About Emma
I am a dedicated and compassionate individual, born and raised on the picturesque Central Coast of California. A deep connection with nature and the outdoors has instilled a profound appreciation for the environment I call home. As a single mother to an incredible three-year-old, I try to embody strength and nurturance, embracing the joys and challenges of parenthood with unwavering love.
In my early twenties, I embarked on a journey in the fire department, where she worked as a paid call firefighter in training. This experience ignited a passion for serving my community and helping those in need. Over four years, I dedicated myself to the fire department, honing my skills and cultivating a strong sense of responsibility.
Driven by a desire to expand my knowledge and make a difference in the lives of others, I pursued a career in emergency medical services. I obtained my EMT certification and went on to complete my training as a paramedic. For five years, I served as a paramedic in the foothills of Oakhurst, witnessing firsthand the critical need for mental health support in rural communities.
Motivated by my experiences as a paramedic and my own personal journey with PTSD, I pursued a bachelor's degree in psychology. I obtained my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology at California State University, Fresno in 2012. My desire to bridge the gap between first responder life and mental health support led me to continue my education, earning a master's degree in social work and becoming a licensed social worker (LCSW #95199). I obtained her masters at the University of Southern California in 2015.
For five years, I worked in Los Angeles, primarily with transitional age youth and adults experiencing homelessness, within various community mental health agencies. My empathetic nature, combined with my expertise in trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, and co-morbid disorders, allowed me to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck and I discovered I was expecting a child, I embraced the opportunity for a new chapter in my career. Fueled by a passion for helping individuals heal and grow, I transitioned to private practice. I specialize in trauma therapy, utilizing modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which I am presently trained in and actively working towards certification.
With my background as a first responder and my profound understanding of the unique challenges they face, I feel I have become a trusted ally for those in the field. My person-centered, non-biased, and compassionate approach, complemented by trauma-informed care, attachment theory, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic techniques, allows me to empower my clients on their journey towards healing and well-being.
I am a devoted advocate for mental health and remain dedicated to supporting individuals, especially first responders, as they navigate the complex landscape of trauma and mental well-being. My commitment to creating a safe and transformative therapeutic space makes me an invaluable resource for those seeking guidance and healing.