Therapists in California

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles and Fresno California. I received my Masters in social work from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for 7 years. I have worked with teens, adults, and older adults that have experienced incarceration, homelessness, trauma, depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, discrimination, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and personality disorders. The majority of my experience comes from working with underserved communities of color primarily within correctional facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and community mental health sectors. ¡Bienvenidos! Soy Trabajadora Social Clínica Licenciada (LCSW) y trabajo en Los Ángeles y Fresno, California. Obtuve mi Maestría en Trabajo Social en la Universidad del Sur de California y llevo 7 años ejerciendo. He trabajado con adolescentes, adultos y adultos mayores que han experimentado encarcelamiento, falta de vivienda, trauma, depresión, ansiedad, disforia de género, discriminación, esquizofrenia, trastorno bipolar y trastornos de la personalidad. La mayor parte de mi experiencia proviene de trabajar con comunidades de color marginadas, principalmente en centros penitenciarios, hospitales psiquiátricos y servicios de salud mental comunitarios.

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 safer 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, can't muster 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.

My name is Brandon A. Sandate Rodriguez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California with four years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked with adolescents and young adults in the juvenile justice system and with adults with serious and persistent mental health concerns. In working with marginalized communities my focus is toward enhancing self-awareness by emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s culture and identity. I aim to connect deeply with my clients and build professional and supportive relationships that can provide healing and growth.

My name is Rena, and I also go by Ro (both names are great). I am a white queer non-binary Ashkenazi Jewish somatic therapist and artist. Prison abolition, harm reduction, and consent are important to me, and I strive to practice in ways that are honest and aligned with my values. A sense of humor is also essential to me in healing work, and I believe in making room to go deep as well as to have fun in therapy. I have experience working with folks who experience depression, self-harm, relationship issues, break-ups, trauma, and anxiety. I love working with millennials, young people, queers, and creatives. Right now, I am only seeing clients on Telehealth.

I first and foremost adapt my style of therapy to meet your needs. We work together to identify what best supports you toward your goals or areas of focus in therapy. Some clients progress through insight and understanding about an issue while others progress through tangible present-moment skills and tools, all of which I can provide support you with. I also feel that Identity (race, gender, sexual orientation, etc) plays an important role about how we experience the world and how the world views us and I incorporate this into therapy. I see therapy as an equal and collaborative effort between us. I offer a broad range of personal experiences and clinical background to therapy. I enjoy working with people of color and I identify strongly with them. I have extensive experience working with couples, mixed race individuals, inter-racial relationships, the LGBTQQI community, and athletes. I believe I have a great feel for supporting you to be comfortable entering into therapy. Finding a balance of acceptance of you and where you are at in your life while also supporting you with the change you want to make. I offer inquisitive questions to inspire critical thought with tangible actions and tools that you can use.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)! I am based in Orange County California but work with clients throughout the state via telehealth. I specialize in working with BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent adult folks. I specialize in building better relationships, decrease anxiety, build confidence, set boundaries and communicate effectively, all while leaning into your authenticity. I work from an affirming feminist and decolonized lens that acknowledges complex family systems, dynamics, and the intersectionality of your identity.

Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for six years. I work with adults that struggle with depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have problems with substance use. I believe that you are the expert in your life. My role is to help you recognize your strengths and learn how to build on those strengths to help you become the best version of yourself.

Hello! My name is Stacia, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in therapy services in California. Providing therapy is my career, but it is also a passion of mine. To help another person learn to navigate their own struggles is a blessing in itself. "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime". I would love to work with you to navigate whatever it is you are going through! ​ I have been providing therapy services since 2015, and have worked with all ages. I am currently providing online therapy services young adults (aged 18 and up) who are currently struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, work stress, life stressors and life transitions. Therapy sessions are conducted online.

Hi! I'm a kind and caring person who values relationships and social connections. I live and practice out of Orange County, California. My licenses are in Marriage and Family Therapy (relationships) and Advanced Drug Alcohol Counselor (Substance misuse treatment). I have been practicing for 15 years. I been helping adults and older adults struggling with family stress and phase of life issues so they can improve quality of mental health and achieve best possible relations.

