About Me

Clinical Background

I’m proud to hold a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco, but my true education has come from the meaningful connections I’ve built with individuals and families over the years.

My clinical journey began in a community mental health setting, where I worked closely with families and teenagers facing substance use challenges and behavioral concerns—whether diagnosed or not. This experience deepened my understanding of the complexities of mental health and inspired my commitment to compassionate care.

From there, I transitioned to Kaiser Permanente’s Addiction Medicine Department and later to UCSF’s Alliance Health Project, where I specialized in harm reduction, relationship and family dynamics, anxiety, and co-occurring diagnoses. I've had the privilege of working with adults in both individual and group therapy settings, helping them navigate life’s challenges with understanding and support.

What I bring to our work together is a blend of clinical expertise and life experience, creating a holistic approach tailored to your unique needs. My therapeutic style is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Above all, I’m committed to meeting you where you are, offering a safe, supportive space to explore, heal, and grow.

My Style

The foundation of successful therapy is built on trust. While many therapeutic techniques are helpful, the strength of our connection often plays an even greater role in creating positive outcomes. This is why my approach to communication is central to our work together. I want you to feel comfortable, understood, and truly seen.

A bit about me—I come from a community of healers. I’m actually the seventh therapist in my extended family, so care-taking and compassionate communication have been woven into the fabric of my life from a young age. These values have remained significant throughout my journey, both as a clinician and as a mother. It’s part of why I’m drawn to this work—I genuinely care about helping people feel supported and empowered.

I also believe that therapy doesn’t always have to be heavy. Humor plays an important role in how I connect with people. Whether it’s a dry joke or bonding over a terrible movie, I find that laughter can be a form of healing all on its own. Sometimes, a shared moment of humor can help us step back, gain perspective, and move forward with fresh energy.

One common misconception about therapy is that it's about giving advice. That’s not my approach. Instead, I see you as the expert in your own life. My role is to walk beside you on this journey, helping to guide and support you. Our work together will be collaborative, not directive. I’ll invite you into thoughtful conversations, ask curious and meaningful questions, and provide honest, direct feedback. This way, you can uncover insights and discover the answers that feel most aligned with who you are and where you want to go.

Ultimately, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe to explore, reflect, and grow—at your own pace, in your own way. You deserve that, and I’m here to support you in every step of the process.