Who I am as a Therapist

​I believe that YOU, the client, are the expert of YOUR own life.  Building a solid relationship with your therapist is a very important part of the therapeutic process and I like to learn from you and go at your pace. I see our therapeutic relationship as a collaborative effort where we work together to find solutions.
 
I am a supporter, an advocate, and a cheerleader in helping you to reach your goals.  I utilize evidenced-based therapy approaches to empower you to maximize your potential and utilize the strengths that you already possess.  The therapy approaches that I use; depend on YOU! As we design your treatment plan together, as a team, and everyone has a say.  Also, I am also a fan of utilizing humor, play and art (not just with children). 

My Story

​I am a proud first generation Latina; I am bicultural and bilingual.  Before becoming a therapist, I worked with youth in different settings as classroom helper, private tutor, teacher assistant, and camp counselor.  These experiences helped me realize the different struggles that children and adolescents face, and with this, my passion for psychology started.  Then, I began my journey to become a support in helping changing their lives for the better.  I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development from San Diego State University.  I then attended Alliant International University and obtained my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy.

My clinical experience began with providing psychotherapy to terminal patients and their families.  I also worked with clients who were grieving while adjusting to the death of a loved one.  I then moved on to the non-profit sector for about five years and worked with children, adolescents and their families; focusing on the struggling behaviors at home and school. 
 
I have experience and interest in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, attention deficit/hyperactivity, conduct disorders, oppositional defiance, grief and loss, self-harm, trauma, issues with acculturation, academic underachievement and low motivation, drug use, bullying, LGBTQIA, chronic illness and pain management.
 
My biggest professional passion is working with children and adolescents.  One of the most important lessons that I have learned in working with them is that the majority of the behaviors make sense when you look at the context in which they occur, even the most bizarre!  And, until proven otherwise, I believe parents want to have a good relationship with their kids and help them be successful at whatever they do.  Therefore, parents always have a spot on my couch.  
 
And it’s important to note that, I practice what I preach!
I believe self-care to be an important part of our lives to become full rounded individuals and reach self-actualization.  A personal passion of mine is traveling.  As of 2016, I have been to 13 countries in 4 different continents (for both personal and studying abroad).  My travel experiences have opened my horizons and have taught me to become a better person and a better clinician.