About ME
Trauma-Informed Marriage and Family Therapist
Becoming a Therapist: Early Influences
I grew up in former East Germany. As a socialist country, there were many limitations on what we could do and the possessions we owned. Although our government controlled us, they did provide for our basic needs. When the Berlin Wall came down during my childhood, we were suddenly thrust from socialism to capitalism. No longer having the safety net that the socialist system provided, my family struggled as we found our way to becoming self-sufficient.
Like many teenagers, I had a challenging time during adolescence. My difficulties were exacerbated by the personal and social changes that were occurring within my country and family. I tried to get help, but psychological services were not available. I was left to cope on my own.
It was a rough time, but eventually, I was able to work on my psychological issues. My early experiences shaped my desire to help alleviate the suffering of others. I saw how much easier my life would have been if I had access to a therapist.
My Mission
My life’s work is to help people know that all problems can be reduced or eliminated more easily through therapy. There is always hope for a more satisfying life with more fulfilling relationships. No one should have to suffer on their own without the expertise of a professional psychotherapist. As a supportive and skilled therapist, I provide the guidance that can be key to getting your life back on track, even if you feel discouraged or hopeless. I’ll provide the hope for you until you feel it yourself.
WHO I AM as a Therapist
Warm, Caring and Compassionate
Warm, Caring and Compassionate
Warm, Caring and Compassionate
I aim to build a strong, trusting relationship with you where you feel safe to discuss your concerns.
Collaborative
Warm, Caring and Compassionate
Warm, Caring and Compassionate
Our relationship is a partnership. You’ll always have input into what we focus on in our therapy sessions.
Flexible
Warm, Caring and Compassionate
Trained in Evidence-Based Methods of Therapy
If something isn’t working for you in therapy, we’ll make the changes required to ensure you get what you need.
Trained in Evidence-Based Methods of Therapy
Trained in Evidence-Based Methods of Therapy
Trained in Evidence-Based Methods of Therapy
The therapy approaches I practice are based on science. Utilized by therapists worldwide, they are known to be effective at helping people resolve distressing symptoms and traumatic events.
Culturally and Socioeconomically Sensitive
Trained in Evidence-Based Methods of Therapy
Culturally and Socioeconomically Sensitive
Growing up in former East Germany [About] and adjusting to a new culture and language when I moved to the United States has heightened my sensitivity to cultural and socioeconomic issues.
Passionate About My Work
Trained in Evidence-Based Methods of Therapy
Culturally and Socioeconomically Sensitive
I’m dedicated to providing the best service possible. I often go above and beyond to make sure you make progress in therapy. I also continue to grow as a therapist and seek ongoing training and supervision.
MY Education and Training
Academic Education
· Master of Arts: Clinical Psychology, Antioch University Los Angeles - Culver City, CA
· Bachelor of Arts: Anthropology, Geography/Environmental Studies,
University of California, Los Angeles - Los Angeles, CA UCLA Anthropology Honors Program with own Undergraduate Research Thesis
Specialized Therapy Training
· Community Resilience Model – Level 1
· Trauma Resilience Model– Level 1
· Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization Reprocessing)
· Sex Therapy
· Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
· Family Assessments
· Sandplay
Professional Membership
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
Special Interests
I have a particular interest in providing therapy to people who have speech difficulties (aphasia) due to a brain injury (i.e., stroke, head trauma, brain tumor, or infection).
Personal Passions
I love spending time with my family and dogs. I also enjoy nature and cooking. I’m passionate about social justice and love traveling. The philosophy of Buddhism guides me in my life.
I have had a full life with both failed and successful relationships. All these experiences have made me a better person and a more aware, sensitive and skilled therapist.