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I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California (LW60704399). I've worked in the military as a social worker and have worked in diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, from Pediatrics, serving Alaska Natives and Native Americans, to a psychiatric inpatient hospital for children and adolescents, providing counseling for active-duty soldiers. I have experience working with all ages, including children, adolescents, families, and adults who have anxiety, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, a trauma history, and a history of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I've completed my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Hawaii. I have a post-graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based approach working with children with disabilities, but this approach works well with all ages. I also have an associate’s degree in chemical dependency. I've worked with children in individual counseling and with children in a school setting. In my free time, I do a lot with my two adult children, including completing triathlons with my 25-year-old son with autism. I love swimming and being outside. I love talking with people of all ages and backgrounds and connecting with people.
My approach
I utilize brief solution-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), client-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing to accommodate the client’s needs.
My focus
I can work with all clients with all types of needs, such as depression, anxiety, alcohol concerns, LGBTQ+, parenting concerns, and couples counseling.
My communication style
I try to be a good listener. I try to help my clients be relaxed and not anxious about getting therapy. I tend to use a conversational style of communicating.
My journey to mental healthcare
I got drawn to therapy as an adolescent I struggled with depression. I wanted to help people and kids. I have a Master's in Social Work, an AA degree in chemical dependency, and Applied Behavioral Analysis degree, and a Master's in Elementary Education.
My goals for you
I ask clients what their goals are for therapy and their expectations of therapy. I outline the way I start with therapy, given their goals. In working with couples, I like to start working with clients on learning good ways to communicate to improve their relationship with each other, so they can be more successful in resolving their identified issues.
My first session with you
I explain that I'm required to complete an intake to get a thorough background of the client. I also explain that the intake is not indicative of how therapy goes. I encourage clients to ask me any questions they might have regarding therapy and encourage them to make a commitment to therapy of 8-12 sessions. I explain that making progress in therapy takes time.
