I'm a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, with 19 years of clinical experience, 15 years licensed within private practice.
I consider myself to be bicultural. Having been raised as a first-generation American in a Latin family, I can identify with the mentality of someone living within two "worlds". Transitioning from one culture to another with seemingly different values, beliefs and language. I can easily understand the struggle that maintaining, and existing in both, can sometimes be. I've come to perceive and appreciate it as the gift of having a "bridge" that allows connection to, and understanding of, different aspects of people and life.
My education has a foundation in Clinical Psychology, woven with holistic transpersonal themes, the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and just plain down-to-earth common sense. Always keeping in mind the client's personal beliefs and values.
Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.
I am a licensed professional counselor (PhD, LPC, NCC) with years of experience supporting individuals across a wide range of mental health challenges. I am deeply committed to helping people explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a safe, supportive environment. My approach integrates evidence-based strategies with compassion and understanding, so clients can gain clarity, build resilience, and achieve meaningful, lasting change in their lives.
Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences.
In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.
Justin has been working in the field of behavioral healthcare since 2014. He began his career as a mental health technician within a locked psychiatric hospital in Los Angeles, supporting two units of adolescent and adult psychiatric patients. It was this experience that solidified Justin’s passion for providing compassionate, client-centered care in the mental health, and co-occurring dual diagnosis treatment field.
Justin has done extensive work providing direct client care as a facilitator of individual, group and family therapy providing crisis intervention and mental health services to youth and adults identified as at-risk in Los Angeles. Justin has served various treatment programs in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. Over the years, Justin’s roles have included Residential Counselor, Case Manager, Primary Therapist, and Program Director.
Justin Cowell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). An alumnus of the University of Arizona and San José State University, where he earned his Master’s degree (MSW), has experience in mental health, counseling, and community-based settings.
Before joining the Grow team, Justin worked with diverse populations and adolescents. He enjoys incorporating CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology into his sessions and is eager to bring these modalities to work with the recovery population at Grow Therapy. Born and raised in Inglewood, CA, Justin loves all LA sports teams, Lakers, Dodgers, Kings, and Rams, and loves going to games.
Both personally and professionally, Justin is a proponent of self-care, having fun, and trying new things, and is excited to be a member of the Grow team.