I received my B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Phillips Graduate Institute (now Phillips Graduate University). My training and experience includes working with individuals, couples and families with diverse issues and mental health diagnoses.

My education emphasized the Family Systems theory, focusing on family interactions as an important determinant in psychological health. I received subsequent training applying the Functional Family Therapy model, an evidenced-based practice addressing problematic family dynamics.

My experience includes regular work with adolescents suffering from impairments in home, school and relationships. This involved leading group therapy in a residential boys group home teaching healthy coping skills for trauma and substance abuse.

I received intensive training treating severe anxiety disorders including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Agoraphobia, Social Phobia and others, often with simultaneous depression.

I have spent significant time treating Eating Disorders in a residential setting. This includes assessment, comprehensive treatment planning, family therapy and education for loved ones.

My background also includes providing parental education, leading geriatric support groups and counseling women experiencing unplanned pregnancy.

I have spent many years partnering with pastors to assist them in counseling their church congregants on complex issues in relationships, mental health and spiritual life.