Hello, I am a therapist who focuses on improving the lives of his clients. I will help empower them to enrich their lives. Together we can explore methods on helping the individual deal with everyday life stressors and also past trauma. I am someone who wants to see their clients excel and be able to manage life's difficulties. Hoping to help my clients see positive results in therapy.

I am Daniel Karkoska. I have a broad range of experience treating trauma and gender and sexual identity in adults. I am EMDR trained and focus on uncovering what may be holding someone back from making a meaningful life change. Whether lightening the emotional load of a traumatic experience, or simply taking time to create more clarity, my approach is mindful and nonjudgmental. I specialize in providing treatment to those who have experienced trauma, utilizing skills-based therapies such as CBT/DBT, as well as techniques from IFS and Polyvagal theory to inform the EMDR process. I find this combination to be effective in safely reconnecting with difficult emotions in helpful ways that allow for meaningful change.

Hello, I am Dr. Andy Davis. I have been involved in the mental health field for more than 18 years, 13 years of which I've practiced as a licensed psychologist both in the U.S. Air Force and in private practice. I have a varied experience helping those with depression, PTSD, anxiety and stress, grief, personality disorders, and LGBTQ+ issues. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can discuss and work through any issues they feel are important.

I am a Doctor of Psychology and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 37 years of experience in the field. During that time, I worked on issues of domestic violence, community violence, and child abuse while on staff at several community, not-for-profit, and governmental agencies in the San Francisco Bay Area (CA). I have been in private practice for over 29 years.

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I'm a UCSB graduate and completed my Master's in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University in Santa Barbara. I started my professional experience working in mental health treatment in 2014, and from there I was hooked. I have substantial experience working in residential and outpatient treatment centers treating adults struggling with eating disorders, substance use and addiction, trauma and PTSD, mental health and co-occurring disorders, and more. While I have experience working with a higher acuity of care, I also love helping others navigate relationship issues, life transitions, career and work-related stressors, and other challenges that naturally come with life.

Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious, isolated, or overwhelmed with life? Hi! I’m Rebecca, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Providing therapy is not just a job for me, it is my passion. I have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years devoting my time and efforts in the non-profit world. I utilize a client-centered approach with my clients, focusing in on my clients’ strengths to help them achieve success. I like to tailor my interventions and strategies around each client’s needs. In the past, I have utilized CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and solution focused modalities. I have personal experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and addiction. I can personally relate to the issues that you are going through and want to be the support system that you need to get through this! I offer an empathetic, non-judgmental, and safe space to discuss and work on your issues. Let’s work together to help you succeed through your life journey.

Hello and thank you for visiting my profile and for taking the time to learn about my psychotherapy practice. I am a Clinical Psychologist who provides a safe, trusting, nonjudgmental, and respectful environment in which my clients are able to work through their difficult issues. I provide individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. Throughout my career I have worked with individuals of all ages from a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds. In addition to my private practice, I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, and adults in various settings such as school settings, residential programs, substance abuse programs, transitional living facilities, group homes, and hospital settings. My experiences in these settings enables me to bring valuable knowledge and resources to my clients in my private practice. I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, weight management, grief/loss, substance abuse, LGBT issues, adolescent issues (school, emotional, behavioral/family), young adult issues (career, transition, relationships), and personal growth.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I received my Masters from Cal State Fullerton in 2017. I have experience working with people of various backgrounds including but not limited to: adults, young adults, adolescents, children, parents, professionals, immigrants, POC, LGBTQ+, Hispanic/Latinx community, multi-generational families, and many more. I can be a listening ear and guide you towards your goals.

