Optum Therapists in California

Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are becoming? Life transitions, relationship struggles, anxiety, grief, identity questions, and existential pain can leave us feeling overwhelmed or lost. Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a deeper way. I help individuals of all ages better understand the unconscious patterns that shape their emotions, relationships, and sense of self. Together, we explore what may be keeping you stuck, uncover deeper meaning in your experiences, and create space for healing, growth, and lasting change. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in Depth Psychology and Integrative Healing Practices, I offer a holistic approach that honors the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I believe each person carries an innate capacity for healing, and therapy can help bring that inner wisdom forward. My role is to support you with compassion and insight as you move toward greater clarity, authenticity, and wholeness.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I help clients to overcome the obstacles that get in the way of living a meaningful and purposeful life. I believe mental health and wellness is a lifestyle of putting yourself first mentally, emotionally, and physically. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have a Masters in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Chapman University. My primary focus includes depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, caregiver stress, relationship issues, and stress management. It is important for my clients to be comfortable, agreeable and involved throughout the treatment process. Treatment plans are individualized to meet your needs because one size does not fit all. I use a person centered strengths based approach using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I look forward to partnering with you on your healing journey.

My goal as a therapist is to provide support and encouragement to you during challenging times. I believe my role is to use my education and experience to help you achieve your desired outcome and help you find ways to learn to live with your present life circumstances. I specialize in evidence-based treatments for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, career issues, difficult life transitions, adverse childhood experiences, grief & loss, relationship issues, anger management & domestic violence, and athletic performance. I grew up in a small coastal town in Northern California, and graduated from Humboldt State University. From there I moved to Redding California and started my career as a Marriage and Family Therapist.

Considering counseling is a big step and takes courage. I want to offer you that safe space for you to share in a caring and understanding environment. I can help you through your challenging journey to overcome your angst. My name is Myrna Vargas-Evert and I an LCSW. My experience ranges from working with adults in empowering them to overcome the burden of Anxiety and Depression. I have also worked with children and families providing communication, parenting, and relaxation skills, CBT and Strength Based approaches. My specialty is grief, gerontology, and TBI (traumatic brain injury). I also work with the Gerontology (older adult) population in Home Health & Hospice and persons who experienced a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) through a specialized return to Home & Community Program by providing education and support to the patients and their families so that they can have a more meaningful life.

Hi! Do you feel burdened by anxiety or overwhelmed by dark and gloomy thoughts? Do you feel frustrated that you are not as happy as you used to be, less sociable, more alone? Do you feel that life's circumstances have gotten you down, tired, and burnt out? I am an LCSW with over decades of experience working with individuals and families navigating life's journey with chronic illness, grief, anxiety and depression. Sometimes life can be tough and challenging. We may feel stressed, overwhelmed and isolated. Life transitions can be difficult and take effort, dedication and motivation. I specialize in treating self esteem issues, grief, anxiety, depression, post partum depression, caregiver stress, burn out, communication and relationship difficulties. Let's collaborate to identify what's not working so that we can reset, achieve balance and positivity in your life, and maximize day to day functioning. I am here to provide assistance, support and guidance and to remind you that reaching out is a sign of health and strength

My name is Dr. Perynn D'Alba and I am a clinical psychologist. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to make changes. These can be big or small, this is your life and your time, I am here to help you figure out what isn't working quite right. I enjoy being creative in my interventions and really figuring out what will work best for you. I use humor where appropriate because it can be an important intervention and give space to dig deeper. I have had various jobs in my life in quite a few different fields but the common thread was that I enjoy empowering others and helping people figure out what they want and how to get that.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to help adults navigate life's complexities. With expertise in mental health and a commitment to fostering positive change, I specialize in addressing issues such as stress, relationships, and self-discovery. My therapeutic toolkit includes evidence-based modalities tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I incorporate animal-assisted therapy as a unique and supportive element of the healing process. Whether it’s the calming presence of a therapy dog during sessions or structured therapeutic activities involving animals, I’ve found that the bond between humans and animals can open up powerful pathways for trust, regulation, and emotional connection. Animals can offer a grounding presence for clients of all ages and backgrounds, and I love seeing the ways they help people feel more comfortable, understood, and at ease.

Hello, my name is Michael Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, work related stress, and relationship issues. I understand how tough life can be. Before I became a therapist, I went through my own challenges — unhoused, unemployed, and struggling with substance use. Getting sober and working my way through college wasn’t easy, but it shaped the way I show up for others now: with understanding, patience, and zero judgment.

Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University. Although I have a doctorate degree, my scope of practice does not fall under psychological testing, pharmacological practices, nor community services. I only do individual therapy so if you need case management (such as letters), family/couples therapy, psychologicial testing, or medication, please refer to those licensed or practicing in those areas.

My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.

Thank you for visiting my profile. I have been in the mental health field for 35 years and have worked in many settings and with many issues throughout my career. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology, a masters in clinical social work and a masters in counseling. I am comfortable working with all populations and strive to meet my patients where they are in their process.

Welcome to my professional practice focused on providing emotional support. Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, and seeking assistance is a testament to personal strength. As a licensed therapist, I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals, addressing psychological issues such as emotional distress and relational dynamics. I offer both Christian counseling and secular therapeutic modalities, creating a secure environment for clients to express their emotions and foster healthier interpersonal connections. My methodology is rooted in evidence-based practices aimed at managing anxiety, facilitating life transitions, and processing past traumas. Together, we will work on enhancing self-awareness and implementing strategies for positive behavioral change, ultimately paving the way for a more satisfying and enriched life experience. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 12 years of experience in the field. Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse range of clients, providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including trauma, depression, and anxiety. I have a successful 12-year career with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and have made a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans and their families.

I have been working as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the last 14 years and have both a master's degree and doctoral degree in applied clinical psychology. I have worked in the community with individuals, youth with high-risk behaviors, and military families. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety and/or depression, women's issues, substance abuse and recovery, trauma (PTSD or PTS) , military and veterans, first responders and those facing relationship or life transition concerns. While working with my clients I focus on the whole person, pulling forward your strengths and wisdom to solve life's challenges. I use solution-focused, cognitive behavioral and emotion-focused interventions. I also have seven years experience working with people outdoors in nature. I have a certificate in nutrition for mental health and believe in holistic treatment involving mind, body, and spirit. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you as an individual. If you want to work holistically, we will develop a plan to address all three aspects, and if you don't prefer to work holistically, I will tailor your treatment to your specific interests. I value the rapport I develop with my clients above all things. The nature of the therapeutic relationship is the catalyst and holding space that creates safety to do all future work together. Choosing the right therapist who has a personality you are comfortable with is of utmost importance. Please reach out to me for a free phone consultation and let's find out if we can do some great work together to solve life's many challenges.

I have been working with children, families, and adults for over 40 years. My counseling work began following intensive training at the UCLA Child Outpatient Clinic in Los Angeles. After earning a master's degree in social work from USC, I continued clinical work in a variety of settings including pediatric offices, outpatient clinics, and residential treatment. I completed a fellowship in Infant Parent Mental Health and studied under the late Dr. T. Berry Brazelton, MD, Dr. Edward Tronick, PhD, and Dr. Kristie Brandt, in Napa, California before moving on to complete a doctoral degree in educational psychology and board certified in school neuropsychology. With over 40 years of experience, I specialize in working with children and teens experiencing anxiety and low self esteem, helping them develop emotional regulation, resilience, and self-understanding through a compassionate, developmentally attuned approach. I also work with adults, drawing upon deep knowledge of childhood trauma—including family of origin betrayal such as abuse, emotional neglect, and complex trauma resulting from violations of trust—to support healing from long-standing relational and emotional wounds. My trauma-informed practice integrates insights from neuroscience, developmental psychology, and intergenerational family systems, offering clients of all ages a pathway toward growth, stability, and self-compassion. I moved on to complete a specialist degree in school psychology and master's degree in education from Chapman University. I then worked as a school psychologist in public schools for nearly 20 years, during which time I completed a doctoral degree in educational psychology at Alliant International University and became board certified in school neuropsychology through the American Board of School Neuropsychology. I have held teaching posts, providing instruction to students enrolled in the master's degree in Social Work program at California State University, Long Beach. I am the current President of the Central Coast Association of School Psychologists

Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you’re carrying challenges on your own. You may want support but hesitate out of fear of being misunderstood or judged. Therapy can be a space where you don’t have to hold everything together by yourself. I believe that every person’s story deserves to be heard with care and respect. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where your story is heard and your strengths are honored.

