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Education, Training, & Experience

Deer Island Preserve

I am a licensed psychologist (CA PSY 20749) and Professor of Counseling Psychology at Dominican University of CaliforniaWith over 30 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals overcome challenges related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addictions, and mood disorders.

As an educator, I have been teaching graduate courses in psychotherapy at Dominican University since 2005. These courses cover a range of topics including Crisis Intervention and Trauma, Alcohol and Substance Abuse, and Clinical Aspects of Human Sexuality & Gender. I am passionate about training therapists-in-training and equipping them with the necessary skills to make a meaningful difference in their clients' lives.

My expertise in PTSD, addictions, and mood disorders stems from my extensive clinical and research work. I had the privilege of training and working at three of the seven divisions of the National Center for PTSD, which are renowned worldwide for their clinical, research, and educational excellence in the field of traumatic stress. This valuable experience has shaped my approach to assessment and treatment.

Over my career I have conducted over 40 workshops focused on training healthcare providers in evidence-based therapies such as Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Process Therapy for PTSD. Additionally, I have expertise in utilizing semi-structured interviews, including the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), Structured Clinical Interview for DSM Axis I and II Disorders (SCID-I & SCID-II), and Addiction Severity Index (ASI), to assess and evaluate PTSD and addiction.

Furthermore, I have collaborated in the development of treatment manuals for PTSD and substance abuse that are utilized by prominent organizations such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, NIAAA/NIDA, and in multi-site, national studies. These manuals serve as valuable resources for professionals in the field, ensuring evidence-based approaches are applied effectively.

 

I am an international mental health first responder with a wealth of experience in crisis response and trauma intervention. Throughout my career, I have been deployed to various locations around the world, providing support and assistance to communities in need.

Some of my notable deployments include:

  • New Orleans, LA in 2021 after Hurricane Ida

  • Butte County, CA in 2018 after the Camp Fire

  • Ft. Bragg, NC in 2018 after Hurricane Florence

  • Lake County, CA in 2015 after the Valley Fire

  • China in 2004 after the SARS outbreak

 

In addition to my crisis response work, I have served as a consultant, investigator, and trainer/supervisor for numerous agencies and organizations. Some of my notable collaborations include:

  • Department of Public Health and Fire Department of New York for assisting first responders after September 11

  • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for bone marrow transplant survivors

  • Boston Center for Refugee Health and Human Rights for Bosnian survivors of torture & trauma

  • Center for Disease Control & Prevention in China and opened PTSD clinics in several provinces

  • Boston University School of Medicine for HIV+ individuals with PTSD

  • Boston Archdiocese for the clergy sex abuse survivors

 

Throughout my career, I have contributed to the field through scientific presentations and publications. Some of my co-authored publications include:

 

I am also currently in the process of completing the MDMA Therapy Program for PTSD within the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). This clinical training program equips me with the necessary skills and knowledge in the theory and practice of MDMA-assisted therapy. The foundation of this approach lies in the belief that every individual possesses innate wisdom and the capacity to heal when provided with a safe and supportive environment.

 

I am dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based therapy to individuals seeking support in overcoming the challenges of PTSD, addictions, and mood disorders. Together, we can work towards healing, growth, and a brighter future. Please feel free to reach out to me to schedule a consultation or to learn more about my services.

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