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My journey as a Psychologist began later in life, after both my children entered elementary school. I had always been drawn to the theories of psychology, sociology and anthropology, and I am a true philosopher at heart. These interests, combined with my ability to tolerate the unknown and other people’s pain made me the perfect candidate for becoming a Psychologist.
While I have extensive training and experience as a therapist, what truly makes me good at what I do is what I have endured throughout my life.
I was married for 20 years, had two children, got divorced, and survived breast cancer, all before the age of 45.
In school I learned about theory, research and mental disorders, but my life has taught me empathy, compassion, patience and the power of human resilience. These are my greatest tools, and combined with my stellar education and training, I am qualified and prepared to heal others.
While I treat common mental health issues such as anxiety and depression my greatest passion is the human relationship. My work is founded on the research-based fact that we are all evolutionarily wired to be relational beings.
It is my contention that most human suffering can be alleviated by healing past and present relational trauma, and that healthy, adaptive relationships are the cornerstone of long-term fulfillment and wellbeing.
I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from California Graduate Institute, which is now The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have extensive training in Psychodynamic and Psychoanalytic theory, and completed my clinical training in two of the most respected programs in Los Angeles, CA. I spent three years at The Maple Counseling Center working with mothers and their infants as part of The Mindful Parenting Program, and then went on to work at The Wright Institute studying and training within the theoretical framework of Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.
My extended training included completing a Certificate Program at the Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis, and a Child Psychoanalytic Certificate Program at the Psychoanalytic Center of California. I am also a trained Grief Recovery specialist by The Grief Recovery Institute.
Click Here to listen to
THE ALCHEMY OF LIFE. TURNING ADVERSITY INTO GOLD.
A great interview where I talk about my philosophy and work.
You can read my writing on my blog, and also on Huffington Post Divorce, Intent, Purpose Fairy, and Good Therapy.
