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.

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, Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness 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.

Media:

• Frequent contributor on the Juicebox Podcast 2020 - Present

• Speaker on Diabetes Distress at the Diabetes + Mental Health Conference 2021

• Contributor to Taking Control of Your Diabetes (TCOYD) newsletter: Newly Diagnosed to Type 1 Diabetes? 3 Tips from a T1D therapist who Gets it! 2023

• Type 1 in Midlife Podcast Episode 35: Uncover Hope 2024

• Speaker for teens with T1D and caregivers at the Touched by Type 1 Annual Conference 2024

• Speaker for adults with T1D, teens with T1D, and siblings at the Touched by Type 1 Annual Conference 2025

• Speaker for adults with TID, teens with T1D, and caregivers at the Children with Diabetes FFL Conference 2025

Advocacy:

• American Diabetes Association Mental Health Advisory Group

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

Memberships:

• California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)

• Professional Membership of American Diabetes Association

• Mental Health Professional Directory Listing, ADA

• Lyra Health Provider

• Verified by Psychology Today

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:

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

• Teacher Credential Program, San Francisco State University, 2002

• Bachelor of Arts in History, Princeton University, 2000

• Licensed as an LMFT in:

  • California #90941

  • Oregon #T2268

  • Utah #13111784-3902

  • Vermont #100.0134267TELE

  • Florida #TPMF813