education & work experience

I am a California licensed Clinical Psychologist with specializations in adolescents, families, adults, addiction and the Gay & Lesbian population. I received my Masters degree in Clinical Psychology in 1994, my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 1998, both from the California School of Professional Psychology (now Alliant University). I received my license in California in February, 2000.

I've had extensive experience working in both inpatient (acute care and residential treatment) and outpatient settings for both adolescents and adults, I've received training in non-public school settings, conceived and implemented mental health programs in alternative school programs and the Juvenile Court and Community Schools. Additionally, I ran an adolescent outpatient substance abuse prevention and treatment program though the McDonald Center at Scripps Hospital, La Jolla, on an alternative school campus. I have also been in private practice treating both adults and adolescents since 1998, conducting short and long-term therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

I have taught as a part-time faculty at National University and University of LaVerne in graduate classes including

 Lifespan Development, 

Abnormal Psychology, 

Adolescent Psychology, 

Counseling and Interview Techniques

National University undergraduate classes:

 Senior Thesis Projects

 I have had several speaking engagements to the community, mental health professionals, school personnel, and professional groups on the following topics:

Co-Dependency & Family issues. 

How to Detect Signs of Substance Use in Adolescents. 

Substance Use & Addiction in the Professional Setting. 

Sexual Addiction and the Internet. 

Substance Abuse Treatment of the Addicted Parent - Impact of Child Abuse Issues. 

Assessment and Treatment of Dual Diagnosis.

I am a member of the

 American Psychological Association 

and the

 San Diego Psychological Association.