My Approach & Values
I am drawn to help clarify what is being said, from what desires to be said. My Depth psychological orientation helps us to explore your inner landscape of self, especially the parts that are unseen and unspoken about. Together we will, figure out tangible ways to feel more regulated inside so that you can bring your true self forward. We will use mindfulness skills to grow presence, learn ways to be deeply compassionate with yourself, and embody your inner authority.
I value and deeply respect the process that it takes for each person to begin their mental wellness journey. My experience working with clients has taught me that human beings have such great potential for psychological growth, emotional change, and adaptability throughout one’s lifetime. Tending to emotional health is similar to starting any new skill, it is hard in the beginning, sometimes painful. Then like strengthening a muscle, it takes practice and time to unpack what makes you, you. One of the benefits of spending time learning about yourself is in cultivating inner wisdom that you can draw from. Self-knowledge is a powerful tool that can be wielded to better know yourself and how you relate to others.
Member of Professional Organizations
Member of the Santa Barbara Chapter of the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists since 2017 https://sbcamft.org/
Member of the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists since 2015 https://camft.org
Member of ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network of Santa Barbara Chapter) since 2022 https://www.ican-online.org/santabarbara/
My Experience & Clinical Training
My experience and clinical training comes from working with a diverse background of children, adults, couples, families, and groups at Community Counseling & Education Center, Mainstream an Intensive Outpatient program through Crescend Health, the Girls Group ages 7-12 at the Boys & Girls Club, and Janus Counseling Center.
My Education
BA in Theatre Arts with a Minor in English from UCSB, 2005
MA in Counseling Psychology with emphasis in MFT, Professional Clinical Counseling & Depth Psychotherapy from Pacifica Graduate Institute 2017
Continuing Education & Certifications
Parent-Infant Coach Certificate 2016 (20 hours course) taught by Tanis Marble, MA and Marti Glenn, PhD. Focused on attachment theory, neuroscience, and pre- and perinatal period of development to support raising resilient and emotionally intelligent children & families.
Hakomi Essentials Skills 2018 (15 hours course in Los Angeles) taught by Shai Lavie, LMFT with focus on relational, mindfulness, and somatic resourcing skills.
Lifespan Learning Institute 2018 (19.5 hours course in Los Angeles, presenters include Esther Perel, Ed Tronick, Pat Odgen) Relationships and the health promoting connection across the Lifespan.
VBAC Facts 2021 (15 hours taught by Jen Kamel) focused on providing accurate, educational, data about Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, helping mothers & families make the best decision about birth options https://vbacfacts.com/courses/
Institute of Archetypal and Cross-Cultural Studies 2023 (30 hours class time) taught by Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes Reyes focused on Storytelling w/ emphasis on in processes and practices of in depth psychology
Institute of Archetypal and Cross-Cultural Studies 2024 (30 hours class time) taught by Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes Reyes focused on Ancient Archetypes- The Great Mother, w/ emphasis on in processes and practices of in depth psychology
