About Me
Hi, I’m Cody — a therapist specializing in working with couples, families, and individuals in high-pressure roles.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent nearly a decade as a police officer in Northern California, serving on Domestic Violence Response Teams, Peer Support Teams, and Sexual Assault Response Teams. I attended critical incidents both as a first responder and as part of support staff at trauma retreats. These experiences, along with my own encounters with shootings, critical incidents, burnout, and health challenges, give me a deep and personal understanding of the stress and trauma that come with serving others — and with simply navigating life.
I also understand that not all struggles are visible. I’ve supported loved ones living with chronic illness and have personally battled bladder cancer over the past five years. These experiences have shaped my belief that healing often means learning to live alongside pain while finding meaning, balance, and peace. With time, effort, and realistic expectations, it is possible to reduce unnecessary stress and build a more fulfilling life.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These methods allow me to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs. I am also certified in Crisis Response and Critical Incident Stress Management.
I hold a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and provide sessions both in person and virtually. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences, process difficult emotions, and reconnect with yourself and those around you.
Supervised by Jesse Stanley, LMFT Supervisor, TX #203691
Supervised by Elizabeth Cox, LMFT-Supervisor, TX #203520
My Therapy Process
1. Initial Phone call consultation (15 minutes)
Every call begins with learning a little about what made you reach out. We discuss your goals and concerns and cover what you hope to gain from therapy. We then talk about my style of therapy and how I would approach your concerns.
2. Treatment plan session & Diagnosis (first session) (60-90 minutes)
Our first session is an extension of our initial phone consultation. It’s an opportunity for me to get to know you better and to begin shaping our work together. We’ll discuss your short- and long-term goals, set clear expectations, and review the paperwork you’ve completed. I’ll also take time to answer any questions you may have.
If you’re coming in as a couple or family, I may schedule individual sessions with each of you or set aside brief 10–20 minute check-ins during our time together while others wait outside. This allows me to understand each person’s perspective, what you hope to gain from therapy, and whether there are any concerns around safety or trust within the relationship.
If we’re working through one of the practices I’m affiliated with or if you plan to use insurance, I’m required to provide an initial diagnosis. This diagnosis is primarily for insurance purposes—to demonstrate that our work together is “medically necessary.” It’s not permanent and may change as we continue therapy. The initial diagnosis is based on the symptoms and concerns you share during our first session.
3. Therapy Sessions (Individual, Couples, Family) (50-60 minutes)
Therapy is client-centered and collaborative. I believe you are the “expert” at the center of the process and by providing a safe, accepting space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, you will be able to find your own solutions.
We begin each session discussing what happened before the session and what we want to cover during the session. I want you to leave each session with something new, whether that be a new insight into your life, new perspective, or a new skill I want you to try.
If EMDR therapy is being used in sessions there may come a time when we have to choose between “talk” therapy and a productive EMDR session. There is typically not enough time to do both. (This will be explained further in the services tab)
3. Monthly Check-in to review goals (15 minutes)
Rather than focusing solely on what’s happening outside of sessions, I like to sometimes check in about how therapy itself feels for you. My goal is for you to feel fully in control of the direction and focus of your sessions.
I understand that it can sometimes feel uncomfortable to bring up feedback or concerns with your therapist, so I make it a point to open that conversation myself. This gives you the space to share suggestions, ask questions, or let me know what’s working—or not working—for you.
Ultimately, you are the expert of your own life, and I want you to feel empowered and in control of your therapeutic journey.
4. Final (Achieve mental clarity)
The length of therapy depends on your goals and personal needs. Over time, we’ll regularly check in on your progress to ensure our work continues to feel helpful and aligned with what you want to achieve.
Therapy may end when you feel your goals have been met, when you’d like to take a break, or when we mutually decide that a different approach or provider might be more supportive. I understand that there may be times when clients choose to discontinue therapy without providing notice. Please be aware that I may reach out periodically to check whether you would like to continue therapy or if you would prefer a referral to another qualified clinician.
When it’s time to conclude, we’ll spend time reflecting on your progress and discussing ways to maintain your growth outside of sessions. You’re always welcome to return if new challenges arise or if you’d like continued support in the future.