Therapists in California

Hi, I’m Jenae Heitkamp, LMFT, with 20+ years of experience. I work with anxiety, neurodivergence/ADHD/autism, burnout, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I work with people who have been holding everything together for a long time but feel tired, overwhelmed, or stuck. People who are insightful and self-aware, but they’ve been managing stress, anxiety, or emotional overload. My approach is warm, direct, and practical. I focus on identifying patterns, building effective coping tools, and supporting meaningful, lasting change. I have additional certifications in ADHD treatment (ADHD-CCSP), trauma-informed care, and Myers-Briggs assessment. I tailor therapy to each client’s strengths, personality, patterns, and goals.

It is always a privilege to partner with clients on their journey to improved mental health. I work with clients to discover their value and process through past hurts and traumas. I provide a safe place to process current and past issues and also provide psychoeducation so clients can learn new, healthy coping skills. I refer to myself as a tour guide on the road to healing.

Hello! I'm Kimberly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 30 years of experience. I’m passionate about supporting women as they navigate life’s many challenges. Whether you’re dealing with a big transition or simply wanting to create meaningful change, I’m here to help guide you. I work with women of all ages—from 25 to 75—and am dedicated to helping you find clarity and strength through whatever you're facing.

I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, spirituality, chronic health conditions, relationship challenges, dating, career path, life purpose and self-esteem. I take a holistic approach to therapy, I support healing by exploring all aspects of the self—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. I believe therapy is a means of supporting yourself, a safe place to process emotions, a way to gain clarity, a way to feel supported and a way to feel understood. I value honest, open communication and work to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard without judgment.

Hello! My name is Naomi Ortega, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Fulfilling my role as a therapist means a great deal to me, as does building genuine connections with my clients. It is through that genuine connection that I hope to assist you in navigating through depressive, anxious, traumatic, and stress-related symptoms. I also aim to provide treatment through a culturally sensitive perspective.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

Hello! Are you struggling with anxiety or feelings of depression? As a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I can help guide you through these uncomfortable feelings and support you in reaching your mental health goals. My goal is to guide you to develop tools and insights to help you navigate life's challenges and lead your most fulfilling life.

Hi, I’m Luke Lorefice, a therapist and college/career counselor dedicated to helping men, young adults, including neurodivergent students and those facing emotional or academic challenges, find clarity, confidence, and purpose. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University and a College Counseling Certificate from UCLA Extension. My work blends mental health expertise with academic counseling, employment, and life transitions. Through Grow and my private practice, Wave Point Counseling, I help clients explore meaningful paths whether that’s higher education, a career pivot, or rediscovering a sense of direction.

Hello, and welcome! I've been a therapist for 30 years, firmly believing in everyone's potential for growth. If you're experiencing frustration, depression, anxiety, or confusion, know you're not alone. I'm dedicated to empowering clients with a tailored, evidence-based approach, focusing on building resilience. Together, we'll identify stressors and create a plan to meet your goals. I'm honored to be part of your journey.

All things are interconnected. To feel better, you have to act better. To feel better, you have to think better. To think better, you have to feel better. To act better, you have to think better. To think, feel, and act better, you have to care for your physical health. To care for your physical health, you have to think, feel, and act better. Each has a corresponding effect on the other. However, the aspect of ourselves that we have the most direct control of is what we do, our acting. While we can influence other people, we cannot control other people. A great source of conflict and unhappiness results from our efforts to control others. If you want better relationships, the only thing we can control is what we do, how we choose to relate. We are responsible for what we do. Others are responsible for what they do. Accepting this fundamental reality and thinking, feeling, and acting in accordance with it is how we increase our experience of power, freedom, belonging, meaning and, very importantly, fun. My professional experience includes over 30 years of post-Master’s clinical work, including leadership experience in foster care, chemical abuse and addiction, inpatient and outpatient mental health services, and crisis intervention, de-escalation, and hospitalization. I am experienced in working with ages three through the elderly. I have worked extensively with youth and families, diverse populations and life issues, providing services in various settings, including family homes, schools, juvenile detention facilities, jails, outpatient clinics, and inpatient psychiatric facilities.

