About Me
I am an East Coast transplant currently living in sunny Long Beach, CA. I love being cozy at home with my cat equally as much as I love traveling the world. I find joy in reading allll of the books (and I will probably recommend many of them to you), spending time with people I love, being outside, doing yoga, and talking to anyone and everyone about all things related to self-development. I love what I do and feel immensely grateful to have the opportunity to help my clients transform their lives.
How I Work
I work from the belief that the answers are already within you, waiting to be unlocked. While we all start our lives from different vantage points and places of privilege, I believe that everyone has the capacity to change. My role as your therapist is to help you remove mental blocks that hinder you from fully becoming who you are meant to be. We will work together to explore and move past your blocks in an open, supportive, and non-judgmental way. The ultimate goal being a greater sense of purpose, meaning, and well being in your life.
My style is direct, yet also warm and compassionate. My approach to our work will vary depending on your specific needs. As a holistic practitioner, I seek to understand how the various areas of your life (mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, financial, etc.) impact your well-being. As part of my practice, I may also incorporate mindfulness, meditation, breath work, and various educational resources to assist you in your growth. Everything that we do together will be with your permission, based on your comfort level, and in line with treatment goals.
Education + Training
I received my Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from University of Connecticut. I completed my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California with a focus on mental health.
In addition to my years in private practice, I have worked in a variety of settings including residential and outpatient treatment, the juvenile justice and dependency systems, employee assistance programs, and schools. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, children, teens, and families on a variety of issues including substance abuse and addictions, eating disorders, codependency, personality disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life-transitions.
I have additional formal training in EMDR Level 1 + 2, Somatic Parts Work (IFS), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Resiliency Model 1 (Somatic Therapy), Trauma Informed Yoga, Family Systems Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, OCD, ADHD, and Dream Analysis.
Currently, I am focusing on working with young professionals, LGBTQ+ adolescents and young adults, and those exploring non-traditional relationships. In addition to seeing clients in my private practice, I supervise associate-level therapists both within my practice and through external organizations. I also facilitate outpatient groups for teens.
BBS Registered Licensed Clinical Social Worker #82020
