Therapy with Children

Each child is their own special mosaic of interests, temperament, personality, and identities. In working with children, my goal is to understand each in their uniqueness and join them within their inner worlds. This is mainly accomplished through play. Because play is children’s primary language, we know that this medium is one of the most effective ways to work with, support, and teach children. In my sessions I utilize both directive and nondirective play therapy techniques, I also use a combination of relational, attachment focused, and talk therapy interventions. My primary focus is in developing a sense of trust and a feeling of safety with my clients. Though my speciality is working with transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender creative kids, I also have experience supporting children who are struggling with depression, anxiety, pain management, and life transitions.

How We Work Together

In working individually with children my goal is to also work collaboratively with parents. Before meeting your child, I’ll meet with you to conduct an intake and discuss treatment needs. Our first meeting together will also allow you to ask any initial questions you have of me. Depending on the needs of your child during treatment, family and/or parent sessions can additionally be scheduled as needed to support their care.

For more info on my work with transgender children, click here.

Therapy with Adolescents

Working with adolescents brings me great joy. I love partnering with them through this exciting developmental period. This said, for parents, adolescence can be a more trying stretch. This can be the result of your child now shifting into an important developmental process called differentiation. Essentially this means they are starting to practice being independent in the world while also being safely tethered to you and your family. This tethering can result in a bit of a new push-and-pull dance between parent and child. Because adolescents are also now developing their own “tribe” (i.e. sense of belonging in a group) separate from their family, it may be helpful to partner with a therapist during this time who can serve as a trusted “tribe member.” This allows for your child to continue their process of differentiating while also having reliable guidance and support along the way.

In working with adolescents, for 13–14 year-olds I generally meet with parents first for an intake and then schedule an initial session with your child. For youth 15+ I have found that it is beneficial to the trust building process for me to meet with your child first, followed by an intake with parents.

For more info on my work with transgender adolescents, click here.

Transfeminine Youth Support Group

For many transfeminine youth, the journey toward greater authenticity during adolescence can bring up inner thoughts, feelings, and experiences that are difficult to navigate alone. Connecting with peers who share their gender identity can provide not only support but also a sense of joy in the process.

This closed group, designed for youth ages 12-14, meets biweekly and focuses on fostering meaningful connections among members. Together, they share experiences, strength, and hope, with discussions often centered on navigating their trans identity at school and with peers, while cultivating identity pride. The group offers a powerful sense of belonging, helping members grow together and strengthen their self-worth as they move through daily life.

My office is located in a very peaceful part of South Pasadena near the South Pasadena Library. I am walking distance from many lovely shops, bakeries, restaurants, and coffee shops on Mission street. I am also only about a 10 minute walk from the South Pasadena Gold Line stop. My office suite is on the first floor. Complimentary parking is available in the lot adjacent to my building.