Book 25+ of the best Buddhist therapists in California

Welcome and thanks for stopping in. My name is Kristy, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and my pronouns are she/her/hers. My ancestry is both Native American and northern European. I have been working with young people since 2013 and I have seen how overwhelming life can feel these days. There are so many pressures in school, at home, with your peers and in society at large! Have you been feeling stressed, anxious, and/or worried about your future? Perhaps you feel consumed with thoughts about how you compare to others and what others think of you? Is your mind full of racing thoughts about how you just might not be good enough? Or perhaps there is a relentless inner critic that won't let you off the hook? I know how this feels because I have been there myself and I can tell you it does not have to be this way. You can learn to develop a different kind of relationship with yourself: One in which you can learn how the mind works & how to navigate its unhelpful & painful patterns more effectively; one in which you can discover how to approach yourself with kindness & support--the way you would a good friend in pain; one in which you uncover your strengths, gifts & values and allow this self-knowledge to help you make decisions in your life of which you feel proud. PARENTS: Are you in a place where you are ready to dive deeper into your own unconscious patterns that are affecting the way you parent? Do you ever think that you do not want to do some of the same ineffective things with your children that your parents did with you, but find it hard to stop? I am here for you too.

Matthew Tentler is a marriage and family therapist in Southern California. He specializes in treating in depression, post traumatic stress disorder, addiction and cultural, spiritual, and identity issues. After working as a teacher, a professional behavioral analyst, and later as a first responder on a mental health crisis team, Mr. Tentler worked as a lead clinician for a non-profit providing aid for survivors of human trafficking, where he developed a trauma informed martial arts, self defense and somatic therapy program.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration, with a strong focus on helping individuals navigate complex emotions, trauma, and mental health challenges. I specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and relational conflicts, creating a safe space to promote healing and growth. My approach I utilize an integrative approach to therapy, combining evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and trauma-informed care. My work is influenced by depth psychology and mindfulness techniques, allowing clients to explore the underlying causes of their struggles while developing practical tools for day-to-day coping. I focus on creating individualized treatment plans that address each client's unique needs and goals.

I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds in a therapeutic capacity for several decades. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and although I have trained in various methodologies, I believe the key to therapy is a good relationship with your therapist. My goal is to make you feel safe to share your thoughts, feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. I aim to foster a space where you feel understood, supported and empowered on your journey. I’m passionate about helping people transform their lives.

Welcome! I am a licensed clinician with a masters in marriage and family therapy and a background in pastoral ministry and counseling. I have been a therapist for 15 years and specialize in helping people move through loss, change, relational stress, career stress, and life transition through a holistic, humanistic, eclectic, and straight forward approach. Working with me, you will be challenged to move past the obstacles you face as you move towards your self-defined goals. *Please note I do not schedule appointments on weekends or evenings and will not be opening weekend or evening appointments anytime soon. Due to my caseload, my availability now is limited to between the late morning to mid- afternoon. *

I am a seasoned and dedicated therapist, holding a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and I am based in California. With 13 years of experience in this field, my practice is driven by a profound commitment to assisting individuals in their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. My therapeutic approach centers around meeting my clients right where they are in their lives, offering them a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I am deeply passionate about nurturing self-understanding, self-compassion, and self-love, guiding individuals to embrace these qualities as they navigate life's challenges. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of moving away from self-criticism and self-blame, recognizing these patterns as hindrances to personal well-being. Instead, I work collaboratively with my clients to foster self-acceptance and self-compassion, empowering them to build healthier relationships with themselves and others. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to help individuals discover their inner strengths, enhance their self-awareness, and develop the tools they need to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. It's a privilege and a passion of mine to assist others on their journey towards greater self-acceptance and emotional well-being.

Intuitive, Holistic Psychotherapist having created and led therapeutic programs for emotional and mental health/ addiction treatment centers utilizing Indigenous Ways and Wisdom, Psychodynamic therapy, DBT, CBT, and Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy with Veterans, First Responders, Adult Children, those who've endured Complex PTS, and anyone with underlying, unresolved pain that needs to be grieved, healed, and released, through various therapeutic modalities which allow for Spiritual (Energy) Healing; Somatic and Polyvagal activation and calming, regulating one's nervous system, Meditation, Breathwork, Regression therapy, Nature based therapy, Creative Arts healing, psychodrama, Inner Child healing, empowerment, and Past Life Regression Therapy (trained by Dr Brian Weiss).