Hi there, I’m Douglas, Do you ever feel pulled in countless directions, struggling to find clarity, motivation, or a sense of balance? Perhaps you're facing challenges in your relationships, career, or personal health. Or maybe you're wrestling with deeper uncertainties about identity, self-worth, or sexuality. When anxiety, uncertainty, and burnout take over, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about your next step. But it doesn't have to remain this way. Let's explore how we can change this together. I specialize in supporting adult LGBTQ+ professionals, individuals with ADHD and their allies, and those navigating alternative or kink relationships. As a certified ADHD clinical services provider and LMFT, I deeply understand the unique challenges you face, such as maintaining focus, managing emotions, and following through on your intentions. Together, we'll compassionately identify what's keeping you stuck, confront resistance and doubts with honesty and courage, and create actionable steps toward meaningful change. Through mindfulness practices and cognitive-behavioral techniques, you'll cultivate greater resilience, hope, and confidence to handle life's challenges. Whether you're dealing with relationship struggles, overwhelming stress, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. In our sessions, you can expect authenticity, kindness, and respect, along with practical therapeutic approaches customized specifically for you. If you're ready to start your journey toward a more balanced, fulfilling life, let's connect. I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my masters in clinical mental health counseling from California State University, Fullerton( go Titans!). I have practiced therapy for the past 5 years. I am a proud queer and gender diverse therapist that has experience working with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions. I strive to provide LGBTQIA affirming care through all of my work.

Hi, I am a Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist for 10 years. My goal is to provide guidance, support, and feedback in a safe therapeutic space to ultimately help you heal and strengthen your resilience. I help my clients identify areas they would like to develop and learn new coping skills in order to enhance strengths and abilities which can help them achieve a greater degree of happiness and contentment in their lives.

Dr. Joseph McCowan is a licensed Clinical Psychologist with 10 years of individual and group therapy experience and an extensive background in relational, humanistic, trauma-informed & mindfulness-based approaches. Joseph views healing as the process of discovering, connecting with & activating our innate internal resources. He is passionate about supporting individuals across cultures and a variety of psychological, emotional & relational challenges. Outside of his individual therapy experience, Joseph has been involved in psychedelic-assisted therapy research, including working as co-therapist and Supervisor in the MAPS-sponsored phase III clinical trials of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD and the COMPASS-sponsored phase III clinical trials of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Depression. Additionally, Joseph serves as a Trainer and Educator in the MAPS MDMA Therapy Education program. Joseph has authored multiple essays and publications exploring the intersections of race, culture, trauma, and mental health. Joseph received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara & his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Hello, my name is Roxanne and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I found my passion of helping others heal and grow long before I began practicing in 2013. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology which was the turning point of transforming my passion and dream into a reality. While on the journey together, I strive to empower you to heal, learn about yourself, and work towards the changes you desire. You are worth it and it is possible! I believe in meeting you exactly where you are at and supporting you in your growth. I am passionate about providing a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore emotions, cry, laugh, and have the freedom to sort through that messy closet and modify it into an organized space that makes sense to you. Reclaiming your life, using your voice, working through trauma, believing in yourself, finding joy, and searching for a sense of wellbeing can be a lifelong process. You have made that first and most courageous step to reach out for support to regain your happiness. Remember that all journeys have obstacles and you are not alone. I believe in change and that every individual has a level of resiliency. You are a strong human and it is typical to have challenges and feel overwhelmed. I look forward to meeting you and am full heartedly ready to embark on this journey together to support you in finding your authentic self. When I am not engaging in my passion of helping others heal, I enjoy activities in nature, spending time with loved ones, shopping, cooking, organizing, and traveling. I enjoy activities that heal my mind, body, and spirit and strive for a balance of work and play.

I’m Ligia, a BIPOC & LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. Specializing in BIPOC adults who struggle with identity formation & navigating feelings around guilt and shame. My role is walking with you through this process; not ahead or behind. To help you live a life as who you want to be and not told to be. Building your self-confidence, self-compassion, and self-awareness.

Hi there. My name is Jacquelyn Najera and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I obtained my Masters from Portland State University in Oregon and have been practicing in Los Angeles, CA for the past four years. I believe in the boundless potential of each and every human being and I feel truly honored to support folks on their journey to healing and fulfillment.

