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About Me

​Being born in a small town in the South and later relocating to Southern California laid the foundation for my love of the study of people. As a naturally curious youngster, I often found myself in places and with people that the larger society regularly pushed to the margins. However, even as a teen, I knew that all people had the potential to self-actualize and I wanted to be instrumental in that process. After graduating high school early and a short-lived medical doctor pursuit, I moved to Europe and further expanded my interest in people and diversity. These insights lead me to returning to the states and focus my education and career in psychology.

I have provided therapy,taught in higher education, trained and consulted for over 20 years and have maintained my desire to assist individuals, communities and organizations in healing, growing and developing.

Over the years working as a psychologist, I chose to place myself in areas of greatest need. I chose to relinquish the sanctity and security offered by many work environments: opting instead to work with historically underserved, marginalized and oppressed individuals, families, and children. Many professionals are not up to the challenge of such intensive and demanding work; however, in my desire to increase access to care and maximize impact the choice was simple.

 

My collective experiences have distilled my work into three major areas of concentration:

  • Psychological Trauma Studies

  • Cultural Diversity, Humility and Belonging

  • Attachment, Coupling and Relationships

 

In 2019, I published my first book “Dating With Purpose: A Single Woman’s Guide to Escaping No Man’s Land.”  Filled with time-tested psychological techniques, Dating with Purpose reflects my belief that all relationships require intentional and mindful work. Designed as a workbook, the structure provides maximum opportunity for self-reflection, increased insight and greater progress towards healthier intimate relationships

 

With all of this, I balance my professional life with lots of travel and socializing with family and friends.  I enjoy music and continued volunteer work with an alumnae chapter of my sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.

 

Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts: California State University Dominquez Hills

      Major Sociology, Minor Behavioral Science

  • Master of Arts and Doctorate: California School of Professional Psychology: Clinical Psychology

  • Post-Graduate Certificate: Antioch University Los Angeles Conflict and Non-Conflict Related Psychological Trauma

  • Post-Graduate Certificate: Cornell University Diversity and Inclusion

  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional through the International Association of Trauma Professionals.

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Get in Touch

 

Please send an email or complete the form on below for booking information or to schedule a consultation. I look forward to speaking with you

​Email me directly: drerica@docerica.com

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