(she/her)
Clients say this provider is
I am originally from South Africa and have an innate ability to connect with people from different cultures. I am committed to providing a safe and trusting environment, which is the core foundation of my work with clients. I work with adults and teenagers who are dealing with depression anxiety, grief, hopelessness and other mental illnesses. I help clients experiencing panic attacks/anxiety using the application of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). As a cancer survivor, I understand all aspects of being a patient. I am passionate about helping clients cope with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. In addition to working at Grow Therapy, I run a private practice in Encino. I have also worked as the Clinical Director at A Home Within, an organization that connects foster children with therapists in private practice. Their motto: "One child, one therapist, for as long as it takes." My work at Safe Harbor, an Intensive Outpatient and Dual Diagnosis Facility was where I saw families and individuals and guided weekly teenage groups for self-harm. I completed my traineeship at Hillview Mental Health, an outpatient facility for clients representing a full spectrum of mental illnesses. I ran groups and worked with clients individually. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Northridge and a Masters in Psychology from Phillips Graduate University.
The most important aspect of the first session is for the client to feel comfortable and safe
My approach to therapy is eclectic and collaborative, utilizing multiple modalities and theories to assist individuals in the process of healing and self-discovery. I believe that gaining an understanding of underlying issues in a safe and supportive environment is the most effective way to achieve awareness and create change. My goal is to create a positive and collaborative relationship that will support you in your journey toward achieving your goals.
One of my biggest strengths is my ability to connect with clients and create a safe and trusting environment.
I work with adults, teenages, families, couples and children as well as people from all over the globe
Cash - $135 per session
Aetna
Aetna - Allied Benefits
Aetna - ASR Health Benefits
Aetna - Gravie
Aetna - Lucent Health
Aetna - Luminare
Aetna - Moda
Aetna - WebTPA
Aetna – HealthEZ
All Savers
Amerihealth Administrators
Anthem
Arlo
AvMed
Blue Cross
Blue Shield
Carelon Behavioral Health (Commercial)
Centivo
Cigna
Cigna - HealthEZ
Evernorth
Golden Rule
GTEB
Harvard Pilgrim/UnitedHealthcare
Health Net (Commercial)
IHSS Healthy Workers
Independence Administrators
Independence Blue Cross
L.A. Care Covered
L.A. Care Covered Direct
L.A. Care PASC-SEIU
Optum
OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions
Oscar
Oxford
Scripps Health Plan
Sharp Health Plan
Surest (formerly Bind)
Sutter Health Plan
Tufts Health/Cigna
United Medical Resources
UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance
UnitedHealthcare Shared Services
UnitedHealthcare StudentResources
UnitedHealthcare/Optum
2 ratings with written reviews
August 30, 2025
I’ve been seeing Debbie for many years right around Covid. She deserves 5 plus stars. I feel like our bond has turned into an amazing connection. She will be part of my life forever.
February 8, 2025
I really enjoyed my time with Debby. Very helpful to me understanding my current situation