By coming upon this page, you could be feeling stuck, dissatisfied, or unfulfilled with your current position or path in life, thus considering a new direction. I hold the belief that therapy can assist in managing the frustration of life’s detours, rerouting one’s path, and/or navigating to new destinations. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. I support clients who have eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, grief & loss, family planning/(in)fertility issues, and/or self-harm behaviors. I have also worked to increase understanding, communication, and connection with couples and families. I aim to collaborate with you on developing a road map for your goals while engaging with curiosity, a non-judgmental stance, and encouragement.

Hello, I’m a licensed marriage family therapist based in California. I received my master's in science in California and began practicing as a mental health therapist 10 years ago. I have experience helping adults and youth struggling with moderate to severe mental illness (i.e., anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and suicide prevention). I provide them with support and education on healthy coping strategies to overcome life challenges.

Hello and Welcome. My name is Julie. I have experience working with all age groups, across many life paths. I received my Masters in Social Work from California State University Fullerton and have been a Social Worker for 3 years. Life can feel overwhelming, especially during times of transition, stress, or emotional pain. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, grief, or other life challenges, therapy can provide the support and clarity you need on your healing journey. I am so glad you’re here.

If you are feeling stuck, and unable to make changes in your life, you're not alone. Whether it's in your professional life, your personal life, or both, feeling unsuccessful at doing life may affect your mood, your outlook, and your health. Repeated frustration and disappointment can lead to depression, anxiety, problems sleeping, etc. For 20 years, I have worked with people to help them unlearn negative behaviors and thinking patterns, replacing them with new habits and ideas that support the changes they want to make. Through experiencing success, most people find a new sense of accomplishment that improves their mood, enabling them to take better care of themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally, Deciding to enter into therapy is an important decision. I believe that it can be a major turning point in your life, and by working through a modality that considers your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, you are very likely to achieve the quality of life that you are seeking.

Hola Aloha I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) CA, Art Therapist, Eco-Therapist, Certified 500-Hour Yoga Teacher, and Holy Fire Reiki Master. I support people in creating meaningful change by cultivating mindful awareness of thought and speech patterns that influence growth, joy, and satisfaction. Together, we’ll practice identifying and shifting beliefs that no longer serve you, reframe unhelpful narratives, and open space for empowerment, clarity, and transformation. Rooted in my Native American Mexica, Spanish, and European heritage, I bring a holistic, culturally grounded approach to therapy. My Souljorn has taken me across Europe, Asia, Mexico, and the Hawaiian Islands, where I immersed myself in culture, permaculture, meditation, healing arts, spirituality, and indigenous ceremonies—experiences that continue to guide my work. I hold a B.A. in Ethnic Studies from UC Berkeley and an M.A. in Psychology and Art Therapy, where I studied neuroplasticity and creative approaches to healing and positive change. I also share Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), or tapping, which helps honor and release limiting thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness is the core theme in my practice. I offer guidance to connect with nature, the elements, and the cycles of the seasons as pathways to grounding, connection, renewal, and deeper self-awareness. Earlier in my career I worked in community clinics, schools, homes, and wilderness therapy programs. Today, I provide online therapy for California residents, offering a compassionate and intentional space for growth and healing. If you are ready to release old patterns, reconnect with your authentic self, and embrace new possibilities, I am here to guide and support you with care, wisdom, and purpose. The time for transformation is now. We are the ones we have been waiting for. Eternal blessings

My therapeutic style is grounded in a holistic and integrative framework, which empowers me to provide personalized care that aligns with each client's distinct situation and clinical needs. I am committed to cultivating a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. As I walk alongside clients on their path to healing, I remain flexible and responsive, adjusting my approach to support their growth and development at every stage.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, CA. For almost 10 years, I have worked in various settings with teens and adults to help them build resilience, healthy coping mechanisms, and learn to process emotions. I create a non-judgmental environment to support each client in their exploration of what led them to seek therapy. Through insight and awareness, clients can feel more empowered and find a deeper sense of self.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with adults and young adults navigating life transitions, emotional challenges, and recovery from substance use. My clinical experience has been shaped by years of working in community mental health and substance counseling settings, where I’ve supported individuals from diverse backgrounds facing a wide range of mental health struggles. At the heart of my approach is a strong belief that healing begins when we reconnect with what truly matters to us. I work collaboratively with each client to explore their personal values—helping them gain clarity, build emotional resilience, and make meaningful choices aligned with who they are and who they want to become. My goal is to provide a compassionate, grounded space where you can grow, heal, and move forward at your own pace.