Approach
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused, Strengths-based
Therapy Style
I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Each of these therapy modalities offers tools that can be learned and used in order to navigate through life's challenges in a way that moves each of us closer to being mentally stable, content, in control, and pursuing the things that are most important to us. DBT focuses on skills that increase emotion regulation, distress tolerance, awareness of thoughts and emotions (mindfulness), and interpersonal effectiveness. CBT helps to identify and modify unhelpful thinking patterns. ACT is used to identify values, become less fused (or ruled by) our emotions, and find contentment in life as it is.
I believe that small changes in the way we think and interact can have huge impacts on our life, our relationships, and in finding meaning and fulfillment. Mental health is not rocket science, it's tools. I use the tools myself and I am skilled at helping clients decide what changes are most important to them and how to make those changes. I am a real person and I like to help other real people grow and find lives of meaning.
Education
MS - Counseling**, **California State University, Fullerton
License Number and State
Pronouns
she/her
Why did you become a mental health professional?
Because I have spent my life pursuing meaning and having a healthy thought life is key. I love helping other people find meaning in their own lives.
What are your interests outside of work?
Hiking, paddleboarding, hot yoga, cooking, and learning.
What book have you read more than once?
1000 Gifts. I spent years working with severely abused children and I had lost my faith in God and humanity. This book was one of the things that brought me back to a place that is richer and more grateful than I have ever been.
Favorite organization/non-profit?
The Rose Again Foundation serves foster youth in my local community. The founder was unpaid for years and the one employee is the most amazing, emancipated youth. This agency is all heart and fills in the gaps for my communities' children living in foster care.
How do you recharge?
Usually spend time alone for a short time and then do something outdoors with people I love.
Do you have any pets?
My dog Rusty and two free-range bunnies. I come downstairs each morning followed by all three. Sometimes if I don't get fresh veggies or oats out quick enough, I am "thumped" at by a floppy-eared bunny impersonating a dog.
