My primary experience is working with adults and families in dealing with life's many challenges. I specialize in helping my clients work through a variety of mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, and behavioral problems. Many people simply don’t know what to expect from therapy and/or are intimidated by seeking help from a stranger. This is why I feel building trust is crucial. My goal is to provide an environment that is comfortable and not intimidating. Because of this, most of my clients look forward to attending their sessions.
I hold the belief that therapy should be crafted around the individual. One size definitely does not fit all. My therapy style borrows from the Client Centered approach, which places great emphasis on the client/therapist relationship. This allows the client the ability to guide therapy in directions that would be most beneficial going forward. I utilize aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to aid in building coping skills and improve relationships. I also utilize Narrative Therapy, a set of creative cognitive techniques for externalizing the problem, to better separate the “issues” from the person.
I graduated from the California School of Professional Psychology with a Doctor of Psychology degree. I have worked at Kaiser Permanente Medical Group providing Mental Health services to Adults and Adolescents with Eating Disorders and general mental health issues. I have also owned a Private Practice in California as a general practitioner to Adults and teens. Additionally, I have worked as a clinical director of a level 12 therapeutic adolescent group home and have worked at Children’s Mental Health, which is a County program for special education adolescents.
"Seeking out professional help is not easy. My goal is to offer a warm setting, a kind smile and loads of encouragement to help you feel comfortable while we work together to overcome the obstacles or dilemmas that brought you to therapy.”
EDUCATION California School of Professional Psychology: Alameda Doctorate of Clinical Psychology - July 1998 Masters degree in Clinical Psychology - June 1996 California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo B.S. Major: Psychology and Human Development – June 1994 Emphasis: Applied Developmental Psychology LICENSES Licensed Psychologist - State of NJ - Lic. # 35SI00524800 Licensed Psychologist - State of CA – Lic. # Psy 17159 PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS New Jersey Psychological Association (NJPA) National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology