Therapists in California

Maxine L. Kibble LMFT, MA, PsyD Candidate I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Connecticut, and Utah. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education and Dance Therapy from New York University. I have two master's degrees: one in marriage and family counseling from the University of Phoenix and a second master's in clinical psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. I am enrolled in the PsyD doctoral program at California Southern University and am scheduled to graduate in 05/2025. I have 23 years of experience as an educator, counselor, career counselor, and researcher in psychology. As a licensed MFT therapist, my expertise is in the areas of substance abuse, prison populations, AB109s (felons)/290s (sex offenders), anger management, domestic violence, career counseling, and parenting supervision. In addition to individual, couples, and family counseling, I have experience with specific populations, such as transgender and LGBTQ, with a particular cultural emphasis on identity formation. I have worked closely with psychiatrists regarding members who require medication management and assessments, diagnosing and creating for those individuals, couples, and family's treatment plans counseling services. My clientele ranges from 6 to 75 years of age, and my therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Narrative therapy, and Supportive therapy. My foundation and belief system are based on being culturally sensitive when working with all clients to understand how they see their presenting problem within the context of their culture.

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.

Hello, my name is Veronica. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to providing compassionate support and professional guidance to individuals. With a strong commitment to mental health and well-being, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward positive change. As a licensed social worker, I am extensively trained in a variety of evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. Additionally, I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support clients dealing with depression and anxiety, ensuring that my therapeutic interventions are both effective and adaptable to individual needs. I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve. My goal is to help clients navigate life's challenges, foster personal growth, and promote well-being through compassionate and ethical social work practice.

My dream client is a high-functioning woman who appears to be managing it all—but inside, she’s carrying the weight of anxiety, pressure, and deep emotional overwhelm. She might be navigating a major life transition like divorce, a career pivot, motherhood, fertility challenges, or menopause. She may be successful on paper yet struggling to maintain boundaries, meet others’ expectations, or feel truly connected to herself. She could be facing workplace discrimination, identity shifts, or silently asking, “When is it my turn to exhale?” I work best with women who are insightful, motivated for change, and ready to explore the roots of their stress—not just cope, but understand. Using an integrative blend of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy, I offer a collaborative, empowering space where clients can slow down, reflect, and build tools for realignment—emotionally, mentally, and authentically. certified MENOPAUSE COACH

Do you ever feel alone, overwhelmed, or stressed? You are not alone. All individuals experience life, and with life comes pain. It can be hard to talk to friends or family about painful emotions, and I want to help. I use an integrated approach with all clients. I believe in using an eclectic approach to help clients meet their goals for therapy. I am an Advanced Trauma Certified Practitioner and use EMDR and a trauma-focused approach to process past trauma that is impacting their lives today.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families who have been impacted by trauma, major life changes, relationship challenges, mental health concerns, and substance use. My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative—I believe healing happens when you feel safe, supported, and truly understood. I use a combination of evidence-based approaches tailored to each person’s needs, including cognitive and behavioral tools, motivational work, trauma-informed practices, and mind–body techniques. My goal is always to meet you where you are, help you feel grounded, and empower you with practical skills that create real change in your life. I’m passionate about helping people build resilience, strengthen self-worth, and move toward the version of themselves they want to be. If you’re looking for a safe and supportive space to work through what you’re facing, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Hi there, and welcome! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based just outside of Portland, Oregon, and I’m licensed to work with clients in Oregon, Washington, and California. I’ve been practicing for over 18 years and also work full time as a manager in a large healthcare organization, where I support teams and programs focused on helping people grow and thrive. As a therapist, I love helping people get clear on what matters most to them- what they want life to look and feel like, and then walking alongside them as they take steps toward those goals. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a partnership, where we’re exploring together what helps you feel more grounded, capable, and connected. A quick note: My practice focuses on working with individuals. While I don’t specialize in couples counseling, there may be times when it’s helpful to invite a partner or loved one into a session as part of your individual work, we’ll talk through that together if it feels right. If you’re looking for therapy for you and your partner together, I encourage finding a therapist who specializes in couples work to ensure you get the most out of that experience.

Hi there! I am Gina, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. With 6 years of experience helping individuals overcome a variety of mental health challenges, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. Please note that, at this time, I do not work with court-mandated clients. My approach is grounded in deeply understanding and appreciating diverse cultural backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels welcome and included in our therapeutic relationship.

Hello! My name is Scott. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, and most recently also Arizona, and truly have a passion for helping others to gain wellness. I am originally from sunny San Diego, California. After working in the field in several roles, I made the decision to ultimately be a Marriage and Family Therapist. Since then, I have truly loved every minute of what I do. My personal philosophy is that healing begins with understanding, connection and hope. I have also recently received a certification as an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. PLEASE NOTE*** Unfortunately, at this time, I do not see couples.. Additionally, I utilize AI in my practice to help me with my documentation. If you are uncomfortable with the use of AI in our sessions than I would ask that you find another therapist who does not use AI.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a trauma-informed, somatic & relational approach to therapy. I work with thoughtful adults who want to understand themselves more deeply, reconnect with their bodies, and create more ease and clarity in their relationships. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in nervous system education—supporting meaningful, lasting change rather than quick fixes.

You may be on the right path, but stumbled, fell, or got lost along the way. Or you may be struggling to find the path. I want to help. In therapy, I aim to create a calm, sturdy, emotionally open, and radically nonjudgmental space where you can be deeply curious about your own experience. A patient, open-ended space where you can take your time. A space where you can slow down, breathe, reflect, be quiet or silent. A space where you can be loud, angry, triggered, upset. A space where you don't have to make sense, but we can try to make sense of things together. A space where we both can be genuinely curious about who you are.

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.

I’m a bilingual therapist who provides a welcoming, safe, and nonjudgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. Together, we focus on your strengths, build resilience, and develop practical tools for meaningful change. My goal is to help you feel empowered, more confident, and connected to yourself and others while navigating life with greater ease.

Are you looking for a relatable therapist that will meet you exactly where you're at? As a licensed marriage and family therapist, my passion is to go alongside of my client's walking through hard times with them. I am certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and find great satisfaction assisting others in their trauma journey. My focus is to help individuals heal from the inside out by helping them discover their inner strengths. I believe we are better together. I assist my clients by providing a neutral safe space, listening to their concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.

Thank you so much for visiting my page. I am grateful to be given the opportunity to walk along you during this difficult time of grief and loss. My specialty is in supporting individuals who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide. I bring extensive experience helping clients navigate the complex emotions that accompany this form of grief. Drawing on my training in EMDR, I assist clients in processing trauma-related symptoms and finding stability and meaning after devastating loss. I also have extensive experience supporting individuals through grief and loss, chronic illness, anticipatory grief, and the pain of relationship loss, including working closely with clients facing terminal diagnoses and their loved ones as they process uncertainty and find meaning. I’ve supported individuals coping with the chronic stress and emotional toll of long-term illness, both personally and within their families, including caregivers experiencing fatigue and burnout, and collaboratively create self-care plans that preserve well-being. In cases of relational loss, whether through death, separation, or emotional disconnection. I strive to guide clients in honoring what was, grieving what is lost, and gently moving toward healing and redefinition.

Do you currently feel you are at full capacity with life and needs assistance with managing current struggles in family, relationships, past trauma, or grief? I assist teenagers and adults who have experienced trauma and/or grief that is currently affecting their work, school, family, relationships, burn out that can lead to manifesting in addiction, further anxiety, depression and stress. Together, we can identify what's not working and improve health and well being. I also integrate mindfulness/meditation, EMDR to help you regulate emotions and lower stress to work within your window of tolerance. Whether you're dealing with stress, trauma, relationship challenges, addiction, anxiety, depression I'm here to support you unconditionally and assist with guiding and providing unbiased support. Seeking therapy can feel intimidating, vulnerable and scary and not an easy choice, I am aware of that and will do everything on my end to make the process as comfortable as possible. A safe space is needed in the healing journey and therapy is the ideal place to make that progress. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with unconditional positive support, a person center approach and evidence based practices tools to make positive change. Take the first step towards self care and schedule an appointment today!

Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California with over a decade of experience. I approach each counseling session with a compassionate heart and a commitment to support you on your journey to healing. I have dedicated my career to helping people navigate life's challenges while providing a safe space for self-exploration and understanding. If you are looking to make a change and seeking more clarity in your life, then schedule a session with me today.

Hi, I'm Ana, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's transitions, heal from trauma, and build emotional resilience. I work with young adults who are seeking understanding, clarity, and meaningful change. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their emotions, strengthen their sense of self, and move toward a life that feels more balanced and authentic.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PsyD) with extensive experience working in residential treatment, sober living, and private practice settings since 2010. My career began as an intern in an eating disorder residential program, later expanding into adolescent dual-diagnosis treatment. Alongside completing my doctorate in clinical psychology, I launched my private practice, where I continue to work with clients through Telehealth. I am passionate about helping people reach their full potential by embracing their strengths while learning to accept their vulnerabilities. My clients inspire me every day, and seeing their success stories fuels my dedication to this work.

Hi ! I'm Jojo and thank you for thanking the time to read this! I'm an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and I work with adults and couples. I am motivated by Social Justice and I strive to ensure that my clients have a place in this world where their voices are being heard. My approach mostly surrounds Liberation Psychology, Decolonizing and Destigmatizing Mental Health Care, Person- Centered, Identity & Emotion Focused while providing Culturally safe and sensitive care, along with Gender Affirming Therapy Practices.

Hi, I am Millie Montgomery, licensed therapist. Let us work together. I have a client-centered, trauma-informed, strength-based therapeutic style. I engage with client who are experiencing different issues or want a safe place to share their feelings and speak their mind. I believe in each individuals inner strength and resiliency to overcome any challenge that may arise in their lives. If you are ready to make changes in your life, reach out. Engaging in therapy is the first step in asking for help. You got this ! I am non-judgemental in manner and respect other's values and morals. I am currently offering virtual therapy at this time. only. Thank you for taking the time and I look forward to hearing from you.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, originally from Los Angeles, California. I received my Masters in Social Work from Simmons University, I have been practicing as a therapist for 5 years. However, I have been in the mental health field for over 9 years. I am passionate about my work as a therapist and my approach is to build a safe space tailored to your needs while holding you accountable in your own journey.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of over twenty years and have worked with a variety of patients across multiple specialties. I also have a master's degree in Public Health. I've worked in medical social work, with patients in oncology, physical rehabilitation and dialysis. In this way, I have a robust understanding of both the physical and mental aspects of my clients.

Providing psychotherapeutic services to those seeking emotional sustenance and healthy psychological support during these very stressful times. I have been working in this field for approximately 20 years now. My experience is with all school grade levels, as well as adults from all walks of life. I find that the ideal patient is open-minded (willing to look at things from different perspectives), consistent (with attendance/self-care/psychoeducation), and humble to learn. My patients have described me as kind, trustworthy, accepting, an excellent mentor, dependable, and down-to-earth. Short-term and long-term assistance provided for: Adults (18+) Individual Therapy Anxiety Depression Coping Skills ADHD Asperger’s Syndrome Autism Spectrum Disorder Codependency Developmental Disorders Intellectual Disability Life Transitions Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Spirituality Stress Women’s Issues Mood Disorders Thinking Disorders Trauma Certified

Hi, I'm glad you are here. My name is Alicia and I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Southern California and working telehealth statewide. I am committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space, where clients can work through various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

As a supportive therapist, I fully assist clients to achieve empowerment and life of satisfaction. I effectively collaborate with clients to increase self-compassion and supportive social connections to live a life of independence and courage. With non-judgmental empathy, I listen to help clients understand their losses and even unendurable psychological pains, and provide ongoing support with therapeutic insight and expertise in a confidential setting.

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 Leanne. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

You’re the caretaker or the high achiever—the one who always finds a way to make things work. On the outside, it may look like you’re doing everything “right,” but inside you feel anxious, disconnected, or simply exhausted. If you’re wondering how much longer you can keep it all together, you’re not alone. Finding a steady, supportive therapist can be the first step toward feeling like yourself again. As a Licensed MFT, I work with women and men who are struggling with burnout, perfectionism, anxiety and depression. Many of my clients feel stuck in patterns of overthinking, people-pleasing, or putting others first. Together, we look at what’s working in your life and what may be keeping you feeling overwhelmed or drained. From there, we create realistic goals that help you build confidence, set healthy boundaries, and bring more peace into your daily routine. Clients can expect through the process to create stronger boundaries, improved mood, and increased clarity with themselves and the world. I am licensed in both CA & TX, and love to see clients remotely for virtual sessions. In addition to my clinical experience, I also have a background in world religious studies, have a passion for all things creative, and love seeing clients from various cultural backgrounds, LGBTQ+, college students, working moms, and young professionals. Whether you are starting therapy for the first time, returning, or looking for a better fit, all are welcome.

I have over two decades of behavioral health expertise, ensuring you are in good hands. As a well-rounded practitioner providing therapeutic interventions to both adults and children, I aim for excellence. My 25 years of best practice interventions have yielded fruitful outcomes. I am available to support client's that are ready to have a real encounter and a meaningful change in their life.

I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or worn down by stress, trauma, substance-related challenges, or major life transitions. My approach is practical, respectful, and grounded, with a focus on helping you feel understood while building tools that support real, day-to-day change. I bring a steady and structured presence to therapy and offer services in both English and Spanish. My goal is to help you gain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and move forward with confidence at a pace that feels right for you.

I am an African American female Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Los Angeles. I have experience working with clients with issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, panic attacks, divorce, grief and loss, ODD, ADHD, Autism, sexual and physical abuse, crisis, childhood trauma, career challenges, life event changes, social skills, and self esteem. My specialty is working with adolescents and women specifically due to my professional background and personal experiences which I use to guide my practice. I am a expert in helping adolescents navigate the difficulties and challenges that come with transitioning into adulthood such as: identity formation, sexuality, family issues, peer pressure, and developing short and long term career goals. As a woman of color, I also have a special ability to connect, guide and support women struggling with various interpersonal and intrapersonal issues i.e self esteem, termination of a relationship, communication skills, career changes, sexism, intimate partner conflict or life’s obstacles due to systemic racism that may affect them in various aspects of their daily lives. My approach to therapy combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic/Person Centered counseling with a socially/ culturally competent and Trauma -Informed lens to help the client not only recognize their strengths, but also utilize existing support systems, develop new coping skills, effectively respond to crisis and empower the client/family/couple to recognize the solution to their problem already exist inside themselves. I am also a EMDR trained clinician. My personal mantra in counseling is “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” ~Norman Vincent Peale. I look forward to working with you

I’m a warm, authentic and persistent 51-year-old who loves this work. Clients often feel like they’re having an insightful, heartfelt conversation rather than a formal therapy session. I create a space of deep listening and acceptance where you can explore your inner world safely and honestly. By helping you understand and care for the parts of yourself that carry pain or conflict, we ease anxiety and depression and open the door to greater balance and emotional freedom. I speak with an accent—just something to keep in mind. Soy una terapeuta de 51 años cálida, autentica y determinada que ama profundamente este trabajo. Mis clientes suelen sentir que están teniendo una conversación sincera y llena de claridad más que una sesión de terapia formal. Creo un espacio de escucha profunda y aceptación donde puedes explorar tu mundo interno con seguridad y honestidad. Al ayudarte a comprender y cuidar las partes de ti que cargan dolor o conflicto, aliviamos la ansiedad y la depresión y abrimos la puerta a un mayor equilibrio y libertad emocional.

Hello. My name is Brian Kaufman. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My commitment to you is to be by your side every step of the way. I believe there is goodness inside of everyone and I will be sure to point out to you where that goodness is inside of you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hello, I am an older adult who came to this career after a long career in the non-profit sector. Over the years, I have worked with a wide variety of clients with a wide variety of issues and circumstances. The bulk of my previous experience in the nonprofit world was in substance use disorder treatment programs. My training as a therapist includes specialized training for a wide variety of disorders. I am known for being empathic, honest and insightful and a relentless cheerleader for my clients. I am very interactive and I will offer liberal doses of feedback and suggestions. I will provide psycho-education and will look to you for feedback about how you are feeling about the therapy. We will address the therapy as a team.

