About Me
I have been a student of psychology from a very early age. I remember curiosity. I remember wanting the name, or label, or the secret formula to explain the things in my life I could not. Thinking, all the while, "if I can just figure it out...everything will be ok". I may not have been aware of it at the time, however, the experiences in my life have helped shape and mold the clinician I am today.
My more formal training occurred at the University of California San Diego, receiving my Bachelor's degree in Psychology. And, most recently, receiving my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Palo Alto University.
At UCSD, I focused on psychopharmacology as I was absolutely fascinated by how the brain filters, activates, and processes neuro-chemical interactions.
At Palo Alto University, I focused on the art and rhythm of the therapeutic experience. The timing and rapport, earning trust, and engaging individuals, couples, and families in enacting real and lasting change.
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Specializing in Eating Disorders, Self-Esteem, Body Image, Depression, and Trauma
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are, quite simply, symptoms of emotional distress. Eating disorders are used as tools to cope with historic and daily stressors, much like those who use other maladaptive coping mechanisms such as drugs, alcohol, work, or sex...
Trauma
Traumatic experiences are a natural part of life. In very simple terms, trauma is any overwhelming situation that causes the body to react.Trauma can occur in an instant, like a car accident. A single event trauma is one that comes out of nowhere and leaves the recipient both stunned and disconnected...
Self-Esteem
The pursuit of perfection and the expectations folks take on from the messages in the environment can have devastating effects to one's self-esteem. It is important to address these effects as early as possible and attempt to understand how the environment effects how people see themselves.
Depression
Depression goes beyond the occasional sadness that people feel from time to time. Depression goes beyond grieving losses in life. Depression is a state where folks feel sadness and grief, but also experience hopelessness and helplessness in the midst of the sadness and/or grief.
Body Image
Body perfection and image is constantly being reinforced in the world. The constant media bombardment of health, weight, dieting and image is unrelenting. The way in which folks speak about themselves and others is based in such shame and it is important to address this as early as possible...
Adolescent Therapy
As we grow and assimilate ourselves in the world, we look to those close to us for an example of how to behave, maintain, and treat others in our lives. As we develop, we have a need for secure attachment figures in our lives. When life events occur that cause distress...