EDUCATION:

  • Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT), Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA

  • Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy, Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA

  • Master of Arts in Family Studies, Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA

  • Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA

With advanced training in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in Medical Family Therapy, my clinical and academic work has primarily focused on supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer, chronic illness, and rare diseases. I have extensive experience addressing the emotional, relational, and systemic challenges that often accompany complex medical diagnoses.

My doctoral dissertation, Narrative Medicine and the Patient’s Illness Narrative: A Workshop for Physicians, explores how healthcare providers can better understand and respond to patients' experiences through the lens of narrative. This work reflects my commitment to bridging the gap between mental health and medical care, fostering more compassionate and collaborative approaches to healing.

CERTIFICATIONS & SPECIALIZED TRAINING:

  • Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator

  • Certified Family Wellness Facilitator

  • Certified Level 1 in Restoration Therapy

  • Trained in Positive Discipline and The Whole-Brain Child

  • Specialization in Medical Family Therapy

  • ABA-Certified Paralegal (American Bar Association)

My personal and professional background in both the legal and healthcare fields has deeply shaped my commitment to supporting individuals and families navigating complex life challenges. I have a particular passion for working with individuals impacted by cancer, chronic illness, and rare diagnoses, including conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, diabetes, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and myasthenia gravis (MG).

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS:

  • California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)

  • Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA)