My Approach to Helping

We are all worthy of a good life in spite of our imperfections...yes, this includes you. I believe that people do not go to therapy to change who they are, but to let go of who they are not. Often, people develop unhealthy coping skills/defensive mechanisms to protect themselves from real or perceived threats. These can be effective at keeping you from feeling hurt, but they can also lead to feelings of guilt, resentment, and loneliness.

My approach is nonjudgmental, compassionate, friendly, humorous at times, mindful, and insight & solutions focused. I help you to tap into your internal wisdom and combine this knowledge with evidenced based practices (CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness). I will teach you to identify and challenge negative thought distortions, "re-wire" your brain, learn coping skills, and create a plan to reach your goals. Come prepared to do work inside the office as well as homework outside the office. Clients often leave feeling confident, more in control of their emotions, a renewed sense of joy, and hopeful.

My work as a therapist at a psychiatric hospital for 10+ years coupled with my work as a counselor at The Betty Ford Center in CA prepared me to work with individuals who are struggling with anything from everyday stressors & decision making to overwhelming emotions and destructive behaviors. I am also an Adjunct Faculty at Grand Canyon University. This work helps me to stay on top of the latest research so that I can not only help prepare the next generation of counselors, but also bring that knowledge into our sessions to help you with research based strategies.

If you want to feel more confident in your decisions, gain insight, connect with your partner, increase communication or interpersonal relational skills, learn coping skills or emotion regulation, heal from old wounds or want to learn more about cognitive restructuring or mindfulness, call today.

More Info About My Practice

If you believe you may benefit from more intensive therapy in the areas of Adolescent or Adult Mental Health or Chemical Dependency, please call me for more information about available Intensive Out-Patient (IOP) program that I also facilitate at 5555 W Thunderbird Road Glendale, AZ 85306.

Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance

Research shows that the relationship between a therapist and client is essential for successful outcomes. Individuals need a safe environment in which they can disclose issues, concerns, and feelings with a therapist who is non-judgmental, compassionate, and holds you accountable. I encourage you to shop around. Talk with multiple counselors and then choose one that you feel comfortable working with. This is not always the first one that calls you back. This is an investment in your overall wellbeing. What is it worth to you?