You're a courageous person for making this often difficult first step, especially if you have never done therapy before. Whatever has been causing you pain, know that we will work together to understand the root causes and develop coping strategies that work. I am a therapist with many years of experience in both outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals. I work with adults and teens and I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and trauma. The first half of my career I provided therapy to children and families, then later began working primarily with adults and teens. I have also led group therapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings for adults and teenagers. My approach is collaborative and client centered, balancing both empathic attunement and taking a more active role with use of experiential techniques.

You don’t have to carry it all alone. Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here. I help moms who feel tired, worried, or overwhelmed. Many moms love their kids very much but feel stressed, guilty, or like they’ve forgotten about themselves. They want to feel calm, happy, and more like who they used to be. I’ve been helping people for many years, and therapy with me is a safe place to slow down and take a deep breath. We work on simple tools to help you feel less worried, handle big feelings, set healthy limits, and take better care of yourself. If you want more calm and confidence, you are not alone. We will work together to help you feel stronger, supported, and more at peace as you find your rhythm again.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in substance use disorders, trauma, and family systems, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My approach is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between mental health, addiction, and relational dynamics. I specialize in the following areas: Specializations Substance Use Disorders: Expertise in treating various forms of addiction, utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies. Trauma: Skilled in trauma-informed care and other therapeutic modalities to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. Family Systems: Proficient in family therapy techniques, focusing on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening family bonds. Therapeutic Approach: Client-Centered: Emphasizing a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and valued. Integrative: Combining different therapeutic methods tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. Collaborative: Working closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote long-term recovery and well-being. Professional Experience: Over 16 years of clinical experience in diverse settings, including private practice, outpatient clinics, and community mental health center with a proven track record of helping clients achieve significant improvements in their mental health and relationships.

Hello, I'm Dr. Zhang, Do you feel overwhelmed by life stress? Do you have difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or getting motivated? Depression and anxiety are common reactions to chronic or acute stress. It's important to take time and care for ourselves. I help clients understanding their current difficulties and developing effective strategies and solutions. Seeking therapy can be a scary process. It's difficult to be vulnerable with a stranger. I believe clients should be treated with compassion, dignity, and respect. I encourage you to reach out and begin the healing process.

*I only work with individuals, no couples, no minors (under 18)* Trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, I am available to help clients navigate trauma, anxiety, relational issues, communication skills, depression, and stress management . As a first generation Eritrean American born and raised in the Bay Area, I struggled with a sense of belonging throughout my adolescence, often straddling the line between multiple identities and insecurities surrounding the idea of not being “American enough" and not being “African enough.” Early on in college, I took a psychology class that helped me further understand the human condition and its applications in my own life. I learned transformative concepts in terms of moods, relationships, and behaviors, prompting me to further pursue the field of psychology. Since then, I have taken it upon myself to get advanced training in various therapeutic approaches, which I believe help clients get the most out of their therapy experience.

My name is Jeanne, pronunciation is (Janay). I believe that young adults and military personal shouldn't have to struggle as much as they do. We can start the process by talking, I will provide a safe space to talk about all the challenges that come from stress, emotional challenges, anxiety, body image and relationship challenges. I have experience working with young adults and military, I was active duty myself.

Hi and welcome! I’m Anna, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here to support you through the ups, downs, and everything in between. For the past four years, I’ve helped clients navigate anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and big life transitions in a space that’s completely safe and judgment-free. My approach? Real conversations, practical coping skills, and building healthy boundaries—with yourself and others—so you can show up as the best version of you. Together, we’ll tackle challenges like overthinking, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or feeling stuck, and create a plan that feels authentic and doable. Therapy doesn’t have to feel scary or stiff—it can be a space where you get to explore, heal, and grow. If you’re ready to make moves toward a life that feels balanced and meaningful, I’m here for you.

I am an LCSW and a military veteran specializing in trauma and addiction. I believe that effective therapy must be a safe foundation, built on unwavering commitment and ethical practice. My practice is a collaborative space where rapport is established through trust while a custom plan of treatment is mutually established specifically for resolving resistance to your wellness and achieving long-term stability.

My name is Uchechi Alozie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is seeing my client within their environment and not just the issues they are presenting. My approach is trying to aid my clients holistically. I have worked with family units for more than 10 years. And have worked with individuals with chronic mental illness for 6 years. I am used to working with families with different dynamics. I have a background in child welfare services, so I am very familiar with the trauma that comes from familial interpersonal relationships. I have worked in an inpatient psychiatric setting, working with individuals suffering from debilitating chronic mental illness.

