I am a private practice psychotherapist specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy, grounded in Depth Psychology. I have provided services to various populations, including LGBT individuals, transgender men and women, couples with a transgender partner, kink and polyamorous individuals and couples, and transgender adolescents and children. I have also worked with active duty military personnel and veterans who are transgender.

In November 2021, I was awarded a Ph.D. from Pacifica Graduate University with my dissertation titled An Exploration of the Lived Experience of CIS Women with Transgender Partners.My dissertation is available for free for anyone who would like to read it. You can download it here.

Since July of 2018, I have been a participant in Gender, Sexuality, Relationship Diversity (GSRD) Forum, a consortium of like minded therapists to support varied relationship presentations: kink, polyamorous, LGBTQ+. Our practice is kink and polyamory-friendly.

In 2012, an article I wrote advocating for the use of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples with a transgender member was published in The Journal of Systemic Therapies. You can download it here for free. My unique experience allows me to be an ally to transgender individuals and their spouses, significant others, and children, informing my work with transgender people and their families.

In April 2011, I led the design team for an educational event called “Understanding Transgender Families: Insight for Educators, Therapists, Students, and the Community.” This panel discussion event was held at Alliant International University, where I also participated as a voice advocating for the families and spouses of transgender people.

In May of 2011, I received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.

From 2011 to 2015, I practiced at Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, providing adherent DBT skills training through group facilitation and 24/7 coaching availability. I also conducted individual DBT therapy sessions. My practicum work involved 1200 hours at Second Chance Program San Diego, a non-profit organization offering mental health services, job readiness and life skills training, job placement services, and affordable housing to adults and youth from various social and economic backgrounds. Additionally, I provided Emotionally Focused Therapy at Alliant Couple and Family Clinic.

For two years, I volunteered as a Cabin Big Buddy at Camp Erin San Diego, a weekend camp for children grieving the loss of a loved one. Camp Erin is sponsored by San Diego Hospice and The Moyer Foundation, providing free-of-charge support to children aged 6-17.

I am a San Diego native who grew up in a military family. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy with a specialization in Eastern Thought and a minor in Religious Studies from California State University, Northridge, in 2007. My background in religious studies allows me to authentically connect with clients from various religious perspectives. Mindfulness is an integral part of both my professional practice and personal life.

I approach my work with compassion for everyone I serve. My personal philosophy is to meet clients where they are and assist them in creating and effectively participating in a fulfilling life. My primary goal in the field of psychology is to be a therapist and advocate for the significant others, families, and friends of transgender individuals, whether they are actively transitioning or considering it. I am passionate about enriching and empowering the lives of transgender people and their families.

I am certified to conduct “Hold Me Tight” relationship workshops for couples utilizing EFT and to facilitate “Seeking Safety,” an evidence-based group therapy program for trauma and/or substance abuse. I have also conducted “Meaning of Life” group therapy adapted for mindfulness/meditation in the context of substance abuse. 

I am an active member of several professional associations, including SDPA/LGBT group, WPATH, ICEEFT, AAMFT, CAMFT, NCFR, SDPA/LGBTQII and the American Philosophical Association.