Our approach to therapy is a holistic one that is empathetic and direct. We look at the whole person as well as the two individuals that choose to be in partnership with one another. We are supportive and active in the therapeutic relationship. Your decisions and commitment toward change will be honored by creating and holding a space whe
Our approach to therapy is a holistic one that is empathetic and direct. We look at the whole person as well as the two individuals that choose to be in partnership with one another. We are supportive and active in the therapeutic relationship. Your decisions and commitment toward change will be honored by creating and holding a space where meaningful growth can be made.
We will work with each person to learn about their personal reasons, expectations, fears, and anxieties related to the therapeutic process.
We are driven to help support, and at times guide, people through the process of self-discovery, self-improvement, and processing life events. We do what we do because it is such a great honor to bear witness to those who benefit from the therapeutic process with greater health, a reduction in anxiety, less depression, greater self-esteem, and improved relationships.
“Rather than particular techniques, the far greater predictors of positive outcomes are therapeutic relationships, or counselor qualities in therapeutic relationships that capitalize on clients’ internal strengths.”
Cochran and Cochran, 2015
We work by creating an environment that is calm, comfortable, inviting, and non- judgemental. We of
“Rather than particular techniques, the far greater predictors of positive outcomes are therapeutic relationships, or counselor qualities in therapeutic relationships that capitalize on clients’ internal strengths.”
Cochran and Cochran, 2015
We work by creating an environment that is calm, comfortable, inviting, and non- judgemental. We offer counseling in a private practice telehealth setting for couples and individuals.
Many of the clients we work with are dealing with issues of depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma and PTSD, pregnancy loss, loss and grief, anxiety and fears, parenting, divorce, co-parenting, Addiction and Substance abuse, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Bipolar Disorder · Codependency · Coping Skills · Dual Diagnosis · Emotional Disturbance · Family Conflict · Grief · · Life Transitions · Mood Disorders · Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum · Psychosis · Spirituality · Stress · Suicidal Ideation · Women's Issues · Job Stress · LGBTQIA+ · Marital/Pre-marital · Relapse Prevention · Schizophrenia
We also conduct pre-marital counseling to help couples prepare and build a solid foundation for a successful marriage.
We are in network with Medicare as a Part B provider.
In order for us to provide you with the best quality, client focused care we do not accept insurance. While some current mental health platforms help with treatment accessibility, the providers and clients are still required to “fit” within the insurance payor framework that require d
We are in network with Medicare as a Part B provider.
In order for us to provide you with the best quality, client focused care we do not accept insurance. While some current mental health platforms help with treatment accessibility, the providers and clients are still required to “fit” within the insurance payor framework that require diagnoses and treatment session limits. I am considered an "out of network" provider when utilizing PPO insurance plans. Payment is due at the time of service. I will provide a Superbill for reimbursement or as a courtesy.
Signing up for marriage therapy can be daunting. You might worry about feeling judged, fear that therapy could make things worse, or simply feel anxious about sharing personal issues with a stranger. These are all valid concerns. However, I'm here to assure you that taking this step is a courageous move towards healing and strengthening your relationship.
What is the Gottman Method of Marriage Therapy?The Gottman Method is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. This method, grounded in decades of research, focuses on improving relationship satisfaction and stability through structured interventions and practical skills. Under What to Expect, I outline what you can expect during the therapeutic process and answer some questions that many couples have about the process.
Treatment Methods
Each person is different and thus one single approach will not work for everyone. In addition to Gottman Method Couple Therapy, I and draw from various well respected counseling theories to guide to your stated goals. I have strengths in guiding people utilizing Solutions Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic, and Motivational Interviewing, Holistic, Mindfulness- Based, Solution Focused, and Supportive techniques.
Here's what you can expect throughout the process:
During our sessions there is a detailed and thorough assessment and treatment planning process that occurs over three sessions. This is often an overlooked and undervalued process when working with couples. However, it is crucial to have a well informed knowledge base of where each person and the couple is beginning from in order to know how to plan for the path going forward.
Initial Joint Session
We begin with a joint session where I will gather a detailed history of your relationship, including the happy times and current challenges. This session helps me understand the dynamics of your relationship and the specific issues you face.
Online Assessment: The Gottman Relationship Checkup (GRC)
After the initial session, you'll complete the Gottman Relationship Checkup (GRC), an online assessment designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of your relationship. The GRC covers various aspects of your relationship, such as friendship, intimacy, conflict management, and shared values.|
Individual Sessions
The assessment phase also includes an individual session with each spouse. These sessions allow each partner to share their personal perspectives and any individual concerns they may have. This helps in painting a complete picture of the relationship dynamics.
Feedback Session
Once the GRC is completed, we will meet for a feedback session. During this session, I will discuss the results of the assessment, highlighting both the strengths and the areas that need improvement. We will then collaboratively develop a tailored treatment plan to address your unique needs and goals.
What to Expect During Treatment Sessions
The treatment sessions in the Gottman Method are designed to be structured and goal-oriented. The interventions in therapy around focus areas that are crucial to building a strong bond:
1. Building Love Maps: Enhancing your knowledge of each other's worlds to foster a deeper connection.
2. Sharing Fondness and Admiration: Expressing appreciation and respect to strengthen your bond.
3. Turning Towards Each Other: Improving everyday interactions and responding positively to bids for connection.
4. Managing Conflict: Learning what to avoid to stop damaging your relationship. We also practice interventions to navigate disagreements constructively.
5. Creating Shared Meaning: Building a life together with shared values, goals, and rituals that support your partnership.
6. Making Life Dreams Come True: Supporting each other's aspirations and personal goals.
7. Maintaining a Positive Perspective: Approaching problems with a positive attitude and repairing relationship failures effectively.
Throughout these sessions, you'll practice specific exercises and techniques designed to enhance your relationship's quality and stability. The therapy is conducted with both partners together to promote mutual understanding and collaboration. The goal is to support you in talking to each other in a safe way which promotes connection and understanding.
It is a privilege to have been working with couples, families, and individuals ( children, teenagers, transitional aged youth and adults) for more than 25 years.
Master of Science in Counseling Options: Marriage and Family Therapy (2003)
Associate in Science (AS) - Los Angeles Mission College (2001)
Bachelor of Arts with a major in Sociology with a specification of Counseling and Interviewing (1999)
I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California MFC 45584.
I am also a Chemical Dependency Specialist (CDS).
I am a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy.
I have completed Clinical Training Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Treating Affairs and Trauma and Couple and Addiction Recovery in the Clinical Foundations in Gottman Method Couple Therapy series certified through The Gottman Institute.
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