Theoretical Orientation

Over the years, I have studied a wide range of theoretical orientations and therapeutic techniques. This has led me to develop a therapeutic style that combines the depth and insight of psychodynamic teachings with the positive perspective of the existential-humanistic orientation. In recent years, the research developments in the field of interpersonal neurobiology have added a much appreciated scientific understanding of why and how therapy works, and I regularly attempt to bring this knowledge into my work.

While I believe I have learned a great deal about therapy, relationships, people and myself since I began studying psychology in the early 1980’s, I know that there is always more to learn. This is part of what I enjoy most about my work, and I continue to further my base of knowledge through formal and informal study.

One critical component in all successful psychotherapy is that a trusting relationship develop between therapist and client. Thus, one of my initial therapeutic goals is to provide a safe, comfortable environment for all my clients. I strive to make them feel supported and contained as we go through the often painful and scary healing process together.

I believe that therapy has the potential to facilitate the development of real change in people’s lives. However, I know that this is not a quick, simple, easy fix. Therapy is not something I do to my clients, it is a process we undertake together.

Professional History

I have been actively involved in the local therapeutic community for many years. As part of my work to help foster the growth of upcoming therapists, I have supervised Marriage and Family Therapy interns and trainees for years at a number of different organizations, and I taught a course on Psychotherapy and Children at JFK University when it was in Campbell. To support the advancement of the field, I served as Secretary, President-Elect, and President of the Board of Directors of the Santa Clara Valley chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (SCV-CAMFT).

For several years, I volunteered in the classrooms of a local elementary school, providing them with weekly Social Skills lessons from a curriculum that I developed. I have taught parenting classes in a variety of venues including Kaiser, preschools and elementary schools.

Professional Community

I strongly believe in the importance of community and collaboration, and to this end, I have worked to develop a community of professionals.

I also lead a monthly consultation group for professionals, The Gender Identity Awareness Network, who are interested in providing Gender Affirmative Therapy to our clients in San Jose and the South Bay area.

In the last few years, I’ve been honored to participate in Diane Ehrensaft’s monthly professional consultation group, Mind the Gap. This group explores the issues associated with providing Gender Affirmative Therapy to children and adolescents, and their parents.