I believe the basis of a successful psychotherapy experience is a warm, empathic and non-judgmental connection where clients feel understood, supported and accepted. My clinical work focuses on helping people with depression or anxiety issues, chronic or life-threatening illness, & chronic pain. In addition, I enjoy working with older adolescents and young adults who have been frustrated in trying to capitalize on their strengths & achieve their personal & professional goals. Our work may involve issues related to mood, behaviors, education/career, stage-of-life transitions, relationships, & sexuality or sexual orientation. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego. I am also Past President and Fellow of the American Psychosocial Oncology Society and a member of the American Psychological Association.