Hello, I’m Kamron Poosti, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles. I specialize in addressing issues like anxiety, depression, dating, communication, relationships, burnout, and work-related stress. My client-centered approach offers tailored support to help you navigate your unique challenges and develop effective coping strategies. I’m dedicated to helping individuals from all walks of life achieve greater mental well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with teens, adults, and families. I enjoy working together with my clients and listening to what they want to achieve. I support my clients by providing them with the skills they need to manage their daily struggles and ultimately reach their goals. My approach to therapy is person-centered as it allows clients to gain their own understanding of their experiences to help them with their personal growth. I use evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and mindfulness techniques to support my clients in the healing process. I like to individualize each of my client's needs, and there is a vast assortment of many other approaches and tools that I use. I'm honored to be trusted by my clients and to support them with their mental health. Knowing that I have a part in affecting the lives of others is very rewarding to me. I get great pleasure in educating and helping people reach their fullest potential to live their best life.

You may be coming to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or worn down by patterns that keep repeating in your life or relationships—or by a situation that has disrupted your sense of stability. You might be navigating a loss, a major transition, or ongoing pressure that has left you depleted. Your body and emotions may be holding more than words alone can explain. I offer a relational, trauma-informed space where we can slow down together and create more choice in otherwise habitual patterns of responding. Over time, many people feel more at ease in their bodies, clearer about their needs, and more confident in how they relate to others and themselves.

Hi there, I’m Jazmin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I specialize in working with women who are struggling with anxiety, eating disorders, self confidence, and everyday stressors that come life. In our sessions, we’ll explore your emotions, develop ways to manage stress, and build practical tools to help you feel more grounded and confident in your day-to-day life. My approach is warm, conversational, and tailored to your unique needs. I create a space where you can show up just as you are, no pressure, no judgment. You can learn more about me at JazminAlarconTherapy.com. I look forward to connecting!

Congratulations on taking steps to better yourself. My name is Vincent, and I'm a licensed therapist based in California with over 20 years of experience. If you are ready for positive change, then let’s begin the journey. I've helped everyone from high school teens to older adults overcome life challenges and gain a better understanding of their situation. I bring a wealth of experience and I'm here to support you.

I strive to create a safe space to explore your emotions, feel aligned with the world around you, and develop tools you need to thrive in all aspects of life. My clients will tell you I bring warmth and respect for diversity and identity into our sessions. I am passionate about empowering others as they embrace their authentic selves while navigating life's complexities.

Hi there! I'm Adriana, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I obtained my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University and have been practicing for 16 years. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to providing compassionate support to individuals and families as they navigate significant life changes, such as marriage, divorce, relocation, career shifts, and other transitions. My therapeutic approach focuses on creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can openly explore and process their thoughts and emotions, ultimately fostering healing and personal growth. I have a passion for helping people transform into the best version of themselves, and I would love to come alongside you to inspire you to reach your maximum potential. Life can be overwhelming, but seeking support, understanding the past, gaining new insight, and developing new skills through therapy can bring relief and help you thrive. My goal is to help you tap into your own inner wisdom so that you can heal, grow, and thrive, ultimately living a more fulfilling life. Taking the first step toward growth and change takes courage, but the results can be life-changing. I provide services in both English and Spanish. My passion is to provide culturally sensitive and individualized services to help individuals and families overcome struggles and move on to more meaningful and fulfilling lives. Only you have the ability to make yourself happier, so congratulations on taking the first step! I look forward to hearing from you.

I am licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and clarity. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, transitional life phases and grief. My goals is to create a safe, non judgmental space where the client can explore their feelings, gain insight, and develop strategies for change. Together we work toward a greater self-understanding, healthier relationships, and a life that aligns with your values, goals, and to be a better version of yourself.

