CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST
Virginia License- 0810005677
California License- PSY18702
Services
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eating Disorders
- Divorce
- Grief
- Life Transitions
- Marital and Premarital
- Parenting
- Postpartum Depression
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Psychoanalysis
- Relationship Issues
- Womens Mental Health
- Substance Abuse
- Trauma
MY APPROACH TO THERAPY
Over the past 20 years, research has shown that talk therapy has been able to change our brains in the same way that medication does. It has also demonstrated that often symptoms decrease.
Therapy is an investment in your health, the same way you seek out medical treatment. You may be reaching out for psychological services because you want to make changes in your life.
My approach is based on psychoanalytic/psychodynamic principles, attachment theory and object relations theory. I also include communication skills, cognitive techniques, and stress reduction skills, when needed.
Psychoanalytic and psychodynamic work involves a belief in the importance of relationships and their effect on people: a belief in the unconscious, and the idea that one's past influences and one's current perceptions, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Attachment theory holds that it is instinctive and basic to human functioning to have a need for a safe and secure bond with others - initially caretakers, & later with friends and intimates.
My interest in you is as a whole person, including thoughts, feelings, dreams, hopes, wishes, perceptions, behaviors, sense of self, and you as a person in a variety of relationships and contexts at home, work, school, etc.
Our work together depends on your open and honest involvement, flexibility, and courage. It does take time to develop trust, though, and I will give you the time you need to do this.
Sessions may sometimes be trying for you, but our goal is for these times together to be both productive and rewarding. The effectiveness of your psychotherapy will depend on your active participation and regular attendance. Above all else, my goal is to help you achieve your goals and dreams in life.
ABOUT ME
My passion for helping people deal with their challenges has always been a core of who I am. For more than 20 years, my education, training and work in this field has been focused on helping others uncover some of the roadblocks that prevent them from being their best selves. I provide insight and tools to help you navigate these turbulent times and ultimately to give you the confidence to take on these challenges. My focus is on a wide array of specialties from anxiety, depression, relationships, PTSD, and eating disorders.
Education
2023 International Psychotherapy Institute. Psychoanalytic Training Candidate
2001 Doctorate in Clinical Psychology,
California School of Professional
Psychology, Alhambra, CA
1999 Masters of Arts in Clinical
Psychology, California School
of Professional Psychology,
Alhambra, CA
Practice
Private Practice (December 2002- Present) Psychologist Long-term psychotherapy with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children with a focus on Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
The Meltzer Center, George Washington University: (2018- Present) Supervisor to psychological interns
Saturday Center for Psychotherapy: (2007- Present) Supervisorto psychological interns and psychological assistants
Eating Disorder Center of California (December 2004-July 2005) Psychologist Primary psychotherapist for those who with all types of Eating Disorders.
Wilmes Reitz Psychological (August 2001-2004) PsychologistPsychotherapy with couples, families, and individuals, and play therapy with children.
Saturday Center for Psychotherapy (September 2000- November 2002) Psychological Assistant. Conduct Long term psychotherapy for individuals, adolescents, couples, and groups.
Glen Roberts Child Study Center (August 1999 to July 2000) Psychological Intern. Provided psychotherapy to severe emotionally disturbed children, individuals, preschoolers, adolescents, couples and families.