About Alana
Getting curious together is my favorite part of the work.
Together, that often looks like:
- Digging into experiences that have left you hurt, stuck, or carrying too much — so you can feel lighter and more present in your own life.
- Finding acceptance and kindness for yourself, even the parts you've been critical of, hiding, or unsure how to show.
- Figuring out what truly matters to you, and taking steps toward a life that feels purposeful, aligned, and a little more like you.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, my goal isn't just to help you cope — it's to help you feel grounded, resilient, and connected, both to yourself and the people who matter most.
From experience to expertise
Trauma work
I earned my MSW at the University of Michigan (go blue!), then began my career supporting survivors of intimate partner and sexual violence. There's nothing more rewarding than witnessing someone reconnect with their own resilience and agency — even in small, quiet moments.
Bipolar & mood disorders
Back in San Francisco, my work expanded to bipolar and mood disorders. I saw how often trauma and emotional regulation challenges show up together — and how much practical, compassionate support can change day-to-day life.
Supporting loved ones
I work closely with people navigating mood and regulation challenges, and with their partners, families and caregivers. Relationships can be messy, complicated, and full of love — helping people find balance and clarity there is my favorite kind of work.
People-pleasing & boundaries
As a recovering people-pleaser myself, I know how freeing it is to finally say no without the guilt. EMDR and somatic work help clients feel that freedom in their bodies, not just their minds.
Why I do this work
Every client's story matters. I blend evidence-based approaches with genuine connection, helping people feel seen, supported, and empowered — and hopefully a little lighter, a little more curious, and a little more themselves by the end of our work together.
My approach
Integrative, holistic, and relational.
Our work starts with building trust — the foundation for meaningful growth. The way we relate in session is part of the work itself: I pay attention to how we affect each other, in big ways and small.
When it's useful, I'll share what I notice about my own reactions — honestly, kindly, and accountably — so you can explore your experience safely and fully. And if I miss something, we slow down and repair it together.
Because therapy should fit you, not the other way around, I blend evidence-based approaches to meet your unique needs, nervous system, and goals.
Our healing toolkit
Evidence-based, used like a human.
I'm certified in CBASP and trained in EMDR, and I draw from ACT, DBT, CBT, Schema Therapy and Brainspotting — blended to fit you, not the other way around. No matter which methods we bring in, the work is always relational: we figure things out together, side by side.
See how I use each one- ACT
- DBT
- CBT
- CBASP
- Schema Therapy
- EMDR
- Brainspotting
Life beyond the office
Wonky mugs, the Giants, and two cats.
You'll often find me exploring new hobbies (hence my growing collection of wonky mugs from ceramics class), cheering on the San Francisco Giants or Golden State Valkyries — and doing a terrible job pretending to care about other sports — or hanging out with my fur babies, Taco and Colbert.
These little moments — a game, a laugh, or a purring cat on my lap — keep me grounded and remind me why balance, play, and a little joy matter. I bring that same curiosity, steadiness, and sense of humor into our work, and I look forward to supporting you.
Free introductory call
Let's chat.
A free, 15-minute call to talk about what's bringing you here, ask questions, and see if we click. No pressure — and a safe place to practice saying “no thanks” if it's not the right fit.