Licensed in CA, OR, & WA
Having faced my own struggles with identity, family expectations, and personal growth, I understand how powerful it can be to share your story with someone who truly listens. My approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration, and I look forward to hearing your story.
Like many children of immigrant parents, I grew up with a roadmap: become a doctor. My parents had high hopes for me to pursue a career in medicine, and I started college as a pre-med major in biological sciences. But in my first psychology class, I found myself captivated by the way it helped explain human behavior, relationships, and emotions. One class led to another, and I realized how deeply it resonated with me.
To compromise between what I wanted and what my parents expected, I decided to double major in biological sciences and psychology. Navigating the difficult conversations, disappointment, and persistent pressure from my parents wasn’t easy, but those experiences helped me grow in ways I hadn’t expected. Eventually, I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and my Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, setting the foundation for my career in mental health.
I went on to complete a doctoral degree in Psychology. During my APA-accredited internship, I worked with children and adults across the lifespan in community mental health settings. Later, during my postdoctoral training at Kaiser Permanente, I focused on therapy for adults, health psychology in primary care, and bariatric pre-surgical evaluations.
What I love most about my work is creating a space where people feel safe, heard, and supported. I’m fascinated by how we process experiences, navigate relationships, and adapt to life’s challenges. As humans, we are both predictable and full of surprises, and there’s something deeply meaningful about the messy, beautiful way life unfolds.
My Professional Background
I'm licensed in California (PSY29712), Oregon (3617) and Washington (PY6126166), which allows me to work with clients in these states. My training spans a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and the Gottman Method.
Education
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Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) – John F. Kennedy University, APA-Accredited Doctoral Program
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B.A. in Psychology & B.S. in Biological Sciences – University of California, Davis
Clinical Trainings
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Postdoctoral Training: Kaiser Permanente (Elk Grove/Sacramento, CA)
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Predoctoral Internship: Pacific Clinics, APA-Accredited Program (Pasadena, CA)
Awards and Recognition
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Bronze Psi Award, California Psychological Association (2017)
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Outstanding Student Award, John F. Kennedy University (2016)
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Certificate of Recognition, Assembly Member Jim Frazier (2014)
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White House Champions of Change (2012)
Life Beyond the Office
I love gardening—it’s my escape from the busy-ness of life and a way to slow down. I care for more than twenty fruit trees, most of which grow in wine barrels on a small plot of land. I also grow herbs, roses, and vegetables, which add variety and color to my little sanctuary. Gardening gives me the chance to focus on the dirt in my hands, a refreshing contrast to the mental focus required in my career. There’s something deeply rewarding about nurturing plants and watching them flourish, offering not only beauty but also a tangible sense of accomplishment with their blossoms, fruit, or fresh produce.