(he/him)
New to Grow
Hello. Thank you for starting your journey for a better you! I've worked with a variety of clients, including those who suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship and/or attachment issues. I'm excited to create a safe space and to provide the support you need. I've worked with adults and children and believe that a transparent, genuine, and direct approach works best. On a personal note, I am an adoptee and a birth parent and live in gorgeous southern California. I was raised as a military brat and grew up overseas (Taiwan and Indonesia) as well as both on the east and west coasts of the US and as a result truly enjoy experiencing culture and travel. I was in the Little League World series and to this day, love to travel (especially to the Caribbean). The beach is my happy place.
In our first session, we'll get to know each other and discuss what brings you to therapy. I'll ask questions to understand your concerns and goals, and we'll begin building a foundation of trust and collaboration that you are comfortable with.
Each client comes in with their lives experiences, family dynamics and culture and each of these variables are especially important in creating a well balanced and genuine relationship with each client. I am relationship and strength based and believe that building a solid foundation is essential to build trust and meaning in the therapeutic relationship. Variables change throughout life transitions and should be reflected in sessions and within treatment. I accompany each client on their journey in finding their true north and exploring, processing and replacing negative/unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. I believe that everyone has the right to experience a happy, healthy and rewarding life and that when clients take this first step, it can truly be life changing.
I am accepting adult clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma reminders and who experiencing difficulties within themselves, in relationships and the context of their families. I am a certified adoptions therapist, am an expert in attachment issues and have personal and professional experiences to help those affected through adoption. I offer a compassionate, safe and encouraging therapeutic environment where vulnerability leads to insight and mental health success. I create a safe and inviting environment that endorses full transparency and self-awareness in sessions and within the context of culture, work/life balance and identity. Clients will explore their core beliefs and how these core beliefs affect their perceptions which in turn affect their 'in the moment' thinking, feelings and behaving. I take a multi-generational, culturally competent and direct approach and tap into the strengths and vulnerabilities of each client. And finally, I believe in clear and honest communication and expect the same from my clients. The therapeutic relationship and trust are one that requires honesty, transparency, and a basic level of communication.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Reviewing, processing and reframing cognitions can often change feelings and behaviors associated with our experiences which is why a cognitive-behavioral approach is taken.
Attachment-based
I am a certified adoption therapist with C.A.S.E. and am an expert in attachment based relationship difficulties.
Couples Counseling
I have extensive experience working with couples in communication, infidelity/trust and problem solving skills.
Family Therapy
I work with families and the dynamics and issues that are often found within the family system.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Every patient comes from a cultural perspective and background that I feel is extremely important in identifying and understanding before proceeding into mental health treatment.