About Dr. Danielle

I grew up in Southern California and have always been fascinated by understanding people on an emotional and mental level. This curiosity led me to pursue both undergraduate and graduate degrees, which provided the skills and knowledge to support others effectively.

My professional experience includes working as a therapist in school-based, outpatient, and crisis programs at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego, as a social worker in the Maternal-Child Health Unit at Tri-City Medical Center, at Newport Healthcare’s Residential Treatment Center, in group practice, and in my private practice. I specialize in perinatal and reproductive mental health, as well as counseling for individuals, couples, and families.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked with a wide variety of clients, helping them develop the skills to navigate life’s challenges. This inspired me to explore more deeply how we become stuck in our relationships with others and ourselves. After earning my Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology, I now incorporate attachment-based and mind-body  methods into my practice.

By examining the conscious and unconscious patterns we use to seek connection with others—patterns often rooted in our early experiences—we can better understand current struggles and find a clearer path forward. I look forward to working with you, whether individually, in your romantic relationships, or within your family system, to support healing and growth.

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
  • Postpartum Health Alliance
  • San Diego Psychological Association
  • San Diego Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy, Board Member