Psychotherapy for Individuals and Couples in Los Angeles

Approach

If you're experiencing stress and problems related to work, relationships, low self-esteem, or unwanted behavior, I provide a particular kind of therapy that is designed to help you overcome your roadblocks so that you can have greater peace of mind, more fulfillment, and better relationships. As a therapist, I want my clients to not only feel better but get better. I aim to help you find the root of the problems so that together we can make the changes you desire.

Ever been told (or told yourself) that you should just "get over it?" Feeling stuck because you can't? It is essential for me - as for any psychotherapist - to help you work on your issues without the fear of judgment or criticism and with a secure sense that you feel accepted. I strive to create a safe, productive place for you to grow, learn, and change.

Thank you for considering me as your therapist. By checking into several mental health practitioners for therapy services, you've already taken a step toward getting better. To determine if I'm the right person for you, you're welcome to a free consultation in person or over the phone.

Brief Background Information

I have 16 years of experience providing psychotherapy for individuals and couples, and I have come to believe that therapy is more than simply changing behaviors (eliminating symptoms). 

At it's best, psychotherapy is a process of self-discovery and a way to develop insight into why you do what you do. Although a psychotherapist is knowledgeable about change and growth, you're the one who knows yourself best. That's why we would work together to develop goals for therapy, how often to attend, and when to terminate.

I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, author, and lecturer in Los Angeles. After graduating with a Master’s Degree in counseling with a minor in Psychology in 1992, I've been practicing psychotherapy in community health centers and in private practice. I received a Ph.D. in degree in Counseling Education in 1996 and have taught several graduate level courses in psychology, counseling, and psychotherapy.  I also offer seminars and workshops to mental health professionals and to the public related to psychotherapy and mental health. For more information on my education and background, please click here.

Why see a Marriage and Family Therapist for one-on-one (individual) psychotherapy?

My education has included extensive training to provide psychotherapy for individuals. The university I attended was certified by The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, which sets high standards for counseling programs. After graduating, I gained over 3,000 hours of supervised experience in counseling and psychotherapy before starting in private practice. Since then, I have attended hundreds of hours of training in many subjects related to individual psychotherapy and counseling, psychology, wellness, and addiction.

Professional memberships include:

The University I attended is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs.

What types of situations can be helped by psychotherapy?

I treat clients who have a wide variety of challenges, including:

  • Relationship difficulties
  • Depression
  • Anxiety and anxiety-related conditions
  • Trauma, including PTSD and abuse
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Substance abuse and addiction
  • Life transitions, career challenges and stress