As a clinician with over 20 years of LGBTQ+ advocacy and 15+ years of specialized experience in risk assessment and diagnostic evaluations, I am deeply committed to providing affirming, trauma-informed care in a world where systemic inequities—and increasingly, political hostility—directly impact the mental health of this community.

My practice prioritizes supporting LGBTQ+ individuals navigating societal stigma, discriminatory policies, and the emotional toll of being targeted by harmful legislation. Through advanced trainings like “LGBTQ Youth: Clinical Strategies to Support Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity” and “Evidence and Action to Support and Affirm LGBTQI+ Youth,” I’ve honed tools to help clients cope with external stressors, from family rejection to institutional marginalization, while fostering resilience and self-advocacy.

Beyond clinical work, I’ve taught courses on Adolescence (Cal Poly), Research Methods (Cal Poly), and Abnormal Psychology (UMBC). I have trained clinicians/hospital staff in assessments, therapeutic milieus, and de-escalation strategies. My advocacy is both professional and personal: as a close ally to LGBTQ+ loved ones, I witness firsthand the courage it takes to exist unapologetically in a politicized climate.

Services Include:

Gender-affirming evaluations (e.g., letters for medical transition)

LGBTQ+ adolescent mental health (anxiety, depression, trauma rooted in stigma)

Coping with anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination (political, social, or familial)

Identity-affirming therapy for those facing societal invalidation

Education/consultation for organizations on LGBTQ+ inclusivity and allyship

I believe therapy should be a radical act of validation in a world that often denies LGBTQ+ voices. Together, we’ll confront external pressures while nurturing your autonomy, joy, and sense of belonging.