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 17 years of clinical experience. I work from a systems lens, focusing on behaviors and patterns, and using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy principles to help my clients achieve the life they want. I've worked with all age groups, spanning different areas of need: grief and loss, life transitions, pre-marital counseling, and self-improvement. However, the clients that I work most with are those that feel stuck in their current situation - work, life, relationship - and are looking to (re)discover who they are/what they want or simply looking for ways to slow down to (re)charge themselves and (re)define what's most important to them. I am currently offering individual therapy, virtually for residents of the state of California and in person for residents in San Diego, CA. I offer 15-minute consultations free of charge to ensure we are a good fit for one another. It is important to me that you feel comfortable as embark on this personal journey of self-discovery and change.

I have worked in private practice and the school systems providing Educationally Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS) for almost 25 years. During this time I founded a small business where my team and I provide these mental health services individually and in groups on-site to school districts all over Sonoma County, CA. I love working with children k-12 and their families. I have worked in non-public schools, public schools, and privately with at-risk youth and their families. This has been my passion my whole career. I have been married to my lovely wife for 18 years, together for 24 years and we have two beautiful children. Our son is 13 and our daughter is 10. I enjoy all things outdoors. I surfed competitively in my youth and I love mountain biking, snowboarding and anything that has to do with water, but my main love is spending time with my family.

He/They is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (specializing in couple therapy) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, as well as an EMDR therapist specializing in trauma, with a client-centered approach. Additionally, they focus on social anxiety, general anxiety, body image issues, life transitions, and stress, working with both children and adults. Johnny is also in training for music therapy.

Therapy can be a unique opportunity to work through and resolve obstacles that are preventing you from leading the life you truly deserve. I provide a safe and supportive space to facilitate emotional well-being, healing and growth. I utilize an interactive approach and will challenge you when needed. Therapy can be short-term or long-term depending on your specific needs. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of speciality include anxiety, complex traumas and chronic pain.

Are you trying to overcome a feeling something isn't right but can't name it? Do you want to be celebrated for who you are, your strengths, intelligence and unique view of the world? Do you want more creativity, empowerment, delight, ease and playfulness in your life? I use Somatic Psychology to help women of all ages overcome their challenges and move toward richer experiences of embodiment and empowerment. We create a warm and inviting space where the whole of you can lean into the process and make full use of your therapeutic time. I do my best work with trauma, complex ptsd, developmental trauma, relational trauma, and all the ways trauma may manifest in individuals, such as depression, anxiety, addictions, obsessions, chronic pain, isolation, avoidance and more.

Hello! I’m thrilled to introduce myself as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a unique blend of expertise. My practice extends to working with individuals, couples, and families, offering a comprehensive approach to healing and growth. Additionally, I'm deeply passionate about education and serve as a professor, where I not only teach but also practice Buddhist-inspired evidence-based practices. At the heart of my therapeutic approach lie two powerful modalities: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT). With ACT, I guide clients in embracing mindfulness, accepting their experiences without judgment, and taking committed action towards a life aligned with their values. Meanwhile, my practice in PCT creates a nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and relationships with empathy and unconditional positive regard. By integrating these modalities, I offer a holistic and empowering path towards healing and personal growth. Whether you're an individual seeking relief from anxiety, a couple navigating relationship challenges, or a family in need of support, I provide tailored interventions to meet your unique needs and goals. With my background in Buddhist-inspired practices, I infuse mindfulness and compassion into our work together, creating a therapeutic environment that fosters resilience, authenticity, and well-being. My approach is not just about symptom reduction; it's about helping you cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself, strengthen your relationships, and live a life of purpose and fulfillment. Experience the transformative potential of ACT and PCT as we embark on a journey towards greater peace, resilience, and connection together.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Berkeley California and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Masters in Integral Counseling from the California Institute of Integral Studies in 2019 and my Bachelors in Psychology from Reed College in 2010. I have over 15 years of experience in Community Mental Health and have been practicing as a therapist since 2018. I work eclectically, integrating a wide range of approaches including humanistic, relational, existential, somatic, gestalt, psychodynamic, transpersonal, motivational interviewing, ACT, feminist, IFS, polyvagal, somatic experiencing, narrative, NVC, and IFS. I support people to find greater connection, safety, agency, meaning, authenticity, stillness and joy in their relationships with themselves, others and the world.

