If I had to choose three words that encapsulated my therapeutic approach, the words would be authenticity, compassion, and context.

The journey to where I am today professionally began in Compton, California where I spent four years as a middle school Special Education Teacher before finishing out my career in education with eight years as a middle school Special Education Teacher in Beverly Hills, CA. During these 12 years not only did I teach, but I also learned. I learned how to deconstruct chaotic complex situations into digestible and palatable pieces. I learned to individualize and tailor interventions to meet students where they were at, not where I wanted them to be. I learned that no student, teacher, or classroom can optimally function in isolation, but rather thrive when choosing to operate interdependently.

These learnings informed my professional development as a therapist who employs an eclectic mix of treatment modalities such as Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Strengths-Based. I have worked with elementary school students to the elderly who encountered various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and severe mental illness. I will approach gently and lean into the rapport-building process. There will be laughter and learning to accompany the effort needed to facilitate your restoration. As the saying goes, teamwork makes the dream work.

My mother believed that being healthy not only encompassed the physical body but also mental and emotional health. She had me in therapy from an early age. When I started experiencing depression and anxiety, this early experience permitted me to seek therapy without fear of being stigmatized. As I grew older I recognized that my skill set fit with that of a mental health professional.

I make sure to take at least ten minutes or so for "me" time each day. When I can, I take more. What I do during "me" time shifts and changes, but it's always something that leaves me feeling better than I did prior to taking it.

You Can Heal Your Life by Louise L. Hay. I have fond memories of observing my mother reading this book so when it was recommended to me as an adult I was excited to dive right in. I read it again periodically because it inspires and motivates me to live healthier all around.

I recharge by either weight lifting or practicing yoga. Both activities help center me and bring me into the moment rather than thinking about the past or anticipating the future.