Early in life, I became intrigued by human behavior. I realized that self-awareness is the predicate to living a more conscious life, and to having meaningful relationships. I believe that with self-knowledge, people can stop unnecessary suffering, and make healthy and satisfying life decisions. This is what led me to the field of psychology.

I attended the University of California at Santa Barbara, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with an emphasis in multicultural studies. I view culture as a multidimensional factor in psychotherapy that can include aspects such as ethnicity, race, nationality, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, social class, religion, and disability status, etc. I have a deep sensitivity for how our varying cultures impact our daily lives and influence our relationships.

To further expand on my passion for multicultural studies, I moved to London, England. Known as an international center of culture, London provided me with the unique opportunity to work with people from all over the world. Following my return to California, I enrolled at Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology, where I obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Thereafter, I was licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences of California as a Marriage and Family Therapist.

I have been in a private practice setting for over a decade, and have held various clinical positions in non-profit agencies. I specialize in working with those experiencing chronic health concerns and burnout, and in counseling couples and teens. My overall approach is to reduce stress and increase feelings of wellness. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, and am honored to facilitate the sacred work of therapy.

Since 2003, I have served as a counselor on staff at the Couple Center, where I have gained extensive specialized couple therapy training. I am also trained in Sand Tray Technique, dream work exploration, Neuro-Emotional Technique, breathwork, and meditation. In addition, I am committed to fostering the development of mental health professionals, and mentor and supervise art therapy graduate psychology students and interns at Phillips Graduate Institue. I also currently serve on the Board of Directors for San Fernando Valley Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT). 

My approach to psychotherapy is integrative, with a deep sensitivity and respect for the mind-body connection. My approach is influenced by my extensive training in cognitive behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic, and depth psychology. I believe that a different therapy must be constructed for each individual because everyone has a unique story. As a professional devoted to delivering quality care, I stay abreast of the latest research, and attend ongoing training and supervision. 
 

Licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, License # MFC 45567
        Online License Verification is available at:  http://www.bbs.ca.gov/