LMFT, 5 years of experience
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from DeVry University. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and crisis-related issues. My background includes working with children in foster care, individuals in juvenile hall and correctional facilities, crisis stabilization units, and survivors and perpetrators of sexual abuse. I’ve also led mental health outreach and education efforts in Santa Clara County to increase community awareness and access to support. Currently, I offer couples counseling and faith-based counseling, helping clients navigate relational and spiritual challenges with compassion and care. I am passionate about supporting clients through difficult life experiences, offering light, perspective, and healing.
In your first session with me, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you can begin to share your story at your own pace. We'll start by discussing what brought you to therapy, explore any goals or concerns you have, and go over your personal history to help me understand your unique experiences and needs. This session is about building trust, answering any questions you may have about the process, and beginning to lay the foundation for a supportive, collaborative relationship focused on your healing and growth.
What stands out about my therapeutic approach is my emphasis on creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients feel truly heard and validated. I integrate evidence-based methods like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and strength-based techniques to help clients build practical skills for emotional regulation, resilience, and healthier relationships. My focus on personalized care—blending talk therapy with creative tools like play or art therapy when appropriate—often leads to meaningful breakthroughs and sustainable growth that clients carry into their everyday lives.
I am best positioned to serve individuals who are navigating the effects of trauma, abuse, grief, or major life transitions and are seeking a safe, supportive space to process their emotions and experiences. I work well with clients who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, yet are open to exploring healing through self-awareness, skill-building, and emotional growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or identity questions, my goal is to walk alongside you with compassion and non-judgment, helping you reclaim your voice, build resilience, and move toward a life that feels more balanced, empowered, and meaningful.
I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in developing skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. In my practice, I integrate DBT through structured talk therapy, validation, and skill-building, helping clients navigate intense emotions and behavioral patterns. I tailor DBT interventions to each client’s needs, often combining them with creative approaches like play or art therapy to enhance engagement and self-expression.
I incorporate faith-based therapy by honoring each client’s spiritual beliefs as a foundation for healing, resilience, and personal growth. In my practice, I integrate spiritual principles, prayer, and scripture when appropriate and requested by the client, aligning therapeutic goals with their faith values. This approach helps clients find deeper meaning, hope, and strength as they navigate life’s challenges.
I use Narrative Therapy to help clients separate themselves from their problems and re-author their personal stories in more empowering and compassionate ways. In my practice, I encourage clients to explore how societal, familial, or internal narratives have shaped their identity and work collaboratively to redefine those narratives to align with their values and strengths. This approach fosters a sense of agency and helps clients view themselves as the experts of their own lives.
I use play therapy as a developmentally appropriate approach to help children express thoughts and emotions they may not yet have the words for. Through games, art, and imaginative play, I create a safe and engaging space where children can process experiences, build coping skills, and improve emotional regulation. I tailor play-based activities to each child's interests and therapeutic goals, often integrating techniques from CBT or DBT to support deeper insight and behavior change
I incorporate Positive Psychology in my practice by helping clients identify and build on their strengths, cultivate gratitude, and develop a growth-oriented mindset. This approach emphasizes well-being, resilience, and the pursuit of meaningful goals, which supports clients in creating a more fulfilling and balanced life. I often use techniques such as strength-based reflection, savoring exercises, and values clarification to enhance positive emotions and personal empowerment.