Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Encino, CA covered by Cigna

I am a psychotherapist, life, coach, and published author with over 25 years of experience. My methods are unconventional, so you may expect exceptional results from our work together. I am hands-on and interactive. I give my clients direction as opposed to just asking questions and nodding. I measure success by the degree of satisfaction we derive from our relationships and careers. I believe in giving you all so you can get it all. That's what makes love go the distance and your career, rewarding.

I work primarily with young adults who are feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck — especially when it comes to anxiety and relationship challenges. Many of my clients are used to holding it all together on the outside, but internally feel lost or unsure of how to move forward.

I bring a calm, grounded presence to the work, even in high-stress situations. Much of my background is in working with clients in crisis, which allows me to help you navigate difficult emotions without things feeling out of control. At the same time, I’m warm, relatable, and honest — I’ll meet you where you are, while also gently challenging patterns that may be keeping you stuck when or if needed.

I'm here to support you every step of the way! This is a non-judgmental space to collaborate, learn to trust, and heal in relationships. Together, we can navigate through the jumble in your mind, explore past traumas, and understand their current impact on your life. I integrate CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy to help you find peace.

I work in a collaborative process with older teens (15yrs old and above), couples, and individual adults who are motivated to find their inner voice and know their highest selves. My clients are focused on setting boundaries, assertive and effective communication skills, healthy relationships, self-advocacy, and self-efficacy. My clients are willing to reflect on sessions outside of the therapeutic hour, and are receptive to occasional homework. I am here to meet you halfway.

Introduction

I hope these words find you in a good way. I am an LCSW, and it is with great care and compassion that I invite you into space. As a survivor of many life adversities and challenges myself, I understand that healing and understanding oneself is unique to each individual and is rooted in our ways of knowing.

My approach

I take a strength and resilience-based approach in holding space, which is centered on empathy and compassion. My intentions are to create a safe space for you to offer your goals and intentions. We will work together in creating a space that feels grounding and empowering for you to walk this road of self-discovery and healing.

My journey to becoming a provider

I'm a Chicana and first-generation clinician from Oakland with roots from Guadalajara Mexico & Yaqui ancestry. I am an artist, poet, and healer within my circle and practice traditional plant medicine and other ways of knowing which were taught to me by my Elders. These roots guide my path as a healer and are my foundation in how I cultivate space.

I have dedicated my career to walking alongside people through some of the most challenging chapters of their lives. My work focuses on helping individuals manage and heal from anxiety, depression, and the profound challenges of grief and loss. With over two decades of clinical experience, I’ve learned that true support means meeting people where they are—with compassion, respect, and a deep understanding of their unique struggles.

In my practice, I provide a safe and grounded space where clients can explore their pain without fear of judgment. Whether someone is overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or grieving the loss of a loved one, I guide them in developing resilience, cultivating self-compassion, and rediscovering a sense of hope. My approach integrates evidence-based interventions with a genuine belief in each person’s capacity to grow through hardship.

Helping people find light in the darkness of grief, calm in the chaos of anxiety, and strength in the depths of depression is not just my profession—it’s my calling.