ADHD therapists and psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA

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My Training

I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a graduate of the PGSP–Stanford Psy.D. Consortium, a program known for its rigorous academic training and emphasis on evidence-based care. There, I received instruction and mentorship from some of the leading clinicians and researchers in the country. My practice draws on specialized training and extensive experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, and comprehensive psychological assessment.

My Approach to Therapy

My clinical approach is focused, compassionate, and results-oriented. I work actively with clients to identify what’s holding them back, and to build the tools and insight needed to move forward with clarity and confidence. For individuals, I use CBT to help shift unhelpful thought and behavior patterns. For couples, I use EFT to deepen emotional connection, improve communication, and restore trust. Whether I’m working with a client facing anxiety, burnout, or relationship conflict, my aim is always the same: to help you reconnect with your strength, values, and capacity for meaningful change.

My Professional Background

Before becoming a psychologist, I served as a U.S. Marine Corps officer, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Leading diverse teams in high-stress environments taught me how to connect across differences—with people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and personalities. That experience continues to shape my work today. I bring a grounded, nonjudgmental presence to therapy, and I take seriously the responsibility of earning each client’s trust. My passion—both then and now—is helping individuals become the strongest, most authentic version of themselves.

I'm an open minded individual and welcome any topics in treatment

Being a therapist and helping people overcome feelings of isolation and conflict is one of my life's greatest joys. I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples work through depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship issues. I also provide critical assistance through domestic violence and rape counselling. It is important to me to help patients along on their journey through professional, evidence based counselling.

There are some things in life that are too hard to face alone. If you or a loved one have experienced trauma, relationship struggles, stresses related to parenting or taking care of an aging parent, grief at the loss of a beloved member of your life, anxiety, depression, survivor or witness to abuse, or seeking tools for living with wellness. Please come and be welcome in a healing space.

I aim to empower you to be the expert about your child, while serving as a collaborative advocate throughout the treatment process to ensure quality of care and services. I provide a playful, creative, and supportive environment for youngsters of all ages. My goal is to ensure they feel heard, understood, and safe because the best foundation to progress in therapy is to maintain a comfortable and trusting relationship that helps them look forward to each session! With over 10 years of experience in child and adolescent therapy (ages 0-17), I help youth navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and neurodevelopmental challenges.

I work with adults facing ADHD, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sleep issues, and substance use, offering clear, practical help—no guesswork. You might feel overwhelmed, stuck, have trouble sleeping, or struggle to focus. We follow a structured approach to understand your situation and develop a treatment plan that progresses. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and focused follow-up using evidence-based and trauma-informed strategies. The process is simple, with clear steps and adjustments based on your progress. If you're ready to proceed, reach out.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based care. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we develop personalized treatment plans focused on your goals, well-being, and long-term mental health.