Therapists in California

Sydelcis Mendez (Syd) is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in crisis, trauma, anxiety, and stress management as it relates to individuals, couples, and families during life transitions. Raised in the Bronx by her Dominican family, she witnessed the gaps in resources and opportunities for individuals of different backgrounds. Syd became a therapist after seeing the mental health strains in her community and noting the underrepresentation of qualified providers who provided culturally-sensitive treatment and systems-oriented support. Throughout her career, she has served individuals grappling with substance use challenges, homelessness/transient issues, health concerns, developmental needs, sexual assault, domestic violence, addiction, military service/veteran affairs issues, as well as family or marital challenges.

Hi, I’m Lorren, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I create a space where you can be fully yourself, where healing is about coming home to who you are with compassion and clarity. I work mostly with individuals in their teens, 20s, and 30s, and center BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and marginalized identities in my work. I specialize in anxiety, identity exploration, grief, and relationship therapy (including non-traditional structures like ethical non-monogamy). My approaches vary from CBT, ERP, Play Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, The Gottman Method for Couples/Relationship Therapy, and I have a deep commitment to social justice and systems awareness. When it fits, I bring creativity and nature into sessions as tools for healing.

Hi, I’m Meghan, a therapist who specializes in working with teens and adults navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, and feeling stuck in patterns that no longer feel sustainable. Many of the people I work with are looking for a better understanding of themselves and more supportive ways of relating to their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. I offer a warm, conversational, and collaborative space where we can slow things down together and explore your experience with curiosity and care. My approach is grounded in connection, and I focus on helping you build insight and clarity over time so meaningful and lasting change can unfold.

Hi! I have been in the field helping individuals, couples and families for 13 years from all walks of life and range of socioeconomical status. During the years of experience, I have found great joy in providing a safe landing spot for those ready to unpack their past traumas, navigate their current stressors and challenges, learn new strategies for coping and finding a greater meaning to their lives. To see the transformation of many individuals who felt broken to become and grow into a stronger sense of self with optimism for their future has been what drives me in my career of serving others.

Hello, I am Luis Martinez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have been serving my community helping families and individuals for over 8 years. Whether it's helping people with simple day to day stressors or deeper rooted concerns, there's an approach and solution to the problem. Together we can focus on building strengths and help facilitate positive change to help empower you moving forward in your life.

Hello, I’m Sanayah Marriott, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving adults in California, Arizona, and Hawaii. I provide therapy in English and Haitian Creole. With 20 years of military experience and nine years in addiction treatment, I understand the courage it takes to seek support while managing demanding responsibilities. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance-use concerns, relationship difficulties, career stress, and major life transitions. You may appear strong and capable while privately feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, uncertain, or emotionally exhausted. Together, we will identify what keeps you stuck, strengthen your coping skills, and help you create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and aligned with who you are.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families to address a wide range of mental health concerns. My practice supports individuals navigating life transitions, engaging in self-exploration, or managing the everyday challenges that come with balancing responsibilities and relationships. I have extensive experience helping clients work through anxiety, depression, eating disorders, postpartum concerns, family stress, and relational difficulties. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client’s unique needs, drawing from various therapeutic modalities to create a personalized, goal-oriented path toward healing. At the core of my philosophy is the belief that every individual possesses the strength and capacity to create meaningful change. My role is to guide and support you in that process, helping you move toward greater balance, emotional well-being, and a more fulfilling life.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 plus years of experience helping individuals and families facing trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, crisis situations, and serious mental illness. I provide a safe, supportive space to build resilience, develop coping skills, foster self-compassion, and create lasting change. I will take time to understand your experiences, strengths, and challenges while creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for you to share at your own pace.

I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who believes meaningful change happens when you feel safe, heard, and understood. My goal is to create a supportive space where you can show up as you are—without judgment. Whether you’re feeling anxious, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or disconnected in your relationship, we’ll work together to better understand what’s happening and how to move forward. I take a collaborative and practical approach to therapy. That means we don’t just talk about challenges—we explore tools and strategies you can use in your everyday life. I blend evidence-based techniques with a strong focus on relationships and emotional awareness. Together, we’ll look at patterns that may be keeping you stuck and build healthier ways of coping, communicating, and connecting. I work with individuals and couples who want to reduce anxiety, improve communication, and create more fulfilling relationships. My aim is to help you feel more confident, grounded, and capable—both in and outside of session.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping first-generation Latinas heal from trauma, manage anxiety, and break free from patterns of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and self-doubt. My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally affirming. I integrate EMDR and person-centered therapy to help clients process difficult experiences, build healthier boundaries, and reconnect with their authentic selves. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. *I've chosen to center my practice on the healing needs of women and the LGBTQIA+ community. I do not currently work with cisgender men, minors, or court-involved clients in order to preserve alignment with my clinical roots*

