Hi, I’m Jacki
I’m a Licensed Psychotherapist and Ph.D. Candidate in Depth Psychology, with a Specialization in Integrative Therapy and Healing Practices.
My Journey
My childhood was marked by adventure and enigmatic experiences. From age four, I was a uniquely intuitive child, facing challenges during my formative years. At five, an encounter with an aggressive snake triggered recurrent nightmares, symbolizing my struggle with family dynamics and emotional safety. Navigating unpredictability within my family, a near-drowning experience in the Atlantic Ocean at age twelve further tested my resilience. Before my confirmation at thirteen, I read the Bible cover to cover, laying the foundation for my lifelong exploration into comparative religions, understanding the unconscious mind, and esoteric wisdom.
In my late twenties, I began a meditation practice and a study of metaphysics in earnest. Moving to Southern California in my thirties marked the beginning of a profound personal transformation. Enveloped by painful depression during my “dark night of the soul,” this led to the emergence of my “true Self.” Supported by a spiritual mentor and compassionate, fellow therapist, my journey from victimhood to empowerment continues to inspire my work. My approach consists of combining proven psychological approaches with compassionate care, enabling clients to navigate their inner landscapes and to truly integrate their experiences.
My mission is to accompany others on the discovery of their true Selves.
More of what I do
I meet you where you are in your healing process. We begin by building safety, stability, and practical coping skills through Psychodynamic Therapy and other evidence-based approaches. Once you feel sufficiently grounded and resourced, we can move toward deeper exploration and the patterns beneath the symptoms.
As a trauma and Complex-PTSD therapist, I believe that healing begins with understanding the story of how you became who you are. Together, we may explore the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences, family and relational patterns, and formative experiences from childhood and adolescence. I may integrate psychodynamic and somatic approaches to help you understand not only what happened, but how those experiences may continue to shape your emotions, relationships, beliefs, and body today.
Therapy is a collaborative process. My intention is to create a space where you can make sense of your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and begin creating a life that feels more authentically your own. For clients who enjoy writing, journaling can also be a meaningful way to deepen reflection and carry the therapeutic process into everyday life.
“The only journey is the one within.”
— Rainer Maria Milke
