Hi, I’m Aji.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, and I believe having emotions doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you.
My style is warm, relational, and conversational. I’ll listen, but I’ll also talk to you, ask questions, notice patterns, and help you make connections. Therapy with me feels a lot more like two humans figuring things out together and a lot less like you talking while I silently nod for 50 minutes.
Why I Became a Therapist
Growing up, I had my own mental health struggles and didn’t always feel like I had many places where my emotions were safe to exist. That experience is a big part of why I became a therapist.
I wanted to create the kind of space I needed more of myself: somewhere you can be honest about what you’re feeling without worrying that you’re too emotional, too sensitive, or somehow doing feelings wrong.
My Approach to Therapy
I use person-centered, psychodynamic, and CBT approaches, which means we might look at where a pattern came from, what keeps it going now, and what could actually help you do something differently.
I’m validating, but I’m not just going to agree with everything you say. I’ll get curious with you, offer another perspective when it’s helpful, and yes, we can laugh in therapy too. You’re allowed to have a personality in here.
Therapy That Makes Room for Culture, Family & Identity
Family, culture, identity, and relationships affect how we experience pretty much everything, so they belong in the conversation.
You can love your family and want better boundaries. You can value where you come from and do some things differently. You can understand why someone is the way they are and still be annoyed with them. Therapy doesn’t need to turn everything into either/or.
A Little About My Training
I earned my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from California State University, Bakersfield and have been in practice for six years.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT #163588) and a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT).
My work incorporates person-centered, psychodynamic, CBT, humanistic, narrative, multicultural, and solution-focused approaches.
And, Yes, There’s a Cat
I share my life with a cat who may occasionally make an appearance during virtual sessions- usually with absolutely no regard for timing or professional boundaries.
Therapy in Bakersfield & Online Throughout California
I offer in-person therapy in Bakersfield on Tuesdays and Fridays, along with online therapy throughout California Monday through Thursday.
Sessions are 50 minutes and $150, and I offer a free 15-minute consultation if you’d like to talk first and see if we’re a good fit.