I believe in the value of building a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship to tap into your internal strength, self-expertise, and self-expression to promote growth and support healing. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, #126521, in California, and I graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Expressive Arts Therapy from California Institute of Integral Studies in 2015.

Hello and welcome, I'm Kristine! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. Do you feel like you haven't been enjoying your life the way you would like to - or even the way that you used to? Does it seem like there have been more worries than answers/solutions in your life? I empower high performers to manage depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship nuances. Together, we can identify what hasn't been working the way that it used to and find ways to sharpen what does work while adding new methods that can balance and bring hope back into your life. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or the cycles of life transitions - I'm here to help. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy so I look forward to supporting you in your journey of growth and transformation. You can expect to have a safe, nonjudgemental and empathetic space to feel seen and validated when working with me. When it comes to mental health, I follow a "No B.S." policy - No Blaming&Shaming! Together you and I will use an eclectic and flexible approach in therapy that fits your needs!

I am a dual-licensed clinician committed to supporting individuals in achieving their personal and therapeutic goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, focusing on enhancing clients’ existing strengths while cultivating new skills to more effectively manage life’s challenges. Drawing from a diverse range of evidence-based clinical modalities, I aim to promote increased self-awareness, emotional resilience, strong self-worth, and sustainable personal growth.

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.

Are you looking to make changes in your life but don't know where to start? Have you recently experienced a change in your life and are struggling to pick up the pieces? Do you feel stuck repeating the same patterns again and again? I provide a straight forward, down to earth, comfortable atmosphere for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, life transition issues, single mother issues, stress. My goal is to guide you toward a resolution of these problems and help you identify their origins so that you do not repeat the same patterns of coping that were unsuccessful in the past. I also provide various resources in the form of homework exercises designed to assist you in your therapeutic journey.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience. I believe treatment and therapy should be different for each individual depending on their preferences, background, beliefs, and personality. I consider myself to be warm and inviting and create a space where one feels heard and seen during our sessions. Additionally, I am bilingual and speak Spanish.

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here and ready to cultivate and nurture a better you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over six years of clinical experience supporting children, transitional-aged youth, adults, and families. I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals as they navigate painful challenges, life transitions, and periods of healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative process grounded in compassion, safety, and growth. It is truly an honor to support clients as they build resilience, gain insight, and move toward meaningful change. Being part of your healing journey is both fulfilling and joyful, and I am committed to meeting you where you are with empathy and care.

I was born in the US, but I was raised in Mexico. I lived in Tijuana for 10 years when my parents decided to move us across the border to Chula Vista, California. As a first-generation Mexican-American, I experienced a duality of cultures. I was often judged for either being “not Mexican enough” OR “not American enough.” I also faced enormous pressure to be successful – to justify my parents’ having left their beloved country so my sibling and I could have a better life. This is one of many reasons I decided to follow this path: to help those who feel alone in their journey. That’s how I felt when acculturating to this country. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at San Diego State University (SDSU). I was going to go directly into the workforce and eventually go back for my master’s, but an awesome professor challenged me to apply right away so I wouldn’t lose momentum. So, that’s what I did. I ended up getting my Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Southern California. It took some time and courage to finish all my licensing requirements, but it was worth it! I’ve been licensed as a clinical social worker in California since 2019. I am certified in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT.

When life's challenges - work, relationships, money troubles, illness or injury become too much to manage, or when the pain of the past pops up when you least expect it to disrupt sleep, or when daily stressors build up and make it hard to cope, that's when more than a friendly ear is needed. That's when a professional can help you heal the compounding effects of life experiences. If you are seeking long-term relief from anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief or loss, I will help you heal those emotional injuries that compound over a lifetime and make life lose its meaning. And I will empower you to heal the emotional pain that is preventing you from living your best life.

