I believe that relationships have the power to shape the quality of our lives. When our relationships are healthy and supportive, we feel more balanced, confident, and connected. When they are strained or painful, it can affect every part of our well-being. Helping people strengthen their relationships and navigate life’s challenges has been the focus of my work for more than 30 years.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and the founder of Laguna Beach Counseling, where I work alongside a team of talented and compassionate therapists who share a commitment to helping individuals, couples, and families create healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Throughout my career, I have also been deeply involved in training the next generation of therapists. For over 30 years I worked at Pepperdine University as the Manager of Clinical Training and Professional Development, where I helped guide and mentor students pursuing careers as marriage and family therapists and professional counselors. During that time, I worked with thousands of emerging therapists as they developed the clinical skills and confidence needed to support individuals, couples, and families.
In addition to my work in private practice, I serve as the Clinical Supervisor for the Behavioral Health Department at Laguna Beach Seniors, where I support the emotional well-being of older adults and mentor clinicians providing care within the community.
I am also the Co-Founder and CEO of the National Registry of Marriage Friendly Therapists, a nationwide network dedicated to helping individuals and couples connect with therapists who are committed to strengthening relationships.
In my clinical work, I focus on creating a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients feel comfortable exploring difficult concerns and gaining new insight into their lives and relationships.
My Approach to Therapy
My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and practical. I believe that meaningful change happens when people feel safe enough to talk openly about what they are experiencing while also gaining tools they can use in their everyday lives.
Every person and every relationship is unique, so therapy is always tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.
What Clients Often Say
Clients often share that they appreciate having a space where they feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment. Many people find that therapy helps them gain new perspective, improve communication in their relationships, and feel more confident navigating difficult situations.
Certifications / Awards / Memberships / Publications
- President of The National Honor Society in Psychology (PSI CHI Pepperdine Chapter)
- Straus Institute of Family Mediation Certificate
- Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Certificate
- Orange County Adoption Clinical Training Certificate
- Clinical Supervisor Training – AAMFT
- Clinical Supervisor Training – CAMFT
- Published Article in Family Therapy Magazine
- Completed Certificate Training in Grief and Loss
Current and Past Involvements
- Founding Member, American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists CA Division Educators Steering Committee
- Founding Member – Marriage and Family Therapists Educators Collaborative
- Marriage and Family Therapy Educator at Pepperdine University, 1999 – 2022
- Manager of M.A. Clinical Training and Professional Development at Pepperdine University, 1992 – 2022
- Co-founder and CEO of a National Marriage Therapy Resource, 2005 – present
- Founding Chair of the MFT Consortium of Orange County, 1994 – 2022
- Support Group Facilitator and Supervisor of the Behavioral Health Programs at Laguna Beach Senior Center, 2010 – present