I always felt that I was called to help others. Growing up in South Los Angeles, I developed a sense of culture and community amongst Black and Brown people as well as a respect for the struggles of BIPOC. I grew up around artists, musicians, poets, leaders, givers, and eccentrics from all walks of life. During this time, I discovered how much I enjoyed listening to people, problem-solving, and motivating others to succeed and explore their authentic selves. I started off as a mentor in undergrad, inspiring other young people of color to attend college and think outside of the box in regards to their futures. I continued working with children, teens, and adults with special needs until I landed a position as an intern at a non-profit mental health agency in South Los Angeles. After I obtained my license as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I continued to grow as a clinician, supervisor, and manager at the nonprofit while also taking on teen and adult clients in the private practice setting. I am now pursuing my dream to work Full Time as a Private Practice Therapist.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
My intake process is a free-flowing conversation where I provide a warm environment for you to feel comfortable opening up about yourself and what brings you to therapy. I used a standard intake questionnaire that can be filled out online and reviewed during the first session in order to assist with goal-setting and creating our therapy journey together. Progress is something that we agree upon collaboratively. I do give assignments as appropriate and depending on the goals we have established together. These assignments are not designed to feel like work but rather stepping stones to help you along on your quest for inner healing and positive change. I enjoy working with clients who want to grow and learn about themselves while tackling life's challenges.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I specialize in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression (Both Chronic and Situational), Relationship Issues (Family, Platonic, Romantic), School and/or Job-Related Stress. I use the principles of Narrative therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in order to create the individualized treatment plan that works best for you. I am also trained in other evidenced-based practices such as Seeking Safety (for trauma and addictions) and Crisis Oriented Recovery (CORS) which focuses on assisting people with managing recent/current traumatic experiences or other sources of stress.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I had the opportunity to be influenced by strong men and women in my family who instilled a sense of pride in being a woman of color. As a self-proclaimed "empath" with a long history of trauma experiences, I was told that I was "wise beyond my years" growing up. I found that my ability to see things from multiple viewpoints is a tool that helps me tremendously as a therapist. There is nothing more rewarding for me then establishing a connection with a person that makes them feel seen, heard, valued and inspired to enhance thier lives. The desire to address past trauma, overcome obstacles, and break generational curses is what motivated me to become a therapist!
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
Interested in individuals who want to work together to explore realistic goals that make life worth living. I’m happy to be a listening ear, sounding board for you or to be more directive with recommendations and solutions that best fit your individual needs. Can’t wait to chat!