Therapists in California

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 15 years of experience in the mental health profession. My career began after being certified as a addiction specialist from UCLA extension program. I help individuals dealing with Addiction and Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, and Older adults and Caregivers for family members with Dementia and other diagnosis. In my approach I try to integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches and personalized to each client for an effective treatment.

Hello, my name is Jamal and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with seven years of experience collaborating with diverse communities including preteens, adolescents, adults and older adults, and underrepresented groups. Most of my work consists of processing trauma and assessing the relationships we have with others to build more hope for the future. I personally believe that though things may be hard right now, no one is 'crazy' and that in some way, the way we are makes sense due to our past experiences. That means we can understand and create experiences now and in the future that are more adaptive and true to how we want to live. -I currently am not seeing clients under the age of 18 nor couples due to my availability. My apologies in advance for any inconvenience-

As a licensed psychotherapist in California, I have been working in the field for over 25 years. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage Family Therapy. I am here to empower both women and men who struggle with anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression. I have also incorporated the use of journaling, art, and sandtray therapy into my practice.

Hello! and welcome. I know that it can feel scary to do therapy, so congratulations on taking the first step! I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds in a therapeutic capacity for several decades. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and although I have trained in various methodologies, I believe the key to therapy is a close relationship with your therapist. My goal is to make you feel safe to share your thoughts, feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. I aim to foster a space where you feel understood, supported and empowered on your journey. I’m passionate about helping people transform their lives.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California. I also have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Cal State University Northridge. I have a extensive history with over 15 years of experience working with adults 18 and over with various mental health diagnoses. I like to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients to have a place to express their thoughts and feelings.

Christopher Lawver is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in private practice and community mental health settings. He graduated from Antioch University Los Angeles with an M.A. in Clinical Psychology and the University of Southern California B.A. Communication Arts and Sciences. Chris Lawver has practiced in West Hollywood and San Francisco, California, specializing in substance use and addiction recovery, codependency and relationship evaluation, and self-empowerment in diverse populations. In 2010, Lawver received a certification in Psychoanalysis from The Los Angeles Institute of Psychoanalytic Studies on the Brentwood campus, adding insight-orientated therapy to an impressive skill set. Chris Lawver has worked at Charles Drew University of Medicine and Sciences and the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian community services, Jeffrey Goodman special care clinic with HIV/AIDS services and underserved communities of color and LGBTQ people. In San Francisco, he worked with formerly incarcerated individuals to find their way forward after being released and re-integrated into the community to find jobs and stability. He has worked in community mental health settings, practicing CBT and DBT modalities with severe mental illness and dual diagnosis. He’s expanded in recent years to include modern wisdom, energy work and conscious raising approaches, and Kundalini yoga. He has formulated a unique therapeutic approach with an eclectic interpersonal and interactive style. He is warm, with a good heart and an empathic understanding. Drawing upon personal and professional experiences with grief, addiction, and adversity, he empowers clients’ humanity, creativity, and achievements in society. Awareness, Insight, Action > Change

I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.

Welcome! I'm Patricia Soto, a compassionate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist committed to guiding individuals towards mental well-being and empowerment though all seasons in life. With a focus on addressing depression, self-esteem, anxiety, grief, life transitions, work-related stress, and challenges within relationships and families, I'm dedicated to helping you harness your innate strengths and work on your journey to healing and happiness.

Katerina Sorrell, MA, PPSC, LPCC, is a licensed psychotherapist and National Board Certified Counselor with over a decade of experience helping clients achieve healing, resilience, and personal growth. With a Master’s in Counseling from Chapman University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from CSULB, she offers a strong academic foundation paired with compassionate, culturally responsive care. Katerina is fluent in English and Spanish and provides services to children, adolescents, and adults, drawing from evidence-based approaches such as CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Her work spans working with Orange County Department of Education and various school districts in Orange County, California, where she has served as a School Counselor and Mental Health Practitioner. She specializes in crisis intervention, early identification of students in need, and the development of supportive mental health strategies. Katerina also volunteered with the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, demonstrating her deep commitment to mental health advocacy. In addition to her school-based work, Katerina provides individual therapy in private practice in Laguna Hills, California,, helping adults, military and youth clients manage challenges like anxiety, depression, family conflict, peer pressure, and trauma. Her unique background also includes career assessments, allowing her to support clients in discovering their strengths and life direction. Whether in schools, clinical settings, or the community, Katerina empowers her clients to navigate life’s challenges with confidence, connection, and hope.

