My Focus Areas
My Therapy Style
I use a combination of strength-based, solution-focused strategies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy depending on the needs or "fit" for the client. I use these as they are measurable and reliable for a variety of challenges, ages, and personalities. I tailor each treatment plan for the client depending upon their resources.
Education & Training
MS - Marriage, Child, and Family Counseling, California State University Dominguez Hills
Get to Know Me
Why did you become a mental health professional?
I experienced many challenges in my early life and was exposed to observing various methods that others use for coping. These experiences created an internal curiosity about human behavior and I wanted to be able to help others be successful in life.
What are your interests outside of work?
My kids, extended family, my dogs, swimming, advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, meditating, and exploring different cultures and events.
What is one thing you do daily that supports your well-being?
Spending time with my 3 dogs (I train them, walk them, and play with them).
Favorite organization/non-profit?
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) I believe their work is incredibly supportive of not only the lobbying they do but also the educational and other group resources they provide for the public. I have often used their resources for both clients and personally as I grew up around adults with various mental illnesses.
How do you recharge?
When by myself, I meditate, listen to guided positive self-affirmations, and positive podcasts, and I walk my dogs in nature. I swim in my pool. I utilize my large family and group of friends to unwind and listen to music, laugh, dance, and have a good time. They all provide me with outlets that do not involve what I do at work.
Do you have any pets?
We, me and my 3 teens, have 4 dogs. 3 big dogs and one small one. We rescued 2 of them and the one named Oreo (the smallest) was at the adoption center in a cage with about 5 other small dogs who were all barking and running up to the door. Oreo stood behind and started standing on her hind legs showing off. When we asked to see her, they brought her in and she pranced over to each one of us. One at a time, she pawed to shake our hands and we knew she had already had a plan for us. We have had her for over 8 years now and she is still wowing us with tricks we didn't know she knew.