I am passionate about helping my clients feel heard, seen, and understood. In today’s stressful, competitive culture, life's challenges can be difficult to navigate. I am committed to helping my clients overcome the obstacles holding them back from making the changes needed to improve their lives. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4 pm. You are welcome to connect with me for a consultation.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who creates a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable being yourself. My style is compassionate, relatable, and goal-oriented. I work with young adult women navigating anxiety, self-doubt, relationship stress, and life transitions. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. I provide a supportive, collaborative space where we focus on emotional awareness, mindfulness, and practical tools to help you build confidence, set boundaries, and feel more grounded in your daily life and relationships.

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Finding balance in life isn’t about having everything perfectly in place, it’s about building the skills and support you need to move through challenges with confidence. That’s where I come in. I’m Tomekia Edwards, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, New York, and California with over 17 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s most difficult seasons. My background spans inpatient behavioral health, mobile psychiatric assessment, HIV case management, and working with service members and military families. These experiences have shaped my ability to provide grounded, compassionate care across diverse and complex situations. I commonly support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, work and school stress, and relationship challenges. My approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused techniques, allowing us to identify practical tools while also uncovering the strengths you already possess. I have extensive experience working with adults, children, families, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Welcome! My name is Karin and I’m here to help you discover the healing that your mind and body are capable of. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a Holistic Health Coach from Santa Monica, Ca. I am a certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). Across my professional experience, I have worked with multiple individuals and couples struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, and emotional eating.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California with 30 years of clinical experience. I earned my master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach and my bachelor’s degree from Grambling State University. I provide therapy for adults ages 18 and older who are experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty managing emotions, or challenges related to autism spectrum disorder. I also support clients navigating concerns related to career and school stress, relationships, family dynamics, and other life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each individual’s needs. I strive to create a supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes at their own pace.

Hi! I’m Sean, a licensed psychotherapist based in Oakland, CA offering evidence based treatment for individuals across California through telehealth. I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in improving the quality of their interpersonal relationships. I specialize in working with non-traditional sexuality, identities, and relationships. My work is with diverse individuals, including all gender expressions, sexual orientations, and Kink/BDSM/Polyamory issues. *Please note that I am not currently accepting couples referrals

My name is Joey Dolowy, (yes it rhymes and yes it is my name, enjoy) and I have been a professional therapist since June of 1998: I have pursued psychology and addiction since a friend over dosed and died when I was 13. I am motivated to help everyone who asks me, it feeds my spirit and it is such a huge part of my identity. I want to help you and I want to hear your story: please contact me and see if my style fits your needs: CHEERS.

You may be here because you’re navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, or major life transitions. Changes in home, school, work, relationships, or experiences like foster care and family disruption can leave you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. I specialize in supporting women, adolescents, and children, with expertise in trauma, grief, life transitions, and child welfare–related experiences. I help clients identify barriers, build coping skills, and move toward healing and resilience. As an Arabic-speaking therapist, I understand the importance of language and cultural connection in the healing process. I am dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate space where my clients feel genuinely heard and supported as they navigate their unique journeys. My approach is rooted in person-centered care, ensuring that every session is tailored to you. Together, we will create a space where you feel truly seen and heard, free from judgment. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unresolved grief, or navigating a major life transition, I am here to walk alongside you. If you’re ready to take the next step, I encourage you to reach out. Let’s have a conversation about how I can support you.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I have been practicing for the past 15 years. I help children ages 0-18 and their families with their relationships, behaviors, and traumas. I also work with adults to support them with their traumas or challenges. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and have primarily worked with Latinos and other minorities. I also work with graduate interns who need supervision.

Welcome! I am genuinely glad that you are here. It isn’t always easy to put your trust and safe keeping of personal feelings and experiences into another, so I am honored to get to know your story. I have had the privilege of working with children, teens and adults from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, who have various relational preferences, etc. What I want to convey is that everyone is welcome here! A little about me- I have spent many years working as a school based Mental Health Therapist, so I very familiar with the unique experiences of school educators, administrators, and other supporting staff. I have been involved in Special Education and IEP meetings, and have supported parents and students in this area. Additionally, I continue to dedicate myself to the research and understanding of complex relationships and various attachment styles, and enjoy supporting my clients in those areas. I am also well versed and comfortable in supporting my clients through anxiety, depression and the processing of grief/loss. I would like you to know that I genuinely care about the emotional well-being of my clients, and my hope is that you feel safe and comfortable in sharing with me.

