patricia-mothner-picI Bring Compassion and Experience to My Work

Marriage and family therapy is my second career, one that I consciously chose as a way to integrate my professional experience and my life experience. My interest in children and parents stems from my excellent adventure as the mother of two children, who are now grown and launching their own families.

Experiencing the joys and heartaches of marriage and divorce, career and retirement, birth of babies and loss of parents -- all has prepared me for what I am truly meant to be doing now. I bring humility, devotion and inspiration to the journey I take with each of my clients.

 

My Beliefs about Life, Living, Change and Challenges

How we think about ourselves powerfully affects what we do and how we experience the world. When we experience a crisis, loss, conflict, or when we "hit bottom", we are forced to make pivotal decisions. At a time of emotional turmoil, we can easily harbor thoughts that undermine us and lead us on a self-diminishing path. We are bound to be unhappy. Or, we can choose another way, which activates us to use the best that we have within us. We can discover a way of thinking and being that amplifies our energy. I believe this is something that every one of us can do, but it is very hard to do alone. That is why I am here, doing this work. I am passionate about helping people make self-actualizing life decisions, free of fear and self-defeating thoughts. Together, we discover a way of thinking and being that unlocks our energy.

My Therapeutic Approach

I customize my therapy based on the needs of each client.  I primarily draw upon the following approaches for change and healing:  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Practice and studies in Interpersonal Neurobiology.

 

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Lic. # 115295

  • M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy, Phillips Graduate Institute
  • M.A. Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, CSUN
  • M.A. Education, Early Childhood Specialization, CSDH
  • Elementary Teaching Credential, UCLA