I am a 1st generation immigrant and 1st generation American.  I am of Costa Rican, Nicaraguan, and German heritage. I am multilingual and fluent in English, Spanish, and Spanglish (I do not sprechen Deutsch).

 

I grew up in South Florida and initially only attended college to pursue my athletic ambitions of playing college football.  My time in college and as a student athlete took me places I never dreamed, created life long friendships, provided me with a valuable education, and taught me many valuable life lessons. 

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Professionally, my 20+ year career took a "less traditional path." After obtaining my bachelor's degree in social work, I worked for many years with juveniles in various community and educational settings.  As a licensed social worker, I provided prevention programming for youth and families.  These experiences led me to pursue an MSW degree in hopes of becoming a mental health therapist.  After several years of working as a bilingual therapist, I realized that my true calling was to become a psychologist which led me to pursue my doctoral degree.  I often say that the social worker in me saw a need and filled it by pursuing my doctoral degree in psychology. 

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I have gained extensive experience in a variety of settings including community outpatient services, non-profit agency, university counseling, substance abuse treatment, inpatient services, juvenile corrections, domestic violence, and employee assistance programs. 

 

Currently, I hold dual licensure in the State of Georgia as a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, I am a tenured full time associate professor of psychology at a local university. .

 

In my part time clinical practice, I incorporate a strength based, pragmatic, and culturally affirming approach to evaluate, diagnose and treat a variety of mental health conditions. I place great emphasis on helping you utilize and/or improve your strengths to better navigate and overcome the challenges you are experiencing.

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Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my family, being active, grilling, being handy around the house and watching football.