I am a 10 year veteran therapist who believes in the uniqueness of every person I help to realize their special potential. I know people have the capacity to make meaningful changes in their lives that contribute to greater happiness and fulfillment. I never give up even on the most daunting issues that plaque my client's well being. I stand as a strong support of what is right for the client and help to reveal the fastest courses to achieve personal goals. Together we work magic in altering the most perplexing of realities.

Hello! My name is Pa. I am an individual, mother, wife, daughter, and a Hmong-American woman. I became a psychotherapist because I grew up witnessing how mental health is often dismissed in diverse ethnic communities. I saw how generational trauma affects our minds, bodies, and souls. These experiences fueled my passion to become a therapist who can connect and support individuals with diverse backgrounds. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I take a client-centered approach where I tailor our sessions to address your needs and goals. I provide a safe and supportive space for you to just be yourself. Together, we will identify and set goals that address your needs and concerns. We can also adjust and change goals as needed to adapt to the evolution of your journey.

Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are becoming? Life transitions, relationship struggles, anxiety, grief, identity questions, and existential pain can leave us feeling overwhelmed or lost. Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a deeper way. I help individuals of all ages better understand the unconscious patterns that shape their emotions, relationships, and sense of self. Together, we explore what may be keeping you stuck, uncover deeper meaning in your experiences, and create space for healing, growth, and lasting change. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in Depth Psychology and Integrative Healing Practices, I offer a holistic approach that honors the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I believe each person carries an innate capacity for healing, and therapy can help bring that inner wisdom forward. My role is to support you with compassion and insight as you move toward greater clarity, authenticity, and wholeness.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who offers individuals, adults, geriatric populations in a general private practice setting in Texas & California. My practice offers a place where you can feel heard in a supportive, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment. I focus on adult care including women’s issues, career/educational issues, interpersonal communication, self-esteem, anger management, stress management, relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I like to do therapy in an “eclectic” manner, drawing on cognitive-behavioral, narrative, spirituality, solution-focused, and others.

I know from experience that looking for a therapist could be stressful. If you are here then you are on the right path and I am here to walk it with you. My name is Marypaz Garrdea. I am a bilingual, Spanish and English, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I am also a clinical psychologist from Mexico City with more than 15 years of experience. My passion is to provide psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and families in a compassionate environment full of support and understanding. At the same time, giving you the tools to grow and achieve your goals in life. “Because life is not what it’s supposed to be. It is what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference” Virginia Satir.

My approach draws on psychoanalytic thinking, which revolves on one central idea: much of what we think and feel remains outside of our awareness. Sometimes we keep powerful feelings hidden so we can continue moving through the day, or we simply cannot find time to reflect on everything that is happening to us. In any case, keeping these potent experiences hidden may leave us feeling stiff, dreary, unfulfilled, or even numb and dull. I offer emotional attunement and embodied wisdom. Clients come away from sessions with self-trust, and more secure boundary-wise self-care.

Hello and thank you for taking the time to read about me. My name is Emily Cortez and I am an LMFT in CA. It is my hope to connect with you in a warm, supportive space to help process and tackle the many challenges that life throws at us. I have been practicing in the field going on 5 years now and have experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjustment/life transitions, trauma, and grief/loss.

Hello, I'm Evelyn, an LCSW working with GROW, exclusively with online clients. If you are experiencing sadness, anxiety or frustration with your relationships, it's time to get the support you need. If you are seeking a therapist who creates a safe and supportive space for change, I think we might work well together. My background encompasses not only experience in clinical social work but also in the fields of nursing and music. I enjoy being inclusive and open in both my personal and professional life. I look forward to learning about you and working collaboratively to effect positive change in your life.

Welcome! My name is Jesus, I am a multi-state Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working with adults. If you are struggling to cope with the challenges that are life, I am here to help you. I strongly believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all model, and because of this, I take a collaborative approach to meet my clients where they are to help get them where they want to be. My motto in life is, life is about making positive movements forward.

