LCSW, 40 years of experience
New to Grow
It takes courage to enter counseling. This may feel like a "website dating app" right now- looking for the best therapist to work with you, trying to find the "right one" on this site.. I get it. It can be a bit overwhelming. Even starting therapy can be overwhelming. I'm here to create a safe, comfortable, and engaging therapeutic relationship. In our work together, I want you to feel like "you're getting somewhere" in this process... My counseling style feels more like a conversation, than "formal questions and answers". I blend my clinical experience with humor, honesty and heart. I share personal insights, provide reflection, and effective tools to help my clients. I have felt blessed in being a part of my clients' growth and change. I hope that I can assist you on your journey... As an experienced clinical social worker, I taught for the USC School of Social Work, training the next generation of professionals. I've spoken at conferences for years throughout the US, training therapists and medical professionals. I taught "Making Marriage Work" for 10 years at a college. I've helped individuals & couples strengthen their relationships through clear communication, emotional connection, and practical tools. I'm a certified Sex Therapist- though I prefer to think of sex therapy as helping people build intimacy- however they define it for themselves- as a couple, or individual. Lastly, I have done much volunteer work , personally & professionally. For years I have volunteered with Red Cross in offering Disaster Mental Health for those experiencing horrific traumas. I am grateful I have the skills to work compassionately with others in these tragic situations.
Many clients have told me that I put them at ease right away. Our first session doesn't feel like "clinical interview". My style of getting to know you feels more like a conversation, with your providing me with important details of your life. I use my interest in YOUR story, with warmth and professionalism. I want you to feel comfortable- whether this is the first time you're entering therapy, or have done this before. I want to know what has worked for you in the past. And where you have hit roadblocks. I want to understand what's happening with you now. It takes courage to enter therapy. It feels vulnerable, and frankly, a bit scary revealing oneself to a "stranger". Especially if you've never done this before. That's why I want to hear from you, and learn more. I will even share some of my insights in the very first session- to gain an understanding of you and your situation. I sincerely want you to provide me with feedback-- am I on "the right track" in understanding you and your needs? I don't take anything for granted-- even after all the years I've been a therapist. I want to put you at ease- from the very first session. Hopefully you will feel comfortable to continue working with me.
Communication is extremely important! People use many words- like "support", "trauma", "pain", "loss", "boundaries". I want to understand what these words mean to you, not a self-help book. I don't assume anything about you. I want to start where you're at. What's unique about you and your situation. My clients often "feel heard" in my sessions, without being judged. This has been one of my greatest strengths- effective communication. And sometimes it doesn't need to be verbal. Sometimes I help my clients write letters. We edit the words, so they can express themselves fully, honestly and without interruption or harsh judgments. This has been extremely healing and rewarding for my clients. Sometimes I encourage them to journal privately, giving them prompts. Or I give them exercises in-between our sessions. They often appreciate this engagement between sessions-- not simply "our time is up". I am also in the midst of writing a book about assertive communication- redefining it. I believe it is just as assertive to communicate "I love you" or "I'm sorry" as it is to set boundaries and say no. I take into account your culture and family background, and how you were taught to express yourself. Were you even encouraged to identify your feelings? What are the values you received about communicating your thoughts and feelings honestly to others? Whether it's with family members, friends, in a work situation, as a customer-even with your doctor. It's been very fulfilling for me to help people all these years.
I know how stressful life can be. I also know the joy and satisfaction that comes from identifying feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in our lives. My "ideal client" is someone willing to work with me as a "detective" in their own life, and be active in this process. Sometimes writing things at home, in-between our sessions "keeps you connected" in our work together. I help clients identify the areas that cause you distress, pain or discomfort. Same with your significant relationships, through effective communication. I know therapy can sometimes feel uncomfortable when trying new skills out, or dealing with long-time issues of discomfort and pain. I like to use our sessions like a "learning lab" so you can try new behaviors, and evaluate your thoughts & feelings. That's part of the learning and growing process- yes? Learning new skills can at times be challenging. I'm with you all the way, guiding and supporting you. There is nothing more fulfilling than working with motivated clients in ways that help them find their authentic voice, choose better ways of handling situations, and improving their relationships. Together, we partner with one another on your journey of healing and growth.
Making the connections between what we think about things... what we feel about things... and how we act & behave with various people, and in different situations. It's gaining the ability to self-reflect and observe ourselves: our emotions, thoughts & feelings- so we can make the changes to live with integrity and significant meaning.
I'm an accredited sex therapist with the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT), an international professional association. I've been trained to work with individuals and couples on improving their intimacy, communications skills and sexuality. Working with the whole person- not only one aspect of their life.
Trauma can be from our childhood, or things experienced as an adult. It can be from a single intense event, repeated and ongoing stressors, or prolonged exposure to multiple traumatic events. It not only involves "what happened," but also how your nervous system, mind, and body process it. Trauma can affect our emotions, thoughts, behavior, physical health, and relationships. We work slowly and thoughtfully, so you can feel safe and supported in this important work.
Compassion for others and oneself is essential in developing greater mental and physical health. Self-compassion is important- ridding ourselves of negative self-talk that impacts the ways we relate to others- even ourselves! Sometimes we need to "get out of our heads" and act with courage, being supported by a trusted therapist. Sometimes it's developing assertive communication, less self-judgment, and tools helpful to meet our goals. I am privileged to do this important work together.