Services
About My Clients
Do you experience emotions that feel uncontrollable at times? Are you in the midst of an existential crisis where nothing makes sense anymore? Have you struggled with knowing who you are or what the point of life is? Did substances used to help but now they do more harm than good? I get it. I've been there. And, it doesn't have to be this way. Integrative psychotherapy (combining somatic, cognitive behavioral, and psychoanalytical practices) can and does help! Let's get started together today.
My Background and Approach
Before I was trained at the University of Southern California and became a certified-expert in substance use and borderline personality, I was trained in the difficulties of the human experience throughout my own development. The tools that I'll provide you are the ones I've known to help the thousands of clients I've treated both individually and in treatment, that have shown efficacy in research and in my own life. My approach is direct, collaborative, compassionate and human. We'll start by exploring who you are as a person, what you (really) believe about yourself, others, and the world, and dive into what you want to get out of therapy. Then, we'll begin the work--where you develop new habits, traits, and ways to cope with this thing we call "life." For the past 12 years, I've dedicated my life to knowing all that I need to know to help you in the best way I possibly can, and if I can't, I'm excellent at finding the right person who can. I can't wait to meet you!
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
My biggest personal belief is that everyone can and should be their truest selves, make their own choices, and then deal with the consequences (even though it can be tough to do so.) I am a member of the LGBTQ community, autistic, grew up in a multi-generational Hispanic-Military household, and believe in harm reduction and moderation management. Despite being diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder at age 22, I defied dated beliefs about people with my conditions, and I hope to help you do the same, in whatever way that looks for you. When engaging in advocacy work, I serve on the board of several mental health nonprofits including NAMI Orange County, Healthy Gamer, and Made of Millions.