My work is grounded in polyvagal-informed therapy, focusing on the profound impact of the autonomic nervous system on mental health, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
In my therapy practice, I blend polyvagal-informed strategies with evidence-based protocols like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This integration enhances nervous system regulation by helping clients recognize and respond to the different states their autonomic nervous system shifts through. By tuning into these states, clients can develop skills to regulate their emotions, process their stories while anchored in safety, and strengthen their capacity for self-compassion and resilience. This approach is particularly effective for those seeking help with anxiety, depression, and interpersonal difficulties.
In addition to my psychotherapy practice, I am a Board Certified Coach (BCC) specializing in wellness, life/work balance, and goal attainment. My coaching approach incorporates a polyvagal perspective to help clients build resilience and tap into their nervous system’s capacity for calmness, connection, and focused action. I offer a strength-based approach that helps you identify goals, work through obstacles, and create strategies to overcome them. Using tailored, evidence-based interventions, I'll support you in gaining clarity, making positive changes, and building a fulfilling, balanced life filled with purpose, joy, and drive.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree from New York University and a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Services at Lincoln Center, NY.
I currently reside in Santa Monica, CA.
Certifications / Accreditations
Diplomate, Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies (CBT) (academyofct.org)
Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice - Deb Dana, LCSW (rhythmofregulation.com)
Certificate in Positive Psychology Health and Wellness Coaching (executivecoachcollege.com)
Foundational Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Training Certificate (integratedlistening.com)
Certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy from New Center for Psychoanalysis (n-c-p.org)
Certified in Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) (iptinstitute.com)
Certified and Trainer of Trainers in Parent Child Interaction Therapy by UC Davis (PCIT) (pcit.org)
Further Training
Extensive training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Trained in Emotion Efficacy Therapy (EET): A Brief, exposure-based treatment for emotion regulation integrating ACT and DBT
Completion of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Level I & II from the EFT Tapping Institute
License, Affiliations, & Awards
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW64405)
Board Certified Coach (2024)
ASW / LCSW / MFT Superviser
Academy of Cognitive Therapy, Certified Member
Association of Contextual Behavioral Science, Member
Licensed Mental Health Services Provider Award Winner, 2015, 2016 & 2017