I am especially attuned to the dynamics between people and interested in the motivations and mind states that drive behavior. I believe that by understanding our family histories and becoming aware of feelings we often cover up or feel bad about, we can ease self-criticism and shame. I am thoroughly committed to the journey of self-discovery. My path has drawn me to a specialty in eating disorders and other addictions, working with narcissistic and borderline personalities and people who have suffered trauma in childhood and adolescence.
I am a licensed psychologist (PSY 12167), certified psychoanalyst and Training and Supervising Analyst at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. I have been in private practice for more than 30 years. I originally trained and became licensed as a California Marriage and Family Therapist.
I obtained my PhD from the California Graduate Institute and my psychoanalytic certification from the Los Angeles Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, now the New Center for Psychoanalysis (NCP).
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, childhood trauma, anxiety and depression and personality disorders. I became a trainer in the body/mind therapy of Bioenergetics and a regional trainer for James Masterson, MD, in the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorders. More recently I completed a writing course in the New Directions Critical Thinking and Writing program, part of the Washington Center for Psychoanalysis in Washington, D.C. For three and a half years I wrote a column for “The Therapist Magazine” under the heading of “The Dynamic Psyche.” Some of those published articles are linked to this website.
I was present at the inception of The Wellness Community (now the Cancer Support Community) in 1984 with the founder, Harold H. Benjamin, JD. I worked with groups for cancer patients and family groups for 14 years and I trained and supervised new staff members in California and in other parts of the country. While at The Wellness Community I had the privilege of being present with hundreds of TWC participants in their fights for recovery from cancer. I continue this work with individuals and couples who need support in this life crisis.
In addition to work with individuals and couples in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, I enjoy teaching, supervising therapists and grad students, and writing . My teaching experience ranges from community talks to more formal instruction. I teach a course in eating disorders at the Wright Institute, Los Angeles graduate program and am on the faculty at the New Center for Psychoanalysis, teaching courses ranging from sexuality, neurotic disorders, psychosomatics and theory courses about philosophers and clinicians in psychology and psychoanalysis.
I have given many presentations in the community and at the New Center for Psychoanalysis, the most recent on “The Inner Terrorist,” a discussion of the consequences of abuse. As a member of the Extension Division at NCP I participate in planning programs for the community. I am a member of the Los Angeles Psychological Association and have presented frequently at annual conventions. My private practice is located in Beverly Hills.