I believe therapy should be a place where you can be heard, understood and have a safe space to learn new things and explore yourself without judgment. My goal is to help guide you to places inside your mind that will enable you to break through past traumas or current difficulties you may be facing. I take into consideration the mind, body, and soul connection to find the best approach to assist you.
My approach
As a therapist, my approach is supportive, direct, and kind. I work with you to find the most effective strategies, tailoring my methods to your unique needs. I draw from various modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), art therapy, attachment-based approaches, solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and more. My eclectic style allows me to be flexible in helping you reach your goals.
My focus
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, from adolescents to adults. My areas of specialty include ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, relationship issues, self-esteem, behavioral challenges, child abuse or neglect, and trauma. Whether you're struggling with a specific issue or simply wanting to understand yourself better, I'm here to provide guidance and support.
My communication style
You can expect me to be an attentive, empathetic listener as well as a collaborative partner in your therapeutic journey. I aim to create an atmosphere of trust and openness where you feel safe to share and explore. While I will gently challenge you at times, I always do so from a place of compassion, without judgment. Together we'll work at a pace that feels right for you.
My journey to mental healthcare
My path to becoming a therapist began with earning my MA in Counseling Psychology. I then gained invaluable clinical experience working at community mental health organizations like Victor Community Support Services in Barstow, CA, and Open Door Counseling in Pomona, CA. There I had the privilege of helping children, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds facing a wide range of mental health challenges. Those experiences solidified my passion for this meaningful work.
My goals for you
Ultimately, my goal is to empower you with increased self-awareness, healthy coping strategies, and the confidence to live a more fulfilling life. I want to help you recognize your inherent strengths and resiliency. Through our work together, I aim to equip you with tools to better understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, communicate more effectively, and cultivate more satisfying relationships. Your well-being is my top priority.
My first session with you
In our first session, we'll discuss what's brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from our work together. I'll ask questions to understand your current challenges, relevant history, and strengths. We'll begin to formulate your treatment goals and discuss how I can best support you. This is also an opportunity for you to get a sense of my therapeutic style and ask any questions you may have. My aim is for you to leave feeling heard, hopeful, and confident about our upcoming work together.