CHRISTY LIVINGSTON (she/her)
Owner, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (California and Oregon), Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor
My Background and Approach
The experience I have obtained is vast, and ultimately this will directly benefit you. Beginning with inpatient services in 2003, I saw the potential to stabilize and heal through 24-7 care. As my journey progressed, I transitioned to school-based counseling services, and supported youth through groups, individual services, play therapy, parenting classes, classroom workshops, and curriculum development. I sat in on all of my client’s IEP meetings, discussing the mental health impact in a school setting, with an overall goal to assist families with requests for accommodations as necessary. Transitioning into outpatient clinical work, I began working in a local non-profit organization in Los Angeles. I served state-funded financially supported families receiving Medi-cal/CalFresh, CalWORKs, and BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ populations through Los Angeles County DMH programs. With a geographic service area of Long Beach, Compton, Wilmington, San Pedro, and surrounding areas, I provided in-home and school visits and met families in their communities. Moving to Sonoma County, I worked in various non-profit organizations as a Supervisor, and during my employment at the county I was deployed as a disaster relief worker during the October 2017 wildfires. I am grateful to now be able to support my community of Healdsburg with therapy services for children and adults.
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
I believe that everyone has within them the capacity to heal. I believe that children are much smarter and more observant than we realize. I believe that animals are natural healers and companions, and I feel that the unconditional love they give should be something for us all to strive for. I believe that growth is subjective, and the goals my clients make for themselves should be focused on what they want, not what I want for them as their therapist. I believe that my clients are the experts of their lives, and my role is to help them realize what their goals are and how to obtain them. I believe in healing from the past, grounding in the present, and looking to the future with hope, and I believe that all three are necessary for permanent change.
DAMION MATTHEWS
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
My Background and Approach
I came to the field of therapy through theater. While training as an actor, I became fascinated by the mystery of the human condition, and experienced first-hand the vast possibilities for growth and healing that arise when we confront our inner selves. My professional experience began with intensive inpatient treatment in San Francisco, where I worked with a diverse array of individuals struggling with addiction, homelessness, and acute psychosis, for whom I provided guidance and support, and also led skill-building, mindfulness, and art-therapy groups. Through my master’s program in drama therapy at the California Institute of Integral Studies, I had the opportunity to help individuals process their traumas and emotional wounds through the creation of original, autobiographical performance pieces, and also did drama therapy with inmates in San Quentin prison. I have also worked with adults, children, adolescents, and couples at SOS Community Counseling in Santa Rosa, providing accessible therapy services to our community. My approach weaves together elements of art, drama, and narrative therapy with practical tools drawn from cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, all while putting the individual needs of the client and the therapeutic relationship at the center of the work.
Personal Beliefs and Interests
As a person and as a clinician I believe in “come as you are.” There is no right way to heal, to be, or to live, apart from the way that is uniquely right for you. I believe that suffering arises when we are at odds with our inner integrity or the circumstances we find ourselves in, and that a vast wellspring of joy and strength can be unlocked when we turn toward ourselves and our lives instead of away. I believe that as human beings, we create and make sense of who we are through story, and I consider it an honor and a privilege to witness the story of each client that I work with. When it comes to struggles with relationships of any kind, I believe in developing radical vulnerability and responsibility, and in learning methods of effective communication that, unfortunately, are so rarely modeled or taught to us in our society. I believe that we can start to fall in love with our lives when we connect to what is most precious and meaningful for us, and I view therapy as a collaborative process of uncovering and cultivating that meaning.
ANDREA DUFFY
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
My Background and Approach
I was born and raised in Sonoma County and am so grateful for the beauty and joy that I have found in our community. With this, I have a vested interest in giving back to my community and I am glad to do so by providing support to individuals and families. Before becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, my previous experiences included a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) by providing 1:1 behavioral support services to children with autism, as well as a 1:1 Behavioral Teaching Aide and Residential Counselor at a local non-public school and residential treatment center. I gained my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco, worked as a Mental Health Counselor for a Sebastopol School District serving elementary and middle school students and their families. I had the opportunity to provide therapy to students with neurodivergence, learning disabilities, depression, and anxiety. In addition to working directly with youth, I work with parents, caregivers, and adults as they navigate their daily lives. It is no easy task to manage the responsibility for others you love and care for and take care of your own needs also.
As a clinician, I use an integrative approach so that each client can build a tailor-made treatment. I draw from a client-centered framework, meaning that clients are the experts in their own lives and I, as a therapist, am there to observe and gently guide as they discover and work toward their personal goals.
