Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Certified Substance Abuse Counselor
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a deep commitment to serving individuals and families across Hawaiʻi. My clinical experience spans over a decade, with a focus on substance use, co-occurring disorders, and behavioral health challenges in both civilian and military- affiliated populations. I am passionate about creating safe, respectful spaces for healing and growth, and I approach each client with cultural humility, compassion, and strategic insight.
My journey into the field began during my final years of service in the United States Marine Corps, where I earned my initial certification as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Jacksonville, NC. After retiring honorably in December 2013, I returned to Hawaiʻi and was recognized by the Department of Health as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in January 2014. In 2019, I relocated to California and expanded my credentials through the CCAPP board, earning both CADCII and Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) status by December 2021.
I completed my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology at Chaminade University of Honolulu and spent four years in Marin County, CA, working with individuals navigating severe behavioral health and substance use challenges. In March 2025, I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Hawaiʻi, a milestone that reflects my enduring commitment to clinical excellence and community care.
Today, I am honored to be part of the Sakura Center team, integrating my experience across Hawaiʻi and California into a holistic, trauma-informed approach. I believe in the transformative power of hope, and I strive to offer services that are both clinically sound and personally meaningful. I welcome collaboration with fellow professionals who share a dedication to ethical, evidence-based care and the advancement of mental health services throughout the islands.
Education:
M.S. Counseling Psychology, Chaminade University of Honolulu Licensure & Certification: • Licensed Mental Health Counselor - Hawaii/ MHC-1103 • Certified Substance Abuse Counselor - Hawaii/ CSAC • Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor - California/ LAADC Semper Fidelis
Licensure
LIC# HI-MHC-1103