Grief counselors and therapists in Simi Valley, CA

Being a teenager can feel overwhelming. You might be juggling school, work, relationships, family expectations, and trying to understand who you are—all at the same time. Some days, it can feel like too much. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, or feeling lost or disconnected, we can work through it together at your pace. I also help with things like setting boundaries, building self-confidence, navigating identity, and improving your relationship with food and your body.

That inner pressure to be perfect or “have it all together” can be exhausting. Maybe your inner critic is loud, or you feel like you’re constantly falling short. Therapy is a space where you can take a break from that pressure, feel heard without judgment, and start to make sense of what’s going on inside.

Hello and welcome to the profile! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in the beautiful state of California. I graduated in 2016 with a Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy. My training background includes work with children and teens. Three years ago I started working with adult clients, which I have enjoyed as I have gotten to support young adults and adults; this has given me the opportunity to expand my practice. In my work with clients, I provide dedicated support for those navigating the symptom management of anxiety and depression. I also specialize in guiding individuals through significant life transitions—whether planned or unexpected—helping them process the uncertainty that comes with change. Additionally, I am committed to supporting those working through trauma, providing a safe, compassionate space to process past experiences and build resilience for the future.

Trauma can live quietly in the body—held in the breath, the muscles, and the nervous system. You may experience intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks; avoid people or places that feel unsafe; carry fear, guilt, or shame; or feel constantly on edge, tense, or hypervigilant. Your responses are protective patterns shaped by past experiences not signs of weakness.

I am a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist who values creating a genuine, trusting connection with each client. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and able to be your authentic self.

I earned my Master of Arts from National University and completed doctoral-level training at Pacifica Graduate Institute. My clinical training and professional experience have provided me with a strong foundation in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

I have experience working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation settings, where I supported individuals navigating substance use, trauma, and related mental health challenges. I also have experience working with men’s mental health concerns, including emotional regulation, identity, and relationship issues.

I use an integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients understand both present challenges and underlying patterns. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, and life transitions, helping them build insight alongside practical tools for lasting change.

Outside of my work as a therapist, I value staying active and maintaining a strong mind-body connection. I spend much of my time weightlifting, boxing, practicing jiu-jitsu, and participating in CrossFit and Olympic lifting, and I also enjoy running. These practices help me stay grounded and bring a perspective of discipline, resilience, and balance into my work with clients.

I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working with individuals and couples for over 25 years. I believe strongly in the benefits of processing the challenges of life with a supportive and open-minded "witness" in order to get perspective and make hard decisions. I worked with families at Children's Hospital and PsyCare Inc. in San Diego, before opening my private practice in 2003.

I have a masters degree in psychology with a background in development throughout the lifetime. I have worked with school age, teens, and families through a school based setting. This has given me the value of supporting growth in regards to gender, sexuality, and trauma.

My passion is to help others find more joy and meaning in their lives. I work creatively and collaboratively with adults, teens, and children to explore the heart of the matter. I have experience working in the schools, with a team at a counseling clinic, and in private practice. I specialize with teenagers and their families and moving into couples work as well.