I was born and raised in a rural agricultural town in California, the first generation in my family to grow up on this soil rather than work it. My roots are deep in the fields where my family labored—where values like humility, endurance, and mutual care weren’t just passed down, they were lived. From an early age, I understood the importance of staying grounded—in our identities, in our histories, and in the communities that hold us up. In high school, I found my voice as a community organizer. I stood shoulder to shoulder with others in school walkouts, advocating for human dignity, rights, and justice. It was during those formative years that I began to truly understand the transformative power of resilience. I listened to stories of people who held tight to their culture, pride, and purpose—even in the face of hardship and hate. It taught me a truth I carry into every room I enter as a therapist: our identities are not burdens—they are sources of strength. My journey into counseling began with a simple belief: that to truly serve others, we must also learn how to serve ourselves. Life brings us moments that shake us to our core. But I believe we all possess the inner resources—the insight, the will, the wisdom—to meet those moments. My role as a counselor is not to “fix” anyone, but to collaborate with you. To help you recognize, strengthen, and connect with the tools you already have within you. Therapy with me is intentional, grounded, and collaborative. I work with individuals who want to feel more connected to themselves, their values, and the life they want to lead. Whether you are navigating trauma, loss, cultural identity, anxiety, or simply feeling disconnected, we will work together to help you find clarity and movement through it all. I honor the courage it takes to ask for help. You do not have to do it alone—and you never have.