Welcome! My name is Kiana (she/her). I identify as an affirmative, client-centered, trauma-informed, and inclusive therapist who tailors therapy to meet the client needs. I hold a social-justice and anti-racism framework inside and outside of my therapy work. I integrate cultural humility, social justice, anti-oppressive, anti-carceral approaches, and advocacy in my practice. BIPOC and LGBTQ Allied. I especially welcome to this space folks from marginalized and disenfranchised communities.
I have worked for 5 years in mental health. I am an alum of University of San Diego with a M.A. in Marital and Family Therapy and of San Diego State University with a B.A. in Psychology, minor in Counseling and Social Change. My philosophy is that all individuals should have an opportunity to access mental health services for wellness and recovery regardless of their ability to pay. My communication style is conversational, compassionate, and humorous when appropriate. I have historically focused my work in nonprofit, outpatient clinic, and group practice settings.
I was born and raised in San Diego, primarily by my mother with support of our extended family. My personal journey of healing has led me to become my own sense of encouragement, develop a healthier relationship with movement, and embrace more aspects of myself. In my free time, I enjoy trying new recipes, and narrating the experience to my cat as if I were on a cooking show.
How I Can Support You
Therapy is a space to show up as your full self—messy, complex, evolving, and real. I believe we all carry stories about who we are, where we come from, and what we’re capable of—and sometimes those stories need space to be heard, questioned, and rewritten. In our work together, we’ll explore the narratives that have shaped your life, and gently create space for new ones rooted in your values, strengths, and hopes. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, big transitions, identity exploration, or simply trying to make life feel a little more manageable, I’m here to walk alongside you because therapy can be a place to reconnect with your voice and reshape the story you want to live. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity and compassion.
Areas of Focus
Anxious high achievers & social anxiety If you're someone who feels like you're constantly “on” or overthinking every interaction, you're not alone. Together, we can slow things down, quiet that inner critic, and build confidence from the inside out.
Body image & self-confidence Whether you're working on making peace with your body or learning how to speak to yourself more kindly, we’ll work on creating a relationship with yourself that feels more whole and accepting.
Depression, suicidality & self-injury These experiences can feel isolating, overwhelming, and hard to talk about. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to be real about the hard stuff and begin to move toward hope and healing—at your pace.
Family & friendships I support folks navigating family dynamics (blended families, co-parenting, generational challenges) and those working through friendship changes or loneliness.
Grief, loss & life transitions Whether you're grieving a loved one, pet, or a chapter of your life, transitions can be tender. I’m here to help you make sense of change, honor your process, and find steady ground again.
2SLGBTQ+, Black men, & women I hold space for people of all identities to feel affirmed and supported. My work is identity-affirming and grounded in a deep respect for lived experience.
Trauma (childhood, racial, and sexual trauma) Healing from trauma takes time, care, and the right support. I offer trauma-informed therapy that centers your safety, voice, and healing journey.