The decision to seek psychotherapy is not always easy, so I want to applaud you for taking this first important step! In our work together, my goal is to increase your awareness of how learned thoughts, emotions and behaviors can create psychological pain and even physical symptoms. We will develop your ability to manage these obstacles in order to live a more happy and fulfilling life. Stress, emotional pain, and physical discomfort do not have to get in your way of having healthy relationships, giving your best performance at work/school, or achieving your goals!
Today we know that the mind and body are interconnected. I draw from my training in health psychology and behavioral medicine, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other therapeutic modalities to treat a wide variety of psychological and behavioral issues using a holistic mind-body approach.
Welcome to my practice! I have been captivated by the field of psychology since my first day in an “Introduction to Psychology” course in college. I graduated from UC Berkeley with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and high honors Summa Cum Laude. I subsequently received my Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Clinical-Community Psychology from an APA Accredited program at the University of La Verne.
I have trained and worked in various clinical settings, including UCLA’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital & Semel Institute, Verdugo Mental Health Center, and The Help Group. After completing an APA psychology internship at the Loma Linda VA Medical Center, I went on to complete a year-long postdoctoral fellowship at the Miami VA Medical Center. Before returning to sunny California and transitioning into private practice, I was employed as a clinical psychologist at the Orlando VA Medical Center.
I strive to provide a safe, relaxed, confidential environment where we will work together to address your current concerns.
Most recently, I have worked in private practice for the last nine years. During this time, I have developed a specialized interest in work with individuals and couples struggling with life transitions, stress management, and issues related to anxiety and depression. Although I use research-supported methods, I believe that each individual is unique, as are his/her past experiences, current concerns, and environment. We will work collaboratively to develop a treatment plan that is specifically designed to meet your needs and goals.
Whether you're struggling to get out of bed in the morning, or can benefit from simply speaking with a non-biased professional, in a supportive and caring setting, don't wait. Take control of your life and call today!
I use several types of psychotherapies and techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to treat the following:
Individual therapy, also known as “psychotherapy” or “counseling," entails one-on-one sessions with Dr. Julia, typically occurring on a weekly basis and lasting 50 minutes. During this time, clients are encouraged to explore their thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior in a safe, confidential, and caring setting. Clients seek therapy for a variety of reasons, ranging from traumatic childhood experiences, to managing anxiety and depression, to seeking greater personal growth and development.
Couples therapy is a process through which a couple works with Dr. Julia to identify areas of conflict, as well as strengths in their relationship. Therapeutic goals are then established to improve important aspects that are known to lead to greater satisfaction and happiness in the relationship. Commonly addressed issues include poor communication, rebuilding of trust, emotional unavailability, and maladaptive behaviors.
Please contact my office for information regarding fees. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted.
If interested in out of network coverage, most plans provide some reimbursement for out-of-network clinicians. If requested, you can be provided with a special receipt for healthcare services known as a Superbill. You can then submit this Superbill to your insurer and your insurer may reimburse you directly. Please contact your insurance company in advance to inquire regarding mental health coverage and ask about pre-authorization.