I grew up in a very creative home which had a hand in inspiring my degree in Art History from SDSU. However, after graduating, I realized that a career in the art world was not relational enough for me. After seeing a Spiritual Director and experiencing the acceptance, understanding and empathy that comes from a therapeutic relationship, I realized that what really brings me fulfillment is the ability to offer those things to others. I attended Bethel Seminary, receiving a Masters in Marital and Family Therapy, so that I could gain the skills and knowledge to have a tangible, positive impact on the lives of others. In therapy, my heart is to create an inviting space where my clients feel safe and affirmed in being where they are and exploring together the possibilities for growth and healing.
In practice, I come from an Emotionally Focused Therapy perspective. I believe that all people were created with the need to know and be known by others. I am passionate about working with clients to help them understand their emotional needs for closeness and connection, how unmet needs cause disconnection, and how more helpful ways of relating are possible. My hope for all my clients is that they would experience healing and gain new insight, and I believe this starts with feeling the safety and freedom to share what is really going on inside. My job as a therapist is to create a safe place for your inner self to land and offer support on your growth path.
On a personal note, I live in San Diego with my husband and two small kids.
running // homemade pasta // yoga // hamilton
non-fiction memoirs // crochet // parks & rec // enneagram 2
cooking // camping // long conversations // iced dirty chai
Looking forward to hearing how I can support you on your journey!
Education:
B.A. in Art History - SDSU
M.A. in Marital and Family Therapy - Bethel Seminary
Additional Training:
Supervised by Certified EFT Trainer Kathryn de Bruin LMFT 2015-2020
PREPARE ENRICH Certified
Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship 2016 & 2019
HAP EMDR Training Workshop - Part 1 2014
Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference 2013
Christian Association of Psychological Studies (CAPS) Seminars 2011 - 2014
Member of CAMFT
Books that have changed me:
Compassion - Henri J.M. Nouwen, Donald P. Mcneill, & Douglas A. Morrison
Wounded Healer - Henri J.M. Nouwen
The Gift of Being Yourself - David Benner
Daring Greatly - Brené Brown