About Vanessa
Hello, I’m Vanessa.
I am a Level 1 trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, which means that I am prepared to help you in processing your trauma at your pace, working towards permanent healing and relief from your experiences. Therapy does not take away our memories, but it can take the emotionally charged response out of distressing and traumatic memories. I am committed to working with you to safely help you feel freedom and relief from your pain.
I received my Master’s degree in Counseling from Chapman University in Orange, CA, and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. And I’m happy you’re here!
Education and Training
I received my Master’s in Counseling and Pupil Personnel Services Credential from Chapman University in Southern California.
I have worked with foster youth at a residential treatment center, with middle school and high school students as a school counselor, with incoming college students at Point Loma Nazarene University, and teens and adults of all ages as an Licensed Clinical Counselor.
I have training in:
Internal Family Systems therapy with Dr. Frank Anderson
Trauma Healing with Bessel Van Der Kolk, MD
Somatic Healing with Dr. Peter Levine
Anti-Racism in clinical practice with Sahar Martinez LMFT
I continue to attend trainings on racial justice, recovering from trauma, nurturing resilience, and Internal Family Systems therapy.
I am a member of the American Psychological Association and the California Association for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors.
“Neuroscience research shows that the only way we can change the way we feel is by becoming aware of our inner experience and learning to befriend what is going inside ourselves.”