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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist having received my degree from Western Theological Seminary where the integration of psychology and spirituality is explored throughout studies. I am licensed both in California and Tennessee where I am currently based. I have worked with the vulnerable population of foster and adopted children for over 15 years helping to build healthy families and address trauma. During the pandemic, I saw an enormous need for mental health practitioners, and so began my private practice in in order to help meet that need through telehealth.
My approach
Concepts of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Supportive and Strength-Based Therapy, are utilized throughout the therapeutic process and include the application of faith-based practices such as the exploration of cognitive distortions, and the use of century-old tools such as meditation and mindfulness for the managing, and healing of symptoms. I believe that discovering truth does set us free from many of our burdens and I love to be a safe space for people to move from confusion to increased clarity as they explore themselves and relationships without judgment.
My focus
My focus is on working with women individually. I specialize in betrayal trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, life transitions, panic attacks, parenting, relationship issues, self-esteem, and coping skills for stress.
My communication style
I communicate with compassion and empathy, seeking to understand each client's unique perspective. My approach is direct, yet gentle, focusing on building trust through active listening and non-judgmental dialogue. I aim to create a safe space where clients feel heard and supported in their journey toward growth.
My journey to mental healthcare
My journey into the mental health field began first with the aspiration to enter the medical field. I graduated from UCSC with a pre-medical degree and took time away to enjoy missions work in Western Africa for a year. During the hiatus my focus shifted to the holistic needs of vulnerable populations, and the greater need for addressing not just physical, but mental and spiritual health as well. My pivot, from biology to psychology, was an easy and fascinating one as I recognized my passion and giftings in the helping profession in a deeper relationship. Learning personally how to constructively leverage and manage the challenges or crises we face throughout life, has inspired me to help others to discover the same.
My goals for you
For the suffering or simply stuck, my goal is to first listen and understand what your personal goals are without imposing my own. Ultimately my hope is for each client to gain understanding of their value in this world and live in such a way that they know they are greatly loved.
My first session with you
In our first session you can expect a time of me getting to know you, not only in your current circumstance that led you to seek therapy, but likewise to begin hearing your past experiences and how they could be contributing to the present. Within this time, we will discuss your goals and collaborate on a framework for how therapy will proceed in order to move you toward them.
