I have several years of experience as a therapist working with people of all ages, different cultural backgrounds, and a multitude of life experiences. I’m most experienced in working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I’ve supported many people through different kinds of life transitions and stressors, including people in the LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty service members (and spouses) of the military, and various other populations. I am particularly passionate about working with people during the perinatal period as they navigate the variety of challenges that accompany pregnancy and parenthood. My own lived experience of being a person in today’s world, a parent, and a client in therapy at different times in my life has afforded me with valuable insight into what it’s like to learn to trust and open up to a therapist. I consider it a tremendous privilege to have the opportunity to meet you and get to know you as we embark together on accomplishing your therapy goals!

How Can I Help You?
It can be quite a challenge to acknowledge when we need help. Sometimes, we realize we need support because of how we’re feeling, and other times we notice that our behavior is different than it used to be. Other times, we don’t notice anything until someone we know or love points out to us that something seems off. Therapy can be hugely beneficial in helping to explore and learn more deeply about ourselves, and how we relate to the world around us.

I take what’s called a person-centered approach to therapy, which means that I consider you to be the expert in your life. I see myself as a guide whose role is to help you identify and accomplish your treatment goals by developing a strong, authentic relationship with you as your therapist, teaching you different skills, and working collaboratively with you to make progress towards feeling better. I strive to maintain humility in the work I do, and am eager to learn about and understand the ways in which my own cultural background and experiences impact my work. I use various evidence-based approaches as a therapist, and do my best to tailor my approach to fit your unique needs. Some of these approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy. I’ve also received training in Cognitive Processing Therapy, an evidence-based approach for treating PTSD, as well as training in the treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs).

My Philosophy on Mental Health:
I believe therapy can be a hugely transformative process of self-discovery and change when you’re ready to fully engage in the process. It can also be extremely challenging, and even painful at times, to allow yourself to be vulnerable enough to deeply explore who you are. If you’re willing to try, I’d like to help you understand the function of whatever behaviors or ways of thinking you’re hoping to change. I’ve found it helpful to understand the purpose they may have served you at the time in your life when they developed. I believe it’s critically important to approach this understanding from a place of curiosity and not judgment, and I’ll likely remind you of this throughout our work together! Once we’ve established our understanding of how you came to be where you are today, I want to help you decide where you’d like to go next. I look forward to helping you along the way!

More About Me…
I have four babies – two young children and two adult cats! I love camping and hiking, as well as playing soccer on the weekends. In addition to my role as therapist at Freedom Within, I’m also the Clinical Director! I love supporting therapists in the ongoing growth and development of their professional identity and clinical work.

Fun Fact!
I love watching and going to baseball games. Go Dodgers!

Scheduling Information:
Alyssa provides both in person and virtual sessions. She is in network with Aetna, Cigna/Evernorth, Kaiser, Lyra and Tricare.