Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Santa Maria, CA covered by Cigna

I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can finally exhale. I strive to create an environment that is supportive, honest, and free of judgment; a place where you feel truly seen and emotionally safe. My approach is collaborative and practical. I don’t just help you understand why you feel the way you do; I help you build real tools to navigate it.

I earned my degree from Cal State Fullerton and have extensive experience working in addiction treatment, eating disorder recovery, and women’s issues. Supporting women is especially meaningful to me. I am deeply passionate about helping women navigate challenges related to self-worth, body image, relationships, boundaries, life transitions, and identity. I understand how trauma, societal expectations, and relational dynamics can shape how women see themselves, and I approach this work with both compassion and clarity.

Together, we focus on strengthening mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and communication skills in ways that feel realistic and sustainable. I blend insight-oriented exploration with concrete strategies, because meaningful change happens when insight meets action. My goal is to help you better understand your patterns, feel more confident managing your emotions, and move forward with greater clarity, self-trust, and resilience.

I have 40 years experience in the mental health field in multiple roles, I believe listening and believing in the person is the most important way to practice therapy.

I have been in private practice since 2006 in TX and 2025 in CA.

My journey into mental health began with a deep interest in the intersection of human behavior and emotional resilience.

I enjoy working with adolescents and adults going through life transitions and experiencing trauma. My current practice includes individual treatment helping adults with anxiety and depression, self-esteem/confidence, grief, trauma and life transitions! Finding a therapist with whom you connect with is important.

Over the past 14 years, I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community clinics and public school settings. These experiences have shaped my belief that therapy is not a "one-size-fits-all" process, but rather a collaborative partnership built on trust and evidence-based strategies!

I hold a Master of Social Work from California State Long Beach as well as a Bachelor of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University..

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 13 years of clinical experience, and I specialize in providing therapeutic support for both men and women. My mission is to provide a safe, stigma-free space where individuals feel empowered to seek mental health support and gain the tools they need to thrive. I bring a "meet you where you are" philosophy and a no-judgment zone to every session. My honesty and authenticity give me a unique way of connecting with clients — and I don't take myself too seriously. That said, we will still go deep when it matters. Taking the first step to start therapy takes courage, and I'm proud of you for getting here.

Welcome!

As a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), I believe in prioritizing out mental health as a way to live a happy and balance life. Reaching out for help can be one of the hardest things a person can do, great job on taking that step! I’ve been practicing for 10 years, but in the field for 20 plus years. In the last 6 years I have shifted my main focus to adults 18 plus who are struggling with trauma and substance use.

I graduated from Fresno Pacific University-Biblical Seminary in 2014 and obtained my license as a LMFT in 2018. My experience has been working with children, adolescents, families (4 years) and adults (11.5 Years). I have 11.5 years' experience with co-occurring disorders to include severe mental illness and trauma. I have utilized but not limited to the following evidence practices and modalities -ACT, Strength-Base, Family psychoeducation, DBT, CBT, and person centered. I am currently expanding my education/training in Internal Family Systems.

I believe that in order for therapy to be effective, the client has to participate in the process. I am not a magician. I don't have a magic wand. Changing old behaviors and patterns can be difficult and painful but i am willing to be there to support you on your journey to better health.