I was born and raised on unceded Ramaytush Ohlone land (San Francisco) and grew up in an intergenerational and multiracial household, exposing me to a rich blend of cultures, experiences, and perspectives. These early experiences laid the foundation for my passion for understanding and honoring the complexity of human identities. With both my parents dedicated to public service, I was surrounded by a sense of purpose early on. My mother worked as an advocate for equal housing and employment rights and my father organized labor rights before becoming a rehabilitation counselor. Their commitment to social justice influenced my outlook and calling in counseling psychology.
I have worked in a variety of settings, including non-profits, community based organizations, government agency, private practice, and schools, focusing on wellbeing, mental health, and equity through counseling, consultation, and program development. My approach is grounded in the belief that mental health is intricately connected to broader societal contexts. This perspective is informed by my upbringing and the understanding that our individual wellbeing is intertwined with the wellbeing of our communities, and I bring this lens into every aspect of my work. While I am a strong believer in the positive impact of direct service, I also believe in the importance of building systems and programs that center prevention and early intervention.
California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, CA
Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology, Concentration in Somatic Psychology
In progress since 08/2021
Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA
Master of Arts, Counseling Psychology, 06/2014
University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
Bachelor of Arts, Anthropology, 06/2010
Teen Mental Health First Aid Instructor Certification
National Council for Mental Wellbeing, 07/2022
Youth Mental Health First Aid Certification
National Council for Mental Wellbeing, 08/2021
Embodied Social Justice Certification
The Embody Lab, 06/2021
Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Certification
Instituto Familiar De La Raza, 06/2017
Pediatric Massage Certification
Liddle Kidz Foundation, 03/2015
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