My own story began when I was a small child. Home struggles, cheating on tests in 4th grade because I didn’t feel confident, and the sudden ringing in my ears that would’t go away (I now know it’s tinnitis) were part of my struggles. Needless to say, years went on. Cheerleading, friendships, sports, and music became interests and led to connection. As high school graduation approached, my guidance counselor recommended going into teaching because I worked great with kids, so I did. Growing up in a small, rural community at that time, teaching and nursing were the two careers young women often pursued. I followed the path and soon I was a special education teacher and Infant Developmental Specialist for twenty + years. Yet, along that journey, I became curious about our wellness and development. Thus, I headed back to college as an adult while raising kids and working full-time for a second masters’ degree in mental health counseling and PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision.  The “ah-ha” moments hit, tears feel, and healing began. I often say, you can’t go for a counseling degree withou some kind of personal change. Since then, my own journey has been one of growth and healing. My faith has also been part of that healing and continues to be my foundation.

I am not without life’s struggles as a human. However, I choose hope and the choice that each day has something good. After many years of working to obtain the 3000 hours required in training for this license, a divorce, more healing, and then passing the exam, the dream of opening a private practice which once started on paper back in 2015, came true. In 2023, I opened my online private practice with the support of my husband and adult kids. Then, in 2025 I expanded my practice to in-person (and still offer online services) and opened Sierra Oak Counseling, Inc.

It is my desire that Sierra Oak Couseling, Inc will be a space for you, your child, or your teen, to find healing and hope. My story began with my own challenges and healing through faith, counseling, and community. I now help women, children, and families navigate difficult seasons with greater clarity, compassion, and support.

Whether you’re a parent worried about your child’s emotional well-being; a teen feeling overwhelmed; a woman navigating divorce, anxiety, or significant life changes; or an aging adult grieving chronic pain and relationships, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

I’ll meet you where you are – no judgment, no pressure.

I believe in practical tools (from evidence based approaches like CBT, DBT, Play, Sand tray, Grief therapy, somactic therapy, ACT),  honest conversations, and creating a space where you or your child can feel heard, safe, and hopeful again. Healing doesn’t always happen in big breakthroughs. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet moments where something just clicks.

You’re not alone in this. And you don’t have to carry it all on your own.

I’d love to connect. Let’s begin the process together. 

Proudly serving

Pleasanton * Dublin * Livermore * San Ramon * Castro Valley * Modesto *Ripon * Manteca * Tracy *Tracy Hills *Online throughout CA and ID