If you are a client of Kaiser Permanente, it is necessary to obtain a referral from Kaiser before proceeding. Once you have received the referral, Kaiser will provide you with a link to schedule a session with me. I specialize in helping individuals navigate grief, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, and behavioral concerns. Many people live with anxiety without realizing how deeply it affects their relationships, decision-making, and overall quality of life. If you find yourself feeling constantly on edge, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted, you’re not alone—and support can make a meaningful difference. Depression is not always obvious or dramatic; it often shows up as fatigue, irritability, disconnection, or a loss of motivation. It is one of the most common and misunderstood struggles people face today, yet it is also highly treatable. With the right support, individuals can regain clarity, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of control over their lives.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
First Session: Getting to Know You 1. Background Information During our first session, I will ask questions to better understand your background. This may include: Family history and significant relationships Educational and occupational history Social supports and current living situation This information helps me understand your experiences within a broader life context. 2. Current Concerns We will discuss what led you to seek therapy at this time. This includes: Specific challenges, stressors, or symptoms you’re experiencing How these concerns are affecting your daily functioning, relationships, or well-being Any previous experiences with counseling or mental health treatment 3. Goals for Therapy We will identify what you hope to achieve through therapy. Goals may include: Emotional regulation or symptom reduction Improved relationships or communication Increased self-awareness, coping skills, or life balance Goals can evolve over time and will be revisited as therapy progresses. Establishing Rapport and Safety 4. Building Trust The first session is also about creating a comfortable, respectful, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. You are encouraged to share at your own pace, and questions are always welcome. 5. Confidentiality I will explain the confidentiality of therapy sessions and its limits. Information shared in therapy is private, with exceptions required by law, including: Risk of harm to yourself Risk of harm to others Abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or dependent adult Court orders or legal requirements Understanding confidentiality helps ensure transparency and safety within the therapeutic relationship.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I have a genuine ability to connect with people without judgment. I thrive on inspiring others to embrace their potential and live their best lives.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
It’s incredibly rewarding to witness clients grow and overcome their obstacles. My true passion is to inspire others to not only dream but to actually live the life they envision. The best revenge in life is to live well. Let me help you achieve that. You’ve already taken the first step—let’s get started!
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
We wonder why two individuals have gone through the same thing but one of the individuals can move on and one is crippled. I have 20 plus years using the the CBT modality to restructure the thought process.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I have 10 years using the DBT modality. DBT is a way to be present, to live in the present moment. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a modified type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Its main goals are to teach people how to live in the moment, develop healthy ways to cope with stress, regulate their emotions, and improve their relationships with others.
Strength-Based
One of the first modalities I learned as a social worker was to lean on a person's strengths to build up their weakness.
Gender-affirming therapy
I have two years of experience dealing with individuals who wanted gender-affirming surgery. I also have a family member who has had gender assignment surgery therefore I have a vast knowledge of a person's mental woes while transitioning.
Grief Therapy
If I was an author, my first book would be on Grief therapy. I have first-hand knowledge of how grief affects one's everyday life. I lost my mother in 2003 and I was overcome with grief. I felt like a walking zombie not knowing how I got to different places, not remembering taking a left or right turn. I can help you cope with your grief feelings.
13 ratings with written reviews
January 13, 2026
Carmen was a wonderful and courteous therapist. She was insightful and gave me many obtions on how to handle my issues.
July 30, 2025
I love the fact she made me feel comfortable and she’s very uplifting I’m so excited to walk on my journey with her She is definitely what I need.
May 7, 2025
She helps me see the best parts of my life and gives me the time to explore the less helpful feelings and how to quiet my mind.