Biography

Education:

I graduated with honors from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. I attained a Master of Arts and a Doctorate of Philosophy degree in Clinical Psychology from Texas Tech University. I am licensed by the state of Texas to practice clinical psychology independently. 

Clinical Experience:

I have extensive experience working with people coping with different types of issues ranging from mild adjustment difficulties to chronic and severe psychosis. I have worked with clients in various treatment settings, including out-patient clinics, a university counseling center, a partial hospitalization program, nursing homes, psychiatric in-patient treatment, residential substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice.

My areas of specialization include relationship issues, loss / grief, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and post-partum adjustment. In addition, I treat both individuals and couples.

I use either a short-term approach or long-term approach to psychotherapy depending on the needs and wants of the client. 

Teaching Experience:

With regards to teaching, I have taught college level courses in psychology and have conducted training for police officers and correctional officers on topics including suicide prevention and communication. I have also taught and supervised graduate students in their clinical training.

About Psychotherapy

Most people have some anxiety about beginning psychotherapy or counseling. It can be difficult to discuss problems or be in a new and uncertain situation. However, after the first session, it becomes much easier and is often something that people look forward to. It can be exciting and challenging to work towards change and get to know your self better.

Although there are different types of therapies, most are based on the premise that psychic pain is caused by the meanings that are given to events and how the events are organized in your mind. In psychotherapy, the therapeutic relationship is used to help people become more aware of their expectations about other people. People also learn how they view themselves and the feelings that are associated with those views. The therapeutic relationship is unique in that both people are working towards the emotional growth of the client and place the client's needs first. This type of environment is needed to make therapy a safe place for self-exploration and self-expression. The therapist listens to and observes the client with acceptance and actively attempts to understand the meaning of the client's communications. The therapist may ask questions, clarify feelings, offer reassurance, interpret, or identify recurring themes. Through this process, the therapist guides the client in an effort to understand how they could gain more satisfaction in living.

Clarifying your own unique way of perceiving the world will help you perceive the world more clearly and provide a greater sense of security. This greater sense of security may lead to increased self confidence, decreased anxiety, and greater enjoyment in life. Although it can be difficult to begin, psychotherapy can help you learn new and more satisfying ways of experiencing yourself. It involves an investment in your self and your future.