Starting therapy for the first time can be uncomfortable or even scary. And yet, it can be a great way to explore our views of ourselves, others, and the world and learn more about how our upbringing and life experiences may continue to impact our relationships for better or worse. Maybe the way that you cope with life stressors or engage in relationships used to work for you and no longer does. Maybe you have difficulty sitting with or sharing uncomfortable emotions. Or maybe life just feels overwhelming and it’s difficult to decide where to start. Together, we can work to find new ways to navigate emotions and the world.

I believe that individuals are often responding normally to abnormal situations. For example, if someone is experiencing sexism, racism, or other forms of prejudice or hardship, it makes sense that they would feel anxious, angry, or depressed. If a five-year-old is used to getting all of the attention from their caregiver and suddenly has to share the limelight with a younger sibling, it makes sense that they would feel frustrated. Let’s work together to find ways to honor your initial reactions while also responding in a way that is more likely to strengthen your relationships and meet your needs long-term.

As a therapist I care about empowering you to find your voice, advocate for yourself, and engage in value-congruent action. I strive to work collaboratively, be mindful of power and privilege, and always seek to understand the world as you see and experience it so we can better find your personal path forward.

I am trained throughout the developmental spectrum and enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults. My clinical training has taken place in a variety of settings, including university counseling centers, a community mental health center, and an adult outpatient unit. These experiences have shaped my clinical interests in working with clients who are on journeys of identity exploration, particularly regarding sexual and gender identity. I also care deeply about holding space for people who have experienced minority trauma, especially related to ability status. I am currently accepting new clients and offer free 15-minute phone consultations. If you feel we may be a good fit, or are curious to learn more, I encourage you to reach out to schedule a consultation.

Identity Exploration is a Lifelong Process

There can be so much pressure to know who you are at a young age, but most people don’t! Therapy can be a place to explore who you are, who you want to be, and how you want to get there. The saliency of—and labels we use to describe—different aspects of identity like gender identity, sexual identity, religion, and ethnicity often shift throughout our lives—and that’s okay.

I am particularly passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals who have been negatively impacted by religious experiences, and doing so in a way that is agenda-free. I’ll support you in finding the path of integration, change, or growth that is right for you and honors all parts of your identity, whether that be by moving away from religion or by moving towards religion in a new, more authentic and identity-affirming way. 

Areas of specialized experience

• Eating and Body Image Concerns

• Children

• Young Adults

• Online Psychotherapy

Credentials as a Psychologist

Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Coastal Therapy Group

Pre-Doctoral Internship, University of Northern Colorado Counseling Center (APA Accredited) 

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD), Alliant International University (APA-Accredited)

Masters of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MA), Alliant International University (APA-Accredited)

Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology (BA), California State University, Northridge