My Approach

I approach my clients with compassion and understanding, my philosophy being “no shame, no blame, no criticism, and no judgment.”

I listen carefully to understand what is being said, not only on a conscious level but on a subconscious level. In that way, I get a deeper understanding of your actual wants and needs.

In our sessions, I will use a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Psychoanalysis, Visualization, and Meditation to address your issues.

I realize that some people are not always comfortable communicating verbally. I therefore also use techniques such as drawings, song lyrics, and coloring books, among others, to let any such person express him or herself in a meaningful and comfortable manner.

This is especially true for my child and teenage clients, where I incorporate their interests by using techniques such as art, music and other forms of expression, in addition to more traditional therapies.

I will strive to make each session a meaningful, effective, and rewarding experience, one in which you feel that you are on a path for a more peaceful, productive, and joyful life.

About Me

I've been working with adolescents, children, adults, couples, and the LGBTQ+ community for almost seven years, including court ordered clients.

I received my Master’s Degree in Counseling at Palo Alto University where I was awarded membership in the International Academic and Professional Honor Society, Chi Sigma Iota.

I received CBT Certification in Essentials of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression by the Beck Institute.

Having traveled extensively to many countries over the years, I bring a natural ability to deal with cultural issues, as Los Angeles is a melting pot of many cultures.

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Treatments for

Anxiety

Many people suffer from anxiety. So it is important to work on techniques to help control the fears that may be stopping you from living the life you want. To help clients with anxiety, I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, visualization, progressive relaxation and breathing techniques. I also like to incorporate exercise and activities for clients that may find this calming, in an effort to come to a space where they can be in control rather than letting the anxiety be in control.

Depression

Depression can feel completely overwhelming. When someone comes in with depression, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which has proven to be very effective. This therapy helps to set small goals for a client rather than big goals, which may feel just too much to cope with. We explore ways to better manage the challenges in life. We also explore any underlying issues which may contribute to the negative feelings being experienced. We look at ways in which the client can channel their emotions into something outward, learning strategies and behaviors to help overcome the feelings of depression.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Dealing with OCD can be very challenging without the right kind of support. When working with clients with OCD, I do a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Exposure and Response Prevention. This helps clients challenge their intrusive thoughts, be aware of their cognitive distortions, and take control when their mind is playing tricks on them.

Working with

Couples

LGBTQ+ Community

Adolescents

For most people, being in a relationship requires some work, especially when things seem stagnant, when there are constant arguments, or a lack of intimacy. When couples come in for help, I always start by listening carefully to how they communicate with each other. Communication is the basis on which to have a successful relationship. I foster better communication, which enables couples to discuss other issues more freely, more openly, and in a more productive way. I also explore each partner’s childhood and family history, as often behavior patterns learned as children, either from parents or others, are repeated in adulthood, interfering in their present relationship.

I have worked with many clients in the LGBTQ+ community. I work with teenagers who are questioning their sexuality, couples and people who are transitioning or who have partners who are transitioning. I offer a safe space for you to embrace who you are and the challenges that come with it.

Being an adolescent these days can be difficult, sometimes very difficult, and many young people need extra support. I have worked with quite a number of adolescents; some who are experiencing problems at home or problems at school, others experiencing anxiety and depression. In my adolescent counseling sessions, I will encourage you to share your interests with me. I will use your interests to get to know you better and help you create a safe environment in which you feel comfortable to open up.

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