LCSW, 30 years of experience
Hi and welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California but originally from Texas. I received my Master's degree from the University of Houston and have been working in the field for over 30 years. I love the work I do and feel lucky and blessed to be in this profession. Seeing people come in initially at a point of real struggle in their lives and being able to vicariously go on that journey of self-discovery, growth and transformation with them is truly the best part of my job.
After some brief introductions, you can expect a LOT of questions in our first session together. I want to know everything: your background, current living/ working situation, specific symptoms, what you've tried already, what you think would really help, what you really don't want to do, etc. I feel like in order to help you the best I can, I have to understand you the best I possibly can. But don't worry - I'll guide you through all that. It's pretty structured.
I think the greatest strength I bring to the work I do with clients is my sense of humor. Oh sure, we talk about some pretty tough stuff in sessions, but in the midst of all that you've gotta find a way to cut through the heaviness or it just gets overwhelming. I find we spend more time laughing in sessions than crying, on average. The other strength I offer is my very deep connection to cognitive-behavioral therapy. I feel I can help my clients understand CBT at a core level. My goal is to not just apply these tools to you, but rather to teach you to apply them to yourself, so you can take that with you for a lifetime.
I typically work with adults of all ages, though I have at times taken on older adolescents. I also usually see clients in individual sessions, though at times I may take on a couple's case or do some family sessions. I guess what I'm trying to say is, I'm pretty flexible. As for types of issues, that's also quite broad. Depression and anxiety, relationship issues, struggles with adjustment/ sexuality/ identity and personality disorders are quite common issues I work with.
I was drawn to CBT because I felt it made sense. It made it so easy to see the effects that negative thoughts/ expectations/ fears have on one's life and provides a realistic and practical way to "undo" them. For me, the most rewarding part of this profession is seeing people enjoying life again, becoming more successful and feeling confident in their decisions.
2 ratings with written reviews
August 15, 2025
Jeff and I have been working together for going on two years. I started with grief counseling after my husband died suddenly. From the first meeting, I found a connection with Jeff and he has helped me through the darkest time in my life. His use of CBT focusing on my thoughts, feelings, and behaviors has helped me understand the whats, whys and hows of my feelings and ways to overcome the challenges to both my grief and other aspects of my life. He is a delightful person to work with.
August 12, 2025
Jeff makes me feel heard. He brings calm durning heated passionate conversations. He listens and truly understands my emotions. His demeanor and smile on camera creates a safe space for me to open up and share my deepest vulnerabilities. I never feel judged. He is the best therapist I’ve ever had and would recommend him to all my family and close friend. I trust him