What does a typical session with you look like?
I firmly believe in the power of Authenticity, and I try to promote authentic development and presentation not only in my clients, but in myself as a therapist as well.
So often we are told we need to have an answer to the overwhelming question of “Who am I?” Authenticity is not found by searching for who you are, it is found in searching for who you are not, and taking those parts away. Whether it is your attachments, fears, anxiety, depression, job, trauma, or any other factors that keep you from being you, I am happy to help you navigate the unique journey it takes to become a freer version of yourself.
You can expect me to be authentically straightforward, collaborative, and exploratory in our sessions together, while always looking for an answer to the question “Who am I not?”
What was your path to becoming a therapist? What inspired you to choose this profession?
My first career was as a preschool teacher. After finishing my Bachelor’s in Child Development at UC Davis, I quickly fell into preschool work as a way to use my newfound knowledge. However, after I few years I felt like I wasn’t helping in a way that was most rewarding and effective for me.
After working through and overcoming my own mental health struggles, I decided to pursue my Master’s at Chapman University and my Doctorate at California School of Professional Psychology in order to learn and hone the skills needed to help others in their own struggles. It was through this process that I discovered the freedom that comes from honing in on your authentic self; freedom that I hope to pass on to my clients.
Short Term (Solution-focused, etc.)
Ideal for those who are coming in with a specific problem they’d like to address and gain clarity on. Typically, short term therapies are present focused and do not dive deep into your past.
Structured
Structured therapies are goal and progress oriented. Therapists may incorporate psychoeducation and a specific “curriculum.” In order to stay on track, therapists may provide worksheets and homework.
Insight-oriented (Psychodynamic, Existential, etc.)
Exploring the past and making connections to present issues can help clients gain insight. Getting to the root of the issue and finding deeper self-awareness can help with long-term change.
Non-directive (Humanistic, Person-centered, etc.)
Going with the flow and seeing where it leads.
Behavioral (CBT, DBT, etc.)
Focuses on changing potentially unhealthy or self-destructive behaviors by addressing problematic thought patterns and specific providing coping skills.
Trauma Focused (EMDR, TF-CBT, etc.)
Recognizing the connection between trauma experiences and your emotional and behavioral responses, trauma focused therapy seeks to help you heal from traumas.