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93 Person of Color (POC) therapists in California

Find a therapist in California that meets your preferences. Book an appointme...

Bahar Yaghoubian

(she/her)

Bahar Yaghoubian profile image
LCSW
16 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Virtual
Hi. Before your day starts, your heart and mind are racing, your back and neck feel tense, and your stomach feels queasy. You have this feeling that you are stuck and not sure how to get out of this situation. You think to yourself "What is happening to my life? Why do I feel this way?" You may be experiencing worry, fear avoidance, racing heart and negative thoughts. In other words, Anxiety!!! It's taking up all your energy and controlling your thoughts, emotions, and body. It feels like the anxiety ( is running your life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety in your relationships, work, past or any trauma and are tired of feeling on edge, I can help you feel grounded, and in charge of your life. My name is Bahar and I provide counseling for Anxiety, trauma, and low self esteem. I am here to help. We will work together in a safe, compassionate space using evidenced-based techniques so you can feel like your best self. Looking forward to working together!

Next available: Apr 29

Sammy Glenn

(he/him)

Sammy Glenn profile image
LCSW
12 years of experience
Direct
Empowering
Virtual
Thank you for stopping by my page! What you will experience as my client will always be based upon the following: professionalism, care, and experience. I consider effective mental health treatment to be a life-changing experience and it is my goal as your therapist to support you 100% in reaching your goals. My philosophy is this: "I'll always help if you'll always try." I have worked with a wide variety of people, and find that almost all of us can connect as fellow humans. I am currently licensed in North Carolina, West Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, and California, and make my home in beautiful Southern Oregon.

Next available: Apr 30

Bijan Madjlessi

(he/him)

Bijan Madjlessi profile image
LMFT
7 years of experience
Open-minded
Authentic
Humorous
Virtual
Most people want to live a meaningful and productive life, and yet there are many of us who feel that we cannot achieve it. When life becomes confusing and you find yourself stuck in anxiety, depression, anger, worthlessness, and hopelessness, it is time to reach out for a helping hand. I truly believe that once we develop healthy coping skills and create a plan of action for everyday life, you will be able to experience the life you desire. I have intimate experience working with individuals and families dealing with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, communication issues, substance abuse, and spiritual battles. There are solutions to the issues you are currently facing in your life. By working with me, you will be able to fully embrace peace of mind and spiritual health. Please feel free to contact me, and I will be happy to set up a consultation to discuss your questions and concerns.

Next available: Apr 30

Jaazar Shalabi

Jaazar Shalabi profile image
LMFT
7 years of experience
Authentic
Direct
Empowering
Virtual
Hi, my name is Jaazar (Jay) Shalabi and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Are you struggling with past traumatic experiences, cycles of depression and/or anxiety? Maybe you are struggling with relationship issues, confidence, low self esteem. Perhaps you are a veteran struggling to deal with integrating back to civi life or take back control of your life once again prior to service. I support those struggling with their unique symptoms by empowering them to retake control of their symptoms, thoughts, and life. Through direct, unconditional regard with no judgement, we will go through your journey to mental wellness together. You are the pilot, I am your copilot, wheres your destination?

Next available: May 12

Maz Karandish

(he/him)

Maz Karandish profile image
PsyD
7 years of experience
Holistic
Authentic
Intelligent
Virtual
I'm Maz Karandish and I'm a psychologist (PsyD). My approach is flexible, client centered, and utilizes mindfulness-based interventions at every point of the journey towards healing. My therapeutic approach is tailored to each specific client. Tenets of CBT, DBT, & solution focused approaches are always incorporated. The depth oriented approaches, such as psychoanalysis, are also integrated to facilitate transformative therapeutic engagements

Next available: May 2

Nica Gaona

(she/her)

Nica Gaona profile image
LCSW
4 years of experience
Solution oriented
Empowering
Authentic
Virtual
Do you have an an issue or concern that you're currently going through and want to be able to feel heard and understood? As a licensed Clinical Social Worker I can provide a safe and welcoming place where you can feel open to share those concerns or worries. Together we can work toward creating more balance in your life. I use a collaborative style to build on your strengths and resources and use them as the foundation of the helping process. I have 18 years experience working with children, families, and individuals as a social worker, seven of them as a licensed clinical social worker! Prior to training as a therapist I worked as and advocate for children, youth and families in various community based non-profits. The joy I felt in helping lift burdens for individuals and families was the force that led me to the path of clinical social work! I consider it a privilege to be invited and entrusted with the task of walking alongside you during a challenging moment in your life. Seeing you grow and succeed is one of the greatest reward I could ask for!

