My Approach

What therapy means to me

 

Therapy is an exploration of our thoughts, feelings, and actions within a safe and nonjudgmental relationship, with the goal of having a deeper connection to and acceptance of ourselves. 

Our beliefs, nervous system patterns, and the way we relate to ourselves and others begin to form at a young age, within the context of family and culture. Our lives are continuously shaped by experiences, negative and positive, which affect how we respond to stress, conflict, and our desires.

Therapy allows us to feel the full spectrum of our emotions. Therapy is a place to process difficult past and present experiences, make sense of the confusing or painful parts of ourselves, and workshop new ways of navigating life.

It is a commitment; therapy takes time and dedication. While the pace varies for everyone, the consistency of our meetings is important to the healing process. 

Therapy is sometimes only one piece of a health puzzle; I often encourage my clients to explore additional avenues of support that supplement our work together.

Finally, I see therapy as collaborative; you are the expert of your own life, and my role is to stay curious and compassionate as I witness, listen, and explore alongside you. We will work together to create a treatment plan that aligns with your short-term and long-term goals, using your strengths and resources as a foundation. 

I reject the idea that a therapist must be a blank slate.

Instead, I show up as myself in the way I listen, ask questions, and respond to you.

I bring warmth, empathy, and humor to our work together. 

As a therapist I...

  • Value safety and curiosity

    I create a trusting environment and foster a balance between giving you space and being direct. I practice cultural humility and hold a holistic view of mental health.

  • Draw on multiple theories

    I am a relational and client-centered therapist who utilizes varying theories and modalities including somatics, attachment, and family systems.

  • Am trauma-informed

    Trauma affects all of us to some degree. It’s with this awareness that I attune to my clients and promote healing through body-centered approaches.

  • Use neuroscience perspectives

    I have a special interest in the central and enteric (gut-brain) nervous systems.

  • Practice mindfulness

    I enjoy using mindful breathwork and guided meditation in sessions.

  • Believe in the capacity for change

    Given the proper support, we can all make meaningful changes in our lives.

Special Areas of Focus

Teens and transitional age youth | LGBTQIA+ | Adults | Couples

Anxiety and panic attacks | Depression | Nonsuicidal self-harm | Immigrant and first generation experiences

Physical, emotional, and sexual trauma | Grief and loss | Life transitions | Work/school stress and burnout

Relationship issues | Boundaries and communication | Financial stress

Substance use recovery | Eating disorder recovery | Chronic pain | Specific fears/phobias

Staying Informed

  • I stay connected with and consult like-minded therapists who have substantial experience with myriad clientele.

  • I am affiliated with California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

  • I keep up with current trends, trainings, and research in the world of mental health.

NOTICE ON SUICIDAL THOUGHTS 

Many people struggle with thoughts and feelings of wanting to die. I’ve worked with a variety of suicidal clients and our work includes: assessing for risk and protective factors, deciding whether voluntary or involuntary hospitalization is needed, safety planning, exploring the difficult thoughts and feelings, and directly working to heal underlying wounds. Telehealth is not always an appropriate service for people struggling with suicidal thoughts. It is important for some clients to have a more robust and accessible support system. 

This is something we can talk about during the free 30 minute consultation and decide what level of care is appropriate. 

CONFIDENTIALITY AND MANDATED REPORTING

Everything that we talk about is confidential, however holding a Marriage and Family Therapist license in California means that I am a mandated reporter. I am legally obligated to report known or suspected child and elder abuse, and if I believe you are in grave danger to yourself or others I have a legal duty to protect you and/or any identifiable victim.

I am happy to answer any questions you may have about this.