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Before becoming a therapist, I spent many years working as a professional chef and instructor — a career that ignited my passion for helping others explore self-discovery, creativity, and growth through the art of cooking. This work inspired me to continue supporting people in more personal ways, leading me to volunteer as a Crisis Counselor for StarVista in San Mateo County and later work at UCSF as a Pediatric Cardiac Unit Coordinator, where I provided emotional support and resources to children and families facing medical challenges.
These experiences ultimately led me to pursue the study of psychology and clinical psychology, deepening my understanding of how to best support individuals and families through life’s challenges. Today, at Nugent Family Counseling, I’m honored to help clients of all ages access the tools and insight they need to foster resilience and create meaningful, lasting change.
One of the most fulfilling parts of my work is collaborating with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that align with their goals, strengths, and values. I’m guided by compassion, adaptability, curiosity, creativity, self-awareness, and hope — values that help me stay fully present and responsive to the unique needs of every client I meet.
Outside of work, I love spending time in nature — exploring coastal trails, studying local ecology and geology, and finding inspiration in the interconnectedness of our natural world. I approach my clinical work with that same curiosity and respect for complexity, believing that healing and growth often mirror the balance we observe in nature.
A favorite quote that captures my outlook is:
“The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science.”
— Albert Einstein
Clinical Focus & Expertise:
- Supporting individuals managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal thoughts
- Working with families and young children on attachment, life transitions, anxiety, and cultural factors
Therapeutic Approaches:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Play Therapy
- Humanistic Therapy
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Recommended Reading:
The Little Book of Mindfulness by Tiddy Rowan
Moonlight Gratitude by Emily Silva
Professional Growth Interests:
- Polyvagal Theory
- Somatic body and breathwork
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Credentials:
- Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #120476)
- Supervised by: Mario Ponce
- Education: Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, San Francisco State University