Licensed to practice in California. Specializes in Anxiety, LGBTQ, Life Transitions and 8 more.
(he/him)
New to Grow
Hi, I'm Alek! I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist, specializing in working with young adults and adults navigating anxiety, burnout, identity exploration, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ related concerns. My approach is warm, collaborative, and affirming, with a focus on helping you better understand yourself, build effective coping tools, and create meaningful change that feels authentic to who you are.
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin building a comfortable therapeutic relationship. We'll discuss what brought you to therapy, the challenges you're currently facing, and what you hope to gain from our work together. I'll also ask some questions about your background, relationships, and overall well-being so I can better understand your experiences. Most importantly, the first session is a chance for you to ask questions, share any concerns, and determine whether I feel like a good fit for your needs.
I strive to create a therapy experience that feels genuine, collaborative, and tailored to you. I recognize that every person's story, challenges, and goals are different, so I adapt my approach to fit your unique needs rather than following a rigid formula. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I bring both professional expertise and personal understanding to identity-related work, while also helping clients navigate anxiety, burnout, life transitions, and the pressures of modern life. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable showing up authentically, exploring challenges openly, and working toward meaningful change.
I work best with young adults and adults who are ready to better understand themselves and create meaningful change in their lives. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, burnout, identity-related concerns, or feeling disconnected from who they want to be. I have a particular passion for supporting LGBTQ+ individuals as they navigate identity, relationships, life transitions, and the unique challenges that can come with living authentically. My goal is to provide a supportive, affirming space where you can explore what's keeping you stuck, build on your strengths, and move toward a life that feels more aligned with who you are.
Other specialties
I identify as
Humanistic
My work is grounded in a humanistic approach, meaning I prioritize creating a warm, supportive, and authentic therapeutic relationship. I believe people have an innate capacity for growth and change, and I aim to provide a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to navigate life's challenges in a way that aligns with your values and goals.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on understanding the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we'll identify patterns that may be contributing to distress and develop practical strategies to challenge unhelpful thinking, build coping skills, and create meaningful change in daily life.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I also draw from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which helps clients build skills for managing intense emotions, tolerating distress, improving relationships, and staying present in the moment. DBT provides practical tools that can help navigate life's challenges with greater balance and resilience.
Relational
I take a relational approach to therapy, recognizing that our relationships and past experiences often shape how we see ourselves and interact with others. By exploring these patterns within a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship, we can develop greater self-awareness, strengthen connections, and create lasting change.