I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My masters degree is in Marriage and Family Therapy and I hold a dual bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology. My early professional experience was gained working in community based residential homes with foster children and their families where I developed a passion for helping others. My work continued with individual’s with disabilities and continued with children and adults experiencing domestic violence and /or abuse. I pride myself in therapeutic approaches that are Person Center, Culturally Sensitive, and Trauma Informed. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families utilizing interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Strategic and Structural Family Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, PCIT, and Mindfulness based practices. My experience developed working with dually diagnosed individuals across various environments including residential settings, school settings, home, community based clinics, and community non profits.
During our first session, introductions will be made and I give a summary of my background experience and my approach to help clients gage whether a strong therapeutic connection can be formed. I conduct assessments of symptomology, impairments, strengths and client history. First session is also utilized to begin rapport building, review limits of confidentiality, HIPPA regulations, and policies and procedures.
Having worked with trauma based clients I have utilized evidence based practices to develop a unique intervention to assist clients in healing trauma , learn to manage anxiety, depression and helped clients enhance self regulation.
I have been working with individuals of all ages and various culturally diverse backgrounds.
I have been utilizing CBT within my clinical work for over 8 years with formal training in both CBT and Trauma Focused CBT. The CBT approach has helped support clients identify and navigate automatic and irrational thinking. Using CBT as a guide to change thoughts and behavior promotes a healthy emotional well being.
Throughout my years of being a child developmental counselor and a LMFT, I have learned to use a variety of approaches to help meet client’s treatment goals.
I have extensive experience and training in PCIT, in working with families. I incorporate PCIT to help families with attachment and bonding as well as to create structure and over all improved relationships.
I utilize DBT for affective modulation skill building including distress tolerance, self regulation and enhancing coping skills.