Axis Lending Academy, an industry innovating non-profit education platform. We create access for diverse learners to be educated, and equipped for operations roles in the mortgage and lending industry. Our motto is “Because YOU CAN” Education is the starting point of change, we bridge the educational and opportunity gap in our industry, giving access to and including a diverse group of individuals to participate in profitable and successful careers in the Mortgage and Lending industry. We offer diverse individuals an opportunity to gain a free education, hands-on learning, and a paid internship that lifts their career, their life, and their community to the next level of success. Why? Because we can.

My passion is in helping people to accept themselves and others from where they are and how they came to be. In turn this can allow for self-healing and healing within the scope of relationships. What once may have been perceived as difficulty or limitation can be shifted into strength and courageous self-care through acceptance and change where applicalble. My clients and I accomplish their goals, whatever they may be, by use of a strength-based and skills-application approach. Whether I am working with individuals, couples or families– I provide psycho-education, behavioral coaching, and relationship therapy in this way. Like most therapist I have studied, examined, and worked with clients symptoms, behaviors, and problematic relationships… However, I prefer not to get too hung up on diagnoses outside of supporting education, understanding, and guiding treatment. I want to circumvent labels that can create shame or victimization. I find it more effective to re-label and address individual personal needs in order to better manage symptoms or problem behaviors. My practice is holistic in nature, pulling from what research supports for effective long-term success. My relationship with my clients must be built on trust and good rapport. From here, I predominately utilize a soft-yet-direct approach, along with humor. Though I meet my clients where they are at, I lean toward theories and approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, and Family Systems. Having an eclectic approach to therapy allows me to be flexible in consideration of my clients’ needs and exploring what works for them and their personalities – even if that means stepping outside of the box.For more information visit my Website and Blog below.

As Program Manager-- responsible for all administrative and program operations, including developing, implementing and monitoring program goals and objectives; quality assurance and risk mitigation; and program compliance with Rubicon standards and regulations. Direct and supervise the MHSA Central County Rubicon team and provide supervisory support for non-Rubicon staff; including client consultation, resource planning, skills development and performance management. Serve as a point of contact with external agencies, funders and community stakeholders.

As Clinical Supervisor-- responsible for ensuring that Central/East Contra Costa WRC program meets with all clinical service standards including developing and implementing quality improvement plans and controls. Provide clinical supervision to case managers. Supervise staff on the administration of and/or directly administer assessments, tx plans, and progress notes; including reviewing and signing off on notes; attending and coordinating the submission of Tx plans and other documentation for Level I UR. Provide individual counseling and group treatment for program participants, including on-site and in-the-field crisis intervention. Liaison with other providers, participate in meetings and case conferences and otherwise serve as a team resource.

As Licensed Clinician/ Program Administrator worked within an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) model--co-facilitated with Team Leader, provided clinical support and leadership to multidisciplinary team. Assess/ diagnosed participants with severe and persistent mental illness and co-occurring disorders for intensive case management services as Full Service Partners (FSP). Conducted all MHSA Level I UR documentation and present for Utilization Review in coordination with county guidelines. Administratively and clinically supervised paraprofessional case managers according to Anka standards of care and Medical documentation standards. Provided individual counseling to FSP’s where appropriate. Collaborated with other community agencies.

As Outpatient Therapist-- assessed, diagnosed, developed and implemented treatment plans providing therapeutic services via individual, couples, family, and group modalities. Provided crisis intervention/management and case management including internal and external referrals as coordinator of care for adults, children, and families with severe emotional disturbances and functional impairments among various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Gained experience in the following client programs: TFCBT, MAP, Outpatient Mental Health, In-Home Services, TBS, Family Preservation/Reunification, Specialized Foster Care, Cal Works/ Chemically Dependent, and Wraparound Services. Provided documentation of all communications according to Department of Mental Health (DMH) standards and maintained a level of professionalism with all collaborating members of an interdisciplinary service team such as psychiatric services, case managers, social workers, and teachers. (MAP) is an evidenced based practice utilizing a data base of peer reviewed research, synthesized and coded cognitive behavioral practice elements, and tracking of behavioral progress via graphing display tool supporting treatment and problem solving. MAP is currently utilized for clinical issues related to depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, and trauma. Duties as MAP Extern Supervisor developed interagency program, organized, delivered, trained, and certified colleagues (18 therapists) in MAP evidence based practices via workshops and leading weekly individual/ group supervisions in support and guidance of therapists’ fidelity to the MAP model/practices. Provided collaboration with superiors at various levels for agency needs and adherence to DMH program guidelines.

Performed client intakes in collaboration with program coordinators. Utilized Neuro-feedback equipment and technology along with behavioral coaching skills. Performed weekly treatments with children, adolescents, and adults afflicted by behavioral symptoms and learning disorders such as ADD/ADHD, Aspergers, and Autism. Coached clients through auditory and conceptual processing programs, helping to aid generalization of positive behavioral changes from session to daily life. Conducted stress reduction and management treatments with clients experiencing high levels of anxiety and/or physical tension by use of relaxation techniques, guided imagery, alpha training, and biofeedback equipment. Maintained daily and weekly records of client progress and consulted with program coordinators to ensure continuity of care.