LMFT, 6 years of experience
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I grew up on the East Coast and received my masters degree from Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, VA. I have 6 years of clinical experience. I am married and have raised three children, two of which are still teenagers. I have experience working with all ages-children, adolescents, adults and families. My previous clinical work was with children, adults and families many of whom had been effected by past trauma. It included individual, family, group therapy and crisis intervention. I enjoy creating a safe space in which to help people navigate difficult situations in their lives such as; life transitions, relationship issues, parenting, and various mental health issues which are negatively impacting their everyday life. I also have a background in Art Therapy, and I am happy to utilize art therapy techniques and interventions if the client is interested.
I will use the first session to do a thorough assessment and take the time to get to know my client as an individual. Before the session is over, we will formulate goals and a treatment plan for future sessions.
One of my greatest strengths is my ability to conceptualize what's happening in my clients life and bring a new perspective to their thoughts, behaviors, and situations in order to promote positive change and healing.
I treat people who might be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, going through difficult life transitions, or just want to find a better way to live each day that is more in line with their values. Whatever it may be, I am here to help them to discover the tools to make the changes they want in their lives.
I use a psychodynamic approach in the way I structure sessions and as a way of exploring some deeper insights into thoughts and behaviors. I will help my client's gain insight into current behavioral patterns and make connections between the past and present in order to facilitate growth and change. Developing a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect and understanding is of upmost importance to me and I view the relationship as a team effort towards the client's personal discovery and growth.
Acceptance and commitment therapy views “negative” emotions and experiences as part of life. ACT aims to accept thoughts and feelings without judgment, while helping you to identify and commit to pursuing your values, and finding meaning and purpose in your life.