Individual Therapy
Our Understanding of Therapy
Psychotherapy is built upon a relationship of care with a therapist. The therapist provides an atmosphere of warmth, curiosity, and support without judgment. The boundaries of professionalism and confidentiality help a person become comfortable to honestly appraise their life circumstances, including unwanted ways of thinking, emotional difficulties, and challenges in relationships.
Unlike most relationships, professional therapy is aided by research-backed ways of tackling problems. Research has shown that certain types of intervention, as well as particular exercises, can help people achieve relief from mental health problems.
However, all therapy is also grounded in a philosophy of life. Human beings are not just machines to be fixed, computers to be re-programmed, or athletes to be trained. People are relational creatures with a desire for purpose and meaning in their life. This understanding is always in the background of our approach to therapy and sometimes becomes an important part of the therapy process.
Above is a video of me working with a role play client. The video was produced for a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grant funded project on an evidence-based intervention Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT).
Approach to Therapy
I primarily use the following evidence-based approaches:
- Interpersonal Therapy (for depression)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (for anxiety and addiction)
- Motivational Interviewing (for addiction and resolving ambivalence)
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (for trauma/PSTD)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (for couples and relationship problems)
I also draw upon psychological theories, such as:
- Attachment Theory
- Object relations theory
Licensed in California as a Clinical Psychologist (PSY #26952)
Background & Experience
Educational Experience
Ph.D. Clinical Psychology – Fuller Theological Seminary
M.A. Psychology – Fuller Theological Seminary
M.A. Christian Leadership – Fuller Theological Seminary
B.A. Psychology – University of California, Irvine Magna Cum Laude
Clinical Experience and Training
- Clinic Manager, Aegis Treatment Centers, West Covina
- Psychological Assistant, Orange County Christian Counseling
- Psychological Intern, Fuller Psychological and Family Services
- Neuropsychology Clerk, Casa Colina
- I have also had training experiences at a college counseling center, a community mental health center, a homeless shelter, and a junior high school
Now Accepting New Clients
As a therapist, I help people overcome deeply entrenched problems in their lives by using evidence-based interventions while bringing a spiritual perspective to my work. My goal is that people experience real-life transformation by finding meaning and well-being in their lives.
I especially enjoy helping clients work through the following types of problems:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Substance use disorders (addictions)
- Sexual addiction
- Relationship Issues
- Trauma histories and PTSD
Appointments
Please contact me, the phone call is free!
626-506-2934
I love helping people experience greater well-being in their mental, emotional, and relational health by providing a listening ear and a willingness to engage in the messiness of life. I challenge my clients to envision significant changes and to work towards making those occur. I can help people struggling with depression, addiction, self-esteem, relationship problems, post-traumatic stress, and more. I especially enjoy working with couples who want to work towards restoring their relationship.
My fee for psychotherapy is:
- $180 per 55 minute in-person session
I accept Optum, MHN, and Cigna insurance. For those with other types of insurance, I am able to provide a monthly superbill (a special receipt) for out-of-network reimbursement.
My office is located:
Barranca Tower
100 N Barranca St, Suite 736
West Covina, CA 91791