Welcome
Hi, I’m Ailsa...
From an early age, I’ve been driven by a passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges. Having lived in Asia and Europe due to my parents' careers and other life transitions, and now based in California, I bring a global and diverse mindset to my practice, enhancing how I approach therapy and view life.
I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals through grief, trauma, divorce, depression, and anxiety. With a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University and being a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2002, I have extensive experience in these areas.
My
Expertise
Understanding Labor-Related Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and Trauma
Specializing in Trauma and Grief
In my work, I help individuals cope with trauma, whether major accidents, violence, or other life-altering events cause it. Trauma can have a deep and lasting impact on mental health, often leading to symptoms like persistent anxiety and depression. For many people, trauma can also trigger or worsen social anxiety, making it difficult to engage in everyday interactions. The fear of judgment or rejection becomes magnified, and social situations that once felt normal can now feel unbearable.
This is where understanding the difference between social anxiety and everyday anxiety becomes crucial. While it's normal to feel anxious before a social event or meeting new people, social anxiety disorder is much more intense and persistent, often requiring specialized therapeutic approaches. Trauma can often underlie these feelings, making it even more important to address both the root causes and the symptoms.
I work closely with clients to help them distinguish how anxiety disorders differ from everyday anxiety. While everyday anxiety can sometimes be managed with coping strategies, anxiety disorders—whether rooted in trauma or not—are more pervasive and often require professional intervention.
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Effective Therapy Techniques: Gottman and Solution-Focused
When working with couples, I offer couples therapy in Los Angeles using Gottman and solution-focused techniques. The Gottman techniques focus on improving communication and building emotional connections, essential for resolving conflicts and strengthening intimacy.
Solution-focused techniques are practical and goal-oriented, helping couples quickly identify solutions to their immediate concerns. By leveraging existing strengths, we can foster a more resilient relationship and move towards positive change.
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If you're struggling with anxiety, social anxiety, or trauma, or are interested in couples therapy in Los Angeles that incorporates Gottman and solution-focused techniques, or if you need EAP services, I'm here to provide the support you need. Let’s work together to heal from the traumas of the past, and create a healthier, more balanced life tailored to your experiences.
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Feel free to reach out for personalized therapy that fits your unique needs.
CREDENTIALS
Qualifications & Experience
Education
Master's in Clinical Psychology
I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology, where I acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality therapy services. My educational background equips me with a solid foundation in psychological theories and therapeutic techniques.
Certification
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I am professionally trained to address a variety of relationship and mental health issues. My certification ensures that I adhere to ethical standards and best practices in the field, providing clients with expert care and support.
