(she/her)
I have over 25 years of clinical social work experience. I received my initial training at the University of Maryland before moving to California in 1999. My extensive experience working with a variety of populations, including adolescents, teen mothers, and the medically fragile. I am trained in a variety of modalities, including EMDR. I am assessing patients’ psychosocial status in relation to their illness and environment, carrying out psychosocial evaluations and planning interventions based on evaluation findings; providing information and referral services for organization patients and families/caregivers regarding practical and environmental needs. I also provide psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children in the form of individual, couple, group, and family sessions, specializing in “trauma-informed care” based on neurological research. My therapeutic approach is guided by what will help my clients achieve their long-term goals and strengthen their interpersonal relationships. I like to think of myself as the “Patch Adams of social work,” with a unique and engaging way of connecting with my clients and acting as a catalyst for the changes they want to see.
In our first session together, we'll start with brief introductions, gather some history, and create a plan that is designed with your goals in mind. I want you to leave the session with at least one tool to get you started on your journey.
My biggest strengths are working with adolescents transitioning to become outstanding adult members of society,working with couples, addressing trauma. I also work well with those struggling with anxiety related to daily life.
I love working with people that are wanting to see change/growth in their lives. My clients typically just don't know where to start. Some have said that they are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious about life challenges. That's where our work, together, comes in.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I assist clients who are experiencing overwhelming problems, teaching them skills to view their challenges in a more positive way by breaking them down into smaller parts. I show clients how to change these negative patterns to improve the way they feel. CBT deals with your current problems, rather than focusing on issues from your past.
Couples Counseling
I work with couples to identify and challenge negative thought patterns/behavior. We explore what is going on for you right ow as well as how your past experiences have affected you. I help couples develop stronger communication styles towards the development of a solid partnership.
EMDR
I work with clients who have experiences trauma or intense anxiety. We work together towards changing the emotions, thoughts or behaviors that result from these distressing experiences The client’s ultimately are able to recall the distressing events without the emotional charge.