Compassionate care is at the root of my practice. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you will be heard and understood. Together we can tap into your strengths, cultivate coping skills and seek a deeper understanding of your life experiences. For over 25 years, I have been conducting therapy in a variety of settings and across the lifespan. My specialty areas include anxiety disorders, life transitions, grief and loss concerns, trauma/PTSD, medical-induced disorders, women’s health, workplace concerns, relationships and parenting. I consider it a great privilege to work with individuals during trying times. My undergraduate degree is from Stanford University in human biology and my masters degree is from UC Berkely. I have specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care (including EMDR and polyvagal) and mindfulness.
My goal in our first session is to better understand why you are seeking support now and to provide you with a sense of being heard. We will review confidentiality and gain a better sense of what you hope to achieve. As we build rapport, we will review your current circumstances, pivotal events and background. When it comes to disclosing difficult material or past trauma, you are in the driver's seat. Together we will work to establish achievable goals and begin to practice positive coping skills.
I am driven by the human connection and the honor of working with individuals during times of difficulty, loss, crisis and despair. I provide a safe space to share and release stress. Seeking help can be one of the bravest steps a person can make and I know personally how important support can be and what resiliency looks like.
My clients are individuals seeking to reduce suffering and develop practical skills to navigate challenges with greater resilience. They are open to exploring thoughts, feelings and patterns in a safe and supportive setting. They aim to find greater meaning in their relationships (with others and with themselves).
Understanding how thoughts (cognitions) and actions (behaviors) impact your functioning is a key component of cognitive behavioral therapy. Negative and unhelpful patterns can have a tremendous impact on your well-being. I have extensive experience and success using CBT along with a compassionate and informed approach. Handouts tailored to your unique situation will deepen your understanding and assist with implementing new and healthier patterns.
Sorrow, loss and unmet hopes and dreams come into our lives and mourning is both natural and necessary. Grief, whether big or small, changes the way we think, feel and often function. I have had the honor of working with clients over many decades to process loss. There is no timetable for grief and support can be greatly helpful.
The human response to stress and feeling overwhelmed is linked to our nervous system. You may go into a high zone of feeling agitated and irritable or into a low zone with a sense of utter collapse. Gaining a better understanding of how the nervous system works and how to boost your sense of mastery can be tremendously helpful. I have extensive practice and training using a nervous-system informed approach.
Being present in the moment with a sense of openness, acceptance and curiosity can diminish distress. Having practiced and studied mindfulness and meditation for decades , I incorporate this knowledge into my work with clients.
Move your body, move your mind. I have a deep understanding on both a personal and professional level of the tremendous benefits of movement and exercise on overall well-being. The key is to start with achievable and attainable goals no matter how small. Positive change is possible.