I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I have a doctorate in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytically-based therapy. I have been in practice for over 25 years, working with individuals, adolescents and couples.
My passion is to help clients achieve their goals and live their lives as an expression of their deepest values. In the process of therapy, we attend to your feelings and behavior patterns and your relationships to important other people. We deal with the past as it affects the here and now. We look at the nature of early bonding experiences and their role in shaping your identity and capacity for intimacy. We pay attention to how you are coping with stress and depression and whether you are bothered by physical symptoms that interfere with living the life you want.
My integrative approach takes advantage of what the latest research in psychology, traumatology and neuroscience teaches us –both about how we get stuck and most importantly, how we can get unstuck, develop new habits, more resilience and begin making choices that lead to a vital and meaningful life. Together we will use that knowledge to create lasting changes that lead to better relationships and a better quality of life. I love to see the growth and healing that can develop within the context of this healing journey.
We will work together to best understand what your needs are. No matter what the issue is, the most important aspect of therapy is having a relationship with your therapist that is comfortable and respectful, and I strive to provide that for each of my clients. Because I view each person as unique, I tailor my approach to each individual. In my work, I use a variety of therapeutic methods to assist couples and individuals to grow in ways that enhance their lives and relationships. Through my training and experience, I bring a focus on body/mind integration and interpersonal relationships. My way of working is both psychodynamic and cognitive. For some people, psychoanalysis is recommended as the optimum method of treatment. For others, less frequent psychotherapy is the best choice – or the recommendation may be for couples counseling or group therapy.
I also have extensive training from Talbot Seminary, Biola University in the integration of spiritual health with psychological health, and (upon request) can bring that understanding into our work together.
My office is located in Newport Beach – just a 5 -minute drive from John Wayne Airport and close to the 73 Toll Road, serving the cities of Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Laguna Beach, Irvine and Laguna Hills
Because there are always changes and new developments in my field, I am regularly involved in ongoing training and continuous learning of new ways to help and support my clients as they achieve their life and relationship goals. Please feel free to give me a call or send an email. I am happy to answer any questions that could help you as you begin your journey.
Education
- Newport Psychoanalytic Institute: Doctorate in Psychoanalysis and Psychology
- California Graduate Institute: Masters in Clinical Psychology
- Talbot Seminary, Biola University: Masters in Marriage and Family Ministries
Professional Activities and Affiliations
- California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
- International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation
- International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals
- Christian Association for Psychological Studies
