Contemplative Psychotherapy therapists in Menifee, CA

"When experience matters! Specializing in ALL relationship challenges including complex, court related custody related and extended family related challenges. I can help you with Therapy using zoom visits for multiple people, I have a nice office you could come into and Mission Viejo. I am a nationally recognized "Marriage-Friendly Therapist." and advanced training in Couple, Family, custody and anger management and Discernment Counseling. I see children of all ages and we can talk about the best way to do this. Online or Mission Viejo office sessions. Prompt /emergency appointments  

I have 26 years of experience in the helping profession, and I have been practicing as a licensed psychotherapist for the past 18 years. During this time, I have helped children, teenagers, adults, and families resolve conflicts and successfully cope with adverse physical, mental and behavioral health issues. I also have treated homeless military veterans as well as individuals with intellectual issues, posttraumatic stress, eating disorders, codependency, domestic violence, and chemical dependency. I have provided individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and art therapy in both English and Spanish. I have also provided group and individual supervision to pre-licensed therapists.  

I believe that even in the middle of a crisis, there is a real opportunity for profound growth. My path to understanding the human condition began in the theater and the study of Method Acting, where I learned to look beneath the surface to explore how internal experience drives outward behavior. This "inside-out" perspective remains central to my work: helping you align your internal reality with your external actions. Over my 20-year career, my approach has continually evolved. After graduating from top universities and training programs, I was mentored by leading experts in trauma, addictions, and relationship dynamics. This foundation led me to establish a successful group practice in Orange County, teach psychology at UC Irvine, and serve on the Board of Directors and as Chair of the Professional Practice Committee for the Orange County Psychological Association. However, my career is only part of the story. In the midst of professional achievement, I navigated a deep personal crisis and divorce that transformed my understanding of therapy. This led me on my own journey of growth—including seven years living in Asia, studying with Buddhist monks, and caring for local villagers. What I offer today is an integration of rigorous academic training and Eastern wisdom. My decision to practice psychology grows from a sincere desire to relieve suffering and transform life's hardships into catalysts for self-actualization. I combine empirical psychological methods with the cultivation of an "awakened heart"—a state of genuine presence, nervous system regulation, and deep connection to what matters most. What to Expect in Our First Session Our first meeting is about more than cataloging problems; it is an opportunity to assess the "internal climate" of your life. Together, we will examine the patterns that are no longer serving you, identify where old narratives or high-pressure reactions have you "hooked," and see what is holding you back from living authentically. I believe therapy should offer a shift in perspective from the very first hour. You will leave our initial session with practical, evidence-based tools designed to settle your "biological alarm" and transition your nervous system from a state of defense to one of openness and flexibility. By the end of our first meeting, we will begin clarifying a personalized roadmap for long-term change, leaving you with immediate skills to start shifting your life from day one. Core Strengths & Therapeutic Philosophy A Life Dedicated to Inner Work: I don't ask you to do work I haven't done myself. My insights stem from extensive clinical training, decades of deep meditation, and navigating my own pivotal life transitions. I bring a perspective that is both seasoned and deeply empathetic. Creating a Foundation of Safety: True change requires safety. By blending a warm, collaborative connection with a structured success plan, I help you settle constant internal alarm systems, moving you from the exhaustion of perpetual "doing" into a grounded state of "being." Moving Toward What Truly Matters: I help you spot the cycle of avoidance—the habits we build to run away from pain or fear—and redirect your energy toward positive growth, core values, and meaningful action. A Strategic, Personal Roadmap: I reject one-size-fits-all, standardized protocols. By strategically blending evidence-based practices (CBT, ACT, Clinical Hypnosis, Imago, and Structural Family concepts) with Eastern principles, we build a customized success plan designed specifically for your life. Who I Work Best With I specialize in working with adults and professionals who feel stuck at a critical crossroads—whether navigating a major life or career transition, relationship strain, burnout, trauma, or a recurring pattern they are ready to break. My clients appreciate insight, structure, and forward movement. They want more than a space to vent; they are ready to understand themselves deeply and take concrete steps toward lasting change. Practice Details & Credentials Education: Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology (APA-Accredited, UT Austin); M.A. in Developmental Psychology (Teachers College, Columbia University); B.A. in Psychology (UC Santa Cruz). Licensure & Certifications: Licensed Psychologist in California (PSY 17495) and Singapore Registered Psychologist. Session Formats: Virtual sessions & In-person care in Roseville, CA. Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Trauma & PTSD, Stress & Burnout, Relationship Dynamics, Men's Issues, and Military/Veterans care.  

I am a mindfulness-based and proactive Psychotherapist who strives to support people heal through the rough places and find growth out of those challenges. My deep desire is to help my clients find peace in their lives and relationships. Looking at and tending to our Shadow Work and our own limiting beliefs is also something I assist with and have written a book on how to do that. If you are ready to take your life to the next level, then I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.  

I have come to the field of psychotherapy following a diverse and meandering path. I consider myself a fellow traveler, working on my own growth and transformation, while in service to my clients. Supporting others along the way in their suffering and joy has been integral to my journey. ​