About Ariel

I’ve always been drawn to self-reflection and personal growth, and to the subtle ways our inner world shapes how we think, feel, and relate. Much of my work focuses on bringing awareness to patterns that influence us beneath the surface.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, relational, and grounded in presence and curiosity. I integrate mindfulness with depth-oriented, cognitive-behavioral, and client-centered approaches, adapting the work to each person’s needs rather than relying on a single method.

I believe meaningful change emerges through safety, connection, and the experience of feeling seen and understood. My role is to help you notice what’s already present, clarify what feels confusing or stuck, and support you in exploring experiences that may feel difficult to approach on your own.

To me, the most transformative part of therapy is not a specific technique, but the trust and safety we build together. From that foundation, insight, healing, and growth become possible.

How My Work Developed

Over the years, I’ve worked as a therapist in a range of clinical settings supporting individuals, couples, and teens. My experience includes psychodynamic training at The Maple Counseling Center in Los Angeles, hospice grief support in Scotts Valley, and community mental health work at Family Service Agency in Santa Cruz.

Most recently, I spent two years at Beacon School in Campbell in a therapeutic model program supporting teens navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, learning differences, and neurodivergence. That work deepened my belief that people of all ages heal in environments where they feel safe, seen, and supported as themselves.

Alongside my clinical work, I have spent over two decades as a singer/songwriter, vocal and expressive arts coach. I’ve seen how singing, voice work and creative expression can both empower reach emotional experiences that are not always easily accessible through words alone.

While therapy with me does not ever require any creative or musical expression, when helpful and desired, we can use those tools to support your growth.

What It’s Like to Work Together

Beyond my credentials and the various theories I may draw from as a psychotherapist, my hope is to listen to and understand your process, so that I may be an ally for you as you continue to write your unique life story. As Brené Brown writes, "Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do." Life is full of unexpected challenges and opportunities to grow, heal, accept, and deepen our relationship to ourselves and others. I believe we each have an incredible capacity for growth and discovery!

If you’re considering therapy and wondering whether this might be a good fit, you’re welcome to reach out. I’d be honored to explore that possibility with you.