Background, Training, and Approach

I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Wright Institute in Berkeley in 1995. My internships were at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco and the Oakland Veterans Administration. I completed my post-doctoral work at the Oakland VA and Pathmakers in Berkeley.

My background has included training in psychodynamic theory, with both a short-term and longer-term focus, as well as training in other specific theories (e.g. cognitive therapy). I have been in private practice since 1997 and see adults with a variety of life-issues and symptoms. During my time in practice, I have increased my understanding of grief, perinatal bereavement, and pregnancy and post-partum issues through additional training.

My belief is that the power of therapy comes from increasing understanding of oneself in the context of a therapeutic relationship. Increasing one's awareness of the issues that have been a block to realizing goals, along with having a safe place to examine and practice new behaviors, allows a person to change aspects of his or her life. I have repeatedly felt honored to watch people use this process to make changes in their relationship with themselves and others.

I approach each person as an individual with his or her own values, perspectives and goals. I believe essential elements of a therapeutic relationship include confidentiality, respect, empathy and a non-judgmental attitude. My interest is in working with each person to understand the unique characteristics of his or her situation. Working collaboratively with each of these issues in mind, therapy can allow you to cope with difficult situations and feel more satisfaction and joy.

Professional Memberships:

Perinatal Psychotherapy Services: www.perinatalpsychotherapy.com

Resolve: The National Infertility Association: www.resolve.org

Postpartum Support International: www.postpartum.net

Pregnancy Loss and Infant Death Alliance: www.plida.org

American Psychological Association: www.apa.org

Alameda County Psychological Association: www.alamedapsych.org

Adjunct Faculty - The Wright Institute, Berkeley, CA: www.wrightinst.edu

Areas of Specialization:

Depression
Anxiety
Pregnancy Loss (miscarriage, stillbirth or termination)
Early Infant Loss
Pregnancy Issues
Post-Partum Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Grief
Emotional Aspects of becoming a Parent
Growing as a Parent
Family and Work Transitions and Balance