Thank you for taking the time to review my brief profile. My name is Dr. Sara Shuffer. I hold a Doctorate in Social Work and have extensive experience in healthcare for over 25 years. I have worked with many clients dealing with end-of-life, healing from grief and loss issues, depression, cultural conflicts, intergenerational and relationship stressors, work/life balance issues, and other life stressors that can potentially affect the daily living of a person. I am humbled to meet every client who selects me as their therapist.

Hi! I'm a licensed MFT based in Pasadena, CA (but practicing via Telehealth.) I received my masters from the University of Southern California in 2014 and cut my teeth working with young people and their families around LA. My education, training and experience have taught me more than just how to treat relationship issues, emotional disorders, and behavioral problems; I'm also acutely aware of the cultural contexts that shape my clients. I practice from a lens that is social justice-oriented, anti-racist, and affirming of all identities, and recognize that systemic issues like discrimination, racism, and oppression significantly impact mental health. I am comfortable treating many issues, but specialize in working with ADHD, "people pleasing," the "inner critic," and parenting.

Hi, I am Matthew Ortega! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the beautiful, sunny state of California with nearly 15 years of experience working with clients in the community. Are you longing for more right now? Is ADHD executive dysfunction ruling your day? Are you needing help coping with a new diagnosis of Bipolar disorder or OCD? Or are you looking for a safe place to discuss topics with your spouse, validate your feelings and restore your relationship to its former glory? I help empower individuals and couples of all ages and relationship statuses to overcome their obstacles and live a happy and fulfilling life. I use an educational and interactive approach to elevate and validate you. My approach offers cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, harm reduction, and trauma-informed perspectives as needed for YOUR unique situation. Together we dig deep to bring forth your most rewarding and fulfilling life. I take pride in leaving the stigmatizing labels at the door, here you are welcomed as you are! I believe it takes great strength and courage to take the first step in connecting with a therapist. My goal is to make you comfortable and empowered throughout the entire experience. If you’re ready to make the commitment and put in the honest effort to dig deep and blossom, then I am here to support you! I look forward to working with you and building this relationship!

As a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I provide culturally responsive and affirming therapy in English and Spanish. I work with adults and older adults and am committed to serving individuals from diverse linguistic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including members of the Spanish-speaking community. I bring extensive experience from public and nonprofit settings, and I approach therapy with empathy, humility, and respect for each person’s unique lived experience. I am attentive to how social, cultural, and systemic factors—including oppression and marginalization—can impact mental health, and I thoughtfully integrate this awareness into our work together.

Hi, I'm Dave Jaskolski, a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor. LMFT. I graduated from JFK University with a degree in Counseling and Transpersonal Psychology. I have worked at Antioch Children's Behavioral Health for over 26 years. I have worked with children, adolescents, and their families with serious symptoms and challenges such as: PTSD & trauma-related issues, ADHD/ learning disorders, and school-related IEPs, Self-harming/cutting/suicidal ideation and attempts, foster children, attachment issues, aggression/ anger issues. Autistic spectrum issues. I have taught and supervised interns in training to become therapists. I lead a Multi-Family Dialectical Behavior Therapy Group. I also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

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.

Hello, I'm Cameron and many of my clients are adults and couples who present as successful on the outside but internally struggle with burnout, anxiety, self-doubt, trauma, and/or feeling disconnected in their relationships. They find themselves stuck in cycles of overthinking, people-pleasing, or unhealthy communication patterns that leave them feeling insecure or emotionally distant. I help individuals and couples heal and move forward and learn skills to feel more confident, connected, and emotionally secure.

I work towards building trust with clients. My practice focuses on helping those who struggle with managing stress, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and women's issues. People tell me often that i have a calm presence. I do enjoy providing realistic skills, people enjoy practicality and need immediate relief from distress at times. Why wouldn't i teach my clients to find relief from the overwhelming stress.

Having been married for 50 years and raised four children to adulthood, I bring a wealth of life experience to the therapeutic relationship. There are so many challenges with marriage and raising a family, undergoing therapy myself (both individual and couple) has helped me through many difficult times, and I know what it takes make significant changes in my life. I love animals, and i have two dogs who bring me joy every day. My children and seven grandchildren are very important to my life. One of the benefits of being an older therapist is that I have overcome many of the obstacles that my clients face, and for even those I have not experienced, my clients benefit from the life skills I have developed.

