My Approach
My approach is holistic, meaning I won't put you in a box. We will use specific evidenced-based tools, while recognizing that you're a complex and nuanced human shaped by various factors—family, community, societal systems, and your own temperament and sensitivities. While some may seek a quick fix, I believe in something deeper; your inherent ability to heal. My role is to support and guide you in learning to trust in yourself.
I integrate neurobiology, somatic, and relational approaches alongside traditional talk therapy to inform your healing process. Getting in touch with your body is essential to healing your mind-body connection! Our sessions will provide opportunities for you to practice reshaping pathways in your brain, expressing your emotions, and regulating your nervous system in order to create lasting change.
Building a positive and trusting relationship with your therapist or coach is one of the most impactful aspects of this process. In other words, having a good vibe with me is important! If you’re curious to learn more about me, continue reading below. If you are ready to see if we would be a good fit, please reach out so we can get to know each other before diving into sessions.
About Me
My path to this work began by exploring my own mind-body connection. As a highly sensitive soul, understanding my emotional world has been a lifelong journey (and it still is!). This lack of awareness led to various mind-body symptoms in my childhood, culminating in debilitating chronic back pain in my early adulthood, which introduced me to the concept of neuroplastic pain.
The work we do together is life-changing work that I have also done myself. What I love most about my job is connecting with amazing clients and witnessing the mind's incredible capacity to change and adapt. Remember, I may have expertise to share, but I'm not the expert of your life. There's hope for your healing, and together, we’ll explore ways to help you feel more at home with yourself.
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Education
Trainings
Professional Memberships
Work Highlights
Master of Social Work, University of Southern California
Bachelors Studies in Sociology, Biola University
Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Trauma-Informed Mindfulness, The Change Triangle & Seeking Safety.
Psychophysiologic Disorders Association (PPDA)
Over the past 10+ years, I have come alongside people from various life paths, from young children to aging adults – including survivors of trauma and injustices such as human trafficking, homelessness, and abuse. I have worked in residential settings, recreational programs, schools, and nonprofit agencies.
Values
Approaching my work and relationships with a social justice mindset, I strive toward continual self-reflection, humility, unlearning, and re-learning of intersecting privileges, power dynamics, and oppressive societal structures. The mind-body connection is undeniably influenced by marginalized identities and experiences, emphasizing its essential role in our sessions. I embrace a sex-positive, poly-affirming approach. Body-image conversations are approached from a Health at Every Size (HAES) and Intuitive Eating perspective. Providing culturally sensitive care to all people is foundational to my practice.
As a human
In order for me to show up to sessions attentively and whole-heartily, I prioritize and value my free time. Whether I am practicing yoga in the park, trying new food spots, or listening to live music, I recharge by getting outside and taking advantage of the Los Angeles sun. A big part of my own healing journey was learning to have more FUN and lighten up on myself. Making time for community, play, and creativity is crucial for me in maintaining my mind-body connection.