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
The human body and mind share an extremely complex relationship that can go almost unnoticed in our daily lives. Talking with a therapist and mindfulness can connect these parts of ourselves and effectively begin the healing process. I believe that the relationship between nature, animals, and our nervous systems is symbiotic and can aid in healing both mentally and physically. Creative modalities such as art, music, and play can be equally effective in expressing emotions and personal stories, and allowing space to examine individual strengths is an important part of the work I do. Although therapy is a way to process difficult emotions and experiences, it can also be a time to find joy and positivity. Examining these moments can bring to light the resiliency we all have within us. As Albus Dumbledore says, “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” – Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
LAUREN RUTLEDGE
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (California and Mississippi), Clinical Supervisor
My Background and Experience
I graduated with my masters in social work from the University of Mississippi and began working in the field of addiction treatment. I have been able to work with adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with mental health, eating disorders, addictions to drugs and alcohol, and varying degrees of trauma. For the past five years I have developed a holistic approach to healing. I believe in prioritizing a mind, body, and spirit connection. I have worked in residential and outpatient settings, navigated inpatient group and individual therapy during COVID-19, obtained a 200-hour yoga certification along with a certification for the Yoga of 12-Step Recovery, and I have worked with a team to develop an outpatient program specialized for veterans with addiction and PTSD. My experiences have led me to believe in the healing power of relationships and connection. My specialities are in using Dialectical Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, and attachment theory along with the techniques of narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems, and AEDP. You’ll find me often turning to mindfulness and somatic approaches when working through difficult emotions. I also enjoy using journaling and art to help clients process their experiences when words aren’t enough.
Personal Beliefs and Interests
I like working with clients in ways that motivate them, and I believe that we all have what we need within us to achieve a life worth living or to overcome any pain we may be experiencing. I have found the benefits in healthy routines, the outdoors, humor, and relationships to be the foundation for my personal well-being and I like to work with clients as they discover their own building blocks for wholehearted living.
My favorite thing in the world is cooking for the people I love. Rain or shine, I can be found in the kitchen making an old family recipe or something new that I’ve never tried before. When I’m not in the kitchen, I’m often out running a road or a trail with my husband. This is our favorite hobby to do together, and it’s where I personally feel the most empowered and embodied. Yoga, reading a good memoir, and walking my big Labrador Gryffin (yes, that’s a Harry Potter reference) are my other loves.
MOJO TCHUDI (he/they)
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor
My Background and Approach
My journey into counseling and mental health began through a deep exploration of diverse healing modalities and personal growth practices. For over 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in various traditions of wellness and self-discovery, starting with studies in meditation, nutrition, and holistic health at Heartwood Institute. This foundation led me to practice as a holistic health coach and movement instructor, while continuing to expand my knowledge in various therapeutic approaches. My path has been marked by a wide range of experiences, including living in intentional communities and undertaking meditation retreats. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the human psyche and the transformative power of self-reflection and authentic living. My formal education culminated in a postgraduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Saybrook University. This training, combined with my earlier Master of Arts from Dharma Realm Buddhist University, has equipped me with a unique blend of Eastern and Western approaches to mental health and well-being. I enjoy counseling children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and have worked in school, residential, and clinic settings. My therapeutic style is firmly rooted in neurodivergent and queer identity affirmation, feminist principles, multicultural awareness, and above all, a compassionate person-centered approach.
Personal Beliefs and Interests
I believe in the inherent wisdom within each individual and the power of compassionate, non-judgmental reflection to unlock this wisdom. My approach is deeply committed to creating a safe and affirming space for neurodivergent individuals and those exploring or embracing their queer identities. I recognize that these aspects of identity are fundamental to a person’s experience and should be celebrated rather than pathologized. As a counselor, I strive to create an environment where clients can fully explore and embrace their identities, challenges, and aspirations. I believe that true healing comes from accepting and celebrating our whole selves — including our neurodivergence, gender identities, sexual orientations, cultural backgrounds, and unique life experiences. My practice is dedicated to helping clients navigate these aspects of themselves with pride and confidence, while also addressing any related mental health concerns or life challenges.
Skye Ashley, LMFT (she/her)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
My Background and Approach
I graduated from Dominican University of California’s Counseling Psychology program and earned a master’s degree with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. I received the Outstanding Student Award upon completion of the program.
My professional life as a therapist began at Dominican University Counseling Services, serving students, faculty, and staff in an individual setting addressing a multitude of issues among a diverse population.
In my next position at Verity (a rape and crisis agency) I completed an extensive crisis line training enabling me to work on the 24/7 crisis line for victims of sexual assault. I facilitated the weekly drop-in women’s sexual assault support group for one year and provided trauma- informed counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults.
