Psychoanalytic Therapists in South Pasadena, CA

There can be multiple reasons that bring someone in for a psychotherapy consultation. When a distinct problem occurs (marital separation, depression, a difficult parenting challenge, anxiety over one's relationships, self-destructive thoughts or behaviors, etc.), or, when one becomes aware of more amorphous and global issues in one's life (lack of growth, a pattern of isolation, lack of pleasure, etc.), it is useful to talk to someone with lots of clinical experience to begin to sort out and make sense of what is going on externally as well as internally. Careful listening to your particular situation is the first important step.

When it is overwhelming to be faced with life's many challenges, having an experienced and compassionate ally on your side can help you get through the tough times and also begin a process of growth and discovery. Seeking psychotherapy is a courageous step to create meaningful and lasting change. Dealing with the end of a relationship or the loss of a loved one can leave you feeling paralyzed; Uncertainty about how to face into the fears about career, school, and relationships can leave you feeling stuck; Occasionally one may just wake up feeling depressed, anxious or in physical pain.

As the Founder and Clinical Director of Oakwood Family Treatment Centers, I have been treating adolescents, young adults and their families for over 30 years as a psychotherapist, clinical director and consultant in both outpatient and residential programs. I treat such disorders as anxiety, trauma, family conflict, drug, alcohol and behavioral addictions, co-dependency, depression, ADHD, self-harming behaviors, and self esteem issues.

Sometimes we reach a point in our lives where we recognize that the way we've been living is not supportive of the type of life we want to create. Be it struggling with depression, anxiety, life-transition, parenting, relationships, pregnancy, or postpartum, we all need extra support to change, grow, and heal. I help you release old patterns and work through uncomfortable emotions to create more space in your life. By developing a healthier relationship with yourself you will be able to create healthier relationships with others. Together we create resources and tools that will support you as you embody new patterns and choices.

If you are thinking about coming to therapy, chances are there is something going on that is prompting you to do so. Perhaps it is a stressful job or relationship; or you may be struggling with anxiety or depression. And, what may seem to be the "problem" on the surface could actually be related to something on a deeper level. As your therapist, I will work with you to try and understand what this deeper level is all about--all the thoughts, feelings and memories and the relationship they have to your current problem or situation.

The process of finding a therapist can often be a daunting first step, and it can be difficult to know who to trust and who can help. A good fit with a therapist includes a feeling of safety and a belief that your therapist has the ability to help you. Clients who find themselves at home in my practice are people who experience chronic depression or anxiety, individuals with a history of family wounding, individuals with relationship or identity issues, couples with difficulty resolving arguments, teens in crisis, and those feeling stuck or in transition.

I believe that every day gives us the opportunity to approach our difficulties in a new way if we are open to the experience of change. When people come to see me they are usually in some kind of emotional pain, whether that be stemming from a recent trauma, loss, life transition or relationship struggle. Talking about it helps. My personal approach combines warmth, acceptance and respect with skill and dedication to understanding my clients’ unique needs.

The best advice I ever received about practicing psychotherapy was, “be a human first and a therapist second." To this day, I hold this sentiment in mind while sitting with my clients. While my approach is informed by robust training, I ultimately hold the view that you are the expert on your own life. I utilize our relationship to help you develop a stronger, more truthful relationship with yourself. From a place of deep awareness, you will feel more empowered to make choices that are right for you, more congruence, connection, and authenticity in your life, more freedom from what burdens you, and more control over your own story.

People seek therapy with me for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is about something specific like a relationship problem, eating disorder, parenting issue, or many other human dilemmas. At other times it is because of general feelings of depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating or dissatisfaction at work or in their relationships. We can talk on the phone to determine what you need and then I will work closely with you to determine the best course of therapy.

Every person has their own unique process of healing and growth. Psychotherapy is a valuable pathway toward finding balance and wholeness in your life. As your therapist, I approach my work with profound respect for your individual nature, values, and beliefs. Psychotherapy is essentially a collaborative process in which we work together to explore the difficulties you're facing and find solutions that will work for you. Real possibilities for meaningful change can emerge when the essence of your 'self' is genuinely understood. My goal is to support your journey as you move towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.

Reach out now, I have some valued in-person appointments available. I am a licensed psychologist and board-certified art therapist who has helped adults and families thrive for 30 years. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative and empowering. I enjoy helping you make sense of past experiences, live fully in the present moment, and dream about the future. I combine my understanding of psychodynamic, developmental, neurobiological and traumatic stress theory with my experience and intuition to nurture healing, growth and connection.

My clients are smart and resourceful. While their resilience may have resulted in successes, they find themselves overwhelmed and disconnected by stress, worry and hopelessness, struggling with transitions, challenges in relationships, identity, and an injured sense of self. Based in both personal experiences and formal credentials in Creative Writing and Psychology, I bring my passion for using words and inquiry to cultivate connection, insight and growth.

Feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Seeking more from your relationships? Or perhaps you've experienced a recent loss or disruption and are unsure how to cope? Psychotherapy can be a valuable resource. The success of therapy hinges on the quality of the relationship between you and your therapist, so I encourage you to take your time finding the right match. If you need relief from painful and confusing emotions, or if you want to deepen your self-understanding and strengthen your connections with others, I am here to help.

My clients often ask me, "How can I change this" in reference to a particular problem he or she might be having. My approach to treatment is to work closely with you in exploring and understanding the impact of your past with mindful attention to present problem solving. Therapeutic work requires a safe and confidential place to share your pain and struggles. Within this safe space, clients are often able to move forward and discover reasons behind self-defeating behaviors, resolve old issues, and become more authentic in present relationships.

When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.

The decision to begin therapy is a courageous one. You may be coming to therapy because of a variety of reasons such as emotional distress, relationship issues, challenging life transitions, or feeling alone in navigating personal struggles. I believe the most important element of effective psychotherapy is the genuine relationship between the patient and therapist. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can feel free to express your thoughts and feelings. Our goal together will be to work toward alleviating the stress, struggle or pain you may be going through.

Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.

My clients often begin therapy feeling lost, confused, stuck, or overwhelmed. Some are dealing with distress from a recent event, while others are hoping to address difficulties they've been struggling with for a long time. Maybe you're in difficult relationships or job situations. You might feel uncertain of who you are or what you really want. Maybe your day-to-day just feels like too much, and you want to make changes to reduce stress and feel more purpose and joy. Whatever the case may be, I'm glad you're seeking help. I'd be honored to listen to your struggles and help you find the path towards a more free and fulfilling life.

I'm a trauma-informed therapist specializing in mood disorders, somatic challenges, and relational distress. Also, I work with those who identify as neurodivergent, with specialized training in ASD and High Sensitivity. Overwhelm is our current cultural standard of functioning. It's hard to slow down, but emotional, and perhaps, physical pain suggest something needs to shift. Work with me to process trauma, and treat the anxiety, depression, and relationships that have you in painful patterns. Honor your capacity to grow and change. Clarify how you want to engage life and others. Recognize your well-being as a worthy goal.