For more than 25 years, Dr. Sterling has been licensed in the State of California as a Marriage and Family Therapist. She also has a Ph.D. in psychology. Since first licensed, she has maintained her private practice in the same office in Newport Beach, California. Working with individuals, couples, and families committed to living more substantive and meaningful lives, has been her life's work. Generally speaking, the people with whom she works desire or discover they desire, lives that include a peaceful sense of self, life-enhancing human relationships, greater compassion, understanding and acceptance of themselves and others. Providing tools to create fulfilling lives is paramount in her approach.

Some days and during some periods of our lives, being human is not easy. These times can bring challenges that seem insurmountable or completely confounding. It is an honor and a joy for her to help clarify issues and work in partnership with people as the path of their lives unfolds.

In therapy, she uses an eclectic approach, drawing on many disciplines. But, more importantly, the uniqueness of the individual(s) with whom she works helps guide the approach. Understanding the needs, personality structure, and the manner in which the individual or couple with whom she is working best learns, clarifies the best approach. Often in therapy, people are asked to fit into preexisting 'theories' or 'disciplines'. To be effective and transformational, theories, disciplines, and ideas must be tailored to the individual, not the other way around. Often, theories and disciplines must be completely discarded, and what is called for in each moment of the work must predominate.

It is important to remember that we are complete organisms that require a complete approach. As we explore our humanness, the body, mind and spirit must all be taken into account. Dr. Sterling believes that addressing all aspects of our lives provides the greatest possibility for positive change and living up to our full human potential.

Her first book titled, Is Anyone Listening?, was published in 2007. The book touches the soul, opens the heart and challenges the mind. Artistic in nature, it combines beautiful photography and original quotes written by the author. It is designed as an instrument to facilitate transformative listening on all levels of life. You may review the book from the link to left of this page. In addition, a copy of the book may be ordered from this site, Amazon.com or purchased at many southern California retailers.

Dr. Sterling's office is located at:
180 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, California 92660

If you would like to schedule an appointment please call us at (949) 759-0579.