I worked as a case manager at Sonoma County Behavioral Health (SCBH) while still an associate until my licensure. In this role, I worked at three satellite offices with the underserved (SPMI and unhoused) populations in rural Sonoma County. I helped establish the ongoing Collaborative Treatment Recovery Team (CTRT), providing wrap-around services to clients, helping to prevent further destabilization. I was deployed, while at SCBH, during the 2017 Sonoma County fires, providing crisis counseling to individuals and families who lost their homes or suffered other significant traumas.
Most recently, I worked in an Intensive Outpatient Program with clients at risk of self-harm or destabilization, and/or post-hospitalization with a small, specialized team focusing on trauma, wellness, stabilization, and skill-building.
For the past 6 years I have been an adjunct professor at Dominican University of California in the Counseling Psychology department. I created the curriculum for, and teach, two courses each semester. I am a clinical supervisor in a university setting, supervising both trainees and associates enrolled in the counseling psychology program.
I embrace an integrative and client-centered model, utilizing skills from DBT, CBT, solution- focused therapy, and brief psychotherapy. I implement somatics, mindfulness, coping tools, and provide ongoing psychoeducation always through a trauma-informed framework. I have expertise in and hold certifications in grief, trauma, and life transitions.
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
I feel blessed to have lived in rural Sonoma County since 2009. I love the land, the forests and the ocean that are ever present here. I am in my happy place when I get to spend time connecting with these things that are awe-inspiring and bigger than myself. I believe it is vitally important that we each find something supportive as we navigate these extraordinary times. What you can expect from our work together is a holding space that is gentle, loving, and safe—a place from which to establish attainable goals, identify obstacles, and a place to discover ways to bring greater presence and joy to your journey.
STEPHANI JACOBSON
Office Administrator, Intake Coordinator
Stephani joined Bridges to Understanding after having been a stay-at-home mom for almost 15 years. People talk about just how important the role of your administrative staff is, and Stephani is truly the backbone of this practice. She is the one who greets you at first contact, supports you with any issues that arise with insurance, the go-to fixer of anything that comes up, and she cares for our Bridges families like they are her own.
Passions include being active in her community, including sitting on the PTA board and frequently volunteering with her favorite organization, Habitat for Humanity. She had spent 15 years moving around the country while her husband was in the military, and was happy to find her permanent home in Sonoma County. She lived in six different states during that time, but California almost immediately became her favorite. Bridges to Understanding is grateful for the support of Stephani, and she is your first point of contact when you call our practice. With a calm presence and a genuinely happy smile, she helps clients find comfort when they arrive.
In Stephani’s free time, she loves exploring her town with her husband and two children, gardening and cheesecake baking.
DR. RAQUEL HENRY (she/her)
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
My Background and Approach
I am a licensed psychologist who has been living and working in the bay area for over a decade. I graduated from the California School of Professional Psychology with my doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology in 2017 and have worked with individuals in community mental health, schools, and private practice. I was trained in psychodynamic-relational psychotherapy at the Psychological Services Center and HealthRight360 in San Francisco and am trained to provide psychological assessment services to adolescents and adults struggling with learning or mood disorders. In addition to using evidence-based assessment tools, I prioritize understanding the person as a whole to better acknowledge their needs and challenges and to provide direction on how to move forward. As a queer woman of color, I enjoy working with folks from diverse backgrounds, including different cultures, gender expressions, sexual orientations, and immigration statuses. I am dedicated to providing a safe place where we can apply the use of assessments to better understand your experiences. I understand that it is a privilege to bear witness to your vulnerability, so I am committed to supporting you with compassion and guiding you with a strengths-based approach.
DR. JESSICA HOBSON
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Hobson is a Sonoma State University Lecturer and Clinical Director, experienced in research and clinical interests of joint attention, symbolic play, and parent-child interaction with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder and early typical development, as well as a focus on identification of twice exceptional (2e) youth. Her understanding of the intersection of sensory needs, mental health, and neurodiversity make her an ideal Psychologist for children and adults with curiosity in exploring Autism Spectrum (ASD) testing, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADHD) testing, as well as cognitive and processing testing. She is a trainer and supervisor for Psychologists conducting evaluations, and has published academic papers on diverse topics such as sensory processing differences, social anxiety, and neurocognitive profiles.
As a Senior Research Fellow in London’s Neuropsychology Center, a grant writer, and a Lecturer in studies such as lifespan development, infant and toddler mental health, and even philosophy, she brings to Bridges to Understanding her clinical expertise and approximately 30 years of experience in education, research, and testing. Her keen eye for detail, paired with thoroughness in testing, will elicit answers to complex questions and concerns. Dr. Hobson offers independent evaluations for Psychological Testing services.