Born and raised in Southern California, I took an interest in understanding and helping people at an emotional and thought-based level. I graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a degree in Psychology and worked for several programs through the county focusing on supporting children, adolescents, and families facing severe emotional and behavioral challenges. With these experiences powering my drive to do more, I completed my Masters in Social Work at San Diego State University as part of the Mental Health Training Program. For several years following, I worked as a hospital social worker as well as a therapist for Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego in the Outpatient Therapy Center and Behavioral Crisis Center. In working with children, teens, parents, families, and adults in some of their most trying moments, I have gained the insight and knowledge to work through some of the most significant behaviors and urgent needs.
As a social worker in the Maternal-Child Health Unit at Tri-City Medical Center, I was able to witness amazing transitions into parenthood. From the birth of a first child after multiple and complicated IVF treatments, to the bonding of parents with their infant brought into the world by gestational carrier, to the first sweet moments of a baby with her adopted family, I had the privilege of playing a small role during these immense first days. I also bore witness and provided immediate support to families faced with the tragic loss of a baby or pregnancy. Out of these experiences, I was charged to grow my skills in order to better support women, men, couples, and families through the journey of family building. This process culminated in the completion of a 10 month Fertility Counseling Post-Graduate Course. I am registered member with the American Society of Reproductive Medicine as well as a member of the ASRM Mental Health Professional Group.
About Danielle
Since transitioning to private practice, I have continued to work with a wide range of ages, circumstances, and families towards improving relationships and being more effective in their lives. I have broadened my focus on supporting families in all stages, including phases when individuals and couples may be struggling with difficulty getting pregnant, pregnancy loss, and infertility. I am a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator and I use the philosophy and strategies of Positive Discipline to work with parents in preparing for the immense experience of bringing a baby home. As a mama of two, I am able to personally relate to many of the challenges and growth opportunities that parenting can bring.
My approach is affirming, solution-focused, and nurturing. My clients report that I am easy to talk to, compassionate, supportive, and attuned to their needs. I practice several therapy techniques that are evidenced through research to effectively and efficiently improve mental well-being. More important than the techniques practiced is the trust and collaboration that we will set as the foundation of our successful therapeutic relationship.