Pasadena Trauma Therapist
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
As a licensed clinical social worker here at Pasadena Trauma Therapy, I am passionate about providing inclusive, non-judgmental care to those struggling with various mental health issues. Specializing in trauma treatment, I work with individuals healing from issues related to eating disorders, PTSD, complex trauma, racial trauma, gender identity exploration, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, I am dedicated to working with individuals on the dissociative spectrum, including OSDD and DID.
I provide an individualized approach to each person based on the presenting needs, as I believe that therapy can be designed to fit the mold of the individual sitting across from me. As a clinician, I come from a curious, empathetic, culturally humble stance where providing a safe space for all bodies comes first, aiming to be LGBTQIA+ affirming and a social justice advocate.
In my work, I use a combination of EMDR, Brainspotting, Parts Work/IFS, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that has been successful in helping people who suffer from trauma, anxiety, panic, disturbing memories, nightmares, etc. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) while the client attends to past memories and triggers, to decrease or eliminate emotional distress connected to the memory.
Brainspotting is a somatic therapy that helps clients access the subcortical (non-verbal) part of the brain, where trauma is typically stored. According to the creator of Brainspotting, David Grand, “Where you look affects how you feel.” Since our eyes give us access to the subcortical brain, Brainspotting uses the visual field as a way to help release stored memories. If you’d like more information on Brainspotting, please click here.
Within the therapeutic space, I will work with you toward developing an internal sense of security by identifying and implementing coping/regulatory skills, reprocessing trauma, and learning to trust yourself and your body. When the body stores trauma, it can be scary to rely on the emotions and sensations that the body experiences. Together, we will practice providing compassion and curiosity toward the way you learned to survive.
I am originally from the suburbs of Chicago and have been enjoying my time here in my new home of Los Angeles. In my free time, I like going on walks, reading, practicing yoga and boxing, spending time with loved ones, and trying new foods. I always appreciate learning from my clients and I look forward to meeting and growing with you.
Education
- Azusa Pacific University – Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work
- California State University, Long Beach – Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis on Integrated Health
Training
- EMDRIA-Approved EMDR 1 & 2 – EMDR Center of California
- Brainspotting Phase 1 – Brainspotting Trainings LLC.
- Janina Fisher’s Trauma Treatment Certification Training (CCTP)
- IFS Informed EMDR
- Best Practices for Providing Clinical Support to Gender Expansive and Trans Individuals – Newport Healthcare
- Working with Childhood Sexual Trauma – Pasadena Trauma Therapy
- Working With Dissociative Identity Disorder Parts 1 & 2 – Pasadena Trauma Therapy