Hi there, I'm Christina. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist that has been in practice for over 11 years. During our sessions, we'll work at your pace and where you are at emotionally. Creating a safe space filled with compassion and kindness is important to me, plus a mixture of mental health interventions. We'll set a goal and work towards achieving that goal. Don't worry, we don't have to delve deep into your past if you are not ready. Sometimes there is the need to process what you are going through at the moment and have someone to be there and listen and that's okay too. We can start there.

If you are a client of Kaiser Permanente, it is necessary to obtain a referral from Kaiser before proceeding. Once you have received the referral, Kaiser will provide you with a link to schedule a session with me. I specialize in helping individuals navigate grief, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, and behavioral concerns. Many people live with anxiety without realizing how deeply it affects their relationships, decision-making, and overall quality of life. If you find yourself feeling constantly on edge, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted, you’re not alone—and support can make a meaningful difference. Depression is not always obvious or dramatic; it often shows up as fatigue, irritability, disconnection, or a loss of motivation. It is one of the most common and misunderstood struggles people face today, yet it is also highly treatable. With the right support, individuals can regain clarity, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of control over their lives.

I have been in practice for 30 years. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and healing, and I am committed to being your partner in this process. Together, we can work towards understanding the factors that contribute to your current feelings or challenges and identify actionable steps to help you move forward. Your comfort and well-being are my priorities, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Let’s explore how we can work together to enhance your quality of life and achieve your goals.

I’m Dr. Gabe Veas, a psychotherapist who helps high-achieving adults, couples, and creatives move past shame, fear, and pressure to keep it all together. Many appear successful on paper yet feel disconnected, anxious, or unfulfilled inside. Our work focuses on rebuilding intimacy, confidence, and freedom that lasts. My learning didn’t end with degrees; it continues through mentorship, embodiment, and years of helping people reclaim the parts of themselves that feel hidden or shut down. I founded Palm Springs Psychotherapy to offer a private, deeply personalized space for clients who want more than symptom relief. My approach blends cognitive, relational, and somatic methods to help you reconnect with what feels real and alive, both in your mind and in your body. f you’re ready to feel more connected and fully alive, let’s begin with a private consultation. This work is for people who are ready for real change, deeper relationships, sexual confidence, and a clearer sense of self.

Hello! My name is Charmaine and I’ve been a licensed clinician for 8 years and a social worker for the past 15! The trust you build with your therapist is the most important factor in developing that relationship and cultivating a space where change can happen. I would love to help you author your own story and gain motivation to make lasting change.

My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of California State University in Bakersfield. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, and relationships issues.

I really love being a therapist, and it’s so rewarding to support people on their journeys of self-discovery. In many ways, I get to give back the same kind of support that therapy gave me. Over time, I’ve come to see that things like anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or struggles in relationships and careers often show up when something’s off in the mind-body-spirit connection. I’ve been through my own path of growth and transformation, and along the way, I picked up some powerful tools that I truly believe can help you find more healing, love, peace, and purpose in your life. In my work, I lean into attachment theory and also explore the deeper, more spiritual aspects of what it means to be human.

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.

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years. I also hold a Doctorate in Education, with a focus on change and leadership. In my work experience, I have seen a wide range of clients, but my specialties lie in substance abuse/addictions, and working with the Latino and LGBTQ communities. Currently working with only adults. No couples or families.

Hi, I’m Marvin West, a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist with training in Expressive Arts. I believe therapy is a powerful tool for growth, healing, and self-discovery. You are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to meet you where you are—through the highs and the lows—offering guidance and support along the way. Let’s take this journey together to create a brighter, healthier future for you.

Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, bouts of low mood, chronic anxiety, constantly doubting yourself, feeling insecure? Do your core beliefs limit you from living authentically? Do you constantly think about past experiences and self-defeating messages you learned as a child? This is the space for you. My name is Monica Reza, LCSW. I am a strength base- intersectional therapist. I am Mexican, who was born and raised in Southern California. My life experiences on every level has motivated me to becoming a therapist. I have been in the mental health field for 8 years. My experience has been working with patients who suffer from a chronic illness and mood disorder, Veterans with severe mental illness and dual diagnosis, and marginalized groups coping with symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, Depression and Anxiety. My clinical approach leans towards CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focus, and Somatic Therapy. Our sessions will focus on distress tolerance, emotional regulation, improving relationships with self and others, and building a sense of self-worth. What we will be doing in our sessions: Identify goals, learn and incorporate healthy coping skills, practice mindfulness and acceptance, process and reflect, find solutions, behavior activation, create new core beliefs, and most importantly, healing. I look forward to meeting with you.

