About Me
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I arrive at the intersection of compassion and collaboration as I respectfully guide my clients to explore new levels of awareness, self-empowerment, flow, and understanding. Working towards cognitive flexibility, wholeness, and healing. I offer an authentic presence, that lends to curiosity and dabbles with humor, and am committed to creating a safe, welcoming space where my clients can learn, grow, stretch, and restore.
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Most organically, I guide my clients in a humanistic (client-centered) process, creating awareness of what is authentic at the core, and with consideration to the many dimensions that influence decision-making, goals, and struggles. I am drawn to the interconnectedness of relational issues, that includes the relationship with colleagues, loved ones, the greater world, and finally with ourselves. I recognize and value many psychotherapeutic modalities; including, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, the Gottman Method, and solution focused to name a few. I tailor treatment to meet my client’s unique situation and needs. I employ and encourage the use of alternative modalities, including journaling, nature therapy, mindfulness, radical acceptance, guided imagery, creative expression, breath work, and nutritional psychology.
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My background did not follow the traditional path to becoming a therapist. First, receiving my Bachelor of Science Degree in Advertising where I embarked on a professional rite of passage, working in marketing and relocation counseling that would eventually lead to an intrinsic journey, and eventually pivoting to Clinical Psychology through the University of San Francisco, Marriage and Family Therapy program. I have been practicing therapeutically since 2011. However, I believe the healer within was present long before I knew of its existence.
Originally, my native roots are home to the Azorean Islands and though I am first generation in the U.S. I understand the many layers that come with relocating and immigrating. I feel strongly about unplugging and living an active, mindful, and purposeful life. I cherish free time to advocate, explore, disconnect, reflect and be creative. I appreciate the desire for healing and growth and would be honored to accompany anyone on their journey whom is in need, concerned or simply curious.
Education, Training & Experience
Discernment Training (In Progress)
Focus: Couples Ambivalence
Trauma Informed Expressive Arts Therapy Training (In Progress)
Focus: Trauma Intervention
Masters of Arts Clinical Psychology
Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy
University of San Francisco
Clinical Supervisor
California Association of Marriage Family Therapy
Mediation
Crisis Intervention
Motivational Interviewing
Trauma Focused CBT
Additional Training
Classes Taught and Groups Facilitated
Stress Management
Grief and Loss
My Philosophy
I'm inspired by the exchange of human connection that touches courage and vulnerability. This illumination can be transformative in and of itself.
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I will meet, join, and honor you and your experience for what it is, in the present moment. I will sit with you to foster the power of acceptance. I will nurture your strengths and encourage your abilities to further expand and take shape. Supporting you to create meaning and understanding in times of adversity. There will always be space to tend to the wounds that have created setbacks in your life and what does not serve your soul. Using empathy and unconditional positive regard as a foundation, I may occasionally challenge you to bring forward awareness with a more direct approach.
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I welcome the motivation or perhaps ambivalence that comes along with seeking treatment. I believe in the power of opportunity and if our paths should cross, the invitation to paint within the lines, or perhaps outsides the lines to heal, to create change, to inspire growth would be an honor. Let's illuminate the canvas of your life.