IT’S NOT ALWAYS EASY TO START THERAPY
It takes tremendous courage to begin therapy; I’ve been honored to support many individuals as they navigate anxiety, loss, grief, trauma, overwhelm, or transitions that challenge their sense of self. My approach is collaborative, warm, and grounded in presence, while providing nervous system regulation.
EXPERIENCE
Since 2001, I’ve worked with individuals, couples, groups, students of all ages, and families across Orange County. I’ve also had the privilege of serving older adults and members of the geriatric community.
DEPTH-ORIENTED TRAINING AND PHILOSOPHY
I hold a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology—Emphasis in Depth Psychology, from Pacifica Graduate Institute. There I trained in a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy that promotes wholeness and self-acceptance. My work emphasizes mindfulness, authenticity, and autonomy, with a focus on helping clients cultivate healthier relationships and more liberated lives.
INTEGRATING SOMATIC AND TRAUMA-INFORMED PRACTICES
I am a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) and work with a range of physical, emotional, and attachment traumas. Respecting the body-mind-spirit connection, I integrate somatic and depth-oriented approaches to support healing and reduce suffering—creating space for a reawakening of your innate joy and optimism.
A DEEPENING APPROACH TO ANXIETY
My early foundation in treating anxiety and panic was initially informed by the CHAANGE Program—a structured, CBT-based protocol emphasizing building self-mastery and reducing symptoms without medication. While I no longer use that formal system, it influenced my belief that anxiety is both understandable and treatable. Over time, my practice has evolved into a more integrative, trauma-informed approach that addresses root causes through somatic awareness, emotional processing, and nervous system regulation.
ADDITIONAL SOMATIC TRAINING
I completed Kathy Kain’s year-long Touch Skills Training for Psychotherapists, a companion modality to Somatic Experiencing that emphasizes using safe, healing touch to support resolution of stored trauma. Certification is pending.
Photo by Victoria Schlicht