My Background & Professional Journey

My professional journey has taken me across several countries, cultures, and fields of study.

Before moving to San Diego, I worked in Japan for several years as a linguist for a U.S. government agency and as a university lecturer. During that period, I received intensive training in professional English writing. Although demanding at the time, the experience became an invaluable foundation for my later academic and professional work. It also gave me firsthand experience with the demands of performing accurately and consistently in a high-pressure professional environment.

My earlier professional training included approximately two years of supervised clinical experience in San Diego, where I worked with adolescents in a juvenile detention setting and adults in a community clinic. These experiences contributed to my broader understanding of human behavior, communication, and well-being. They are part of my professional background and should not be understood to mean that I currently provide psychotherapy, psychological assessment, diagnosis, or treatment through my independent practice.

During my doctoral studies, I also worked at the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. My academic work explored cultural adaptation in international environments, psychosocial competencies, intercultural communication, public speaking, persuasive communication, and negotiation. My international experience also included nonprofit consulting activities in Peru and Ghana.

Until the spring of 2020, I maintained an office in the Sorrento Valley area of San Diego. Following the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, I transitioned to a fully online practice. Working virtually has allowed me to continue serving clients while maintaining the international and cross-cultural perspective that has been central to my professional life.

These varied experiences continue to shape the way I work today. Whether I am working with an athlete preparing for competition, a professional performing under pressure, or individuals navigating a significant family transition, I aim to provide practical, respectful, and culturally informed support appropriate to the service being provided.

Professional Membership

Member, American Psychological Association (APA)

(For privacy and identity-protection purposes, certain specific dates, addresses, and other identifying details have intentionally been omitted.)