Hi there and welcome!

I’m Atara! Since 2012, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people on their journeys to healing and growth. My work as a therapist is rooted in deep empathy, informed by both my professional experience and a lifetime of cross-cultural exposure and service.

From supporting families through Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) to helping emancipated foster youth navigate independence, and from working with ex-inmates to providing care in community clinics, I’ve seen how resilient the human spirit can be, even in the face of immense challenge.

But my passion for connection and understanding didn’t start in the therapy room.

Born overseas to a Third Culture Kid (TCK) parent, I grew up immersed in diverse cultures. My undergraduate studies in Global Studies deepened my appreciation for how culture shapes our stories, values, and relationships. Living and working in Kenya and other cross-cultural settings taught me not only adaptability but also how profoundly our shared humanity can bridge differences.

These experiences give me a unique perspective when working with clients from all walks of life. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of identity, healing from intergenerational wounds, or simply seeking a safe space to feel understood, I strive to meet you where you are—with compassion, curiosity, and a deep respect for your story.

My beliefs and approach…

Healing isn’t just about talking—it’s about feeling, connecting, and discovering new ways of being.

My approach blends the science of brainspotting and somatic techniques with the art of therapy, creating a space for whole-body healing that goes beyond surface-level change.

As a therapist, I’m not a passive listener. I believe in being present, active, and collaborative in our work together. Using Gestalt therapy, I help you stay in the moment and explore your emotions and experiences with curiosity and compassion. I also take a client-centered approach, meeting you exactly where you are, but with a clear focus on guiding you toward new insights, healthier patterns, and meaningful transformation.

Clients often describe my style as engaged and involved. Clients have shared words and phrases like: supportive, warm, guidance towards new ideas, helpful, authentic, empowering and intelligent- after working with me.

I also love thinking outside the box—whether we’re integrating creative techniques, using humor to ease tough moments, or diving deep into somatic work to help your body release what words alone can’t touch.

Above all, I believe healing happens when you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My role is to create a safe space for you to explore, grow, and ultimately transform. Together, we’ll tap into your inner strength and build a life where you feel empowered, balanced, and aligned with your true self.

The Details

  • Graduate Degree- Master’s of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Argosy University 2013

    Undergraduate Degree- Bachelor’s of Arts in Global Studies, Azusa Pacific University 2010

  • Somatic Therapy for Complex Trauma

    Metabolic Psychiatry for Non-Prescribers

    Brainspotting Phase I

    Integrative Mental Health Professional

    Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

    Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Prepare & Enrich Facilitator

    • Life abroad in countries such as: Mexico, Venezuela, Romania, and Kenya

    • Community clinic work focused in parenting, anxiety, trauma-informed care, domestic violence and family therapy

    • Work with diverse populations such as emancipated foster youth and formerly incarcerated men

    • Couples work in premarital, conflict and recovery after betrayal

    • Group facilitation, workshop presentation and coaching