Therapy for Anxiety, Identity, and Relationship Patterns

If you’ve found yourself feeling stuck—repeating the same patterns in relationships, carrying persistent self-doubt, or trying to hold things together while something underneath feels off—therapy can be a place to understand why.

I work closely with individuals from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those navigating questions of identity, belonging, and cultural expectations. These experiences are not treated as secondary—they are central to the work.

My approach is not about quick fixes or surface-level solutions. It’s about helping you step back and look more closely at what’s shaping your thoughts, emotions, and relationships so that change becomes possible in a more lasting way.

What to Expect in Therapy

Our work will focus on understanding patterns—especially the ones that feel difficult to change on your own. That might include:

• Anxiety, overwhelm, or persistent self-criticism

• Relationship patterns that feel repetitive or difficult to shift

• Questions of identity, belonging, or cultural expectations

• The impact of childhood or earlier life experiences

• Feeling disconnected from yourself or uncertain about direction

We slow things down and examine these experiences carefully. The goal is not just insight, but a meaningful shift in how you relate to yourself and others.

Psychodynamic Therapy Approach

I work from a psychodynamic and relational perspective, focusing on how earlier experiences—especially in relationships—continue to shape your present life.

Together, we identify patterns that may once have made sense but no longer serve you. This process is collaborative and reflective, helping bring awareness to thoughts and feelings that are often outside of immediate awareness.

I also approach therapy with attention to identity, culture, and lived experience, recognizing how these shape emotional life and relationships.

Who I Work With

I have particular experience working with:

• College students, graduate students, and young professionals

• Individuals navigating life transitions and career pressure

• People dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress

• Individuals from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities

• Patients seeking deeper, insight-oriented therapy

My clinical background includes work in a university counseling center and with diverse populations across different stages of life.

Training and Background

I earned my Master of Science in Counseling from Saint Mary’s College of California, where I provided psychotherapy to college students and trained in psychodynamic and person-centered approaches.

Before this, I worked in educational and therapeutic settings with children and adolescents, which informs my understanding of development, relationships, and long-standing emotional patterns.

AMFT Supervision and Credentials

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #156152). This means I have completed my graduate training and am working toward full licensure under supervision.

My work is supported through regular clinical consultation. I am supervised by Kristy Shanks, LCSW, who provides additional oversight to ensure high-quality care.

Now Accepting New Patients in Oakland and Virtually in CA

I am currently accepting new patients, under supervision, for ongoing, depth-oriented psychotherapy. Want to work with me?  I am in-network for some types of SHIP, Blue Shield of CA, and Anthem Blue Cross coverage, and offer a lower fee for out-of-network. Please use the “Book an Appointment” button on this page to get started.