About

Over the past 14 years, I have honed my specialties in addiction, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. Additionally, I am one of the few therapists in California who is trained in CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training), which is an empirically supported individual treatment for the loved ones of people struggling with addiction. I conceptualize cases through a psychodynamic and humanistic lens. My approach is individualized and centered around where an individual is at on their journey.

For addiction treatment, I use an alternative to the 12-step model that involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and harm-reduction techniques. I believe in empowering people to create personal changes and I use current empirical research to inform treatment.  I do not subscribe to the idea that I know what is best and instead use a collaborative approach. Humor also plays an important role in healing and I incorporate it as often as appropriate.

For the past 8 years I have also worked at a local crisis center.   The crisis center is a 24-hour facility that is a step down from a hospital.  As a result of my time there, I am well-versed in crisis management and have considerable experience treating the chronically mentally ill.

I hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology.  For the past five years, I have been a SMART Recovery facilitator and I run a weekly Family and Friends meeting in San Diego. In my free time, I enjoy being active out in nature, learning about different cultures, and spending time with my furry family members.

Professional Organizations

San Diego Psychological Association:
Chair of the Early Career Professionals Committee

Member of the Government Affairs Committee

Member of the Addictive Disorders Committee
California Psychological Association:
Member