About Me

Studying psychology and the way people and society work has always been fascinating to me. When I was a child, I used to borrow my mother’s Psychology Today magazines to read and try to figure out what makes people tick. Once I became a mother, 30 years ago, and experienced the wonders of child development firsthand, I became passionate about helping children and families. Throughout my adult life, I have worked in various capacities serving children and families, including working in: preschools, churches, elementary through middle schools, working with children on the autism spectrum, and helping families at our local children’s hospital.

When my son was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, I realized that I wanted to focus my life’s work on helping children and parents navigate difficulties in life. Over a decade ago, I began volunteering at Rady Children’s hospital providing assistance to families undergoing pediatric cancer treatment. I feel that my experiences have prepared me to help others going through challenges with their children, as I understand the pain parents feel when their children and teens are going through hardships. I consider it an honor to be able to work with children and parents of all ages, using evidence-based therapy practices, to help them get through difficult times and help them navigate the healing process.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Tulane University

• Masters of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy, Alliant International University

Training

• Registered Play Therapist #T6181

• Theraplay Level One

• EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program

• SPACE treatment (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions)

Affiliations

• Member, Association of Play Therapy

• Member, EMDRIA - EMDR International Association

• Member, CAMFT - California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

No matter how difficult things might feel right now, I know there is hope, because I’ve lived it. Even when it feels like things can’t get better, a brighter future is always possible!