California LCSW #86206
Welcome to Maluhia, we’re happy to see you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Clinical Director of Maluhia Psychotherapy Services. I offer telehealth sessions to better fit your needs. I have called a variety of states “home” including Arizona, California, Texas, and Washington; however I currently reside in California. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University, my Master’s degree from the University of Washington, and most recently my Doctoral degree from California Southern University. I have a wide experience working with adults from all walks of life and in most diverse settings. Specifically, I have completed training providing mental health services in community mental health clinics, in inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and at an outpatient rehabilitation facility. Further, my professional experiences includes providing individual therapy, group therapy, and psychodiagnostics evaluations to adults.
I specialize in “women’s issues” which is a broad term that defines many of the other areas in which women face challenges today some of the most prominent concerns include sexual assault, post-partum depression, the Bikini Industrial Complex, woman-specific health problems, body image problems, self-esteem, sexuality, discrimination, sexism, or stereotyping. I will provide a safe and supportive environment to help empower my clients so they can find balance, improve their quality of life, and experience relief from emotional suffering
As a therapist my commitment is to promote an accepting and confidential environment to encourage emotional support and safety during challenging life moments. Making the decision to seek therapy is a brave step, as it’s not always easy to share difficulties and accept help. I believe it takes courage to talk about struggles, feelings, or life-changing events. As your therapist, it will be my privilege to assist and embark with you in your journey towards a healthier life. You are not alone nor do you need to continue through this obstacle without support. I believe that with compassion and acceptance, healing and positive changes are possible.
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I feel fortunate to be a therapist, as I don’t see my career as a job, but a passion. Throughout my years in the field, I have felt much joy witnessing lives and relationships improve with therapy. Additionally, I have continued to expand my foundational knowledge to bring you cutting edge therapeutic practices to better fit your needs. As of early 2022, I am also now a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional – Level Two (CCTP-II). Which is a fancy way of saying I have more than 40 hours of specialized training in:
• Neurobiology & neuroscience of complex trauma and dissociation
• Expanded knowledge of the science & applicability of Porges’ Polyvagal Theory
• Neuroplasticity & neural networks
• Psychopharmacology – trauma specific
• Traumatic or disorganized attachment
• Styles/strategies/stages of attachment
• Symptoms of traumatic attachment
• Lack of attachment
• Neglect
• Developmental trauma; attachment-related trauma
• Assessment of psychological trauma including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and complex trauma
• Assessment tools & scales
My clients have described me as being creative, professional, and educational. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and interests. If you are ready to begin the process of healing for yourself, I am ready to be of assistance.