About Me

My area of expertise is in supporting clients experiencing complex trauma and dissociation. I am passionate about working with addiction & dual pathologies, PTSD, attachment-related issues, sexual and psychological abuse, phase-of-life transitions, and grief and loss. Alongside credentials as an EMDR Certified Clinician and EMDRIA Approved Consultant, I am also trained in the EMDR advanced progressive approach for trauma and dissociation; and Internal Family Systems. Additionally, I am a certified Mindfulness and Meditation teacher, Certified Sandplay Therapist, and have completed the certification requirements for Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and families. I enjoy presenting at National and International conferences & workshops. I bring issues into focus with a trauma-informed, depth psychological, person-centered, relational perspective. My strengths are compassion, the capacity to deal with intense emotions, and a deep curiosity in order to understand my client’s internal world. Throughout my professional clinical experience, I have addressed and explored trauma in a multitude of settings. In South Africa, I lived and worked as an HIV program developer, psychosocial trainer, and consultant, and led a team of social workers to develop & established a fully accredited diversion program for youth in conflict with the law with an emphasis on community restorative justice, substance abuse awareness, and leadership. I conducted psychotherapy training for trauma-based organizations in Swaziland and provided trauma therapy, advocacy, and life-skills training for Zimbabwean refugees, people living with and affected by HIV in high transmission areas, and EMDR to first responders working with Doctors without Borders. I have also had extensive experience as a wilderness therapist providing intensive acute trauma-informed care to emerging young adults. My ongoing private therapy and consultation practice with locations in Beverly Hills and Redondo Beach CA specializes in complex trauma and dissociation, trauma and addictions, and phase-of-life transitions. At the heart of my beliefs is that creating meaningful connections is the cornerstone of healing. Formerly an NCAA Division 1 collegiate gymnast and team captain, I owned and operated a gymnastics academy for 20 years, and incorporated strength-based psychotherapy with coaching techniques for a whole-person mind-body approach to establish resiliency, empowerment, and sustainable life skills. In my personal time, I enjoy gardening, beekeeping, hiking, travel, CrossFit, yoga, and my beautiful children and grandbaby.