Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond all measure. It is our Light, not our Darkness that most frightens us. As we let our Light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence actually liberates others.
– Marianne Williamson
Welcome. I provide psychotherapy, drama therapy, play therapy, and group therapy to individuals, couples, families, and children in Oakland, California.
I bring to my practice years of combined experience as a therapist and adoption social worker. I have a wealth of experience working with California’s most vulnerable children- children in foster care. I have counseled parents through the challenging yet incredibly rewarding process of special needs adoption. I have counseled children ages 0-18, with diverse family make-ups including: single parents, transracial, LGBT, co-parents, and blended. Much of my experience includes supporting children with special emotional/behavioral issues such as Reactive Attachment Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, and victims of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and neglect. I also serve as a pro-bono clinician with A Home Within.
I provide a non-judgmental warm, playful space where people of all ages can fully express themselves. I use various approaches in my work including Psychodynamic, in which we explore early experiences and feelings that might define present behavior, Jungian, where we forge connections with images that emerge spontaneously to explore new realms of possibility, Family Systems, an exploration of family roles and how these continue into our current relationships, Psychodrama, where we act out personal dramas which may lead to emotional release, and Solution Focused Therapy, where we stress innate resources, survival skills, set goals and reach them.
I’ve studied and taught improvisational theatre for over 15 years, and passionately believe in the healing power of play. I’ve facilitated improv workshops and trainings for children, adults, families, performing artists, and business leaders through my theatre company, Leela. I lead a popular drama therapy group, Improv For Shy People, which provides a safe playful space for individuals struggling with social anxiety, low self esteem, and shyness. I have also studied modern and African dance, contact improv, and choreography, often fusing movement and somatic awareness into my work with clients. As a performing artist, I am empathic to the unique struggles of artists. An avid follower of The Artist’s Way, by Julia Cameron, I will often incorporate artistic recovery/discovery tools for creative blocks into the therapeutic process.
I look forward to guiding you on a journey of self-acceptance and creative growth.