New to Grow
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a deep passion for helping individuals create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Human Services from California State University, Fullerton, and went on to receive my master’s degree in Counseling – Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Long Beach. My clinical experience spans a broad range of social, emotional, and behavioral concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, grief and bereavement, maternal mental health, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
A first session with me would focus on getting to know you and understanding what brings you to therapy. We would explore your history, current symptoms, and the behaviors or experiences that led you to seek support. It would also be the beginning of building our rapport, creating a foundation of trust and comfort for our work together.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What makes me unique as a therapist is the combination of specialized training and a deeply compassionate, client-centered approach. I’m a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, with extensive experience in perinatal and postpartum mental health, allowing me to support clients through some of life’s most challenging transitions. I also bring a strong background in grief and loss work, along with neuroscience-based techniques for treating anxiety and depression. Together, these strengths allow me to offer informed, tailored, and evidence-based care for each client’s unique needs.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My ideal client is someone who is open, motivated, and ready to engage in collaborative work. They are willing to explore the thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors that may be holding them back and are committed to making meaningful changes. This client is eager to grow, reflect, and take active steps toward creating a life they truly love.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In sessions, I would guide you to identify negative or unhelpful thoughts that may be contributing to your distress. Together, we would challenge these thoughts by examining their accuracy and considering alternative, more balanced perspectives. I would also encourage you to test new behaviors through real-life experiments to see how they affect your emotions and outcomes. Throughout our work, we’d focus on setting specific goals and developing coping strategies, like relaxation techniques or problem-solving skills, to help you handle challenges more effectively.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I would use person-centered therapy by creating a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel truly heard and understood. I would practice empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard to support your self-exploration. Rather than directing the session, I’d follow your lead, trusting that you have the inner resources to grow and find your own solutions.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I would use solution-focused therapy by helping you identify your strengths and the resources you already have to create change. We would work together to define clear, achievable goals and focus on what’s working rather than what’s wrong. In sessions, I’d guide you to envision your preferred future and take small, practical steps toward it.
Trauma Informed Care
I would use trauma-informed care by creating a safe, supportive environment where you feel respected and in control during sessions. I would be mindful of how past trauma may influence your current emotions and behaviors, and I’d move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My approach would focus on building trust, promoting empowerment, and avoiding anything that could feel re-traumatizing while supporting your healing.