 Love and work are essential to a meaningful life. Relationships with others define experience and work gives a sense of purpose. Disturbance in these affect well being and contribute to an overwhelmed response leading to collapse. As trauma is relational so is recovery and healing. Having the right therapeutic alliance is a key element and requires, attunement and constistency.  James has over 17 years of clinical experience treating diverse individuals in a variety of settings. As a Mind-Body-Awareness trained therapist, he works with adults having problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. In addition to having a graduate degree in Social Work from San Jose State University; he also attended years of practicum training from the following: Certification in Somatic Experiencing from SE Trauma Institute; Sierra Institute for Contemporary Gestalt Training; Professional Training in Hakomi Mindfulness-Based Experiential Psychotherapy Santa Cruz; iRest Integrative Restoration, an evidence informed meditation practice for trauma; Certification in Satyananda Yoga Nidra; and Completion of 500 hours of Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training. 

My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.

I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. I bring a unique, spiritual, Latino/Hispanic perspective to mental health counseling that focuses on the needs of our community. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. Aporto una perspectiva única, espiritual, latina/hispana al asesoramiento de salud mental que se centra en las necesidades de nuestra comunidad.

As a board-certified psychotherapist, I have had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse array of remarkable clients. My professional journey encompasses assisting parents in the reunification process with their children, guiding young adolescents through the complexities of emerging emotions, and supporting older adults as they navigate the challenges of lifelong illnesses. My education is a bachelor's degree in child and Adolescent Development and a master's degree in social work.

Hi, I’m Melissa, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in children and teens as well as adult individual psychotherapy. I consider myself an eclectic psychotherapist who uses the theory of Carl Rogers and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for relaxation, client-centered, and symptom reduction. I am trained as a depth and somatic psychotherapist. I specialize in holistic body-mind approaches to symptom reduction and resolving trauma. I am highly experienced in counseling children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis. I love to support clients in their growth and healing. As a solution-focused therapist, my passion is to help individuals and families dive deep, learn how to communicate their needs and achieve their individual and relational goals.

I'm so glad you're taking this step to prioritize your mental health—it's the foundation of everything else in life. As a mother of three young adults, including boy-girl twins and a neurodivergent daughter, and with experience as a psychologist, coach, and leader in both tech and education, I bring a wide range of lived experience to my work. I work with individuals and families at all stages of life, helping them release outdated mindsets and adopt empowering new ones by uncovering the root causes, patterns, and obstacles that hold them back. My approach integrates neuroscience, cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and depth psychology, always focusing on creating meaningful connections that unlock new possibilities. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I hold an unwavering belief in each person’s boundless potential. By focusing on what truly matters, we can always transform challenges into opportunities.

My name means “Light,” and my goal is to help you rediscover yours. As a BIPOC therapist, I bring a culturally sensitive, holistic approach to healing. Together, we’ll shed light on your challenges and explore compassionate, practical solutions to help you move forward. My work is rooted in the transformative power of mindfulness, spirituality, and self-awareness. I integrate psychoanalysis, faith-based counseling, and holistic healing to create a space where you can reconnect with your authentic self and cultivate resilience. I specialize in supporting adults facing anxiety, trauma, depression, and men’s issues. My approach blends psychotherapy with spiritual exploration and self-discovery — helping you realign with your purpose and inner peace. I believe every person holds untapped potential and innate wisdom. My role is to hold a nonjudgmental space where you can feel seen, supported, and understood. Through our work together, we’ll turn over the stones of your experience to reveal clarity, healing, and a renewed sense of direction. I’ve personally walked through profound loss and transformation — including a near-death experience and the passing of my beloved mother to cancer. These experiences deepened my faith in the human spirit and in our collective ability to heal and shine again. Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to help you grow and remember who you truly are — a light meant to shine.

Hello. My name is Deborah. I live in California , where I received my masters degree in social work. I worked in Medical Social work for 14 years. During that time, I had the opportunity to assist clients and families during their times of crisis, stress, transition and loss. At Grow, I see adults and seniors. I appreciate that I can assist clients in times when they need support.

