Optum Therapists in California

Having worked in the field of mental health since 2013 I have been fortunate enough to work in settings that have allowed me to work with a large variety of individuals experiencing a diverse range of symptoms and disorders. I am passionate about helping people improve the qualities of their lives and regain a sense of control. I have been trained in and utilized CBT, DBT, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy for Depression, Seeking Safety, and EMDR. Over the years I have built upon my interactional style and am comfortable with working most adult populations. I am most comfortable with trauma focused work but also have a lot of experience in working with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief, and life stage transitions.

We all experience life's challenges, feel alone, stuck and unsure what to do sometimes. I understand, it can be scary, seeking professional help for personal issues. I also know, therapy can be deeply healing, when one can open up and take the first step towards mental well-being and self-love! My name is Janaelyn Mitchell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that provides individual therapy and coaching.

Hi there, my name is Trish, For more than 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people through life’s challenges and changes. I believe that everyone has a story, and sometimes we need a safe place to be heard, understood, and accepted. I offer a warm, caring space where you can talk openly about what you’re experiencing without fear of judgment. Together, we’ll explore what’s happening in your life, what you need, and what you hope to change.

My name is Aaron Jimenez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, California, with over 13 years of experience serving the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Much of my career has been rooted in community-based care. I spent eight years at the Los Angeles LGBT Center — the largest LGBTQ+ health organization in the world — where I deepened my commitment to affirming, culturally responsive therapy. I have also had the privilege of teaching at my graduate alma mater, Pepperdine University, and consulting on a range of mental health-related projects that continue to shape my approach to this work. My practice is grounded primarily in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a framework I have found to be one of the most practical and effective tools available. By integrating CBT's evidence-based problem-solving skills with mindfulness and distress tolerance, DBT helps clients develop a clearer understanding of themselves — and the concrete skills to turn that insight into meaningful, lasting change. As a gay man and person of color, I understand firsthand the importance of feeling truly safe and seen in a therapeutic space. That sense of safety is the foundation of everything I do. From there, I take a collaborative approach — working alongside each client to build toward a life worth living, as defined by them.

Hi, I’m Lucila Bravo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with 14 years of experience. I take a humanistic, culturally responsive approach and work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. My background includes working with youth, foster care systems, and correctional mental health, which has shaped me into a grounded, solution-focused therapist. I offer a balance of compassion and honest feedback, supporting you while also helping you identify patterns that may be holding you back so you can move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Clients often experience me as warm, dependable, and adaptable. I’m here to support you while helping you set meaningful goals, find your voice, and build the confidence to advocate for yourself. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can show up as your full, authentic self. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California, with over 17 years of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families toward healing, growth, and transformation. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Human Development, a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from National University, and a Doctorate in Applied Psychology, has given me the knowledge, expertise, and compassion to support you on your journey. My therapeutic approach is depth-oriented, yet adaptable and inclusive, drawing from extensive study in psychology, human development, relational, and spiritual orientations. This foundation enables me to seamlessly integrate various modalities and theories to address complex issues, such as childhood trauma, complex trauma, and early emotional pain. Through my experience, I've come to understand the importance of developing personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs, experiences, and goals.

Hi! I’m Pooja Parashar, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a Master’s from USC. I’m passionate about making therapy accessible & breaking the stigma of seeking help, especially with clients of color. My approach centers on building an empathic connection & meeting you where you are. I offer virtual & in-person services, specializing in trauma, communication issues, & anxiety, viewing clients holistically within their broader life context. I strive to create a healing environment by tailoring therapy to your needs. I am deeply committed to offering a supportive space where you can truly feel safe and heard.

Greetings, I'm African American, California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (144529). I possess a Master’s degree in Clinical Counsel from Point Loma Nazarene University and a Master’s degree in Public Health with a Specialization in Health Care Administration from National University. Additionally, I'm a disabled Veteran with seven years of active-duty service in the United States Navy. I've been performing therapy over the last 5 years as an Associated Registered Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Registered Professional Clinical Counsel prior to obtaining my full licensure as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I treat individuals from diverse backgrounds, with mild to moderate Mood Disorders such as depression, anxiety, and professional and personal stressors.

Hi! I'm Cristina Marra, LMFT. I have 15+ years of experience. I like to help adults and adolescents deal with life's challenges. I help mostly with depression and/or anxiety. My therapeutic approach depends upon the presenting problem and client. The approaches I rely on the most are client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and EMDR, as needed. I enjoy helping people by listening in a way that the client feels heard and understood. This then allows for better work to happen as strategies and coping tools are developed. I enjoy working with many different types of issues as we are all complex. My communication style I believe in, an open, caring, honest, and direct style of communication. I don't believe any subject is off the table.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, and anxiety. I provide clients with skills they can use in between sessions. I am flexible in my approach and collaborate with clients on what would best serve them. Many clients benefit from a compassionate and intuitive approach which I do offer.

