I believe that we heal and grow in relationships with others and ourselves when we feel a sense of belonging, connection, and presence without judgment (individually, collectively, societally). The purpose of therapy is not to fix you—when we allow the unfolding of emotional experiences, it can lead us to the emergence of a deeper understanding of yourself, self-acceptance, and connecting to the power and participation you have in relationships. I bring my authentic self to the therapeutic relationship as a queer Gen X person with lived experience caring for my children and aging parents. I grew up in Wisconsin, live in California, and am of Spanish, Indigenous Mexican American, English, Scottish, and Irish ethnicities. I am also lucky to be a parent to two incredible children (my teachers) in an LGBT+ family. My intersecting identities, lived experiences, and personal journey in therapy deeply and meaningfully informs my work as a therapist.