About Erika

Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 12

Helping others manage the psychological impact of chronic conditions since 2011

Helping others find healing and self-understanding has always been my passion. I earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Seminary in 2011 and became licensed as an LMFT in California in 2015. At the heart of my work is a belief in self-compassion — that true change begins when we treat ourselves with the same kindness we offer others.

As someone who has lived with Type 1 diabetes since 1990, I understand firsthand the emotional and relational challenges that come with managing a chronic condition. This personal experience shapes my approach as a therapist and allows me to meet clients with deep empathy and understanding. Whether you’re navigating life with diabetes, supporting a loved one who is, or working through other life transitions, I offer a space that is supportive, collaborative, and real.

As Jayne Mattingly writes in This is Body Grief, “We cannot hate ourselves into becoming what we will be grateful for someday.” Together, we’ll explore how and why you relate to yourself the way you do, and begin building a more compassionate, trusting relationship with your body, your story, and your life.

My Approach

I begin by meeting you exactly where you are. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, carrying the ongoing weight of chronic illness, or facing the “Why me?” moments that come with life’s challenges, our work starts with understanding — not judgment. Together, we’ll explore the layers of grief, the impact of stigma, and the emotions shaping your experience.

I use a blend of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma-Focused CBT, to help you see how thoughts, feelings, and actions connect. I also incorporate Motivational Interviewing and Narrative Therapy to support growth, self-compassion, and healing.

I work with children (ages 9–18) and adults of all ages, individually or within family systems, creating a space that is safe, supportive, and grounded in empathy.

Listen to Erika on the Juicebox Podcast addressing the mental health aspects of diabetes

Find episodes here

Media:

Advocacy:

  • American Diabetes Association Safe at School Working Group, Southern California

Memberships:

  • California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)

Specialties:

  • Chronic Medical Conditions (Diabetes, Celiac Disease, Cancer, Alzheimer’s, Chronic Pain/ Chronic Fatigue)

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Grief and Loss

  • Diabetes Distress and Diabetes Burnout

  • Caregiver Distress and Burnout

  • Self-Esteem

  • Teens

  • Parenting

  • Parent/Child Therapy

Credentials:

  • A.B. in History, Princeton University, 2000

  • Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Seminary, 2011

  • Licensed as an LMFT in:

    • California #90941

    • Oregon #T2268

    • Utah #13111784-3902

    • Vermont #100.0134267TELE

    • Florida #TPMF813

Resume/CV

Get in touch with Erika