Are you feeling weighed down by the heavy burdens of anxiety, depression, or other conditions that are holding you back from realizing your full potential? You're not alone, and there is hope for a brighter tomorrow. I'm Jennafer Provinse, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and I'm dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to healing and personal growth. My passion lies in empowering people to overcome the obstacles that stand between them and their full potential. I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can regain control, find balance, and rediscover your inner strength. With years of experience and a compassionate approach, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and experiences. Together, we will develop effective strategies to manage anxiety, lift the weight of depression, and address various conditions that may be impacting your daily life. My therapeutic style is rooted in empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions. I believe in the inherent resilience of every individual and am here to assist you in unlocking your innate potential for growth and happiness. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I'm committed to helping you navigate these difficulties and emerge as a stronger, more empowered version of yourself. It's time to take the first step toward a brighter future. If you're ready to embark on a transformative journey towards a more fulfilling life, I invite you to reach out and schedule a session with me. Together, we can work towards achieving your goals, fostering self-acceptance, and embracing your full potential. Your healing journey begins here, and I'm honored to be your guide.

I'm Essy, a licensed therapist passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals in their journeys toward self-discovery, healing, and personal empowerment. With a unique blend of lived experience and professional training, I specialize in helping clients confront and navigate complex challenges related to identity, trauma, and mental health in a world that often misunderstands or marginalizes them. My goal is to create a therapeutic space that fosters genuine self-acceptance and growth, allowing clients to feel seen, heard, and empowered to thrive authentically.

Just joined Grow and I'm excited to be here. My goal is to uplift my clients toward being in their best confident purposeful selves. Due to the current market situation, I've reduced my rates for encouragement. You are welcome here. Let’s find your path to inner peace and personal growth. I offer a safe space where you can explore your feelings and thoughts, overcome challenges, and develop your full potential. Whether you're feeling anxiety or going through any of life transitions, I'm here to support you on your journey. Take your first step towards a happier, healthier you by experiencing the transformative power of therapy. With your interest, this is what we are able to do together: "Sierra Forest is a talented and empathic therapist who has the ability to help people change and transform their lives." Bob Shelby, LMFT, John F Kennedy University

Hey there! Feeling weighed down by depression or gripped by anxiety? Lost in life's twists and turns? Your journey matters, and I'm here to walk alongside you. I specialize in supporting those facing depression and anxiety by offering a compassionate hand to guide you toward healing and growth. I also assist those feeling adrift, helping them rediscover their purpose and direction. Our sessions are anything but cut-and-dried. They're dynamic, engaging, and full of possibilities. Bring a pen and notebook as we co-create strategies to propel you toward your aspirations. With EMDR therapy training, Certified Breath Coach, and expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I bring a diverse toolbox to our partnership. Your well-being is my top priority, and together, we'll illuminate the path to a brighter, more fulfilling life. Ready to take that courageous step toward greater well-being? Let's embark on this transformative journey together.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in San Diego, CA but I am also licensed in Indiana. I moved to CA in 2020 with my husband and two children. I have been a therapist for over 15 years, and I have worked in schools, crisis, outpatient, inpatient and moved into private practice full time in 2016. I became trained and certified in EMDR in 2016, and when COVID hit in 2020, moved my practice entirely online. I work mostly with young adults and women with trauma, eating disorders, and relationship issues.

Hello, My name is Elizabeth, and my pronouns are they/them/elle. I am a bicultural nonbinary therapist. I have the most experience working with anxiety disorders, self-confidence issues, and challenges around gender and sexuality. I use a very humanistic approach in my practice, and I am human with you in the room. You do not need to feel talked down to or be told what to do in therapy. You and I can work together instead, as I may be the expert in psychology, but you are the expert of your own life. You will be encouraged to use your own strengths to push through the hurdles and you can expect warmth from me throughout this process.

I’m a relational psychodynamic therapist. I help people find their path forward by discovering deeper aspects of themselves. My goal is to create a space where you can share anything that's on your mind. We can explore your thoughts and feelings, find your true self and understand how your past is affecting you now. I look forward to working together to promote growth, healing and the realization of your full potential.

