I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 32 years of professional work experience. I entered the field of Psychology in 1982 out of a deep desire to help people achieve personal growth and lead a healthier life, and out of a desire to increase my understanding of the mind. I received a B.A. degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and two years later I received an M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I graduated with honors on both occasions. Because of my passion and heartfelt desire to help people and acquire more knowledge, I was fortunate enough to make rapid advancement in the field, and while still an intern, I became Program Director for an adult, sub-acute inpatient facility and later for an residential adolescent facility. In 1998, I acquired my LMFT license and have been working both in private practice and for nonprofit treatment facilities serving children, adolescents, and their families. I utilize whole person therapy toward the goal of uniting body, mind, and spirit. When and only when requested by Clients, I integrate Biblical principles with clinical knowledge and focus on empowering people to reach their God given potential and work toward improving and finding genuine, fulfilling relationships. I have also studied many religions and use a holistic approach for people of other religions. I specialize in family, marital, pre-marital, and individual therapy in the treatment of the most common problems like depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have a genuine heart for people, and my interpersonal approach emphasizes warmth, acceptance, and unconditional love. I am currently working on completing my first book.
Additional areas of focus: Abandonment, Attachment issues, Communication problems, Divorce and separation, Family of origin issues, Family problems, Fatherhood issues, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Men's issues, Midlife crisis, Veteran and Armed Forces Issues, Mood disorders, Multicultural concerns, Post-traumatic stress, Prejudice and discrimination, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-love, Sex addiction, Sexual dysfunction, Sexuality, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues, Young adult issues
Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CA LMFT 35177