You're the one everyone calls first; composed outside, exhausted inside. I'm Dr. Dezetta Burnett, DSW, LCSW. My virtual California practice helps women and professionals work through anxiety, burnout, boundaries, and the waiting and grief of IVF. Sessions are direct and practical: you'll leave with a clear next step, not just insight. Midday weekday telehealth, built to fit inside your workday. If you are a new or current client who is preparing for IVF or IUI, currently undergoing treatment, or have recently completed treatment, and you do not see an available appointment within the timeframe you need, please schedule my next available appointment and send me a message. I will make every effort to accommodate you sooner if an opening becomes available.

As a black female school-based therapist, my dream client is one who approaches therapy with openness, honesty, and a willingness to engage in the process of self-discovery and growth. My dream client understands the importance of mental health and values the support that therapy can provide in navigating the challenges of adolescence. Ideally, my dream client is someone who is eager to explore their identity, including aspects of race, culture, and gender, in a safe and affirming space. They are open to discussing sensitive topics and are willing to challenge societal norms and expectations that may be impacting their well-being. My dream client is proactive in their approach to therapy, actively participating in sessions, completing assigned tasks or homework, and practicing coping skills outside of our sessions. They understand that therapy is a collaborative effort and are committed to working together to achieve their goals. Additionally, my dream client is respectful, compassionate, and empathetic towards others, fostering a sense of community and support within the therapeutic environment. They are open to learning from different perspectives and are willing to engage in discussions around social justice, equity, and inclusion. Overall, my dream client is someone who is committed to their personal growth and development, embraces their uniqueness, and values the power of therapy in fostering resilience and well-being.

My practice supports adult women navigating anxiety, depression, work stress, self-esteem challenges, and major life transitions. I also focus on coping skills, chronic health issues, spirituality, college phases, peer relationships, family dynamics, dating, long-term romantic partnerships, and marriage. For clients who are ready to create active, lasting change, we will work together using solution-oriented techniques and compassionate support to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Hi, I’m Pamela. Are you navigating a major life transition, feeling overwhelmed in your role as a parent or caregiver, or simply seeking support as you move through a challenging season? Welcome. Life can be both beautiful and messy, and sometimes, we all need a safe place to land. I have deep respect for the unique experiences each person brings to therapy, shaped by culture, identity, family dynamics, and personal history. Whether you're supporting a newborn, raising a teenager, caring for yourself or a loved one, or confronting a personal or parenting challenge, I’m here to walk alongside you. My approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and curiosity. I strive to empower you by honoring your strengths and supporting your goals, while helping you work through the barriers that may be holding you back. With experience as an Infant Development Specialist, Infant-Parent Mental Health Specialist, Lactation Specialist, Parent Educator, and School-Based Therapist, I bring a wide and inclusive lens to our work together — one that embraces individuals and families of all ages, stages, and backgrounds. In our time together, we’ll focus on building practical tools, developing coping strategies, and gently challenging unhelpful thought patterns. My goal is to offer you a space filled with warmth, humor, and understanding — where you can explore, grow, and heal. I look forward to connecting with you.

As a provider, my greatest strengths lie in my deep empathy, active listening, and a commitment to mindful curiosity. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and I strive to create a safe, supportive space where your unique story can be truly heard and valued. Rather than simply diagnosing a problem, I listen for the 'hidden' stories of your strengths and values that often get overshadowed. My approach to active listening is about more than just understanding; it’s about standing alongside you to deconstruct the challenges you face and uncover the skills you already possess. Together, we will collaborate to rewrite the narratives that no longer serve you, fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and the reclamation of your personal agency.

“Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn’t you—all of the expectations, all of the beliefs—and becoming who you are.” —Rachel Naomi Remen Hello! I’m Lauresha Hawkins, LCSW, MSW, MPH, Founder and CEO of Mental Wellness University, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc., based in California. I am licensed to provide therapy in both California and Alaska and serve as an independent provider with Grow Therapy. Trust, authenticity, and rapport are the foundation of my therapeutic relationships. My approach is eclectic, trauma-informed, and personalized to meet each client’s unique needs. I am passionate about supporting and empowering people from all walks of life, including individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance use concerns, perinatal mental health conditions, life transitions, and other challenges affecting their emotional well-being. I bring more than 15 years of experience in social work, including eight years of providing mental health services as an associate and licensed clinician. My professional experience spans specialized short-term residential therapeutic programs, outpatient clinics, managed care, foster care systems, and psychiatric hospitals. These diverse roles have strengthened my ability to understand not only mental health symptoms but also the real-life systems, relationships, and circumstances that can affect a person’s ability to heal. My passion lies in serving youth, Transitional Age Youth (TAY), adults, and mature adults—particularly individuals from vulnerable or historically underserved communities. This includes BIPOC individuals, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people navigating co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions. I understand that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Together, we will create a space where you can feel seen, heard, supported, and safely challenged as you work toward becoming more fully who you are. www.mentalwllnessuniversityinc.com

Hello, my name is Tara. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I understand that therapy can feel like a significant step, and I congratulate you on taking the first step on your journey. I specialize in helping navigate life transitions, anxiety, and self-doubt. I work especially well with empowering women. My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself, gain insight, and take steps toward personal growth. I myself have my own experience with mental health and healing.