Next available: May 2

Lara Touckly

(she/her)

Lara Touckly profile image
LPCC
7 years of experience
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Virtual
I am a curious, authentic, and a very human therapist. I love working with people who want to do the work. I am here to provide a safe space that will foster vulnerability and growth. Therapy is so hard sometimes. I am here to make that pill a little easier to swallow. We fall into times where we feel stuck, don't have sufficient self-love, or just have ran out of hope. I am here to support you in getting unstuck, changing your perspective, increasing your self-love, and remind you that there is hope. Just because we don't see the light at the end of the tunnel, it doesn't mean it's not there. In the nature of being authentic: If you're looking for a "cookie-cutter therapist", I am not the one. If you are looking for heavy homework/worksheets, I am not the one. I am very human. At times, I cuss. Because, at times, life just fucking sucks. I am very open to feedback: I have the mental health portion of my job down, but you are the expert in you.

Next available: Apr 29

Dr. Aisha Mitchell Washington, LCSW

(she/her)

Dr. Aisha Mitchell Washington, LCSW  profile image
LCSW
23 years of experience
Authentic
Direct
Empowering
Virtual
Welcome to Dr. Mitchell's safe and brave space! I began my career working with "at-risk children and youth" and families in 1995. Many struggling with substance abuse, poverty, child abuse, and neglect. While maintaining the person in the environment perspective throughout my career, I supported antiracist policies, ideas, and actions. This is why I continue to practice in a manner that promotes self-awareness and self-reflectiveness for myself and with clients in a healing journey to self-care and resilience. I believe it is important to use narrative therapy and other therapies with the theory of intersectionality to remain person-centered. My practice is also focused on treating trauma and/or race-based stress that has shaped a person’s inner world; so the use of Feminist therapy, Queer Theory, and Liberation Psychology are introduced as appropriate. I welcome everyone who values peace to come and try with me.

Next available: May 11

Dr. C. Steffanie Williams

Dr. C. Steffanie Williams profile image
LMFT
28 years of experience
Authentic
Empowering
Humorous
Virtual
Hello, I'm Dr. Steffanie. Do you feel like you have no one to talk to? Do your friends and family have a hard time understanding you? Do you have trouble removing sad, negative thoughts from your mind? Are you on edge and find that everything bothers you? Do you have a past that you want to process? Are you experiencing Christian-related concerns? If you answered yes to any of the above, I'm here to walk this path with you in individual therapy. I utilize an eclectic, relational/psychodynamic approach during individual psychotherapy. I will assist you with getting to the root of the problem that has your present life in turmoil. We'll work together to find effective solutions and ways to cope with negative thoughts and feelings, friends, family, co-workers, and everyday life. You are here for a reason. You are not alone. My particular approach works well with clients who need to be seen weekly and not on a drop-in basis. Additionally, my approach does not work well with addiction challenges, substance use/abuse, and pain management challenges. Please choose another provider if you are looking for assistance with those challenges. If you are seeking someone to sign off on FMLA, EDD, SSI, Emotional Support Animal, time off work, Leave of Absence, accommodations, housing, ETC., I will refer you to your medical doctor and/or provider who you meet with in person. It is my policy not to write letters nor sign off on the above mentioned documents nor document similar to the above. ***Please complete and submit the Intake Paperwork 24 hours before your scheduled session. Please schedule yourself on the top of an hour (i.e. 3pm, 4pm, 5pm). I cannot accommodate appointments on the half hour (i.e. 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm).

