New to Grow
Hi there, my name is Allison. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have over a decade of experience working with adults and teens and specialize in anxiety, perfectionism, depression and perinatal mental health. Therapy is not "one size fits all" so I always tailor my approach to fit the needs and personality of each individual client. Together we will identify your personal strengths, obstacles and values, which we will then use to set goals and ultimately facilitate meaningful change. I imagine that you have tried to manage your mental health on your own but may be feeling frustrated or stuck. Therapy can provide the support and structure that is often needed to help us overcome the many challenges life can throw our way. So if you're ready to take the next step, let's talk.
In the first session, I will do a lot more listening than talking. My goal is to get to know you and gather relevant information about your specific concerns and challenges. I will answer any questions you have regarding therapy and address any concerns.
I'm often told that I am very easy to talk to. I aim to make every client feel comfortable, welcome, and understood. The tone of my sessions can be lighthearted (when appropriate, of course) as I believe that humor can be a very useful coping skill!
I provide individual therapy for adults and teens navigating anxiety, perfectionism, social pressures, life transitions, and stress. I enjoy working with mothers on issues ranging from perinatal mental health to family relationships and self-esteem. I see therapy as not just a safe space to talk about problems (although sometimes that is needed), but a place to figure out what is and is not working in your life and take concrete steps toward change. That change may be in how you're thinking about yourself, your life, your relationships, etc., or it may be a behavior or habit that needs to be reworked. My only ask is that you are open to change.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I've been using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) for a few years now and have found that it helps client's recognize that uncomfortable thoughts and emotions are sometimes just a part of life, but we can learn to accept that fact while committing to live a life that reflects our core values. I have found that the emphasis on values-based living helps clients feel more grounded and connected to what really matters most to them.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is my go-to therapy approach. I find it to be universally effective across various mental health struggles. Learning how to challenge and modify the thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that contribute to your suffering often results in positive and long-lasting change.