Hey, I’m Erika.

Helping you get unstuck (with empathy, curiosity, and often humor). Therapy for life’s messy middle—big shifts, real talk, and figuring it out as you go.

My Approach

I believe therapy should feel like a safe space to explore, reflect, and grow. I use a client-centered approach, meaning I meet you where you are, without judgment or assumptions. Each person’s journey is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit your specific needs and goals. I aim to empower you to make changes if you wish and give you tools to move through life’s transitions with greater ease and clarity.

Who am I?

I’m a strength-based, attachment-focused therapist who blends narrative and mindfulness approaches. I work with teens, men, and women—especially those navigating life’s messy middle: big changes, identity shifts, grief, or just feeling stuck.

I’m not the “just nod and take notes” kind of therapist. I show up fully. I’ll ask questions, reflect what I hear, challenge patterns gently, and always respect your pace. Therapy with me is a collaborative process where your voice leads, and I walk beside you as a guide, witness, and steady presence.

My passion for this work runs deep. I grew up as a protective sibling to my younger sister, who had both bipolar disorder and intellectual disabilities. Her passing in 2022 shaped the path I’m on today: creating the kind of support I once wished existed, especially for siblings and others carrying invisible roles.

Now a mom to two girls, I bring both lived experience and clinical training into the room—offering steady support through whatever life’s throwing at you.

Using a client-centered lens, I meet people where they are. Sometimes, what brings someone to therapy is just the tip of the iceberg—and part of the work is uncovering what lies beneath the surface.

I help clients speak their truth with honesty and clarity, challenge old patterns, and reconnect with parts of themselves they may have lost touch with.

I am a good fit for:

  • Teens: Adolescence is a time of immense change, and I work with teens who are navigating challenges related to self-identity, relationships, school stress, or family dynamics. Together, we’ll explore how to better understand themselves and build the tools to thrive.

  • Men: Many men feel like they have to shoulder life’s challenges without asking for help. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for men to talk about the pressures they face—whether it's work stress, family expectations, or emotional struggles—and find new ways to manage those pressures.

  • Women in Transition: Whether it’s navigating the empty nest phase, adjusting to menopause, or redefining your role after years of caregiving, I help women reimagine their life paths, rediscover their passions, and live with greater clarity and purpose.

  • Siblings of Individuals with Support Needs: Having grown up with a sister who had a dual diagnosis of bipolar disorder and intellectual disabilities, I am deeply passionate about supporting siblings in similar situations. I offer specialized support for those navigating the unique challenges of sibling relationships, caregiving, and the grief that comes with the loss of a sibling.

Whether you’re here to sort through the past, make a change, or just need space to breathe—I’d be honored to be part of your journey.

A Deeper Look

I focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table, rather than just looking at challenges. By recognizing your capabilities, we can work together to build confidence, resilience, and create a roadmap for growth

Strength-based Therapy

Attachment-focused Therapy

Our earliest relationships shape the way we connect with others throughout our lives. Whether you’ve struggled with childhood attachment or are navigating relationship challenges as an adult, I help you understand your attachment patterns and how they influence your present relationships.

Your story is your power. I help you examine your personal narrative, explore the beliefs and experiences that shape how you see yourself, and rewrite parts of that story that no longer serve you. This approach gives you the space to reframe and reclaim your identity on your terms.

Narrative Therapy

Mindfulness techniques help us stay grounded in the present moment, reduce stress, and build awareness of our thoughts, emotions, and body. I integrate mindfulness practices into sessions to help you stay connected with yourself and develop greater emotional regulation and self-compassion.

Mindfulness Practices

FAQ

  • I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a Master of Arts in Counseling from Saint Mary’s College of California. My academic background, combined with personal lived experience, informs my compassionate, down-to-earth approach to the therapeutic relationship.

    Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #140995

    Supervised by Pierre Vilanoba, LMFT #116891

  • Therapy with me is a collaborative process where we work together to uncover what’s holding you back and explore new ways forward. Here’s what to expect:

    • A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space: Therapy is a place for you to be heard, understood, and respected. We’ll build a relationship of trust where you can share openly and feel supported.

    • Practical Tools and Techniques: Therapy isn’t just about talking; it’s about making changes. I’ll work with you to develop actionable strategies that align with your goals, whether it’s managing anxiety, navigating relationships, or gaining a deeper understanding of yourself.

    • Empathy and Humor: I believe in the power of empathy and humor to help ease difficult moments. Change can be hard, but it doesn’t have to be without moments of lightness. We’ll navigate your journey together, with a compassionate and open heart.

    • Length of Sessions: Typically, sessions are 50 minutes, but I can adjust depending on your needs.

    • Format: I offer both in-person and virtual sessions to accommodate your preferences.

    • Sliding Scale: I believe everyone deserves access to therapy, so I offer some spots at sliding scale based on your financial situation. Please reach out to discuss options.

    • Session Fees: $180

    • Insurance: I don’t accept private insurance directly, but I can provide a monthly superbill (a detailed receipt) that you can submit to your insurance provider for possible reimbursement. I recommend checking with your plan in advance to see what out-of-network benefits may apply.

Get in Touch!

Let’s connect. No pressure—just a conversation to see if we’re a good fit.