MY STORY

Like most psychotherapists, I was profoundly changed through my own work with a wonderful therapist who helped me with much needed healing and growth. I was in my 20’s when I committed to a life of helping others find their way instead of pursuing a career in the theater. This was easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. To earn a living doing something I find great joy and deep meaning in is a gift. I’m deeply curious about and have an innate desire to connect with and care for others. I believe authentic connection with others is fundamental to our wellbeing.

I earned a Masters degree in Social Work from San Jose State University in 2000. Prior to starting my private practice in 2008, I worked in a variety of settings including outpatient and inpatient substance use disorder/dual diagnosis treatment facilities, schools, community mental health programs, and hospitals.

At the start of my career, I trained with Dr. David Mee-Lee of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. I’ve been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (“DBT”) by Dr. Alan Fruzzeti and Dr. Marsha Linehan. I completed my foundational training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (“EMDR”) with Dr. Andrew Leeds at the Sonoma Psychotherapy Institute. I later studied Attachment Based EMDR with Dr. Laurel Parnell. I recently completed the Internal Family Systems (“IFS”) Level One training with the IFS Institute. In addition to IFS, DBT and EMDR, I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (“CBT”), Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction. My commitment to ongoing training and development allows me to continue to grow and to bring my best to my practice.

I love spending time with my family and raising my daughter, being physically active and creative, hanging with my two adorable cats, and continuing to learn and grow in my own therapeutic work. I carry a sense of humility knowing there always is much more to learn.