Hello, and welcome to my psychotherapy practice! I’m glad you stopped by to learn more about me, what I do, and how I can help you.
Following are answers to the most common questions people ask about me and my practice.
Why did you become a psychologist?
I discovered my passion for psychology when I returned to university after a 10-year career as a pharmacy technician. The fascinating undergraduate courses in psychology and my participation in an externship at a residential treatment center, where I shadowed therapists helping people recover from substance misuse, convinced me that this field was my calling. Soon after, I enrolled in a professional graduate program at Phillips Graduate Institute in Los Angeles where I excelled academically and earned a doctorate in psychology with honors in 2008.
What is your training and experience?
I have worked in a variety of settings that helped me develop my clinical skills. Initially, I worked as a clinician and then manager at a county-funded clinic in Downtown Los Angeles that served people who were experiencing homelessness and co-occurring disorders (mental illness and substance use disorders). And, in 2010, I launched my private practice in West Los Angeles serving individuals, couples, and families.
With a commitment to serving diverse populations, I affiliated with different organizations in that enabled me to work with clients in a variety of contexts. For example, I treated patients and their families in nursing homes and assisted living communities, residential and outpatient substance use rehabilitation centers, and community mental health centers. One of my most meaningful roles during these years was to supervise, mentor, and train the next generation of clinicians.
In 2021, I relocated to Henderson, Nevada, where I opened a private practice serving adolescents, adults, couples, and families both in person and via Telehealth.
In addition to my varied clinical experiences, I have completed specialized training in evidence-based modalities, such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 3).
What issues can you help me with?
Nowadays, my private practice is devoted to helping people overcome the internal demons that keep them depressed, anxious, traumatized, stuck in self-loathing, feeling ashamed or guilty, and engaged in self-destructive behaviors or unhealthy relationships. Additionally, I work with couples who wish to restore and strengthen their sense of friendship and intimacy, or, sometimes, to part ways amicably and respectfully. (Learn more about my work with couples here.)
What is your theoretical orientation?
I generally adhere to a cognitive-behavioral framework, which involves helping people identify and change unhelpful thoughts, as well as learn healthy coping skills. However, sometimes people find themselves repeating unhealthy patterns (behaviors and relationships), which requires deeper exploration for lasting change. With this in mind, I utilize a trauma-informed approach that rebuilds a sense of trust and safety, and empowers clients with the tools to feel better and reduce the symptoms that may be keeping them stuck. (Learn more about my approach to trauma therapy here.) In addition, I utilize an existential theoretical model to help clients identify and articulate their life goals, values, and mission in order to live a life that is both purposeful and congruent with their defined value system.
Can you coordinate with my doctor or psychiatrist?
Yes! I collaborate with a variety of providers — including internists, psychiatrists, and neurologists — to ensure that the care you receive is a seamless experience. Furthermore, my background in pharmacology enables me to understand the role that medications play in your overall treatment plan.
How do you spend your free time?
When I’m not helping clients, I practice self-care by reading, taking a brisk walk or hiking, visiting national parks, and spending quality time with family and friends.
I’m ready to take the next step! How do I start?
Call (702) 673-6222 or (310) 383-1505 for a free 10-minute telephone consultation.