ABOUT ME

I am a doctor in social work (DSW) and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW #70039) with over 10 years of experience in designing, facilitating and evaluating evidence-based interventions for individuals, couples, families, and organizations. I am trained with the dual advantage of a scientist and clinician in addressing mental health, substance usage, and trauma issues with individuals, families, and communities.  

My approach is science-based, prevention-based, holistic-based, and wellness-based.  I work closely with you in a person-driven fashion to figure out what really motivates you to create lasting change on the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual front.  

I have provided clinical services and assessments in various complex settings from academia, nonprofits, community centers and the private sector. My background is in the management and training services of several evidence-based interventions research studies for individuals and families dealing with homelessness, legal issues, crisis, and military/veteran family trauma at UCLA and USC. I have also done research in delivering health programs through social network technology and mobile apps along with writing in peer-reviewed journals on effective programs for youth and families.  

I have led and provided clinical director duties to the Department of Mental Health, Regional Centers, and the Navy Bureau of Medicine. I have also led the clinical direction and oversight of using pharmacotherapy and telehealth to treat addiction across 6 Canadian provinces and California. Last, I have monitored and consulted on the clinical treatment plans addressing youth, individuals, and families' complex needs in high levels of care in inpatient, residential, PHP, and IOP.

Clinical Skills:  brief therapy  •  crisis intervention  •  psychodynamic  •  cognitive-behavioral therapy  •  solution-focused therapy  •  motivational interviewing  • mindfulness • stress management  •  lifestyle redesign  •  energy management  • relapse prevention • prolong exposure (PE)