About
The Heart Behind
Sonqo Circle
Licensed therapist, lifelong learner, and fellow traveler on the path to healing.
Why "Sonqo"?
Sonqo (pronounced “SOHN-koh”) is the Quechua word for heart, a name I chose to honor my Peruvian heritage and the philosophy at the center of my work. I believe healing is about more than overcoming life’s challenges. It’s about reconnecting with yourself, living in alignment with your values, and creating a life that feels wholehearted.
Although counseling is at the heart of what I do, I chose the word Circle because my vision extends beyond therapy alone. I hope Sonqo Circle grows into a place where people find compassionate care, lifelong learning, meaningful connection, and a lasting sense of belonging.
My Story
"Healing is not just about moving past pain — it's about reclaiming the parts of yourself that have been waiting to come home."
The path that led me to counseling wasn’t a straight one, but looking back, I can’t imagine it unfolding any other way.
I’ve experienced firsthand how difficult relationships, unhealthy family dynamics, and environments rooted in fear and rigid expectations can leave lasting wounds.
Those experiences taught me how deeply people can hurt, but they also showed me that healing is possible. They sparked a lifelong passion for understanding what helps people recover, grow, and build lives that feel meaningful.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent seven years working as a business analyst in the technology industry. I loved solving complex problems, but over time I realized my greatest fulfillment came from helping people make sense of their experiences and discover new ways forward. That realization led me to counseling.
Today, I bring together my life experiences, diverse professional background, and commitment to lifelong learning in my work with clients. I believe every person deserves care that is compassionate, thoughtful, and grounded in evidence. Whether you’re navigating trauma, burnout, anxiety, difficult relationships, or a major life transition, my goal is to help you create meaningful and lasting change.
Outside the therapy room, you’ll usually find me with my therapy dog, Elena, a lab-golden cross and retired mama dog who now spends her days volunteering in our community and being thoroughly spoiled at home. I’ve always had a deep love for animals and believe there’s something profoundly healing about the comfort, presence, and unconditional acceptance they offer. Don’t be surprised if your pets become part of our conversations.
I believe healing is about more than simply getting through the next day. It’s about reconnecting with yourself, living in alignment with your values, and building a life that reflects the person you want to become. That belief is at the heart of Sonqo Circle.
Education & Credentials
Training, Licensure & Expertise
Education
- Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Amberton University
- Master of Public Health
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Bachelor of Science in Health Science
California State University, Long Beach
Professional Licensure
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Texas
- Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC)
Texas
- Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
Idaho
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC)
Utah
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Telehealth Provider (LMHC-TLHT) — Florida (Telehealth Only)
Advanced Training
- Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
Ketamine Training Center (KTC) • March 2026
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Certified
PESI • 2024
- EMDR Basic Training
EMDR Consulting • July 2026
- Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC)
Evergreen Certifications • July 2026
Ready to Begin?
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. I’m here when you’re ready to explore
what’s possible for your journey.