Biography

Professional Expertise:

Over the last ten years, I have dedicated my life to enhancing the lives of individuals, families, and organizations.  I’ve positively impacted the lives of others across diverse settings: social service agencies, interventionist for families, educational psychology and cognitive skill development, entrepreneurship, academia, and coaching.

I’m adept at coaching executives on increasing productivity, creating sustainable systemic change and improving management effectiveness. I have specialized expertise and knowledge of neuroscience and its applications for learning and brain fitness and I’m proficient at evaluating and treating systemic issues with families and in the workplace.  I have a solid history of successfully addressing the psychosocial needs of clients from diverse cultures in a variety of clinical settings. Many of my clients appreciate that I draw from such a diverse background – It’s not surprising that we succeed because I truly love what I do.

Background

After the revolution in Iran, at the age of 9 and after a tragic loss in my family, the impeding complications that arose from the Iran-Iraq war led to my parents decision to migrate to the West.  I spent the next 20+ years in California where I reside today.  At the age of 17, I began working in an adolescent group home and by age 24 had my doctorates in psychology.   The journey of bi-culturating and encapsulating two cultures together and creating a home here in the States was a unique, challenging, and adventurous experience.  It is this journey that fueled my desire to become a helper.  I have been humbled and touched by the resilience and commitment of those I have been honored to work with. 

Education

Psy.D., Clinical Psychology: California School of Professional Psychology, 1999
M.A.: California School of Professional Psychology, 1997
B.S., Psychology: California State University, Fullerton, 1995

Licensure

California Psychology License -17643

Teaching Experience

Counseling Department Professor: California State University, Fullerton; 2000-2005

Adjunct Professor: California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles; 2000-2001

Certifications

Advanced Certification in Strategic Intervention
Advanced training in Neuroscience- Brain and Learning
Trained in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Addiction