Welcome! If you are struggling with daily stressors, the state of the world or traumatic experiences, I welcome you to contact me to explore how I can support and help in your healing. Therapy is a space dedicated to exploring your life and mind with the hope of something brighter and lighter. It is to alleviate that tension that may have been weighing you down for some time. I see the therapeutic space as a puzzle that begins with the pieces you put on the table but slowly comes together, through our work, to see the final clearer image. As your therapist, I will help empower and guide you towards unlocking tools to improve your mental well-being.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California, currently living in Florida. I received my undergraduate degree from William Jessup University, with a Master's Degree from Chapman University. I love people and I love to see relationships thrive. Research shows us that the quality of life that we have is more dependent on the quality of relationships than any other factor. I want you to have the most fulfilling and satisfying life as possible.

Hello, I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in the field for over twenty years. I generally see Adults for Individual Therapy and Couples Counseling. I am also a Registered Addiction Specialist. My life experiences and education makes it possible for me to meet Individuals and Couples where they are emotionally to assist them through their Therapeutics Journey.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC), and Personality Disorder Treatment Provider (C-PD). I create a supportive space where clients can process complex trauma, including betrayal trauma, and difficult family-of-origin patterns. I assist individuals recovering from environments shaped by abuse, neglect, abandonment, coercive control, chronic fear, and instability. My work addresses dynamics such as narcissistic family systems, enmeshment, family scapegoating, trauma bonds, antagonistic relationships, and addiction—often rooted in intergenerational trauma and nervous system dysregulation. I support clients in normalizing their emotions, feeling validated, and building greater resilience. I am certified as a DBT Clinician (C-DBT), Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP), and ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I grew up in an environment with people who never discussed mental health; this sparked an early interest in the unspoken challenges I observed. As a dual major in psychology and sociology, my coursework was impactful. The lessons continued in graduate school, where I earned dual master’s degrees in social work and public administration. I interned at a domestic abuse shelter, a residential crisis center, and a community behavioral health facility, and completed specialized trauma-informed care training. My professional experience includes serving as a psychotherapist for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault; a behavioral specialist for children with autism, ADHD, and adjustment challenges; and a supervisor for social workers in county behavioral health. Additionally, I have led interdisciplinary teams of social workers and nurses in complex medical case management, and managed public health teams of case investigators, contact tracers, data analysts, and nurses during infectious disease outbreaks. I am deeply committed to helping clients recover from psychological and emotional harm, recognizing the serious impact these experiences can have on overall well-being.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree from California State University and I've been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I grew up in Italy and moved to the US 42 years ago. I work with adult men and women struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationships. I'm passionate about helping them live more fulfilling relationships and peaceful life.

I believe one's mental health is the foundation for overall health and longevity. Feeling scene, heard and supported are the cornerstones of positive mental health. Having a safe sounding board can be life changing and my goal with clients is to make sure that they know they don't have to hold life's "heavy stuff" alone. Learning how to re-connect to self as well as improve communication with others is a focus when working together. I have been working as a therapist for over 10 years in many different capacities. I specialize in recovery support from eating disorders and other addictions and am passionate about supporting clients with struggles around neurodivergence.

I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist who focuses on creating a safe, supportive space where people can explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. My approach blends evidence-based practices with genuine connection to help clients build insight, resilience, and confidence. My style is collaborative and empathetic, communicating in a way that feels grounding and approachable. This combination makes clients feel both heard and guided.

Warmest greetings to you! Is there a part of you that is hurting and needs a safe place to address it? Therapy is your time to be heard, speak your heart, find greater ease with yourself, and learn to work with what might get in your way. Our work together is be based on your needs, goals and pace. I will encourage you to explore your inner world, using a kind and caring lens. My goal is that you to discover greater self-acceptance which can set the stage for more healing. I will work to help you increase your connection to yourself and others and to find the strength and peace of mind to meet challenges. With compassionate listening and focused questioning you may break patterns and begin to move forward. You can learn ways to manage depression and anxiety so that you may thrive. No matter what has transpired in our lives these events are opportunities for greater understanding, growth and wisdom.