Hi, I'm Dr. Alysha! Are you ready to Empower your Mental Health? By creating a safe place for processing and expression, I support persons on their unique healing journey to strengthen authenticity and resiliency. My overall approach uses psychodynamic talk therapy, offering space to those wanting to explore new perspectives, reframes, and change. When we internalize or suppress our emotions and experiences of adversity, we may be faced with lasting emotional trauma that impacts our entire well-being. However there is power in validation and relatability and that is why I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based method, with consideration for relational, intersectional, and social justice contexts. I don’t consider myself an advice giver, but instead, I will collaborate with you to recognize your choices and help you make the best one for yourself. My objective is for you to feel empowered by reducing emotional burdens, developing coping strategies, identifying resources, and enhancing your strengths. You will be treated with respectful, objective, non-biased assistance. I believe that with the right amount of support, guidance, and compassion, our capabilities are endless. **Please note Couples Therapy is Cash Only at $200 per session. Individual cash sessions are $150**

Hello! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Alex, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. I received my Masters in Counseling from the University of San Diego and have been practicing for 6 years. I specialize in working with young adults, including neurodivergent individuals, as they navigate the ups and downs of this transitional phase of life. As a therapist, I'm here to support you as you navigate your unique journey. My approach is all about understanding YOU-your experiences, your values, and your personal goals.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I know life can be exhausting at times, and I find it to be invaluable to have a space to openly process our challenges and stressors. I have worked with individuals from various backgrounds and experiences including people moving through trauma, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. My practice focuses on supporting individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression by providing a safe space to explore healthy ways to manage these symptoms and utilize the strengths and resources you have available to promote a better quality of life.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in both California and Arizona, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with warmth and compassion. My goal is to empower you on your personal journey as we work together to achieve your mental health goals using proven therapeutic methods. I believe in creating a safe and welcoming space where you can share your experiences and embark on a path of positive change.

Hi, I'm Kylie and I have been a therapist for 8 years, and am EMDR Certified. I support people who experience anxiety, symptoms from trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues. I have a two step approach. First I teach people how to regulate themselves in-the-moment. That way they can get back to emotional safety when things are not feeling right. Then I help people find ways to stop what is bothering them before it even starts. That can look like setting a routine that helps reduce anxiety, processing past trauma, surrounding yourself with people that make you feel great, or figuring out what gives your life meaning and helping you do that.

Do you ever struggle with negative self talk? Feeling overwhelmed with life in general? Have episodes of depression, anxiety or trauma and not sure how to gain control over your emotions? Have you had a bad experience with a therapist in the past? Sometimes you think you might have an issue with alcohol or substances? If any of this feels familiar my name is Susan and I would love to meet with you. My practice works with individuals who identify as straight or LGBTQAI that have a history of anxiety, depression, trauma or substance abuse. I work with everyday people struggling to make sense of “why do I do what I do.” Life is complicated enough…therapy should not be.

Hello! I'm Emily; a San Francisco-based, dually licensed therapist with a deep belief in the healing power of self inquiry in the context of a therapeutic relationship. I trained as a drama therapist at California Institute of Integral Studies following several years working in theater and education. Are you anticipating (or already amidst) a life change? I specialize in therapeutic work related to what I respectfully call “portals”--- with an interest in helping you honor where you’ve been, where you’re at, and where you’d like to go next.

I have a PhD in Clinical Psychology and am a licensed LMFT. I received my PhD in 1994 and have been practicing for about 30 years. I work with adult women and men, who are experiencing life transitions such as career issues and relationship problems. The goal of the therapy is to use self-awareness to bring about change, and more joy in life.

Hello, I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California. I am a native of Cali but currently reside in the state of Georgia. My goal in life it to assist others with their mental health challenges and provide them with tools and education that will help them successfully manage these challenges. I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions.

Hello! I have over 25 years of experience counseling survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, and sex trafficking, as well as people dealing with PTSD, depression, chronic illness, and anxiety. I'm down to earth, practical, and non-judgmental. I love working with teens, young adults, adults, and folks in the LGBTQ community. I have a lot of experience working with people from all racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. I practice cultural humility and harm reduction and seek to support you to make whatever changes you are ready for. I've had my own personal challenges with abuse, mental health issues, and chronic illness and am a parent to two teenage daughters. I look forward to getting to know you!

