therapeutic approach

I specialize in the provision of evidence based treatments for trauma-related disorders.  I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety and mood disturbances and in the treatment of relationship difficulties and life transitions.  I encourage value-congruent action which oftentimes sparks increased energy and greater livelihood.

therapeutic style

I take pride in customizing the therapeutic process to ensure progress is goal-driven and effective.  I resonate with the belief that we are all humans AND we are all vulnerable, working to realize our own capacity and sense of vitality.  We each walk our own path and desire to do this with authenticity.  This is the process that propels us to StandTall in our own lives.

I am active in the therapy room.  The therapy room can be both a safe space and also one of creativity.  Expect me to jump in and be curious with you.  Expect me to point out your strengths and sometimes ask challenging questions. Expect me to use humor at times.  I expect you to learn and understand how your improvements are related to your therapeutic work so you can complete therapy with confidence.

current positions and background

I am the Director of StandTALL, a trauma-focused psychotherapy clinic in the Bay Area. In addition, I am a Staff Psychologist at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System specializing in the provision of empirically supported, trauma-focused treatments for veterans presenting with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Finally, I am an affiliated Clinical Professor at the Stanford University School of Medicine, teaching and supervising psychiatry residents and clinicians.  I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and a predoctoral clinical internship at Duke University Medical Center.  I received my clinical doctorate degree from the PGSP-Stanford Psy.D. Consortium. 

Most recently, I have completed specialty training with Columbia University’s Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma in working with journalists who are exposed to occupational stress and trauma. I have a strong appreciation for the role of journalism in society. I utilize HIPAA-compliant telehealth software and I have also received training from the Freedom of the Press Foundation on best practices for digital security.