My name is Kathy Kelly, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been licensed since 2009 and have experience working with individuals, adolescents, and families in crisis. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, adjustment disorders, and understanding behavior patterns that are set from childhood. I have extensive experience working with individuals who are experiencing difficult life changes, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic mental health disorders. The most common approaches that I use are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, emotionally focused, mindfulness, solutions focused, grief, and trauma focused therapy. I am confortable working with various levels of life experiences, including childhood trauma, current stressors, life transitions, and I appreciate using psychodynamic and family systems therapy to help my clients understand and identify patterns of behavior, and negative thought patterns that originated from their past experiences. I provide a safe space with the goal of making my clients feel welcome, comfortable, and at ease. I have been very successful at teaching clients coping skills, and helping clients process their feelings and emotions with the goal of finding peace, happiness, and an overall sense of well being. Your journey begins today and I will be there with you to guide you and support you.

Hello and Seja bem-vindo! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I grew up in Brazil and moved to California to pursue my career as a therapist. I truly believe that due to life challenges, stressful jobs, career and busy lifestyle, it's very easy to dismiss our inner voice. That is the voice that wants to be heard, tell us about our emotions and hurdles. Allowing your inner voice to be heard will empower you to embrace the beautiful journey of self discovery.

I have been a licensed therapist for 19 years. I believe the most important part of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic relationship is formed in a collaboration between myself and my clients in an environment of mutual acceptance and respect. In addition to my education, training and experience as a therapist I rely on my innate skills as an active listener, my good memory and genuine caring to guide me in my approach to therapy.

Hello, I am an Asian-American female, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and Nevada with many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families providing mental health services in a community-based setting, intensive mental health setting, and private practice setting. I am here to provide support for whatever your needs may be and overcome any challenges in your life. I am licensed in California and Nevada. Website: www.healingheartsmentalhealth.com Instagram: Ilovetherapy661

Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for eight 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.

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

I’m a warm and very real therapist who helps people understand their emotions, reduce worry and stress, and create relationships that feel healthier and aligned with what matters most to you. I show up with genuine care and curiosity and I’m not afraid to use a little humor and connection to help things feel less heavy while we navigate the hard moments together.

I’m a licensed therapist who helps people reconnect with their emotions when they’ve spent years pushing them aside just to get through life. Many of the clients I work with are thoughtful, capable, and deeply caring, but feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or hard on themselves without fully understanding why. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in Emotion-Focused work, helping you slow down, understand what’s happening inside, and build a more compassionate relationship with yourself. Therapy with me isn’t about fixing you, it’s about helping you feel more like you again.

It's easy to overlook our need for self-care when we're busy taking care of other aspects of our lives. Our priorities often revolve around work and our family's well-being, leaving us at the bottom of our list. My aim is to encourage self-determination through therapy. During our therapeutic relationship, we will work together to achieve your goals and find new ways to overcome obstacles and crises. We'll collaborate on identifying your strengths, as it's important to recognize how your current mindset and decisions are impacting the challenges you face in life.

I specialize in clinically-grounded, Holy Spirit-led counseling and therapy for men and women who are looking for a deep level of change emotionally and spiritually where I guide clients in learning how to hear from God and experience inner healing through the leading of the Holy Spirit. My practice is birthed out of a relentless pursuit to find home in His wild love for us and unlocking hearts to love and to be loved.

Hi! My name is Yomaira Suazo and I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. I identify as a Latina and am bilingual. My experiences include young adults and adults. My main focus is proving a client-centered approach along with other approaches that help to create a non-judgment space for clients to feel safe and unpack, learn, and begin the healing process.

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

Hi, I'm Codi. First of all, let's take a moment to give yourself a pat on the back. You have taken the first brave step in reaching out! For over a decade, I've created a safe space where clients feel truly seen and heard. I can teach you skills to help you align with your own values, help you learn how to handle tough moments and build a life you love. You don't need to let mental health roadblocks hold you back. Let's keep this momentum going and get started as soon as possible.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I received my bachelor's degree from Cornell University, a master's degree from the State University of New York (SUNY) system, another master's from the University of New Mexico, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of New Mexico. I've trained at three Veteran's Affairs hospitals (most recently VA Puget Sound) and completed my residency at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. I've co-authored more the 25 scholarly articles, chapters for medical textbooks, and symposia at national conferences, worked on a number of research grants funded by the National Institutes of Health, and have been providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups since 2014.

Hi, my name is Sarah and I am an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in CA. I work with adults and the geriatric population, specializing in managing anxiety and depression through a variety of therapeutic modalities. I focus on client-centered therapy and utilize the empowerment model. My approach varies based on the needs of the client. I frequently work with clients through CBT, supportive therapy and strengths-based therapy.