With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am committed to providing patient-led care that respects the unique needs and pace of each individual. My therapeutic approach incorporates solution-focused therapy, interpersonal therapy (IPT), motivational interviewing, and strength-based methods. This multifaceted approach allows me to collaborate with clients, fostering a supportive environment where they can leverage their strengths and work toward meaningful solutions in their mental health journey.

I am a licensed psychotherapist in CA, NC and SC. I have been a practicing clinician for more than 20 years, and have also supervised pre-licensed psychotherapists and graduate students for 11 years. I have an MS in Clinical Psychology from SFSU. Most important to me is building a trusting, warm and caring relationship with my clients. I use evidence based modalities such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and CBT, and am also trained in psychodynamic and mindfulness based approaches. I also like to bring in art therapy, and somatic awareness when helpful. Every person is different, and I believe sessions should be focused on what is most supportive to each person.

Hi There! My name is Michael. I have my master's in clinical psychology, focusing on marriage and family therapy LMFT. I did my internship at Glendale Adventis Hospital, dual diagnosis program. Just because I'm an expert in my field, does not make me an expert about you. You have lived a life experience that no one can teach about in a grad course. You will teach me much more than the classes I took. I take many CE units (I joined an unlimited program), read work related books just for fun, and truly enjoy my work and private life. I'm grateful for everything! Outside the office I have two adult children, love to water ski, play drums, race cars, and fix things.

I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been working with children, youth and adults for the past eight years. My background is special needs case management and parenting as a school social worker. My "why" when I think about my work is this: listening to clients stories' and sitting with them in their path to building resiliency. I believe the client knows themselves and their strengths, I sit by and guide them to build insight about how they want to make changes for personal growth. I champion my clients as they build their capacity for vulnerability to develop their authentic selves. I consider it a huge privilege to do this very important work.

My background includes training in somatic therapy, spiritual emergence, buddhist psychology, expressive arts, sandtray, rosen method bodywork, aikido, person centered and transpersonal therapy and diverse trainings in psychological methods for personal growth and healing. My approach is holistic and includes exploring mind, body and spirit connections. I have worked as a school counselor, a military family life consultant, in clinics and in private practice. Currently I work with individuals in private practice.

I view therapy as an interactive self-discovery process and our therapy relationship is central to successful changes. My approach is to engage you in the here and now and help you focus on your experience and to identify and act on your choices. That means not focusing on what you "should" do but rather on what you want, need, and can do, given your particular life situation. My interactions with you are directed towards assisting you to be fully alive, vibrant, coherent, and clear in relationships. I assist you becoming aware of your internal processes (thinking, feeling, sensory), as well as your experience of the world around you. I will suggest experimenting with new behaviors and ways of being in the world. I will provide support and guidance for you to feel safe as you face and confront unresolved painful issues.

In my role as a mindfulness-based therapist, I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that is nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to delve into their inner workings with a sense of compassion and empathy. I emphasize the importance of being fully present in the current moment and embracing a mindset of acceptance without criticism in my therapeutic approach. Furthermore, I prioritize guiding clients toward cultivating a deep sense of self-compassion and understanding, recognizing these as fundamental elements for personal advancement and emotional reconciliation. By integrating mindfulness techniques and meditation practices, I actively assist clients in developing an enhanced self-awareness and fostering a compassionate outlook on their experiences.

