Professional Background
I have been in the Behavioral Health field for over 20 years working with individuals and families on both mental health and substance use issues. I have worked in private practice, in schools (in California and England), and in a county behavioral health agency for nearly 15 years, spending my last 12 years as an administrative and clinical supervisor. Having worked with people throughout their lifespan, from childhood through adulthood, I also have experience with couples. I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology (with an anthropology minor) in 1999, my master of science in
counseling psychology (cum laude) in 2004, and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in 2005. I received a second master’s degree in Jungian studies from The University of Essex in England in 2024. I have also been a licensed massage therapist since 1996 which has provided me with a holistic and somatic approach to human health, integrating the mind-body-spirit connection. My passion revolves around helping individuals become who they would like to be through finding their own unique purpose and meaning in life. I facilitate this therapeutic process of individuation through healing, guidance, encouragement, and support.
Unique Approach, Theoretical Orientation, and Experience
I have experience working with the following issues and concerns: co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use), life transitions, career dissatisfaction and job stress, life purpose, relationship issues including marital and pre-marital concerns, self-esteem, various life and environmental stressors, anxiety, depression, Women’s issues, LGBTQIA, parenting, mid-life transition, and aging.
As I see the effects of life’s stressors on mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health, my work revolves around helping clients integrate holistic practices for stress management. I take a client-centered, culturally sensitive, and strength-based approach. I work primarily from a psychodynamic, depth psychological or Jungian perspective while also integrating the following practices and techniques:
Ecotherapy, Animal Assisted Therapy​, Solution Focused​, Somatic​, Dreamwork,​ Trauma-Informed Care, ​EMDR​​, Mindfulness-based​​, Narrative​, CBT
