My practice is made up primarily of individual adults who are dedicated to their growth process. They often have had therapy experience before and are looking to fine-tune an area of their lives or are currently going through a particularly difficult time.

I also see adults who have never tried therapy before but feel the need for it at this time in their lives. These cases can be particularly rewarding because a little therapeutic intervention can go a long way.

I see some teenage girls and post-high school young adults (both male and female), with whom I seem to have a particular connection. Probably because I can remember my own youth quite well and I know how much it would have meant to me to have another adult in my life whom I trusted and could confide in.

Note: Currently, I don't work with children or families. However, I would be happy to refer you to an experienced therapist who does.

In addition, my practice has only a limited number of slots available for couples. Please call me to find out if there is space available.

I specialize in substance abuse issues, including eating disorders and people considering bariatric surgery. I also have a strong affinity to working with people of disability (ie wheelchair bound, hearing impaired, etc). And I do a lot of trauma work - including working for the San Mateo County Victim's of Crime organization, for which my training in EMDR has proven very successful.

Proudly, I am part of a program called Give an Hour (www.giveanhour.org). This is a non-profit organization providing free mental health services to US military personnel and families affected by the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. If you know someone who could benefit from this service, or any of the services I have to offer, please don't hesitate to give them my information.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are struggling with work issues, others with personal growth and still others desire change in their relationships. Sometimes a powerful, brief technique like EMDR is most effective. Other times a dependable, long-term approach offers the right environment for inner healing. And, at times, a supportive setting during a time of deepening spirituality is most appropriate. Since each client is unique, my methods vary to meet my client’s needs.

Following is a comprehensive list of client concerns which I have experience in treating:

Abuse (sexual, physical and emotional) Anger Management Anxiety and Panic Chemical dependency Communication Depression Disabilities Divorce Eating Disorders Grief and Loss

Infertility Life transitions Parenting skills Relationships Self Esteem Sex and sexuality Spirituality Stress Management Trauma (Crisis and PTSD)

As mentioned above, my approach varies for each client. I have strong influences in cognitive, and transpersonal methods. My approach with addictions typically follows a 12-Step model. I have been trained in a technique called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which proves very effective for trauma work and performance enhancement. (A trauma may be categorized as a specific event or a set of conditions, which substantially shapes how we think or feel about ourselves and the world around us today). I also believe strongly in the use of guided imagery and relaxation techniques.

Often, I may suggest behavioral interventions to monitor patterns or help with acquiring new, more adaptive lifestyle choices. At times, my approach may be strictly solution-focused, abandoning insight work for the sake of symptom relief. Generally, my methodology focuses on adopting effective problem-solving techniques within a safe and supportive environment.

My personal style is quite interactive. I consider our work together a mutual endeavor and will often provide feedback and suggestions as possible tools to promote change. I have a warm and empathic nature, am non-judgmental and respectful of individual choices and values. I enjoy helping people create and discover new aspects of themselves and feel privileged to be a part of your growth process.