I'm a EMDRIA Certified Therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant-In-Training. I am also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work. I have been practicing in social work since undergrad back in 2007. I mostly work with adults in life transitions, difficult stressors (work, family or medical), chronic health conditions and pain. My career began in medical social work and I have continued to practice in medical social work and counseling/mental health for the duration of my career. I do believe that we do not get sick one way or get well one way. That means that I truly want to help you feel well and work with you in helping you get in to the doctors you need to ensure an overall wellness. I became a mental health provider because I am passionate about helping people regain their life back, having hope for better days and overcoming difficult situations and traumatic events. Life can have ups and downs and it's okay to ask for help and to say “this is hard”.

I'm here to help those who otherwise wouldn't be able to pay out of pocket and provide an opportunity to meet with a doctoral-level therapist with specialized training in couples, family, and individual therapy. I am dedicated to the field and actively engage in continuing education and research to sharpen my craft. Aside from that, I'm a Therapist of Color, Asian-American, in an interracial marriage of 20 years, and have four children. I'm available virtually at this time.

I am a psychotherapist with over 15 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings. I received my psychotherapy training at the San Francisco State University and graduated in 2012. After working at a private counseling center for 6 years, I opened my private practice in 2018 as a licensed marriage and family therapist. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults and Asian adults. My areas of interests include gay/lesbian and gender issues, sexuality, psychotherapy education, and psychotherapeutic technique.

Hello! I am a psychotherapist licensed in CA and NH. I work to help people alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and more. I work to help people gain insight in to their lives , determine what they want out of life, and work towards that. I love my work and look forward to getting to know people and be a supportive part of their journey!

Hello my name is Natasha Simon and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Are you a trauma survivor? Do you experience intense and uncontrollable emotions? Do you experience depression and anxiety? Do you struggle with low self-esteem and body image issues? If you are experiencing any of these issues, I am here for you. At this very moment you may feel helpless, but there is hope for you to overcome and move forward from the issues you may be experiencing. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and collaborative. I use principles of psychodynamic therapy, CBT and DBT and I adapt my treatments to best fit your needs. I believe strongly in the therapeutic relationship and I make sure to co-create a space where you can feel safe to be you and embark on your journey of self-discovery and healing. I meet you where you are at and welcome you without judgment. My purpose as your therapist is to be a resource and tool to assist you with becoming empowered to make positive changes and healthy choices in your life.

Hello and welcome! I am a doctor of Psychology, a licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional clinical counselor. I am located in California and have 14 years of experience in helping individuals navigate their emotional challenges through various evidence-based treatment methods. My goal is to empower you to understand yourself better, heal from past traumas, and improve your relationships, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.

Hi, I'm Audrey! I’m a therapist dedicated to helping individuals break free from cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and past trauma so they can reconnect with their authentic selves. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can explore challenges at your own pace and develop the tools to create a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based techniques to help you heal and grow.

I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.

We know that initiating counseling services for your child or yourself can be very challenging. However, please know that you are making a positive step towards a healthy change in your life. During the counseling process, together we will identify your strengths and use those strengths to help propel you in making the necessary changes you would like to make in your life. If you want to obtain support in dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse, anger management, trauma, parenting assistance, divorce or substance abuse, I am here to help you navigate this process.

Hello! I’m Melissa Bautista, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over seven years of experience supporting clients through life’s challenges. I provide telehealth therapy across California and strive to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and easy to talk in. I work with clients who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or navigating transitions, and I help them build practical tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and better understand themselves.

Hello, my name is Serina Palomino. I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor), and NCC (nationally certified counselor), and I like to meet my clients where they are utilizing an integrative approach. I provide therapeutic services to children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation, primarily utilizing CBT, EMDR, art therapy, and mindfulness. My approach to therapeutic services is holistic and integrative. I provide in-depth assessments to determine therapeutic needs and identify core underlying issues contributing to client symptoms and behaviors. I integrate the qualities of a humanistic approach to establish and maintain the therapeutic alliance to support the client's successful discharge from services.

Hi i am Aimee a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in the San Diego area. I enjoy working with 16 and up and specialize in LGBTQ+, prenatal and postpartum, women’s issues and grief issues. I like to help see pregnant and new mom’s achieving the most out this time and find ways to feel less anxiety and depressed and more fulfilled. For people in the LGBTQ+ community i have specialized in gender health issues since 2014 and have always been an ally. During Covid I decided to increase my skill and knowledge with assisting people moving through grief and took a few seminars focusing on grief work with David Kessler.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from the Portland State University in Portland Oregon and have been practicing for 4 years as a licensed clinician. I help adults and young adults struggling with mental health and addiction disorders to become the best versions of themselves. I have been employed in mental health inpatient and outpatient agencies and addiction programs with effective results.

