About

Although I studied many different theoretical methodologies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family systems, psychodynamic, attachment, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, my approach is more integrative and determined by each client’s individual needs. I especially like using CBT with adolescents and adults because it can help to identify and reframe thoughts that are causing destructive feelings and behaviors. 

In addition to therapy, I love providing comprehensive neuropsychological assessments because they help clients better understand how they think and approach life. This information can also provide ample information for devising coping strategies and deciding on effective interventions. I offer comprehensive assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults. These assessments aid in the diagnosis of ADHD, autism, learning disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

Before transitioning into the field of psychology, I spent much of my time working with elementary, middle, high school, college, and graduate students in various capacities, including helping them to build their executive functioning, organizational, study, and academic skills. My extensive experience helping students diagnosed with learning disorders reach and exceed their educational and developmental benchmarks led me to pursue an advanced degree in clinical psychology. I wanted to better understand learning disorders, accurately diagnose them, and offer parents and students solutions to the psychological issues that sometimes accompany learning differences. Some of these challenges include low self-confidence and motivation, and negative core beliefs. It is important to help children and adults learn how to address these issues before they develop into more significant mood disorders like depression, or anxiety. Learning how to process and regulate one’s thoughts and emotions is a powerful tool for improving mental health, behavior, and overall quality of life.

I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Prior to this, I earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Southern California, and a Bachelor of Arts from Claremont McKenna College. After completing my masters in 2002, I founded an educational consulting company that helped parents find tutors and learning specialists to address their children’s comprehensive academic and social-emotional needs. 

In addition to my education, I have substantial training in administering neuropsychological assessments at Gottlieb Neuro, Pediatric Minds, and South Bay Child and Family Therapy. I also honed my skills in psychotherapy at Dr. Kelly Mothner & Associates, and Oak Health Center.