About

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Nevada with 11 years of experience helping people overcome the effects of trauma, anxiety and chronic stress, and how to assimilate the challenges brought on by grief and life transitions. I hold a Master of Arts in Psychology (2011) from Brandman University, and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Music from California State University, Sacramento (2004). The majority of my clinical experience has been working with trauma survivors, including survivors of violent crime, domestic violence and child abuse. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, government agencies, and community non-profit clinics. I have also worked in the social service fields as an Employment Services Social Worker, a Child Protective Services Social Worker, and a Foster Family Agency Social Worker. All of these experiences have shaped my approach to working with individuals of diverse life circumstances, and those experiences have given me a profound respect for the challenges that humans face on a daily basis while also providing inspiration as to the resilience of the human spirit. When working with my clients, I use imagery, metaphor, and humor to help them understand and internalize concepts that help them regain control over their lives. Clients often say they appreciate my ability to be "real" with them while also being sensitive, empathetic, and professional. I feel it is important to create a safe space for my clients to openly and honestly share their experiences, no matter the topic, and I encourage any and all questions you might have. I also understand that my clients are relying on me for equally open and honest feedback, and I provide that in a gentle yet meaningful and actionable way. I also believe it is essential that my clients have a clear understanding of how our process works, and to that end and as much as humanly possible,