I have been in private practice since 2012. I mostly see clients suffering from depression and anxiety, but I am open to other disorders. My goal from the start is to EMPOWER my clients. I only work with ages 15 to 65 years old. I work from a very practical base and help clients either change their circumstances or adjust to it. My background is in forensics as I have worked with inmates and people with criminal cases, judges, attorneys and probation officers for over 14 years. My style is nondirective in therapy. I let the client lead me as they are experts on themselves.

I am Brandy, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW/LCSW) offering compassionate and specialized psychotherapy services to adults in California, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. I am also a U.S. military Veteran with multiple deployments, and my lived experience deeply informs the care I provide. My own healing journey, combined with my service background and professional training, has shaped an integrative, trauma-informed approach to therapy that honors the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. I am an EMDRIA-trained EMDR therapist and offer evidence-based trauma treatment to help clients process and heal from painful life experiences. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the emotional impact of serious health diagnoses. Whether you're coping with the aftermath of trauma or facing a new chapter in life, I offer a collaborative, supportive space focused on strengthening your resilience, restoring your sense of self, and promoting lasting emotional well-being.

Hi, I’m Lainie, a licensed clinical social worker. You may notice that certain experiences continue to show up in your body, emotions, or reactions, even when you try to respond differently. This can affect how you handle stress, how close you feel to others, or how anxious you feel day to day. I work with adults who feel worn down by these patterns and want to feel less burdened by past experiences of trauma. I’m trained in EMDR, a therapy that helps reduce how strongly the past shows up in the present, so it doesn’t keep shaping your reactions in the same ways. Rather than only talking through experiences, EMDR focuses on helping your mind and body respond differently, which can bring relief that feels more lasting.

Hello, My name is Tiffany Bell and I am a licensed marriage, family, and child therapist. I specialize in learning disabilities and neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, etc.). I have over 21 years of experience working with this population. I love to help this population of people maximize their full potential through direct, fun, and practical ways of understanding their disorder, what will work and what does not, and how to effectively navigate through that. I also have experience in the education system and I understand how specialized education works. I take pride in not only helping those individuals navigate this system and advocate for themselves,

I’ve studied and practiced many methods. I like to be eclectic and work with you with what’s needed to get you back on track and feeling your best. I was a teacher for many years, then went for my masters in social work. Life has many twists and turns. Sometimes we can feel off balance or are suffering from depression or anxiety. We’ve all had our ups and downs and getting back on track and feeling our best is a goal I enjoy helping people achieve to live the life they want.

"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." — Arthur Ashe Hello there! I am first a mom, a sister, an aunt, a grandmother, and a neighbor and friend. In my life, I have naturally been inclined to help others. Realizing this, I decided to embark on a journey to become a professional helper of other humans, to help improve their life and feel better about their choices. Along this journey, I have become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I obtained my MA from Pacific Oaks College in 2013 and my Psy. D. Marital and Family Therapy from The Chicago School in 2021. I then started working in counseling and after completing my continued education for counseling studies with an emphasis on alcohol/drugs abuse studies at UCLA in 2020. I support and promote clients to explore their potential and utilize strengths to manage challenges in life. As your therapist, I strive to be authentic and nurturing and come from this understanding, as my true self, and as a South-American therapist. My years of experience and navigating through life while learning the art of therapy and counseling helped me to develop a strong patient-centered approach to join patients where they are at. Feedback I have heard from clients is that my experience working with different cultural backgrounds helps clients feel safe and they report that I have a more inclusive therapeutic relationship with them than other therapists.

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.

I'm a Bilingual English/Spanish-speaking 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.

I am a highly accomplished Licensed, Marriage, and Family Therapist with over 28 years of experience in managing challenging behaviors and helping individuals with ongoing significant social/emotional skill deficits, and/or mental health needs. Along with working with youth from many cultures and economic backgrounds, I also have over 20 years’ experience supervising and managing adults in the education field. My years of experience working for school districts, private practice settings, group homes and currently as a mental health administrator provide clients with a clinician who has a broad range of experience.