What I Do…
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been providing psychotherapy services for over 18 years to children, teens and families. I specialize in working with youth and individuals who struggle with a variety of mental health issues which can include anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, panic, low self esteem, loneliness and loss. I have specialized training in addressing issues specific to childhood trauma including sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect, including helping adults who have been abused in childhood.
I also specialize in psychotherapy with Latin women and girls, including first-generation college students and graduates, who need support in navigating multiple social and cultural identities. I am fluent in Spanish and able to provide psychotherapy in Spanish to monolingual clients.
Please click on the services tab for more information on specific issues that I treat.
How I Work…
My approach is genuine, collaborative, non-judgmental and respectful. In my work with children, I use playful and creative approaches that are developmentally appropriate. I engage parents and caregivers in our work and focus on helping them to help their children. I love to laugh and don’t mind being silly with my young clients.
Why I Do What I Do…
I find joy and purpose in my work as a psychotherapist. My goal is to help clients improve their lives through acceptance, compassion and building upon their strengths. I am an advocate not only for my client but also for the family that is working to understand their child and or themselves.
How I Do It…
I have acquired years of training and experience through my work in schools, community agencies and health clinics. I use therapeutic approaches that are practical and effective including Cognitive Based Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Family Systems and Play Therapy.
Who I Am…
I consider myself a native of San Francisco after immigrating from Nicaragua as a child and living in the city until my adulthood. I am fluent in Spanish and speak a bit of Portuguese and French if I am inspired! I have been married for over 20 years and have three children that have been my greatest teachers. In my spare time I enjoy listening and dancing to salsa music, taking long hikes, reading, watching documentaries and enjoying free time with my family and friends. I truly love being a therapist and feel honored to do this work.
My Credentials
Licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy in the State of California, License #44101
MA in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco
BA in Political Science, emphasis in Political Philosophy from San Francisco State University National Certification in Trauma Focused CBT
Associations
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
Therapists of Color – Bay Area
