(she/her)
Hi! I’m Rishika Syal, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. I earned my Master of Science degree from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland in 2019. Since then, I’ve worked closely with adults between the ages of 18 and 65, with a particular focus on individuals experiencing co-occurring disorders. My clinical experience includes treating depression, anxiety, and alcohol or substance use disorders. In addition, I have specialized training in complex trauma through the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), which deepened my understanding of how past experiences can shape our present challenges. In therapy, I take a collaborative, goal-oriented approach. I draw from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. My goal is to create a supportive and practical space where clients feel heard and empowered. I focus on helping you develop tools that are not only useful in session but also applicable to your everyday life. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward healing and personal growth, I’d be honored to support you.
In our first session, my primary goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel truly heard and respected. We'll take time to get to know each other, explore what brings you to therapy, and begin setting clear expectations and goals for our work together. This initial conversation also gives us a chance to see if we're a good fit. My hope is that you’ll leave the session feeling grounded, empowered, and more hopeful about your path forward.
What sets my practice apart is the integration of personal experience with professional expertise. Having moved from India to pursue my education and career, I deeply understand the complexities of cultural transitions, identity exploration, and the challenges of building a life in a new environment. My lived experience as a woman navigating these shifts brings depth and relatability to my work—especially with clients who are facing similar transitions or identity-related challenges. I've been drawn to psychology since adolescence, and it has remained a steady source of purpose and curiosity in my life. Growing up in a culture where mental health was rarely discussed, I’m committed to breaking the stigma and helping others find their voice—just as I found mine through this work.
I’m best positioned to support adults who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use and are ready to make meaningful changes in their lives. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns or unsure how to move forward—but they’re motivated to grow, heal, and take back control. I especially enjoy working with individuals who are introspective, open to self-exploration, and committed to putting in the effort between sessions—whether that’s practicing mindfulness, applying CBT tools, or reflecting on patterns in relationships or behavior.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a structured, goal-directed, and collaborative approach to help individuals strengthen the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we will identify and challenge cognitive distortions, reframe negative thinking patterns, and develop practical strategies for change. Each session will include a personalized homework assignment to help you apply what we've discussed and continue your progress throughout the week.
I incorporate Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help individuals develop greater awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations in the present moment.
In our work together, we’ll identify your goals, highlight what’s already working, and build on your existing strengths and resources to create meaningful change. Rather than spending extended time analyzing the past, we’ll focus on the present and future.