About Me

Welcome! Thank you for visiting my web page.

Biography

I'm originally from Washington, D.C. but have lived in California for almost half of my life. I earned my undergraduate degree at SF State University in physiology. After completing my medical degree as well as a master’s degree in research in New York, I then had my psychiatry residency at California Pacific Medical Center San Francisco.I moved to Southern California because I wanted a change, including the great, sunny weather and to work at Kaiser Permanente. I chose to become a doctor because I enjoy the role of being a health educator as well as a strong patient advocate. I also recognized the tremendous need for competent mental health care of all people living in more and more demanding and stressful times. I can't imagine doing anything else more fulfilling.

About my practice

I like to look at clinical problems and each individual holistically, which involves my understanding their sociocultural, historical, psychological, and biological frameworks that influence each person's development and mental health. I like to couple judicious psychopharmacology with psychotherapeutic interventions in sessions to help patients make positive changes in their lives. I tend to look at this as an ongoing partnership with the patient, helping them make the most informed decisions about medications and how they live their lives in a client centered, and non-judgmental manner.

How I thrive

Staying well is important. Striking a balance between work, family, and leisure can be challenging. I like to recharge by running (love long runs and or hikes), as well as enjoying music and art. I'm an amateur cellist, and when I have time, I even jam out every so often. Music has that potential to transport the mind and spirit to unimaginable places and allow us to achieve ineffable emotions and spiritual resonance. I think this and other art forms are healing for the mind, body, and soul.