Cherrie-Ann Simon

My name is Cherrie-Ann Simon, I was born and raised on the island of Trinidad. I immigrated to Southern California in my late teens in search of a better life. As an adult, I was diagnosed with dyslexia which made college difficult, yet I worked through educational and life challenges. I became passionate about education and was awarded several scholarships, including the McNair Scholar Award which afforded me the opportunity to conduct, travel and present my research at various conferences. I received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication and a Minor in Africana Studies from California State University, Dominguez Hills. My passion for helping others like myself led me to a career in Higher Education. In working with first- generation, low-income minorities, formerly incarcerated and disabled students I came to understand the many barriers to success including mental illness which leads to a low matriculation rate and difficulty obtaining career goals. These students inspired me to return to school and become a therapist. I studied Clinical Psychology, specializing in Spiritual Depth Psychology, and was awarded the Library Research Award for an Article entitled, “Access to Mental Health Services for Low-Income African American Single Parents,” at Antioch University. I believe in, and have benefited from, therapy to overcome life challenges including childhood trauma. I am an advocate for a client-centered therapeutic relationship and enjoy working with individuals from different socioeconomic levels as well as cultural and religious backgrounds. My specialties include transitional-age youth and adults experiencing difficulties with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self- esteem, loss of a loved one, PTSD, ADHD, intergenerational trauma, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, life transitions, relationships, and stress. I use an eclectic approach to make sure that treatment is catered to serve my client’s specific needs. I am grounded in Spiritual Depth Psychology and utilize Attachment Theory and evidence base approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Strength-Based Therapy.