Couples Counseling Therapists in Pasadena, CA

Therapy is about finding the right fit with someone you trust. I recognize the importance of beginning where you are at through collaboration, empathy, and guided self-examination. If you are feeling stuck in your life or healing from old wounds, I will help you develop new coping skills, healthy boundaries, and turn insight into action. The most courageous moments provide the greatest growth. Collectively, we can add more tools to your toolbox. Through introspection, depth work, and a strong working relationship , I will listen to each important detail of your life story and build upon your strengths and abilities.

I enjoy working with the client's present day experience while bringing in relevant aspects of one's personal history. I work collaboratively with my clients on re-creating a life of healing and fullness. Therapy might mean working through depression and anxiety, significant events in the past, exploring spiritual meanings, all the while exploring the here-and-now. Having had extensive international experiences, I also actively engage in an intercultural frame and approach in therapy, exploring cultural values and intergenerational issues. Wellness is actively defined by the forces and people that has shaped and continues to shape us.

Do you have a hard time saying no? Feel emotionally drained, insecure, or stuck in people-pleasing? Does conflict feel uncomfortable or scary? Do you fall into patterns in relationships, friendships, or work and wish you could break the cycle? Sometimes, it isn't obvious why we do the things we do, but we can sense we're not our most authentic or successful self. And even when we know the cause of our distress, changing our behavior can still be hard. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, pressure, or bias and help you examine the root causes of your challenges to create the change you want in your life.

I believe that everyone deserves a chance at happiness and healing and if I can be of any help in that process, directly or indirectly, I want to be. Over the years I have been in awe of the courage of my clients and their willingness to fight for their healing and happiness. The past cannot be changed, but our relationship to it can. My goal is to assist in allowing your past to be part of your story & not let the past dictate your future so you can live in the present

I am invested in helping my clients find their strengths among the challenges they may face in life. I consider it a privilege to create and hold space for them to do the work which will allow them to live to their greatest potential. My experience working with individuals, couples and families in a multitude of settings helps me better understand the complexities and uniqueness of individuals. I partner with my clients to create meaningful change in their lives, so that they feel connected and thrive.

Pain hurts and is often what brings us into therapy. Buried in the hurt is a small seed of a hope for change. As your therapist, I see you as a whole and complex person and not just your "problems." As safety and trust are created between us, therapy and the therapeutic relationship can be a vehicle for change and healing. The unique relationship we'll build will provide new ways of being and relating out in the world and within you.

Are there problems in your relationship that have been eating away at you? Your relationship did not start out like this. Do you still remember when your relationship brought you happiness, when you enjoyed being around the other person? Over time, problems build up and relationships change. Don't let this drag on any longer, let me help you. I know how to help couples stop fighting, to re-build trust and love for each other, bringing back the sense of intimacy, support, and happiness.

Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.

I have had the joy of working with individuals for over 18 years who find themselves struggling with problems related to work/life balance, stress, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues as well as questions related to life’s purpose. I have had the opportunity to work with those in the creative industry in Los Angeles to those in the high demand tech community of Silicon Valley. I have seen first hand the impact of stress, loneliness, worry and depression. My goal is to support an individual in feeling better beginning day one with strategies that can immediately be implemented.

Do you have relationship problems or sexual concerns? The focus of my practice is working with individuals and couples who want to enhance and transform their relationships and improve their overall quality of life. My style is open and direct, and I provide a warm, safe environment to discuss concerns which people often find difficult to talk about.

I really enjoy helping people who are entering counseling for the first time because I get to show them what a safe place it can be to receive personal support during challenging times. Counseling isn't meant to be "forever" -- but it can be a powerful, transitional tool to help you when breakthrough feels elusive and you feel like you've tried everything. It can be just the boost you need to get going again on your journey!

Are you currently struggling with stress or relationship challenges? Many people struggle balancing the demands of life. It is not easy to ask for help. You don't need to suffer alone. Although you may be going through a hard time, you also are worthy of receiving care. I am here to listen and to assist in strengthening self-esteem and to offer ways to increase self-compassion. I practice with a person-centered approach and have extensive education. I enjoy working with individuals, couples , and families on creating meaningful life experiences and in overcoming difficult challenges.

Depressed & anxious adults who are self-critical and self-shaming and couples who bicker and get entangled easily are the populations I serve. Childhood roots of these patterns are explored, while clients learn to replace criticism and shame with kindness. Clients learn to "sit still" with emotions, rather than avoiding uncomfortable feelings through compulsive, "busy", or destructive behaviors. This process assists clients in reducing depression and anxiety, while increasing self-confidence, assertiveness, creativity, and tolerance for intimacy. Couples learn to communicate feelings and needs without using attacking words, and learn how to dis-entangle from eachother after "buttons" have been pushed.