About Me

Hi, I’m Tessa. 

I can help you overcome obstacles that are holding you back so you can create the life you deserve to live.  With me, you’ll find a compassionate, holistic approach to individual therapy that incorporates mindfulness and somatic (body-based) practices.  I’ll take a collaborative and direct approach toward helping you uncover your inner strengths and practice skills to overcome life’s biggest challenges.  

I look forward to helping you find your way.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specializing in working with adults, teens and families who struggle with managing difficult emotions that come with life changes or creating positive relationships with themselves and therefore others.  How do we cultivate healthy, loving relationships when how we are with ourselves is many times critical and unforgiving?  

A Little More About My Background

I began seeing clients in 2012 at the John F. Kennedy Center for Holistic Counseling in Oakland and subsequently worked as a bilingual therapist at a domestic violence agency in Concord treating adults and children dealing with complex mental health issues related to anxiety and stress from traumatic experiences, substance use, economic hardships, parenting challenges, and a wide range of multi-cultural issues.

My Office

It’s important that my space feels safe, calming and comfortable.  As a Reiki Master, I utilize my energetic skills to cleanse and clear my office before and during the day to support healing and well-being.  Clients often arrive somewhat hurried and stressed from the outside world, and quickly shift to a slower, relaxed pace conducive for healing.  I encourage clients to get comfortable however is helpful to them, whether seated on the couch or on the floor with shoes off.  

On a personal note:

When I’m not helping clients, I’m hanging with my family and out in nature.  Nature is a great healer for me, whether by the ocean, in the mountains, or around home.  I love hummingbirds (can you tell?) for their intelligence, beauty, and playfulness.  I also love the water in all forms – ocean, lakes, rivers.  Many of my friends refer to me as a “dolphin-mermaid girl” because I’ve been a swimmer and water polo player most of my life.  I enjoy spending my time engaging in restorative, energizing activities that have meditative qualities.  

My Credentials

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #105834 through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). I have been practicing since 2013. I completed a Master of Arts degree in Holistic Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Transpersonal Psychology from John F. Kennedy University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and Latin American Studies from UC Berkeley.