Hi. I am the daughter of immigrants which motivated me to study Multicultural community based psychology. I have worked in many different settings from community mental health to private practice. Currently I am the director of a consultation unit for youth and young adults in the foster care system. I really enjoy working with people on how to maximize their potential to create happier lives; sometimes this is achieved through more traditional therapy while other times this may require life coaching. I do not believe that therapy needs to be a continuous life long process, but rather a process individuals move in and out of at different stages of their lives.

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

As a therapist I am very down to earth and practical. I meet clients where they are and provide them the tools that can be useful in everyday struggles. I listen to what has worked and what has not worked and work with them to find a solution that fits their life and lifestyle. I am direct and work collaboratively with my clients.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over three decades of experience in mental health and clinical experience. I draw from 63 years of my own life experience as a gay man, educational (MSW from the University of Connecticut) and practical knowledge. Thus I understand what it’s like to be marginalized, and feel different like you don’t belong. I use a compassionate, non- judgmental, understanding, strength based approach by acknowledging and welcoming your whole person, body, mind, and spirit. I can help one understand who they are? where they've been? and how they can move forward in their life.

Thank you for taking a moment to connect with me. My name is Shohreh, but you can call me Sho. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I genuinely care about helping people navigate their unique journeys toward healing and self-discovery. I understand that life can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost or unsure about the next steps. I want you to know that you’re not alone in this experience. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you, guiding you as you reclaim your true self. My approach to therapy is holistic, recognizing the connection between the soul, body, and mind. I incorporate various techniques, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR for trauma, brainspotting, mindfulness, motivational therapy, psychoeducation, and client-centered therapy. Each session is tailored to your individual needs, ensuring that you feel heard and understood. You deserve a life filled with harmony and joy. I want to hear your story, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your journey to a brighter future can begin today. * Currently not accepting couples * Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #129882 Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor #14134

I believe that you already possess the resilience and wisdom needed to navigate life’s challenges; sometimes, you just need a dedicated space to reconnect with those inner resources. My approach is rooted in a supportive, strength-based perspective, blending mindful awareness with practical tools to help you move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling grounded. Together, we will work to quiet the noise of "autopilot" living and cultivate a compassionate, present-focused path toward the life you want to lead.

Therapy can feel uncertain or even overwhelming — and that's completely normal. I use practical, straightforward tools to help you understand how your thoughts affect your feelings and actions. More importantly, I help you see the strengths you already have — because you have them, even if no one has pointed them out lately. I believe every person deserves to be heard without judgment. Whatever brought you here, my goal is to help you find a way forward that works for you.

Hello, my name is Enrique Botello. Glad you are seeking support. Life is not all about sunshine and rainbows but a good thing that they do exist right. Often, life will confront us with emotional obstacles that will make us feel stuck or that there is no hope. I help people to reach their best version of themselves even when life throws rocks at them. Whether you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or other serious mental health symptoms, there is always hope. The use of evidence-based therapeutic modalities will be a process that will help people at different recovery times. No matter how long the road to the best version of yourself might take you, I will be alongside you. Finally, although not a requirement, I specialize in working with athletes of all ages. Sports create a lot of pressure in and out of the sport. Whether it is keeping grades up during school to continue to play a sport or a professional athlete having personal problems. I am here for you. *To ensure enough time for your appointment, please make the appointment on Saturdays at the start of the hour. For example 9:00 am or 11:00 am. For Thursday evening, it is only scheduled for 6:30 pm.

Hello, and welcome. I am Dr. Diari Banigo, Ph.D, LCSW, a Christian, doctoral‑trained clinician, and adjunct professor. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence‑informed therapy that honors the whole person. My approach emphasizes emotional resilience, meaningful connection, and healing from life’s stressors. I believe therapy is most effective as a collaborative process, and I encourage patients to actively engage in their care with me and with other providers who support their overall wellbeing. Important Notice: Dr. Banigo provides psychotherapeutic services. Requests for administrative documentation—such as disability certification, FMLA, or emotional support animal letters—will be referred to another mental health provider. This policy ensures that therapy sessions remain focused on clinical care and your healing process.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have worked as a therapist for the past 12 years. As a first generation Vietnamese American with immigrant parents, my life experiences of growing up in two very different cultures have taught me ways to navigate through cross-cultural conflicts and have the ability to respond to individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural systems with compassion and understanding. As a therapist, I empower individuals to draw upon their strengths, heal holistically, and self-love. I will encourage and provide a safe space for you to explore, heal, and have the courage to move forward on a journey toward self-discovery, growth, confident, and love. It will help you become more resilience, improve self-worth, and a healthy deep connection with others.

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.