Sometimes when we are feeling down, we mask our pain behind a smile.

We do this because it is easier to pretend everything is okay, not realizing it’s okay not to be okay. That’s why I strive to create a safe and welcoming space where my clients can explore their issues with the help of established boundaries, hope, and skilled guidance.

My ultimate goal is to provide individualized, compassionate care in a client-centered therapeutic environment while equipping my clients with the knowledge and resources they need to live their best life.

As an empty-nester, I offer a unique perspective on navigating life without children living at home and how to make the most of this time. Through implementing new routines, prioritizing self-care, and focusing on the relationship between partners, I can help improve several key areas of your relationship.

My personal experience with recovery from addiction allows me to provide valuable insights and a well-rounded approach to therapy for individuals and couples. I understand the difficulty in asking for help, and I can relate to those struggling with addiction, offering support and guidance to help them regain control of their lives. I am dedicated to providing high-quality psychotherapy services in a caring and supportive environment. I will always strive to honor where clients are on their growth journey, including those who have had negative therapy experiences.

If we are not able to work together, I will do my best to provide appropriate referrals.

I hold a Master of Social Work from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work, a Ph.D. from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Throughout my career, I have been an associate professor at National University, a psychologist for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and I am currently in private practice.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based[1] psychotherapy that DBT can be useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and changes in behavioral patterns such as self-harm and substance use.[2]

DBT is a type of talk therapy treatment designed to help you manage overwhelming emotional difficulties in a way that's healing and life-affirming. It looks at your behavior, feelings, thoughts, physical health, and relationship with others.

In DBT, we’ll utilize skills training so you can use some simple techniques that you can use at home.

DBT SKILLS

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a simple but powerful tool that can be used to change habits, enhance awareness and performance, improve relationships, and achieve greater well-being.
Interpersonal Effectiveness

No matter what the issue is and in spite of how intense the argument is, you can learn to communicate in a way that brings about desired results. Improve relationships, one conversation at a time.
Distress Tolerance

Distress tolerance skills aid people in distress and reduce the avoidable costs associated with distress. They help you effectively manage stress and become more adaptable, compassionate and resilient.
Emotion Regulation

Emotion regulation skills help you learn how to deal with distress and manage intense emotions more effectively, so you can lead a happier, healthier life and make better future choices.