About Me

I received my Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University of Southern California. I gained therapeutic experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families while working at Mariposa Women & Family Center, Illumination Foundation and Pathways Community Services.  

My theoretical orientation includes Child Center Play Therapy, Family Systems and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I incorporate flexibility as I may integrate other modalities that best match the needs of my clients. My approach is warm, thoughtful and non-judgmental while focusing on improving clients' emotional distress, communication, relationship building and conflict resolution. My goal is to provide a safe place where clients can explore concerns, work through challenges, feel empowered and on a journey towards well-being.  

I have received additional training in Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I continue to focus on advancing my clinical skills through various seminars and trainings. 

Prior to completing my M.S., I served two years in Cabo Verde, West Africa as a Peace Corps Volunteer where I worked with children, adolescents and families in educational & community development.  I enjoy working with diverse groups and incorporate cultural and linguistic interventions.  

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT100262 & Registered Play Therapist, RPT3515

Special Training & Ongoing Learning

• Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Certificate of Proficiency (TF-CBT)
• 4 Day Externship in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT English) - Rebecca Jorgensen - Las Vegas, NV
• Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals: Creating Security Within & Between - Yolanda von Hockauf
• 4 Day Externship in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (T.F.E. Spanish) - Samuel Jinich, PhD - Berkeley, CA
• Developmental Screening using the Ages & Stages Questionnaire-3 (ASQ-3) - Help Me Grow Orange County
• Developmental Screening using the Ages & Stages Social Emotional Questionnaire (ASQ:SE) - Help Me Grow Orange County
• Parent's Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) - Help Me Grow Orange County 
• 40 Hrs. Domestic Violence Training Certificate - Human Options Orange County 
• Bereavement (Grief & Loss) - Certification
• Play Therapy Certificate - University of California San Diego Extension
• Registered Play Therapist (RPT) - Association for Play Therapy

Professional Affiliations 

• Association for Play Therapy (APT)
• California Association for Play Therapy (CalAPT)
• California Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (CAMFT)
• Orange County California Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (OCCAMFT)

You may verify my license here.