LMFT, 11 years of experience
Hi there! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I’ve spent over 10 years helping children, teens, adults, and families work through life’s challenges and find new ways to thrive. Over the years, I’ve learned that there’s no single “right” way to heal—what works for one person might not work for another. That’s why I take time to get to know you and what feels most helpful for where you are in your journey. My approach is warm, collaborative, and flexible. I draw from several evidence-based approaches—like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, behavior modification, and mindfulness—to create a plan that fits your unique needs. In our work together, we’ll explore all the parts of your life that impact your well-being—your relationships, physical health, environment, and even your faith or spirituality if that’s important to you. My goal is to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered with practical tools to manage stress, strengthen relationships, and build a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Your first session is a comfortable space for us to get to know each other and talk about what’s been weighing on you. Whether you’re navigating depression, anxiety, stress, or major life changes, this is a time to share your story at your own pace. Together, we’ll begin exploring what’s been holding you back and how therapy can support you in moving forward.
I have had the opportunity to work with many different populations, age groups, socioeconomic status, and cultures. One of the greatest strengths of a private practice therapist is the ability to provide highly personalized and flexible care. Unlike larger clinical settings, private practice allows me to tailor their approach to each client’s unique needs, preferences, and goals. This autonomy supports the development of strong therapeutic relationships built on trust, consistency, and collaboration. I am able to integrate a variety of evidence-based techniques and pacing to best fit the client, fostering deeper insight and sustainable growth. Additionally, the independence of private practice enables me to create a welcoming, comfortable environment that enhances the overall therapeutic experience and supports long-term client well-being.
Someone who is motivated and ready to make meaningful changes in their life. They approach therapy with openness and a willingness to take on challenges, recognizing that growth often requires effort and vulnerability. These clients are eager to learn new tools and strategies to enhance their well-being and relationships. Many of them seek support in healing from broken relationships, navigating employment transitions, improving communication, and building self-esteem. They value self-improvement and are committed to using therapy as a space for personal insight, healing, and empowerment.
I specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach that helps clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns, emotional responses, and behaviors. Through CBT, I guide clients in developing practical skills to challenge negative thinking, manage stress, and improve emotional regulation. Clients learn how to reframe distorted thoughts, build healthier coping strategies, and strengthen problem-solving abilities. The therapist’s expertise lies in creating a supportive and structured environment where clients can practice these skills both in and outside of sessions, leading to greater self-awareness, improved relationships, and lasting positive change.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a structured, evidence-based approach designed to help clients manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and build healthier coping strategies. Through DBT, i work on teaching skills in four key areas: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Clients learn to stay present in the moment, navigate emotional challenges without becoming overwhelmed, and communicate more effectively in relationships. I provide a supportive and validating environment while also encouraging accountability and growth, helping clients find balance between acceptance and change. This approach empowers individuals to gain greater emotional stability, resilience, and a stronger sense of self-control in their daily lives.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), a goal-oriented and strengths-based approach I help clients identify practical solutions and build on their existing resources. Rather than focusing heavily on past problems, I guide clients to envision their preferred future and recognize the steps needed to achieve it. Through thoughtful questioning and collaborative dialogue, clients are empowered to discover their own abilities, set realistic goals, and make meaningful progress in a short amount of time. The therapist’s expertise lies in fostering hope, highlighting successes, and helping clients develop strategies that promote confidence, resilience, and lasting positive change.
2 ratings with written reviews
August 14, 2025
Monica’s patience and warmth make me feel truly cared for and understood. She creates a safe space where I can open up without fear of judgment, and her thoughtful advice has eased my anxiety and helped me grow. For the first time, I feel comfortable being vulnerable, and her support has kept me consistent in therapy.
May 23, 2025
Monica is genuinely helping us work through our challenges. She has a good sense of when to push us and when to let us lead.