Welcome, I am glad you are here. As a Licensed and Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, a Certified Partners Trauma Therapist, the co-author of Facing Heartbreak, and the Founding Director of Growth Counseling Services, I truly believe that with the support of an experienced, focused and dedicated therapist, growth and healing is possible no matter where you are in your journey. 

Seeking help is nothing to be ashamed of, and having the courage to reach out for support, no matter what the challenge, is something to feel proud of.

My therapeutic focus is to help my clients create lives they are proud of and excited about! I am especially passionate about helping individuals and couples recover from the shame and pain of sex addiction, or heal from the devastation and trauma as the betrayed spouse or partner.  We are here to support your healing. You may contact us here.

Why I Chose to Specialize in Sex Addiction

Clients often ask why I chose sex addiction as my primary specialization. Many years ago, I was going through my own healing process while in a relationship with a sexually addicted person. I know first hand the heartbreak and also the hope of healing through my personal journey all those years ago. As a result, my therapeutic focus and passion is working with individuals struggling with sex and porn addiction, wounded spouses and partners, and couples whose hearts have been broken due to sexual betrayal and addiction. As a therapist, I continue to hold that hope as I support the healing and recovery of my courageous clients as they heal and grow out of addiction, trauma, betrayal and anger, creating lives and relationships that are honest, authentic and rewarding.

Outside of My Role as a Therapist...

Now in my 50s, I have learned that balance is key in all areas of life. In my down time I love to get outdoors. I enjoy hiking, swimming in the ocean, yoga and Pilates, traveling, spending time with family and friends, as well as just hanging out and relaxing with my four-legged pals/pets. I also train in a form of self-defense martial arts called Muay Thai. 

Education/Credentials

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Lic.# 47920) and received my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, California where I wrote my thesis on "Internet Pornography: An Emerging Addiction in Males and the Psychological Impact on the Significant Other" which later became one of the inspirations for my book, "Facing Heartbreak: Steps to Recovery for Partner's of Sex Addicts"

In addition to my education and licensing, I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and CSAT Supervisor, a Certified Partners Trauma Therapist and supervisor, a certified Mindfulness Based Addiction and Trauma Therapist, an EMDR Level II Therapist, and a Gottman Trained Couples therapist. I received my credentials and certification through the prestigious International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals where I directly trained with the esteemed Dr. Patrick Carnes who pioneered the field of sexual addiction recovery.  

        Connect with Me

Thank you for taking time to learn more about who I am as a therapist and person. 

I know that finding a counselor that you feel comfortable with is a very important step in your journey of healing. I am happy to discuss how I, or a therapist with my center, can support you moving forward in your life.

You are welcome to contact me to schedule an appointment in my Glendora office, to hire me as a speaker or workshop leader for your event, or to ask any questions you may have about the services we provide at GCS.