Brief Bio
(she/her)
My training and experience working with a wide range of clients have instilled in me a strong belief in the power of the relationship to support change and growth. These experiences have taught me the value of multiple approaches to therapy, and the need to tailor treatment to the individual. Using this integrative, relational approach, I adapt mindfulness-informed evidence based practices to meet clients and their families where they are, focusing on their unique strengths and areas of need. I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents and adults reach their potential and find compassion for themselves and their experiences. I do so through individual, family, and group therapy.
My background working in both community mental health and private practice has provided me with training and specialization in working with a wide range of clients. This includes children exposed to trauma and abuse, and individuals suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), relational or parenting challenges, and behavior difficulties. My training has also included working extensively with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and I currently focus on supporting the mental health needs of individuals on the spectrum, as well as their family members. Regardless of diagnosis I work to support my clients in their journey to both overcome and find growth through adversity, often through acceptance and mindfulness-based strategies.
My belief in mindfulness and meditation can be found both in- and outside of my clinical work. In addition to my own regular practice, I volunteer as a mindfulness facilitator with KindMind, a non-profit program offered through the Mindful Heart Programs of Santa Barbara that brings mindful awareness and compassion practices to our community’s schools.
Education and Training
I received my Ph.D. in Counseling, Clinical and School Psychology from the University of California - Santa Barbara. Here, I received training working with a range of children and adults, as well as specific training at the Koegel Autism Center providing positive behavioral support (Pivotal Response Treatment) to young children with ASD. I completed my predoctoral internship at Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Los Angeles as a member of the Child/Family track and provided comprehensive therapeutic and assessment services to children and families. I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in a private practice (Synergy Psychological, Inc.) in Sierra Madre, CA. I have received training in a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a mindfulness-based approach that I interweave into my practice today.
