I have been doing psychotherapy full time for over 3 decades, so I am a seasoned therapist. My first training was Cognitive-Behavioral, and it remains foundational to how I work with clients, but with experience I have incorporated parts of many other approaches, so "eclectic" is a label that also fits. I believe that education is important early in the therapy process, helping clients identify "what problem(s) are my symptoms trying to solve?" Utilizing our ability to think accurately is basic to constructing approaches to our challenges that are most likely to be successful. I am NOT a passive therapist who will sit with you while you "find your answers within." I've spent my career trying to find out what approaches work best in dealing with our challenges, and I like to think I have found some. I will actively share my thoughts as we explore your life issues. I will use humor in the therapeutic process so if you are looking for a "deadly serious at all times" therapist, I may not be a good fit for you. If you are a spiritual/religious person, I am committed to helping you use the articles of your faith as a resource in a respectful way, but I do not approach therapy from a religious framework. I am open and accepting of LGBTQ+.

Ultimately, I am responsible for my "side of the street" in therapy, providing tools, insights, and respectful support with integrity. My clients' "side of the street" include being as open and honest as possible in session, and as brave as possible as you try new (and probably uncomfortable) things in order to improve your life. My best wishes for you to have a successful therapeutic journey.

BA - Psychology, University of California Santa Cruz

MA - Clinical Psychology, California State University Fullerton

he/him

I was always interested in psychology, started as a volunteer hotline worker in high school. My career has always felt rewarding and meaningful to me.

My hobbies include reading, fishing and other outdoors pursuits, family and pets.

Exercise.

The Winter of Our Discontent, by John Steinbeck. It speaks to me about the struggle to maintain integrity in our lives.

United Way, probably just because it was possible to donate to them through payroll deduction at work and they help people cover basic needs.

Reading, listening to music, napping, interacting with my partner.

Currently I have a small dog and the two cats. I have also somehow assumed primary caretaking of two corn snakes, who have proven to be remarkably long-lived. My son rescued one of our current cats and she has proven to be a favorite, she and I are very bonded. Previously she was locked in a small enclosure for 9 months and I enjoy feeling that I am enriching her last years.