You are here for that sense of belonging & connection, especially when multiple global crises have left communities hopeless, and in a constant state of vigilance. While some anxiety/depression is a normal response to the hyper-violence we are facing as a collective (on screens or in reality), it can feel extremely overwhelming to experience this every day, on top of expectations from work, family, and other relationships. As a child of the Lao Isaan/Southeast Asian diaspora, my passion is working with fellow children of refugee/immigrant diasporas to feel seen + heard + validated through an anti-oppressive framework.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker and therapist based in San Francisco, partnering with adults who are ready to move through anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, and relationship stress toward a more grounded and meaningful life. For over eight years, I’ve provided compassionate, evidence-based care in hospitals, human-service agencies, schools, and community health settings. My clients often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by emotions, uncertain about their direction, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. In our work together, I create a space where insight and action meet. Drawing from Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and attachment-informed exploration, I help clients connect with their values, strengthen emotional regulation, and cultivate a more flexible, balanced mindset. Our sessions are collaborative and practical—we explore what’s happening beneath the surface, and then translate those insights into daily habits and relational shifts that support growth and resilience. My approach is warm, intuitive, and grounded in authenticity. I believe healing unfolds when we learn to honor our emotions, practice self-compassion, and realign with what truly matters. Whether you’re processing loss, navigating a life transition, or seeking deeper connection with yourself and others, my goal is to help you feel more clear, capable, and at peace in your own life. Please note that couples therapy is offered on a private-pay basis only, at a rate pf $250 per session per couple, and I do not accept insurance for couples or family sessions. I am happy to provide a superbill upon request for clients who wish to submit it to their insurance company for possible reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider to see if they reimburse for OON therapy services. For any questions regarding fees, payment plans, or the superbill process, feel free to reach out.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, facing relationship challenges, stuck in cycles of anxiety or depression, or caught in negative patterns, support is here. Seeking therapy can feel intimidating, but it’s a brave and important step toward change that can lead to better life satisfaction. Recognizing you can’t keep doing the same thing over and over is admirable, and having a dedicated support person can help you tap into your inner strengths. Together, we’ll explore new ways to navigate challenges and create positive outcomes. We all carry the answers within us—sometimes it just takes a fresh perspective to see them clearly. Let this be the moment you choose the road to happiness. My approach is rooted in a CBT framework but is always guided by your personality and needs. You’ll learn tools and techniques tailored to you and your stage of change. With 17 years of experience, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share openly, receive thoughtful feedback (and sometimes homework!), and move past obstacles. In our sessions, you can expect warmth, compassion, and evidence-based strategies to help you break free from the habits holding you back. Sensibility, empathy, and a touch of humor are among my clinical strengths. Working collaboratively, we’ll uncover what’s blocking your progress and build a path toward positive, lasting change. It would be my honor to support your journey.

Hello there.....My name is Maria Paola Cortes Elser, I was born in Colombia and have been living in the USA for 23 years now, and as an immigrant, I confronted different situations that helped me to grow personally, and spiritually and understand how special it is to be from somewhere else and become part of this extraordinary country. I understand the challenges that come from this transition from different land to America and all the life experiences that those changes include, mentally culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Santo Tomas De Aquino University in Bogota Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University in the USA. I have been working in this field for 10 years, and I have experience with DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to help and support individuals and families who struggle with relationships, and Mental illnesses through faith and professional clinical counseling.

I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist who focuses on creating a safe, supportive space where people can explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. My approach blends evidence-based practices with genuine connection to help clients build insight, resilience, and confidence. My style is collaborative and empathetic, communicating in a way that feels grounding and approachable. This combination makes clients feel both heard and guided.

Dr. Diane Dunne, Ph.D. is a Licensed Psychologist who has successfully helped her patients for more than 25 years utilizing an integrative approach to therapy! Her passion for serving others and her positiveness has enabled her to provide care to a diverse population of patients over many years. She is filled with enthusiasm and positiveness and seeks to “pass it forward”! Being a Clinical Psychologist has always been her passion because she feels a deep caring and compassion for others. Many have shared with her that they appreciate her warmth and compassion in addition to enjoying her laughter and fun-loving nature as they have explored their issues with her. In addition to providing individual therapy for meeting your personal goals, as a parent of twin boys who are now grown, she is able to offer assistance to meet your challenges in parenting by offering positive parenting recommendations from the perspective of a Psychologist, an Educator and a Parent:-)