About Me...
I received my Bachelors in Elementary Education and Psychology and my Masters in Social Work in Boston and have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years.
My first job out of graduate school was at Catholic Home Bureau in NYC, where I treated birthmothers, experiencing unplanned pregnancies and couples struggling with infertility issues; as well as families created through adoption and the ensuing issues in the adoption triad.
I went on to become a therapist at the Rader Institute, an inpatient facility treating clients struggling with anorexia, bulimia and compulsive overeating using a twelve Step Model. Simultaneously, I worked At Monte Nido, another inpatient eating disorder program, utilizing a behavioral model.
Subsequently, I have worked as a therapist in a variety of settings. First I worked at West Coast Counseling, running successful men’s and women’s groups as well as treating individuals, couples and families dealing with addiction, depression and or anxiety related issues. I spent two years working as a therapist at Recovery Help Now, where I trained under Elana Clark-Faler, LCSW, CSAT-S in the area of sex and love addiction. From there I trained as a therapist at Hosanna Counseling Center with Vicent Staraci, LMFT, who specialized in AEDP therapy and Christian Counseling. And finally, I trained with David Marsten, LCSW at Miracle Mile Community Practice under, who is a pioneer in the field of Narrative Therapy.
Now, I proudly work side by side with Lea Roussos, LMFT as a Co-Clinical Director at Santa Monica Counseling with a great team! I am very grateful for the varied and excellent training in my background as it all comes into play with my "one size does not fit all" therapy style.
I have studied Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Group Therapy, and Attachment Theory. I have also been a member of GPALA, The Group Psychotherapy Association of Los Angeles.
Additionally, I am a Meisner and Groundling trained actor/voice over actor, so I have an understanding of artists and the industry. And I am guest expert writer for insidewink, an excellent website started by Jean Trebek and Alison Martin, that focuses on wellness, spirituality and mental health. I am a big believer in the power of creativity in healing, health and happiness.
