HI!

Since this is the jumping off point for our relationship, I’d like to share what brought me here and why I love helping my clients…

My father and grandfather were physicians, and I found myself drawn to a community of healers and health practitioners.

Growing up, I experienced many transitions and losses, including immigrating to the USA, learning a new language and starting over, feelings of not belonging and the pressure to succeed. With support and great mentors, I not only discovered my resilience and capacity to thrive, but I also developed a greater understanding of cultural diversity and appreciation for the challenges that come with it .

After graduating from UCLA, I briefly worked as a career counselor with new immigrants and enjoyed making a difference in their lives. This inspired me to use my humanity and curiosity to continue my journey of 20 years in psychotherapy, healthcare, and academic teaching.

My Credentials

EDUCATION

  • University of Southern California, Master of Social Work.

  • University of Southern California, Master of Health Administration.

  • UCLA, Bachelor of Arts, History.

POST-GRADUATE TRAINING/CERTIFICATION

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Internship, Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

  • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Teacher Training Intensive with Jon Kabat Zin.

  • Mindful Self-Compassion: Core Skills Training with Kristen Neff and Kris Germer.

  • Foundational and Advanced Mediation Skills Certification, National Conflict Resolution Center.

  • Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy Level I and II Training with Sue Johnson.

  • Advanced training in Attachment Science, Internal Family Systems, Grief and Loss and Trauma Therapies.

EXTRAS: I AM MORE THAN JUST A THERAPIST!

  • 20+ combined years of therapy, leading, teaching, and mediation.

  • World traveler and avid learner of culture.

  • 25+ years yoga and mindfulness practitioner.

  • Active Toastmasters member.

  • 15+ years Argentine tango and salsa dancer.

  • Fluent in Russian and a student of the Spanish language.

  • I believe physical activity, a healthy diet, social activities, and a sense of community contribute to balance and emotional well-being.

Scope of Experience

Corporate | Healthcare | Teaching | Therapy

After finishing my graduate studies at USC, my work included Project Management and Operations at Tenet Healthcare. I worked as director of Operations for a Healthcare Technology StartUp, followed by years of Clinical Medical Social Work and Psychotherapy at Keck Hospital of USC, Kaiser Permanente, Good Samaritan Hospital and at my private practice.

I always enjoyed teaching and mentoring which led to my developing an Internship Program for graduate social work students at Keck Hospital USC. I was an Adjunct Faculty at USC School of Social Work, teaching graduate courses: Grief, Loss and Bereavement and Clinical Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups .

I taught Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for patients and employees and facilitate a cancer support group for women and their loved ones for 14+ years. Over the years, I have helped thousands of patients manage anxiety and depression, navigate their healthcare and wellbeing, and set personal goals to improve their lifestyle through reconnecting with their mind and bodies.

I am also an ombudsman/mediator, who works with patients, providers, and healthcare organization to facilitates difficult conversations. I listen deeply, clarify misunderstandings and conflicts, and get at the underlying emotions regarding conflict and unexpected adverse medical events. I understand the challenges healthcare providers and patients face in our complex healthcare system.