Hello and welcome to therapy! I want to applaud you for committing to yourself and your journey of healing. Choosing the right therapist for your needs can be scary and overwhelming. I look forward to meeting with you as an opportunity for your growth as you face life transitions. I have been licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) for 25 years and practicing the healing arts for over 30 years. I received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology in 1993 from California State University Northridge. I have worked as a therapist in the public sector for 28 years, serving adolescents and adults struggling with moderate to severe mental illness and substance use disorders, providing assessments, diagnoses and short term individual and group therapy. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and humanistic, with a primary focus on facilitating empowerment, self-actualization, healing, and growth.

Hi, my name is Marina Mosson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of experience dedicated to supporting mental health and well-being. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Long Beach State University and am deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I firmly believe that every person possesses unique strengths, talents, and coping skills to overcome difficulties. My role as a therapist is to help clients access and build upon these strengths, empowering them to create meaningful change in their lives. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space, offering thoughtful feedback and gentle encouragement when facing difficult decisions or complex emotions. I incorporate a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Brainspotting. As a dedicated professional, I continually expand my knowledge through ongoing education and research to ensure the highest quality of care for my clients.

Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence from 2011-2013, to working as a shelter counselor in Oakland for youth 13-21 from 2016-2018. I worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments from 2018-2022. I have been licensed with my LCSW since May 2025 and focused my prior professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

Hello! I am Jeff, a licensed therapist practicing in California and Washington. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and difficulties in relationships. As a certified ADHD therapist, we will work together in improving your focus, motivation, and time management. Moreover as an RLT trained therapist, I will provide support in resolving difficulties in relationships, emotional distress, and feelings of disconnect and isolation. I understand the importance of connecting with you. Your thoughts, emotions, and experiences are essential to the therapeutic process. I will help you identify and bring insight into core issues in your personal life and relationships. We will work together to discover your best self.

Dr. Charness is a former assistant district attorney specializing in prosecuting domestic violence and sexual assault, and rape cases. Additionally, she has her PsyD in clinical psychology specializing in trauma, attachment theory, and affect regulation. She has worked extensively with patients suffering from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse trauma. Further, Dr. Charness has a wealth of experience with PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality, and self-harm. She incorporates many modalities in her sessions, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and somatic work. She effectively supports clients working through past trauma and finding resolve and peace within themselves, which is crucial to individual mental health and functionality. Inclusivity and remaining culturally sensitive to patients are of utmost importance to her. Dr. Charness has also contributed to several books, including Voices of Pain, Voices of Hope, Students Speak About Racism, and Learning Through Discussion. Her most recent passion is her blog on Psychology Today (under law and crime) regarding the intersection of law and mental health. She focuses primarily on how legal rulings can impact our mental health, motive, trauma-informed interrogation, and investigation, particularly in domestic violence and sexual assault cases, and the failings of both the legal and mental health systems. Teaching about the realities of what life looks like inside the courtroom for a victim of domestic violence or rape, whether it be to a classroom of students or an audience of readers, is incredibly important to her.

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

Hi there! My name is Angelica Sanchez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. My experience in community mental health for several years has allowed me to gain experience in working with a wide range of individuals. In working with children, adolescents, and adults I have learned how important it is to be caring, flexible, and nonjudgmental for my clients. I am passionate in helping my clients cope with life's challenges and reach their personal mental health goals. If you're dealing with stress, trauma, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. I do not see any clients under the age of 16.

Hi there, I'm Jess! Real change takes time, practice and patience. I am honored to have the opportunity to accompany you on your journey. I am Bilingual in English and Spanish (Hablo español). I have been privileged to work with adults, teens, families, and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, communication, trauma etc. I am experienced in a number of evidence based techniques including CBT, DBT, Person-Centered therapy, and I will actively work with you to find the best approach to meet your individual needs. This open and flexible approach allows you to share and comfortably express and explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a warm, safe and inviting space. I hold a unique understanding of the struggles that accompany physical disabilities. I understand how hard reaching out and asking for help can be, and I am so proud of you for taking this first step towards peace and healing! Life is easier with support! Together we can discuss how therapy could benefit you and/or your family.