About Me
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with decades of experience working with adults in health and mental health settings. I was drawn to this work by a desire to connect with people and help alleviate their suffering.
Early in my career, I worked with people with severe mental illness, extensive trauma histories and those experiencing homelessness. For the last ten years, I’ve supported patients, families and caregivers in oncology, palliative care and chronic pain through my work at Kaiser.
I primarily understand people and their problems using a psychodynamic lens. I incorporate principles and interventions from Gestalt Therapy , Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Existential Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well.
In addition to my clinical experience, I draw from my personal experience as a mother of mixed race children, survivor of Postpartum Depression and sister to someone with special needs to better understand the diverse and unique people with whom I work.
I’m interested in working with people navigating new experiences, roles, dynamics or medical diagnoses. I’m experienced at partnering with caregivers who are supporting a loved one through a serious illness or balancing aging parents and young children and trying to find time to take care of themselves. Additionally, I enjoy working with professional caregivers who may be struggling with burnout. Mostly I am excited about working with curious, insightful folks who are motivated to do this work… even when it’s challenging.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task. I invite you to contact me to set up a free 15 minute consultation to see if we may work well together.
Education
Masters of Social Work
New York University, New York, NY
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and American Studies
Williams College, Williamstown, MA
Advanced Trainings
San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis East Bay Yearlong Program
New York University Zelda Foster Studies Palliative Care Summer Intensive Seminar
Coalition for Clinical Social Workers Extension Program, SFCP
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) I & II
Affiliations
Professional Organizations
National Association of Social Workers
American Psychosocial Oncology Association
Volunteer Work
I provide pro bono therapy for low income women through the Women’s Cancer Resource Center.