I believe that therapy is not “one size fits all” when it comes to the type of approach that is being used. Although my background and approach is deeply rooted in behavioral approaches, I recognize that therapy needs to be tailored and personalized to help you reach your goals and full potential. I view therapy as a collaboration that involves trust, honesty, and patience, so I find it important that I am as authentic as possible in order to to help you feel safe and comfortable from the beginning.

While helping you discover your true self by working through difficulties, such as, anxiety, depression or life transitions I will be using approaches that best fit your needs. I tend to lean more toward approaches that are concrete and evidence based, such as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy because it offers many techniques and interventions that can be used outside of the therapy session. But I also see the value in utilizing techniques from other approaches in order to maximize progress and growth. One such approach is Affirmative Therapy, which is used to provide an affirming space for individuals in the LGBTQIA community by addressing social struggles, as well as specific needs and concerns.

My Professional Background

Prior to obtaining my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Fresno I worked with families and their children who were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While providing behavior therapy for these children I recognized that they were more than their behaviors. I wanted to be able to work with people from more of an holistic approach, which is why I decided to become an LMFT.

For the last eight years I have worked for an agency that provides services for youth under 21 years of age with mental health diagnoses that impact their functioning. In this capacity I have been able to work with individuals, couples, and families to address how mental health impacts the families functioning as unit. Since obtaining my Masters I also worked as an elementary school therapist for children in underserved communities. I enjoyed working with the kiddos because I was able to “plant seeds” so that they knew they were important and valued.

For the past eight years I have also volunteered my time to a local non-profit organization that provides support for individuals in the LGBTQIA community. While volunteering I have had the pleasure of facilitating support groups for members of the community and providing additional support through education, outreach, and advocacy.

Education, Training, and Certifications

• BA in Psychology from California State University, Fresno
• MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Fresno
• Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Certificate in Business Management – Resource Management and Human Relations
• Certificate in Business Management – Human Relations and Communications
• Cultural Humility
• Mindful Movement
• Development Stages of Play
• Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths Certification
• Understanding the Impact of Trauma and Maltreatment on Attachment, Brain Development, and Behavior

Fun Facts

In my spare time I love to hang out in my hammock outside, go salsa dancing, take my dog on walks, paint rocks, travel the world, cook, and try new vegan/vegetarian foods. I also love to volunteer for local organizations and save sea life one straw or plastic bag at a time!