How did you become interested in this line of work? (tell us a little bit about your background)

I am a psychiatrist and an empath, the author or Thriving as an Empath: 365 Days of Self-Care for Sensitive People. I was called to become an MD when a night dream instructed me to get the credentials necessary to legitimize intuition and empathy in medicine. I come from a lineage of 25 physicians, though I never wanted to be one until the dream. Now I integrate my conventional medical training (UCLA and USC Medical School) with my intuitive and empathic skills to help patients come into their precious empathic abilities and let go of untrue ideas such as “I am overly sensitive.”

What or who inspires you? (This could be anything from your mentor to your favorite quote)

Nelson Mandela, The Dalai Lama and my Daoist teacher (who I’ve studied with for 30 years). Daoist Teacher says, “Keep connecting with your heart and inner self so you can stay centered in any situation that like presents you with.”

What personal or professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

Blending conventional medicine and psychiatry with my intuition and empathic skills to help others lead empowered, balanced lives. Also (in process) learning how to be an empowered empath in an intimate relationship and expressing my authentic needs.