About

I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples which is extensively researched by Sue Johnson.  Sue has written a lovely book called “Hold Me Tight” for couples.  By focusing on emotional distress patterns of couples and helping them calm and sooth themselves they can then explore the safety and intimacy that allows for real connection and communication.

I am also trained  in EFFT (Emotionally Focused Family Therapy) with Dr. Paul Aiken, and Dr. Nancy Aiken excellent trainers in Davis California.  This training allows me to focus on the emotional distress in families that disrupt safe connection and secure bonding.

I have advanced trauma training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).  EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma.

I am a Diamond Path mindfulness practitioner since 2003.  I am also a teacher in training of the Diamond Heart Path since 2012. This training strengthens my capacity to be fully present with you and gives me knowledge and experience to help you learn to be more mindful, present and inquire as you discover your life experiences.

This path has been a major part of my life for 19 years.  The “Work” as it is called has facilitated my growth and maturity by helping me understand patterns that have trapped me into reactivity and automatic functioning.  By recognizing and becoming aware of these patterns and bringing understanding and awareness I can then be free of their grip.  This awareness is sometimes called the “noticing mind”.  This is critical for your journey also and I can share with you what I have learned over the years.

Mindfulness practice helps me focus my awareness on the present moment.  As I sense my breath and body, thoughts and reactivity begin to calm and settle.  I slow down and become aware of my feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations.  Mindfulness can be very helpful in therapy to help me be calm and aware as I help you to slow down racing thoughts that often move too fast to allow for awareness to uncover underlying often hidden feelings, memories and sensations.

I studied mindfulness and transpersonal spiritual practices at CIIS university in San Francisco California.  I have a Master of Arts, Integral Counseling Psychology from The California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, CA, May 2009