Hi! My name is Jade, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. It’s my belief that choosing the right therapist is an important part of the process. No two people are exactly the same, and no two therapists are exactly the same, but finding the right therapist is key in having a successful therapeutic experience. To give you an idea of what I’m like, here is a little bit about me.
What I’m like in therapy:
I am easy-going, down-to-earth, and I have a sense of humor. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important aspects of therapy, so I believe it’s important for you to feel safe and comfortable. I believe you know yourself best, therefore I listen first and meet you where you’re at. That being said, my role within therapy is an active one. I engage in a conversational way, but am also comfortable with silence when it’s appropriate. My perspective is one of understanding and empathic respect and I strive to view situations from your perspective while maintaining an objective therapy role. I also approach the therapeutic relationship with sincerity, and will be honest and direct if I notice patterns that do not align with your goals.
In my work with couples, I strive to give everyone an equal voice and maintain an objective role as we identify the goals within the relationship, both as individuals and as a couple.
What I’m like outside of therapy:
There was a time in my life when I considered myself an extroverted person – I felt most energized when I was surrounded by people. However, over the past few years, I’ve come to find how important alone time is, and I’ve realized that I’m actually more of an introverted-extrovert (yep… you can be both!). Outside of the therapy room, I feel like my most balanced self when I get time with friends and family as well as time on my own.
When I’m connecting with my extroverted self, I love doing a variety of things from working out (indoor cycling, running, weight training, and swimming are my favorites), participating in obstacle course races (like the Spartan Race), dancing, watching football, traveling, watching movies, spending time outdoors, or having a good dinner with those around me. When I’m connecting with my introverted self, I enjoy things like reading a good book, journaling, art, decorating and organizing spaces in my home, running, turning on some great music to listen to, catching up on Netflix or listening to audiobooks.
Licensing and Education
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Lic.#102966
Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology with an Emphasis in Correctional Psychology, Santa Clara University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, San Jose State University
Clinical Experience
Residential Therapist and Case Manager at Edgewood Center for Children and Families (2015-2016)
Mental Health Specialist I at Starlight Community Services at William F. James Ranch (2014-2015)
Mental Health Specialist I at Starlight Community Services (2013-2014)
School Based Therapist at Adolescent Counseling Services at Palo Alto High School (2013-2014)
Autism Therapy utilizing Son Rise Program (2009-2014)
Rape Crisis Counselor with the YWCA of Silicon Valley (2008-2010)