About Danielle

Born and raised in Southern California, I took an interest in understanding and helping people at an emotional and thought-based level from very early on. This interest propelled me through an undergraduate and graduate degree that providing the training and understanding to be effective in supporting others. I have experience as a therapist in school-based, outpatient, and crisis programs with Rady Children’s Hospital of San Diego, as a social worker in the Maternal-Child Health Unit at Tri-City Medical Center, and in my own private practice specializing in perinatal and reproductive mental health and counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Working with the wide array of clients on the skills to navigate the challenges they were facing, I was inspired to dive deeper into understanding the processes that get us stuck in our relationships with others and ourselves. Having completed a Doctor of Psychology degree, I am excited to bring attachment-based methods into my work with clients. By understanding our conscious and unconscious patterns of seeking belonging with others, many of which are rooted in our developmental experiences, the struggles faced in the present moment make sense and path forward is much clearer. I look forward to working with you individually, within your romantic relationships, and within your family system to find deep healing.

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.

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.

Education

  • PsyD, Applied Clinical Psychology, Chicago School of Professional Psychology, San Diego
  • M.S.W., Social Work, San Diego State University
  • B.A., Psychology, University of California, San Diego

Advanced Training

  • Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Level II
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples – Externship
  • 10-month Fertility Counseling Post Graduate Course
  • EMDR trained
  • Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator 

Professional Affiliations

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker: California: LCSW65620; Colorado: CSW.09928079
  • Psychological Associate, California Board of Psychology PSB94026640; Supervisor: Dr. Matthew Jarvinen, PSY29459
  • American Society of Reproductive Medicine, Mental Health Professional Group
  • American Psychological Association
  • San Diego Psychological Association