Counseling Methods:
We all come from different walks of life and have different experiences. I want to listen to and understand your story. I believe the most lasting change comes when teens help set their treatment goals and are invested in the process of achieving those goals. Another important aspect of counseling is working together with your family to positively support your teen. We’re in this together to better understand your teen’s challenges, what tools can best support your teenager, and how your family can help your teen meet their goals.
My Philosophy:
I believe therapy should be a safe, non-judgmental space for your teen where your son or daughter can communicate needs (big and small), and we work together to address those needs. It is a place to feel trusted, heard, and validated. There will be times when therapy is uncomfortable and change is hard, but I will be there to support you and guide you every step of the way.
I believe faith can be helpful in meeting your goals. I am a Christian and can integrate faith into the counseling process at whatever level you and your teen feel comfortable. I also know not all will share my same beliefs; I will never impose my beliefs or values onto you.
Why Teens Love Working With Me:
Teenagers are unique and I make sure our sessions are tailored to each adolescent who comes through my door. I bring honesty, integrity, and openness to every appointment. My approach allows teens to trust me and be equally open to growth and change.
Why I Love Working With Teens:
Teens are at such a pivotal point in life. I feel honored to work with and help guide teens on their path. This time can be challenging, amazing, stressful, and great all rolled into one. Seeing life through your teen’s eyes is rewarding as they take the steps to make lasting change.
Experience:
I have always had a heart for working with children and teens, and have done so for the last several years in a variety of settings. These include church, agencies, and homes. For the last four years I have worked with children and teens in a school setting. My job is to help children address their behavioral challenges and social-emotional development. My goals in therapy are to increase self-worth, identify triggers and replacement behaviors, increase positive coping skills for anxiety, understand and process traumatic experiences, and cope with and manage depression.
I have a certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), which is a specialized type of therapy to help teenagers with emotion regulation. If your teenager has been cutting, raging, or showing other signs of struggle to control extreme emotions, DBT might be very helpful. Call me to talk about your specific situation and we can determine if DBT is a good next step.
Education:
California State University, Fullerton: Master’s Degree in Counseling
University of California, Merced: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
License Information:
I am licensed in the state of California as a Marriage and Family Therapist: MFT # 107121