Next available: May 6

Konika McPherson

(she/her)

Konika McPherson profile image
LMFT
20 years of experience
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Virtual
I’m passionate about many things surrounding the health and well-being of all genders. Along with mental health, I am passionate about maternal health, family and relationship dynamics, and hold a strong focus surrounding the multicultural context and how that has shaped who you are and how you respond to the stress and conflict in life. I have decades of experience in mental health and utilize a trauma-informed approach to help you along your journey. As a bi-cultural therapist whose journey to have children was as unique as my child is, I see the therapeutic process through a unique lens which helps me understand your journey and create a treatment plan specifically tailored to who you are and what you have experienced. My individualized approach is driven by a desire to help each client on their journey. My certifications have shaped the way I do therapy to help each client create a corrective emotional and relational experience. Through my trauma-focused lens I can help you heal and help you navigate the myriad of life transitions that can happen to an adult; be it graduating college, preparing for first-time motherhood, dealing with past traumas or childhood wounds, starting a new job, buying a new home, losing or gaining relationships, exploring your gender, sexuality or culture just to name a few. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to discover the root causes of your struggles and find healthier solutions and meaningful connections. If we sound like a good fit let's connect!

Next available: May 2

Shobha George, Manas Therapy Room

(she/her)

Shobha George, Manas Therapy Room  profile image
LCSW
25 years of experience
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Empowering
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Shobha. Do you feel stressed out, anxious in a social circle, feel blue? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help people manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole person and CBT approaches, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. Whether you're dealing with feeling down, overwhelmed, or stressed out, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome mental health concerns that are holding you back. Let's work together!

Next available: Apr 29

N'soroma James

(she/her)

N'soroma James profile image
LCSW
5 years of experience
Warm
Holistic
Solution oriented
Virtual
I am a licensed psychotherapist in California, and I specialize in the examination of the human experience, with an emphasis in trauma and abuse, anxiety, depression disorders, and couple's therapy. I always strive to embody cultural humility, and I am proud to serve diverse clients of all backgrounds and walks of life. As a clinical therapist and cultural arts practitioner, I employ a unique artfulness to my style of therapy. I utilize traditional therapeutic modalities paired with mindfulness and meditation. I believe clients gain insight and answers to their challenges by exploring their inner-genius, and I am happy to serve as your trusted guide. Through clearly expressed goals and a commitment, one can be on the journey to self discovery, empowerment, mental wellness, and contentment. Under my therapeutic guidance, clients are empowered to create and embrace their own inner light. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes determination and a kind of "I am sick and tired of being sick and tired" type attitude, and I am proud of you for getting started! In the words of the late Bruce Lee, "What we are not changing, we are choosing". Let's work together and get your life on the path you truly envision for yourself.

Next available: Apr 30

Jose-Santos Xavier Orozco

(he/him)

Jose-Santos Xavier Orozco profile image
LCSW
4 years of experience
Authentic
Direct
Humorous
Virtual
Welcome to my (safe) space!!! I'm a bit of a Fred Roger's enthusiast, so let me start by saying thank you for being you!! My most important value is to treat people with love and respect, no matter their background, no matter their circumstances!! I believe we all deserve it!!! My name is Jose-Santos Xavier Orozco, feel free to call me whatever makes you comfortable!!! Life to me is about being flexible, or like Bruce Lee said, like water, being able to bend and reshape whenever needed, while maintaining strength and purpose!!! I am a 36 year old male therapist who was born in SF and raised in Los Angeles! My early years were spent in the foster care system until I was placed into a permanent family at the age of 6. I am of mixed Ethnic background and have experienced culture/ identity difficulties since as long as I can remember. Life has naturally brought me to get a degree in Social work and work in this field. I would definitely consider myself a wounded warrior, although I feel like my injuries have been pretty well tended to by now. Learning to accept and love yourself has been my greatest achievement (on-going achievement) and I promise that when you get there too, it can be yours as well!!! I prefer working with ADULT population; I have very limited experience working with kids. Thank you

Next available: Apr 29

Tomekia Edwards

(she/her)

Tomekia Edwards profile image
LPCC
14 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Tomekia Edwards. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Texas and California) with over 14 years of experience. I've worked in inpatient behavioral health, mobile psychiatric assessment, and HIV case management capacities. I've also worked with service members and their families around issues related to military life. Typical concerns I address through counseling include anxiety, depression, work/school stressors, and relationship stressors. I provide services based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused approaches with years of experience working with adults, children, families, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Next available: Apr 30

