Ali Rumani
Therapy doesn't have to feel stiff or intimidating. I aim to create a space where you can show up as you are—messy thoughts, difficult feelings, awkward questions, and all. My style is warm, personable, and direct, and I believe that meaningful growth happens when you feel both supported and challenged. Humor often has a place in the process, too. I work with adults navigating anxiety, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and cross-cultural identity experiences. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply unsure of your next step, we'll work together to better understand what's happening beneath the surface and build practical strategies for moving forward. I offer in-person therapy in Irvine and online sessions throughout California, providing flexible support wherever you are in your journey.
First session
The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other and begin building a foundation for our work together. I'll ask a variety of questions about your current concerns, personal history, relationships, and what you're hoping to get out of therapy. Because there's a lot of information to cover, the first session can feel a bit more structured and question-focused than future sessions. Once we have that foundation in place, our work tends to become more conversational and tailored to what's most important to you. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable being honest, asking questions, and exploring challenges at your own pace. You don't need to have everything figured out before you arrive—just come as you are.
Strengths
My approach combines genuine warmth with thoughtful directness. Clients often tell me they appreciate having a therapist who is both approachable and insightful—someone who can create a comfortable, supportive environment while also helping them identify patterns, blind spots, and underlying issues they may not have recognized on their own. I believe therapy is most effective when it balances understanding with action. Alongside exploring your experiences and emotions, we'll focus on practical strategies and meaningful change in your day-to-day life. I'm deeply passionate about mental health care and consider it a privilege to walk alongside people as they navigate challenges, build resilience, and create lives that feel more authentic and fulfilling.
Ideal clients
I am especially passionate about working with adults navigating third-culture, multicultural, or cross-cultural identity experiences. Many clients feel caught between different expectations, values, or versions of themselves, which can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, or confusion about identity and direction in life. Therapy provides a supportive space to slow down, make sense of these layered experiences, and begin to integrate them. Over time, we work toward building a more cohesive, grounded, and confident sense of self that feels authentic and sustainable.
Treatment methods
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Learn practical mindfulness skills to quiet overwhelm, stay grounded in the present, and develop a healthier relationship with your thoughts and feelings.
Psychodynamic
Together, we'll explore the deeper roots of your struggles, helping you gain insight into patterns that may no longer serve you.
Polyvagal Therapy
When life feels overwhelming, your nervous system can become stuck in survival mode. Polyvagal-informed therapy helps you recognize these patterns and develop tools to feel more grounded and connected.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 156112