I started Evolve with the hope of making it easier to find outpatient treatment for eating disorders. Each time I returned a call from someone seeking therapy, I understood their frustration in how hard it can be to find a clinician. I wanted to be able to provide them with concrete referrals to ease their overwhelm. Yet, at times it felt like I was sending them out in the wild, not knowing which clinicians did have availability or if their schedules would align. I knew there had to be an easier way.
I began sharing my idea with therapists and dietitians who I highly regarded in their work. From our beginnings in 2016 as a group of three, we’ve grown to a team of 15. I am deeply grateful for having this opportunity to work alongside such a talented group of women.
My Clinical Work
In the therapy room with my clients, I enjoy bridging the mindful and self-exploratory sides of psychology with concrete, evidence-based techniques in my work. I want my clients to feel grounded with greater clarity, self-acceptance, and peace when they leave each session. I tend to be quite active in the session, providing accountability and concrete tools to bring about the changes my clients seek to make to improve the quality of their lives. My belief that we are all seeking inner growth fosters a trusting and respect-based therapeutic relationship.
In hopes of furthering support to those who do not live in California or may not have the access to local eating disorder support, I created an online course, Stop Bingeing, Start Living. This course is based on my book and goes more in to depth on the key approaches and tools I use with my clients to help them recover.
I have also enjoyed supporting my colleagues as they navigate both the business and clinical aspects of the work as a therapist. I currently offer business coaching and consultation to mental health practitioners who are striving for a full practice and a great work/life balance.
My Why
From a young age, I felt a strong desire to support and nurture those around me. As I began considering my career path, I knew I wanted to find a way to work with others in a meaningful way. During my first psychology class in high school, I became intrigued by the science of human behavior and the impact of our thoughts and feelings on the quality of our lives.
During my undergraduate education, I grew more certain this field was my calling and continued on the path toward earning my license. I feel blessed to be able to do this form of healing work with my clients, and I strongly believe in the power of therapy to transform lives.
License & Education
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, MFC 52030
- Master’s Degree, Counseling Psychology, University of San Francisco
- Bachelor’s Degree, Psychology, University of Wisconsin
Training & Certifications
2020 – Certified Consultant, The International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (IAEDP)
2019 – Author, The Loneliness Companion – A Practical Guide for Improving Your Self-Esteem and Finding Comfort in Yourself
2019 – Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, The International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (IAEDP)
2019 – e-book Contributing Author, Redefining Wellness – The Ultimate Diet-Free Guide for Teens & Families
2018 – Author, Stop Bingeing, Start Living: Proven Therapeutic Strategies for Breaking the Binge Eating Cycle
2016 – Founder, Evolve Wellness Group, San Francisco, CA
2015 – 2016 – Individual Supervisor, University of San Francisco Center for Child and Family Development, San Francisco, CA
2014 – 2015 – Therapeutic Coach, Lantern, Web-Based Coaching for Anxiety, Depression, and Body Image, San Francisco, CA
2014 – 2015 – On Call Therapist, Center for Discovery Residential Eating Disorder Program, Menlo Park & Fremont, CA
2009 – 2013 – Program Director/Lead Therapist, La Ventana Eating Disorder Program, San Francisco, CA
2007 – 2010 – Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, University of San Francisco Center for Child and Family Development, San Francisco, CA
2005 – 2010 – Research Associate 1, Blood Systems Research Institute, San Francisco, CA
2006 – 2007 – Crisis Hotline Volunteer, Certified Domestic Abuse Counselor, WOMAN, Inc., San Francisco, CA
2004 – 2005 – Psychosocial Support and Prevention Services Intern, UCSF AIDS Health Alliance, San Francisco, CA
Professional Affiliations
Media
German Public Radio – Drugs and Eating Disorders in Silicon Valley, The Price of Self-Optimization
Podcast interview – Growing a Group Practice, Becoming a Published Author, and Managing Burnout While Building a Business