Lydia Wanjau

Lydia Wanjau profile image
LMFT
1 year of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome to my page. My name is Lydia Wanjau, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I'm immigrant and received my first Degree from Nairobi University, Kenya . When I came to the US, I received my MA in Counseling Psychology and later got my License to practice in 2017. I bring to the field of counseling a rich bi-cultural life encounters with unique lived experiences of hope courage and resilience. I have experience working with clients with dual diagnosis, complex trauma, anxiety and depression. I have more that 10 years of experience working with clients with a history of trauma, PTSD and abuse. I'm certified as a trauma therapist with wealth on trauma informed care. The primary reason I got into this field is to help people. I'm here to work with you, help you clarify and provide accurate information and explore options.

Next available: Apr 30

Rickey Bates

(he/him)

Rickey Bates profile image
LCSW
10 years of experience
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct
Virtual
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for over 10 years. My Master’s in Social Work focused on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality and how our different life experiences shape how we navigate our surroundings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, some of my approaches to helping my clients identify their challenges and barriers to their identified problem starts with a person-centered and solution-focused approach to therapy. I recognize a client's right to self-determination, and I want to empower clients I work with to collaboratively come up with their own obtainable short-term and or long-term plans and goals for the present and the future lives they want to live. Let’s further explore together how to use better the tools you’ve been working with and perhaps add additional tools to the toolbox or not.

Next available: May 14

Shantreirra Monroe

(she/her)

Shantreirra Monroe profile image
LCSW
15 years of experience
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic
Virtual
Greetings! My name is Shantreirra Monroe “Shan” and I am pleased to introduce myself. I am a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience providing counseling and supportive services. I have skills in utilizing a variety of tools to help individuals move beyond obstacles, so they can grow and thrive. I understand that life has a way of hitting us with curve balls, beach balls and occasionally hammers. I use a wide range of clinical skills to effectively explore and help clients navigate tough times.

Next available: May 14

Maryam Kazi

Maryam Kazi profile image
LMFT
14 years of experience
Solution oriented
Direct
Warm
Virtual
I have been practicing therapy for thirteen years and have experience with survivors of domestic violence, substance abuse issues, anxiety and depression. I have an integrative approach combining cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and solution focused therapy. My hope is to join with my clients to form goals that they want to work on and we start on the journey together.

Next available: May 2

Madai Zesati

(she/her)

Madai Zesati  profile image
LMFT
4 years of experience
Warm
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Virtual
Do you feel unheard or unhappy? Feel as if you're stuck? Whether you're struggling with your own self-doubt, managing your own cultural or familial expectations, struggling to have meaningful or healthy relationships with yourself and/or others, burdened with the effects of past trauma, let me join you on your journey of growth and healing with acceptance, grace, and empathy. Are you ready to take a step to become the person you've maybe longed to be? Ready to accept yourself and unlock your true potential? Ready to live life fully and embark on a journey of self-growth and acceptance where you can smile and be proud of who you are becoming? If you're ready to take that step and set up a first appointment, it would be an honor to join you on that journey.

Next available: May 1

Ninette Gharibian

Ninette Gharibian profile image
LMFT
17 years of experience
Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic
Virtual
I started my career as a marriage and family therapist working in residential settings with youth in the foster care and juvenile justice systems. As a child, I experienced trauma when my family had to flee as refugees from a war-torn country. Applying my own history and experiences, I am able to connect with my clients, understand their experiences, and help them deal with their trauma head-on. As a clinician, I try to understand each individual holistically, including their background and the strengths they already possess, to provide an individualized approach.

Next available: May 1

Shirell Bunch-Lipscomb

(she/her)

Shirell Bunch-Lipscomb  profile image
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome, I'm Shirell Bunch-Lipscomb, a mother of 4 and a grandmother to 3 children. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is committed to helping individuals and families overcome various challenges and heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. My mission is to help you build stronger, more connected relationships while fostering emotional growth and resilience. My passion is also working with the youth populations and help guide them to become stronger individuals.

