Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or facing challenges that seem difficult to navigate alone?

I believe life is a continuous journey of growth, resilience, and learning. I specialize in helping individuals work through relationship challenges, parenting concerns, life transitions, grief, crisis, and interpersonal conflicts. Together, we'll explore the emotional, psychological, social, and personal factors influencing your wellbeing while building practical tools for meaningful change.

With more than 22 years serving Los Angeles and Riverside Counties in social services and mental health, along with over a decade in private practice as an LCSW, I bring extensive experience and a compassionate, solution-focused approach. My goal is to help you uncover the root causes of your struggles, build on your strengths, and create a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Great to meet you!

As a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and overall well-being. Seeking help can be very difficult, so congratuations on taking that first step! I've been working to help teenagers and young adults over the past 15 years and look forward to supporting you in this journey!

My therapeutic style is warm, supportive, client-centered, and trauma-informed. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel heard, understood, and comfortable being yourself. I work collaboratively with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional challenges, and difficulty regulating emotions. Together, we focus on building practical skills, increasing self-awareness, and creating meaningful, lasting change.

YOUR story matters, YOUR healing matters. I'm here to support YOU! I bring 27 years of experience in mental health and psychiatry, with a strong commitment to compassionate, individualized care. I earned my master's degree from UCLA and completed my PMHNP training at National University. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and cared for,

I am open, approachable, and committed to listening carefully to your experiences without judgment. I believe that each person carries a unique story, and my goal is to provide a supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and encouraged as you navigate life’s challenges and opportunities for growth. Together, we can explore what is most important to you and work toward creating a life that feels meaningful, authentic, and aligned with your values.

My background includes earning a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, along with a lifelong appreciation for personal growth, nature, and the healing power of connection. Growing up learning to surf fostered a deep respect for the ocean and the lessons it offers about resilience, balance, and adapting to life's changing conditions. These experiences have shaped my belief in the importance of honoring each individual’s journey and recognizing that growth often comes through both challenge and reflection.

With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about guiding individuals on their journey to balance, mindfulness and joy. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. This journey has reinforced my belief that each person's path to well-being is unique and deserves a personalized approach.