Therapist Background
I offer my clients a non-judgmental and safe environment with a personality that is compassionate and understanding. I strive to help clients overcome challenges and to achieve optimal health. My treatment orientation primarily includes Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, Strength-Based, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic/ Existentialist theories. An integrative therapy approach tailored for each client allows me to choose a treatment method based on their learning style and how they can benefit the most. I also utilize experiential play therapy when working with children.
Anyone can experience emotional or circumstantial turmoil and the use of psychotherapy can be one step in helping improve a person's health and well-being. My own journey in trying to positively improve my own life and rise above difficulties has also shaped the way I work with clients. Likewise, listening to my clients share their life stories have added to my own professional learning. It has truly been a privilege to do the work I enjoy and be provided the opportunity to help others in their time of need.
I have worked with multiethnic and diverse populations in a variety of mental health settings, applying client advocacy and clinical social work practice. Prior experience includes working at domestic violence shelters, crisis response teams, teaching, healthcare, psychiatric facilities, mental health programs in public schools, child and family intervention in investigation and treatment units, and other client-based services. I also find volunteer service to be rewarding and have worked with non-profit organizations and in grassroots organizing. With hope for a better future, I've participated in activism work, community building, and various social causes.
I have a well-rounded background in the social sciences and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Cultural Anthropology, a Master's Degree in Social Work, and a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology. My graduate research was on the long-term effects of domestic abuse on child development and the positive impact of safety intervention programs for families. My dissertation clinical focus was on the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, adjunct to pharmacology, in the treatment of early-onset psychotic disorders.
I'm Registered (LIC940024636) with the CA Board of Psychology, Licensed in Clinical Social Work (LIC24616) and Licensed in Professional Clinical Counseling (LIC391), both regulated by the CA Board of Behavioral Sciences to practice psychotherapy. I'm an ACSW Board Certified Diplomate with over 15 years of experience and hold a Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) from the CA Commission on Teacher Credentialing. I frequently attend conferences, trainings, and continuing education courses to enhance my knowledge and participate in professional consultation groups to improve my skills.
I'm professionally affiliated with the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and a member of the LA County Psychological Association. I am a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer with the American Red Cross, provider of pro bono services with non-profits, and as an alumna from the University of Southern California, volunteers with the USC Alumni Mentor/Mentee Graduate Program and various association events.
I am a mother who enjoys music, movies, reading, travel, and various fun activities with friends and family.
PsyD, LCSW, LPCC
LCS# 24616 & LPC# 391
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