Next available: May 13

Javier Meléndez

(he/him)

Javier Meléndez profile image
LCSW
7 years of experience
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Virtual
My name is Javier Meléndez (he/him/his), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience in counseling, including 6 years as a clinical social worker and 5 years as a youth and young adult minister. I hold dual Master's degrees in Social Work and Youth and Young Adult Ministry, equipping me with a unique blend of clinical and holistic expertise. I specialize in trauma care, particularly focusing on spiritual and intergenerational traumas, as well as challenges related to sexual identity. I also address accompanying issues like anxiety, depression, existential distress, and intergenerational conflicts within family. My practice is deeply rooted in an ecopsychosomatic framework, where we explore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and environment. I aim to help you become more in tune with your thoughts, emotions, and body to effectively regulate your nervous system, promoting a more mindful, embodied, and connected way of life. As a Puerto Rican/Taino and bisexual member of the LGBTQ community, I offer a culturally sensitive, safe, and affirming space for individuals to explore their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and gender identities. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and have primarily worked with Latinx populations. I'm deeply committed to the belief that reestablishing our connection to nature and the Earth is essential for holistic healing. My approach blends traditional therapeutic methods with innovative nature-based therapies to help you achieve balance, wellness, and a fulfilling life. I commend you for taking this step toward wholeness and look forward to working with you.

Next available: Apr 30

Harjindar Lally

(she/her)

Harjindar Lally profile image
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
I'm offering in person sessions for individuals and couples in Oakland. I am a relational psychotherapist with anti-oppression, social justice and trauma informed practices. I believe a warm and supportive connection between a client and a therapist can be a powerful catalyst for growth and healing. I view people as their whole selves, holding the connection between the mind, body and spirit in our work together.

Next available: Apr 30

Dr. Karla Morel

(she/her)

Dr. Karla Morel profile image
LMFT
9 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Direct
Virtual
**As of 1/22/23 Dr. Morel will only be accepting clients over the age of 13** **Currently not accepting couples** Hi, I`m Dr. Karla Morel! When dealing with personal and family issues, I believe compassion, experience, and individual attention lead to positive outcomes and growth. My passion for working with children, adolescents and families has been molded by almost 15 years of experience in an array of community outreach settings serving both children and adults. I share a dedicated interest in multicultural issues and use an individual's cultural background to inform treatment. As a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist, I aim to provide all my clients with the quality mental health services they deserve. I was born in Mexico City, but I have lived most of my life in sunny Southern California. My educational and professional interests have always involved the promotion of mental health and well-being in BIPOC communities. In 2021, I became a mommy for the first time to my daughter. In 2022, I completed my Psy.D. in Couples and Family Therapy at Alliant International University. My dissertation and previous research are focused on parent-child attachment in families where work-migration is common. My interests are currently on a hiatus while being a new mom but my current favorite is watching irreverent comedies with my husband. I also enjoy taking our two dogs, Polly and Millie, to the local dog beach. I self-identify as a cisgender female. Pronouns: she, her, hers.

Next available: Apr 29

Alma Gabriela Ortiz

(she/her)

Alma Gabriela Ortiz profile image
LMFT
7 years of experience
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Authentic
Virtual
I am a mother, an interdisciplinary artist, and a Depth Psychology-Intergrative Therapy and Healing Practices Ph.D. candidate. I have over 10 years of experience in the mental health field working with people experiencing mild to severe symptoms. As an intern, I provided psychotherapy to people diagnosed with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder and other psychotic disorders residing in a board-and-care facility. I facilitated psychotherapeutic process and topic groups, psychoeducation groups, mindfulness-based techniques for residents, and support groups for families. As an associate, I provided individual psychotherapy and family therapy to adolescents and adults participating in a partial hospitalization program (PHP), and intensive outpatient program (IOP). I facilitated psychoeducation group therapy for adolescents and adults in PHP and IOP programs utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Art Therapy, and Mindfulness. I currently provide individual psychotherapy to adults. I offer a holistic and trauma-informed perspective that focuses on strengthening the mind-body connection to promote wellness. I integrate decolonial work by bringing awareness to systemic and intergenerational traumas that affect people in the BIPOC community. As part of decolonizing therapy, I integrate ancestral healing practices and encourage my clients to explore their own ancestral lineage.

Next available: May 2

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