Counseling
I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish for adults and teens. I have experience working with folks troubled by feelings of anxiety, depression, isolation, relationship issues, various types of trauma, PTSD, recurring thoughts, feelings of suicide, and those processing grief. I have specialized training in working with survivors of suicide loss, and extensive experience working with survivors (of all genders) who have experienced sexual abuse and domestic violence.
I love supporting my clients to cultivate self-compassion and develop resilience through life's challenges. My practice is open to clients of all cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship types (including polyamorous and ethically non-monogamous). I am neurodiversity affirming.
I have a deep commitment to my continued education and engagement around issues related to race, power, and privilege and am dedicated to providing support for the LGBTQIA community, people of color, immigrants, and others who have been impacted by systemic oppression. I am an active member of the local LGBTQIA community, and enjoy supporting clients who are questioning their sexual orientation or identity. I'm passionate about body liberation and receive ongoing training through Ample and Rooted, an inclusive, anti-oppression, anti-capitalist, anti-diet, fat liberation and social justice oriented training for working with those with disordered eating.
My Approach
A graduate of the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (now Sofia University), I have an existential-humanistic approach, focusing on the present moment and the importance of the relationship between me and my clients. My style is compassionate and direct and my clients have told me that they appreciate my openness, curiosity, engaging style, and sense of humor. Additionally, I work somatically, meaning we will focus on what is happening in your body in order to aid in the healing process. I utilize inner child and parts work (also known as internal family systems).
Along with these approaches, I have specialized training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), which is an evidence-based practice shown to be effective in decreasing psychological distress caused by disturbing life experiences and trauma. EMDR is often used to help folks with such challenges as:
•phobias
•car accidents
•assault and/or abuse (recent or during childhood)
•grief and loss
•distress around breakups
•painful conflicts at work or home and distress about what you might see as not being able to "let it go"
•nerve-wracking school or work presentations or performances
Other techniques I utilize in therapy are parts work/internal family systems, inner child work, somatic therapy, mindfulness, and meditation. I frequently conduct outdoor therapy sessions with my clients, taking advantage of the beautiful parks and beaches in Santa Cruz county.
