Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to get into a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. I grew up watching several family members struggle with mental illness including addiction, anxiety and depression. Then, in my late teens I developed an eating disorder. Little did I know I was also struggling with OCD and anxiety. After going through my own recovery, I became even more determined to help others as I experienced first hand how life changing and incredibly hard recovery is. I also realized how much stigma there is around mental health and it is my mission to change this. I never want my clients to feel as alone as I did.

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I went to University of Washington for my Bachelor's degree in Psychology. Later, I graduated from New Mexico State University with my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Since then, I have had extensive training in Eating Disorders, OCD and Trauma. My approach is a feminist, intersectional, deeply relational style that aims to individualize your treatment to your specific needs. I often use techniques from IFS, ACT and ERP (for OCD).

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Outside of my work, I love hiking with my two dogs, going to the beach, traveling and spending time with my husband and family.

 

I truly care for all of my clients, and work diligently to help them recover and reclaim agency over their lives. This work is so meaningful to me and I am honored to be considered apart of your healing journey.

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Allyson is currently full with a waiting list.

So much of the work I do as a therapist is inspired by that little girl I once was, who was living in a body that looked different than the other kids’. A bigger body. A fat body. A body that meant being constantly reminded of how it doesn’t fit the mold. There was a constant striving for the body I thought I needed to be worthy, good-enough, okay. Over years of chronic dieting and self-hatred I eventually landed in a place where my therapist said something I never thought could be true for me, “I think you have an eating disorder.” Healing my eating disorder, making amends with food + body, and learning about body liberation and fat acceptance shifted everything. 

 

I received my MA in Counseling Psychology from Palo Alto University. Some of my earliest experience training as a therapist was with kids in elementary school and I still have a soft spot for working with littles. Today my practice highlights supporting folks (from kiddos to grown-ups) living in bigger bodies, recovering from Eating Disorders, and longing to trust themselves and their bodies again. I also have experience with anxiety and trauma, as these things often go hand in hand. My approach includes a truly agentic, compassionate, individualized approach to meet your specific needs. I am rooted in a social justice lens that acknowledges how systems of oppression shape our struggles as well. Our relationship is the most important part to your healing; in addition I have plenty of tools to help support your journey.

 

Outside of work I love hanging with Beetlejuice (my emotional support kitty), having video calls with my nephews, and connecting with nature.

 

Recovery is hard and bumpy and sometimes exhausting AND so, so worth it. I’d love to connect and see how I can support you through this. 

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Sarah is currently accepting new clients in California, reach out to book today!

I know the feeling of being overwhelmed by your inner critic. The one that gets cruel and louder
when life's challenges come up.  As an immigrant, high achiever, neurodivergent and recovering
perfectionist, I know how hard it was to acknowledge my pain when I felt that I didn't  have the privilege to slow down. Slowing down felt unsafe in a world that expected more from me. However, after getting treatment for my depression, anxiety and eating disorder, I realized emotional wellbeing needs more than just therapy; we need a support system. My experience and training encouraged me to focus my professional work on helping immigrants or first-gen
teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders or adjustment difficulties during life transitions. I also have a background in working with couples and families, especially during pregnancy and early stages of parenting with moms with a history of an eating disorder. I enjoy helping people make peace with themselves and their bodies, reconnect with their strengths, and create a meaningful support system that will help them to thrive.

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Formally, I have a BA and MA in Clinical Psychology from Los Andes University in Chile, my home country, and an MA in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. I am also certified in Compassion Focused Therapy and Motivación Compasiva in Argentina, and the externship program in EFT for couples and family work.

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As a therapist, I focus on building safety and trust in our working relationship. My approach is honest, compassionate, feminist, and somatic oriented. Every story is unique, so my practice is trauma-informed, inclusive, intersectional and rooted in practices of decolonizing psychotherapy. Furthermore, laughter, mindfulness and tears are part of the experience.

 

Outside of my work, I love spending time with my husband and toddler hiking or going to a new
playground. In my free alone time, I like to practice yoga and meditation.

 

Thanks for taking the time to learn a little more about me. I am looking forward to becoming part
of your support system.

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Maria-Paz is currently accepting new clients in California, reach out to book today!