My passion centers on the ways in which early relationships, life experiences and cultural contexts shape our worldviews and impact our choices, coping and performance. I also focus on the interplay between the mind and the physical body, and the ways we can use this connection to increase well-being and overall functioning. Over the past 15 years I have worked in various academic medical institutions and hospitals (UCLA, CHLA), using research-based interventions to guide individuals (children, youth and adults), couples and families in working towards agency and personal growth, positive change, insight, and adaptation to life events.
​​I view therapy as a collaborative and creative process. We work together to construct a road map and specialized treatment goals that build upon each client’s natural tendencies for growth and fulfillment. Therapy becomes a safe place to explore, experience and develop new lenses with which to interact with the world. We also focus on developing skills necessary to face and overcome obstacles and challenges. With children, I take a developmental, strengths-based and child-centered approach. I connect with the child on their level and empower the child to express themselves and their needs. I work with the family to identify the context in which concerning behaviors occur, to foster interactions that bolster the child’s coping, and to strengthen the care-taking unit.
I specialize in providing evidence-based therapeutic modalities to individuals, couples, dyads and families who seek support around mood-related issues (anxiety, depression), trauma, relational challenges, emotional regulation and adaptation to life events and life transitions. I complement my therapeutic and consultative skills with expertise in neurocognitive, psychosocial, educational, and therapeutic assessments. In the field of health psychology, I specialize in the areas of rehabilitation psychology, feeding and eating disorders, pain management, coping with acute