I am a licensed clinical psychologist, as well as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with over 25 years of experience helping people with life's various challenges. My background includes working as a staff psychologist both at a women's college counseling center and at a large university student health center. I also worked as a therapist for the staff of the Survivors of the Shoah Visual History Foundation. Primarily, I have been in private practice since 1982, both in Berkeley and in L.A. My primary orientation and training is in psychodynamic theory, but I also integrate family systems and cognitive theory in my thinking and techniques when beneficial. My style in working with clients is highly interactive, because, in therapy, what is always important and healing is the relationship that develops between the two of us. I see each person as a unique individual in the context of your entire life, including present and past, work and home relationships, conscious and less-conscious thoughts and feelings. Therapy can also be seen as a way to get in touch with your true, authentic self, rather than the false self, which may be the phony face you show to others to feel accepted and avoid rejection. People who seek therapy want something to change. And I help my clients gain the self-awareness to identify their goals, and then understand more deeply what is keeping them stuck, and then, through working together, make the changes they need for a healthier life and more positive relationships.

My specialties include: anxiety -- stress management -- depression -- women's issues -- self-esteem -- relationship issues -- loss or grief -- divorce -- parenting -- step parenting/blended families -- life transitions -- work and career -- assertiveness training. I have particular expertise in issues of emotional and verbal abuse, as they pertain to dysfunctional relationships, both past and present. These issues are more subtle and harder to identify than physical abuse. The age range of my practice is anyone who is age 18 and older. The population that I specialize in is young adults, who often are dealing with issues of identity, separation from family, and confused relationships. I also have expertise in working with gay and lesbian clients. I see individuals and couples in my practice.

Check or cash. Fee per 50-minute session: $150. Sliding scale available. I do not accept insurance.