safe and controlled manner, reducing the emotional impact and enabling them to move forward with a greater sense of peace and resilience.