Namaste, my name is Ashwini Gupta and I am Therapist/Intuitive Life Coach specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as Vedanta and Mindfulness-based practices. With 20 plus of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges, I am passionate about empowering my clients to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives truly being in touch with the essence of soul identity. Using ACT as my primary therapeutic approach, I create a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work together to address difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. ACT combines mindfulness, acceptance, and behavior change strategies to guide clients towards psychological flexibility, allowing them to better handle distress and align their actions with their deeply-held values. What is ACT? At its core, ACT is a behavioral therapy: it’s about taking action. But it’s not about just any old action. First, it’s about values-guided action. There’s a big existential component to this model: **What do you want to stand for in life? **What really matters, deep in your heart? **What is the legacy do you want to create for yourself? ACT gets you in touch with what matters in the big picture: your heart’s deepest desires for who you want to be and what you want to do during your brief time on this planet. You then use these core values to guide, motivate, and inspire behavioral change. What is Vedanta? Vedanta is one of the world's oldest philosophies which affirms the oneness of existence and the divinity of the soul. A close look at the word "Vedanta" is revealing: It is the combination of 2 words: "Veda" which means 'knowledge' and "anta" which means 'the goal of'. In this context, knowledge refers to understanding one's own divine nature- meaning and purpose in life.

Hola~Aloha Welcome, Bienvenidos y E komo mai! I’m a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Art Therapist (ATR), Clinical Eco-Therapist, Certified 500 hour Yoga Teacher, and a Holy Fire Reiki Master. I help people improve their lives by increasing mindful awareness of one’s thought and speech patterns that perpetuate limitations. Together, we’ll cultivate mindfulness, reframe beliefs, and create opportunities for growth and empowerment. Rooted in my diverse Native American Mexica, Spanish, and European heritage, I bring a holistic, culturally grounded approach to therapy sessions. My personal Souljorn has taken me across Europe, Asia, Mexico, and the Hawaiian Islands, where I explored culture, permaculture, meditation, various healing arts, spirituality, and indigenous ceremonies. These experiences frame and influence my life and therapy work. I am inspired to help clients align with their Higher Self and conscious awareness. My Bachelor’s degree is in Ethnic Studies from UC Berkeley and my Master’s in Psychology and Art Therapy, where I studied neuroplasticity and techniques like Art Therapy and later found the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), or tapping. The EFT approach helps acknowledge unhelpful thoughts and emotions, so you can honor and release them instead of avoiding them. This empowers one to transform and shift challenging thoughts and emotions and experience change. In my early career I worked in community clinics, schools, homes, and wilderness therapy programs. Now I primarily provide services online to California residents in private practice. If you are ready, let us assess your needs and desires and identify your goals. Whether you’re seeking to release old patterns, deepen your connection to yourself, and embrace your experience and or embrace new possibilities, I’m here to support your healing journey with compassion, care and purpose. The time for transformation is now. We are the ones we have been waiting for! If this connects for you, let us begin! Aloha

I am a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker with approximately 14 years of experience working with adults and youth. I am compassionate, and curious therapist and in my practice, I create a safe and trusting environment, providing my clients with the emotional support needed to overcome challenging issues and make positive adjustments to be and feel your best. My approach helps clients find their own way through reflection, self care and self compassion.

It an honor for me to support my clients as they manage their challenges on the path to establishing a life that brings them happiness, meaning, and joy. After a successful career in the business world, (both working for large corporations and managing my own business), I earned a doctorate degree in clinical psychology so that I could use my life experience and my clinical training to help people live their best lives, whether that is overcoming psychological issues like depression or anxiety, striving to maximize their potential, or just enjoying a peaceful work life balance with their loved ones.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker—my license is LCSW #128274. I might nudge you to notice what’s working, using a strength-based lens, or help you reframe a stuck thought with cognitive tools. If emotions run high, we’ll use DBT to ride the wave, or ACT to find peace with what’s hard. It’s practical yet heartfelt—like we’re building a toolkit together, tailored to you, while honoring your pace. You’ll leave feeling a little lighter, a little more hopeful, and never alone in it. I became a therapist because I’ve always wanted to help people through tough times. I saw friends and family struggle with anxiety and loss, and I realized a kind, steady presence can make a difference. So, I studied social work, got my license, and learned tools like cognitive therapy and DBT to support folks with depression, trauma, or stress. Now, I’m here to listen and walk with you—simple as that. I’m looking forward to hearing from you as we go. My focus is on supporting people through depression, anxiety, trauma, and life’s tough stressors. I’m here to walk alongside you, and I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts as we go.