New to Grow
Hi There! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and primarily work with folx who struggle with addiction and mental health. I have provided individual and group treatment for approximately seven years and have found this work truly fulfilling. I believe self-compassion is an important and often overlooked skill/tool, and I focus on using this in my sessions. I work from a perspective of cultural humility and enjoy meeting with folx who are BIPOC and/or part of the Lgbtq+ community. I also believe in the importance of fat acceptance and body positivity, which is something that is often neglected/overlooked.
Our first session will be about getting to know you and ensuring that I am a good fit for your needs. I would love to hear about your short-term and long-term goals and what has brought you to therapy. It's important to build trust, and I look forward to collaborating with you!
Compassion and validation are important tools in my practice. I view my work through a non-judgmental lens with acceptance and understanding. I utilize skills learned through DBT, CBT, and Seeking Safety to meet you where you are.
I love working with all types of clients and also recognize that my training is primarily focused on folx who struggle with addiction/dependency and their mental health. Addiction impacts all communities, and I have found that I enjoy working with diverse populations, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, 65+, and so on. I think that a huge first step is recognizing that something needs to change to help improve your life. If this is something you are open to, I would love to help!
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing is an important part of my individual sessions. Utilizing this practice can help explore ambivalence and meet my clients where they currently are in life. I believe in the importance of using validation, affirmation, and self-compassion to provide autonomy and safety. I believe that often we are the first to offer compassion to others, and yet when it comes to ourselves, we tend to be judgmental and harsh. This is important to recognize and find tools that can help change this mindset.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I find that CBT is helpful, particularly in learning to identify cognitive distortions when they occur and using tools such as the STOP method, thought records, etc. Reframing those thoughts is an important part of CBT and a coping skill/tool that I use in my own life. This takes practice, and I look forward to working collaboratively with you on these tools!
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I have had training in DBT and find that this evidence-based practice is helpful for folx who struggle with addiction and/or mood disorders. I use tools such as opposite action, radical acceptance, and pros/cons with my clients.
Trauma Informed Care
I have had training in Seeking Safety, an education curriculum that focuses on helping folx who struggle with addiction and trauma. I have facilitated these groups in my current position and have the workbook to help you on your journey!