(she/her)
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Northern California, with nearly two decades of experience in private practice. I work with individual adults seeking therapy for a wide range of reasons. My approach emphasizes providing a supportive, non-directive yet collaborative environment, enabling clients to explore and deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships. I specialize in long-term, in-depth therapy, drawing on empirically based psychodynamic approaches. This method goes beyond surface-level changes, fostering insights that lead to meaningful and lasting transformations both within and beyond the therapeutic setting. An area of my specialization includes providing Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy to address depression, anxiety, and complex post-traumatic stress disorder. This is an innovative and transformative modality that when provided and supported by a trained therapist can lead to impactful experiences and self-knowledge.
The first session often feels like it flies by, as many clients have so much they want to share. It's common for them to feel they've touched on a variety of topics, and that's perfectly okay. I approach the first session with flexibility, allowing it to unfold naturally and letting each client decide where they'd like to start and what feels most important to share. For those who feel overwhelmed by where to begin, I can guide the session using a more formal clinical interview. While this provides structure, it can feel a bit more clinical and less conversational. To support the process, I ask clients to complete a clinical intake form before our first meeting. This form offers valuable background information that helps us make the most of our time together. In the first or second session, we may also start exploring goals for therapy, refining these as we progress to ensure the work remains focused and meaningful.
I have had the privilege of walking alongside clients through a wide range of challenges, honing a deep and nuanced understanding of the complexities of human emotions and relationships. I view therapy as a journey of transformation, one that goes beyond surface-level solutions to uncover enduring insights and shifts that ripple through all areas of life. I hold a deep commitment to my own ongoing education, therapy, and self-exploration. This dedication ensures that I bring a grounded, present, and healthy perspective to my work, allowing me to be fully available to support my clients on their journeys.
I am particularly drawn to working with clients who are returning to therapy during times of new challenges or significant developmental milestones. These might include navigating career changes, entering or ending significant relationships, becoming a parent, facing an empty nest, or transitioning into retirement. Emotional challenges such as grief, loss, recovering from trauma, or adapting to a major life shift also provide fertile ground for exploration and growth. These periods are often rich with complexity and nuance, offering unique opportunities for self-discovery and transformation. It’s a privilege to accompany clients through these transitions, providing support and guidance as they navigate these pivotal moments in their lives.
Eclectic
My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic, meaning I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to each client’s unique needs, goals, and circumstances. With a foundation built on years of diverse experience in the mental health field, I integrate tools and techniques from various evidence-based frameworks to support clients in meaningful ways. In practice, this means that I have a broad repertoire of approaches to draw upon, such as psychodynamic therapy for deep insight into relational patterns, cognitive-behavioral strategies to address specific challenges like anxiety or unhelpful thinking, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) for exploring inner dynamics and fostering self-compassion. I also incorporate attachment-based perspectives to strengthen relational understanding and create a therapeutic space where trust and connection can thrive. By weaving these modalities together, I aim to address the complexity of each client’s experience. For instance, while one session might focus on identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns, another might involve exploring past experiences and how they shape current relationships. Throughout, the therapeutic relationship serves as a grounding force, offering a safe and supportive container for growth. This eclectic approach allows me to remain flexible and responsive, ensuring that the therapy aligns with where you are in your journey and adapts as your needs evolve over time. By combining various tools and techniques, we can work collaboratively toward achieving your goals and fostering lasting change.