Counseling Methods:
While I have a great deal of experience working with adolescents, parents, and high achievers of all ages, I have learned that every individual is different, and I take time to really understand your experience. I am truly interested in getting to know the context of your struggle. I am not a therapist who simply dispenses generic advice. That’s called lazy therapy. What is helpful for one client, doesn’t work for another, so I like to tailor sessions to your specific needs. I’m the type of therapist that takes the time to really listen to you. Then together we collaborate so you can feel stronger and more equipped to live the life you want.
My Specialties:
My specialties include: 1. Helping older adolescents (ages 18-24) transition to adulthood 2. Guiding parents through their kids’ adolescent years and 3. Helping high achievers (ages 18+) who are struggling with stress, anxiety and/or depression.
My Philosophy:
I believe therapy should be a safe, comfortable place where you feel accepted as you are so that you can be honest about what is troubling you. It should be a place where you feel heard, understood, and comfortable to work out unwanted feelings and behaviors. Faith can be a powerful resource of hope and healing. Personally, I am a Christian and I understand the connection between personal faith and emotional health. I like to integrate your spiritual beliefs into the session when appropriate. Having said that, I do not impose my beliefs and I do not force the faith element onto anyone who is not interested in doing so.
Why Clients Love Working With Me:
I’m welcoming and approachable. I believe therapy is most effective when you and I have a great working relationship. There are times when we laugh and celebrate in session and there are times when we cry. I work hard to give you a powerful, yet enjoyable experience in therapy.
Experience:
I have been working directly with adolescents (ages 13-24) and their parents in a variety of settings since 2005. In that time, I have carefully helped clients walk through SO many different life challenges. While there are issues that are common amongst individuals in our culture, everyone is different and needs to be treated as the unique individual they are. I would be honored to come alongside you as you journey toward healing and change!
Education:
Vanguard University: Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology.
Chapman University: Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology with an emphasis in Social Work.
In 2018 I completed my basic EMDR training (a technique that can be helpful in overcoming trauma). I use this with clients when appropriate.
License Information:
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California: LMFT # 85398.