My Background
I received my Bachelor's Degree in the field of Behavioral and Social Sciences from San Francisco State University. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California with
a concentrated study in Families and Children. My Internship was in the public child welfare sector with a focus on child-centered family treatment. I have a PPS Credential in School Social Work and obtained experience in art and play therapy.
I have over fifteen years of experience working with families in different mental health settings, applying client advocacy and clinical social work practice. I was also employed for over seven years as an Emergency Response Children's Social Worker with the Department of Children and Family Services. Some of the trainings I received were safety and risk assessments, forensic interviewing, diagnosis, family treatment with diverse populations, to name a few. I have supervised Graduate Interns in my workplace and have volunteered my time with non-profit organizations and various social causes. My own experience in positively changing my own life and overcoming challenges has also shaped the way I work with clients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CA state license #24616).
This means that I have fulfilled the post-graduate requirements, completed 3,200 hours of supervised clinical experience and have passed both the written and clinical vignette board exams. An LCSW
is a license issued by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences to practice psychotherapy. I place a high priority on the required professional continuing education classes and frequently attend conferences and seminars to enhance my knowledge. I also continue to consult with my colleagues to improve my learning. In my private practice, my primary assessment and treatment modalities includes biopsychosocial assessments, CBT, psychodynamic, strength-based and humanistic theories. An eclectic therapy approach allows me to choose a treatment method that best fits each individual client's needs.
I am a member of the following professional organizations: National Association of Social Workers and National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists. I am a Volunteer Provider with "Give An Hour," a non-profit providing mental health services to U.S. Troops and their families.
I am a wife and parent. During my free time, I enjoy music, movies, reading, travel, and outdoor activities with my family.
