I am trained in integrative systemic therapy, which means that I think about you in the context of your relationships, families, kinships, gender identity, friendships, society, culture, living environment, history etc. I am mindful and solution-focused in my approach, with an emphasis on the here, now, and today. I do believe that where we come from is an exceptionally important learning tool, and I pull upon a narrative approach to shed light on the stories we tell ourselves about our lives - past, present, and future. I seek to help you gain insight and identify patterns and grow from them. While meeting you where you are at, I always seek to find the strengths in struggles, the contentment in the uncomfortable, and the serenity in the chaos.
What is your education background and what do the letters after your name mean?
I received my BA (Bachelor of Arts) in Psychology from The University of San Francisco in 2009.
I attended the The Graduate School at Northwestern University and obtained my Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and Family Therapy at The Family Institute and the Center for Applied Psychological and Family Studies from 2010-2012.
I became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in 2016.
I went on to obtain my Certificate of Alcohol and Drug Counseling (CADC) in 2018.
I am a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional (CMIP) 2026, and trained in basicEmotional Freedom Techniques
How frequently do we meet for sessions?
It is typical to meet weekly for sessions as we get to establish a relationship; however, it is not mandatory that we do so. I also often meet bi-weekly with clients, and even monthly for maintenance when and where appropriate.
What would you say to someone who has never been in counseling before, or who has had a poor experience?
Give it a try. I promise that I have no agenda for how our sessions have to go, for how you have to be, for who you have to be... I want to meet who you are and help you in whatever way I can. It can feel a bit awkward to talk to a stranger, and I do everything I can to make our time together feel safe and comfortable for you. If you went to counseling before and had a poor experience, please give yourself another chance. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is not always a one and done process. If you need help, please seek it.