I am a licensed therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing for the past 5 years with a wide range of diverse clients. I received my bachelors degree in Psychology from UCLA and my masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles. My clients describe my style as genuine, comfortable, patient and educational. I lead with my heart while also helping people connect with reason, skills and resources.

Natalie is a first generation, bilingual, LMFT with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. MontenegroMFT specializes in treating acculturation difficulties, trauma, first responders, healthcare professionals and maternal wellbeing through the use of Brainspotting. Additionally used approach modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. MontenegroMFT prides itself in offering a highly personalized approach which is always tailored to each individual client's needs.

I have been a practicing therapist for over 5 years now. I have worked with a diverse group of populations dealing with depression/anxiety all the way to psychosis diagnoses. I implement a lot of Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing into my practice. My clients have often told me that I bring a genuine and compassionate atmosphere to sessions which helps them feel more at ease. I take a very nonjudgmental "at your own pace" type of approach. I want to ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way through your journey with mental health.

Hello! My name is Ness Ruvalcaba. I am an Spanish and English speaking licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I work with individuals who are are needing some extra support understanding or creating some change in their lives. I specialize in trauma informed care, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self harm, and various other issues and needs. I also work with individuals around resolving conflict, improving communication, processing difficult experiences, and various other experiences. I have also very much enjoyed supporting parents individually to work on having better relationships with their children and identify the most effective ways they can support their child. I have worked in various settings including virtual therapy, office or clinic based services, school based services with adolescents and their families, and community based services with newcomer and immigrant youth, youth in foster care, adults, and their families maneuvering complex systems. At this time, I do not meet with couples looking for couples therapy.

Welcome! Are you feeling frozen, avoidant, exhausted, disconnected, or uncertain in life? Many of us do from time to time and this is where psychotherapy makes a difference. My passion as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist is helping those struggling with unresolved issues that can block personal growth and vibrancy. Some signs of being stuck appear as thought spiraling, rumination, thought or image intrusions, an increased self-critical voice, physical discomforts, sleep issues, irritability, despair, avoidance, isolation, and worrisome behaviors.

I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California for 13 years. I think our earliest patterns of relating can be repeated until we become aware and utilize choice. It’s important to include the social setting in which we’re raised, including race, class, and social justice issues. It’s also important to learn how to help our nervous systems cope with stress in the present day. I love to work on dreams and other ways to access our internal landscape beyond intellect. I think building skills around Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness is so helpful in our anxiety-provoking times.

My name is Arakel Aristakessian and I am a first generation American of Armenian immigrants. There is never a lack of drama in my family and I think it is important to be mindful of cultural expectations and norms when navigating conflict. In this fashion, I use an individualized approach to meet my clients' needs. My style of therapy is grounded in the person-centered approach. I practice listening with empathy to my client’s lived experiences. I remind myself that it is not my place to judge anyone for their past choices. It is my responsibility to respond honestly and respectfully. My hope is to mediate shame, so that people feel comfortable and safe in opening up about what is troubling them. Once the therapeutic space feels safe, only then can various treatment methods truly be effective.

I am a strength based therapist who seeks to normalize mental health to underserved and marginalized individuals and communities with the goal of creating a safe space to heal and grow. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief and loss and are seeking support and ways to manage their symptoms. I understand that the client is the expert of their own life and I am here to support them in achieving their goals.

I'm a licensed psychotherapist practicing in California, with a Masters's degree in counseling psychology. I work with clients across a variety of issues. I counsel individuals, couples, teens, and families from a wide range of cultural, racial, and ethnic groups. I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ population. My training and education make me especially qualified to treat depression, anxiety, panic, existential concerns, and attachment wounds. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities which allows me to specifically help you transform. Whatever it is you are struggling with, my job is to assist you to change your relationship with your pain - and help you become the person you want to become.