Hi! My name is Ali Akhtar, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Los Angeles, California. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, multigenerational trauma, self-esteem, and men's issues. As a clinician I am dedicated to working through past traumas, and building towards a healthier baseline. I have been practicing as a clinician for over ten years with adults, teenagers and children.

Reaching out for help can be a very vulnerable experience, but also a great attribute of strength and resilience. I work with individuals who have experienced trauma in their life. Whether it's from childhood neglect, sexual assault, natural disaster, sudden death or other life circumstances. Trauma often creates patterns and loops that extend into many areas of a person's life, and can be challenging and painful to navigate. Sometimes the way people survive their trauma brings them more pain, adds to the chaos, and reinforces negative beliefs that perpetuate the cycle. I work to empower clients to understand and alter unhealthy cycles to strengthen and better their lives. I am fluent in ASL American Sign Language and have worked with Deaf clients leaving domestic violence in both a shelter and outpatient therapy services. I have spent 2 years in correctional settings working with severely mentally ill patients and supporting their family members navigating having children with mental illness. I have also spent 2 years working with foster youth and foster parents in providing support to their placements, promoting healing and preserving relationships. Note that online scheduling is limited. Broader scheduling options will be available to regularly scheduling clients. Please also note that I do not provide opinions about disability or fitness to return to work or other activities for clients who are not well-established at the time that the request for such opinion is made.

Hello, my name is Deborah Alfaro. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of California. I have been providing mental health and therapy services to individuals, children and families in a private practice and community clinical setting for more than 10 years and am now working exclusively using telehealth as a great platform to make therapy more accessible for those with busy schedules. I look forward to working with you to help you heal, obtain insight for personal growth, process your emotions and become the best version of you.

Welcome to my professional profile. My name is Paul Quezada, and I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a potential ally on your journey towards improved mental health and overall well-being. First and foremost, I want to acknowledge your courage in seeking help. Your mental health is paramount, and I commend you for prioritizing it. I am here to offer my support and guidance as you navigate life's obstacles and challenges. My role is to provide you with the necessary tools and support to manage the various struggles impacting your mental health. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating significant life transitions, I am here to accompany you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your therapeutic journey. I look forward to the opportunity to work together and support you in achieving your goals.

I am a clinical psychologist with 40+ years of experience in a major San Francisco Medical Center and in private practice. I have worked with all age groups with a wide range of psychological issues. I have a background in neuropsychology and psychodynamic treatment. I have worked with the geriatric population and I am very familiar the issues of aging.

My name is Justin Phillips and I have been helping people with life's challenges for over 18 Years. My fulltime roll is working with a non-profit community-based agency and I provide individual psychotherapy as part of my small private practice. I am an honorably discharged combat veteran and specialize in working with people who have complex mental health challenges, veterans, folks with substance use problems, the formally incarcerated and many others. I am compassionate, caring and provide quality care. I am married with 5 children and live in the East Bay. I have been a lifetime Bay Area resident and enjoy what our communities have to offer. I connect well with people from all cultures and strive to learn more about your individual situation before jumping to conclusions. I am a fierce advocate for the underserved and have helped pass national and state level legislation to protect people and the helping professions. My style of therapy is relational and focused on helping my clients feel better, live better and have a better quality of life. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to accomplish this and am open to adjusting treatment to fit the person, as opposed to checking boxes.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for 12 years. I am a diplomate of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy. As a licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I am committed to helping clients identify and transform negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their emotional difficulties. Through CBT, therapy focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you in understanding and overcoming the challenges you face, while equipping you with the tools and strategies needed for long-term success. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, we will work together to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.

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.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults and couples navigating anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My approach is supportive, practical, and collaborative. I help clients gain insight into patterns that may be holding them back while developing tools that create meaningful and lasting change. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

My name is Judy Jordan and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years years of professional experience in counseling with children,, adults, and families. I took an evening course in Psychology 5 when starting school, and by the end of it , I knew I wanted to become a therapist. I was drawn to understanding people on a deeper level and helping them through their struggles. With support from my dad, I left my job and went back to school starting from scratch. I loved every minute of learning and felt more certain with each class that I was on the right path. My dedication paid off...I earned straight A's and received the Academic Achievement Award in Psychology. More importantly I found a sense of purpose in supporting others on their mental health journeys.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 15 years of professional work experience in community mental health. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion. I take an empathetic approach to therapy while also respectfully challenging negative thought patterns. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & bipolar disorder. I utilize various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing among others to best meet your specific needs. I take a collaborative approach to therapy and will work together to achieve your treatment goals.

Welcome, I'm glad you are here today. I'm first generation Mexican American of immigrant parents and I bring professional sensitivity to immigration issue. I'm licensed clinical social worker offering therapy in both English and Spanish. I graduated with a master's degree in social worker from California State University, Long Beach. I've been a clinical social worker for the past 8 years and trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. I started my career in mental health community clinic working with adults of severe mental health disorder. I have worked with underserved community, including students, parents, immigrant families, and incarcerated population. I am most comfortable working with mild to moderate client experiencing depression and anxiety.

Isabel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. She provides compassionate, culturally responsive therapy to children, adults, and families, with a strong background in crisis intervention and supporting clients through life’s most challenging moments. Beyond her clinical work, Isabel has led community mental health initiatives and continues to advocate for accessible resources and education, particularly within the Hispanic community.

Hi, I’m a therapist who works with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, life transitions, and high-stress situations. I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable being honest without fear of judgement. I believe therapy should feel human and collaborative, not cold or clinical. My style is warm, direct, supportive, and engaging, while also helping clients challenge patterns that may be keeping them stuck.

Is this the first time you thinking about having therapy? Let's talk about what therapy is and is not. Tell me your expectations. Therapy is in part, talking about how you are feeling whether you have depression, anxiety, or feel overwhelmed by your work, family or relationships or by all three . But that is just the beginning. My name is Judith Copeland, I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I want to help you achieve the positive changes would you like to see in your life. Do you feel you cannot cope, have no self-esteem or don’t even know what will make you happy? Together we will uncover your strengths and you will learn the skills you need to better manage your emotions. I use several treatment methods including, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Integrative Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to tailor your care to your specific needs. We will explore what is holding you back from achieving your goals and help you heal from past traumas. You will learn how your negative beliefs influence your mood and get in the way of your happiness. Often, we forget that everything is connected. Mind, Body, and Spirit. We need to take care of ourselves physically, psychologically, and spiritually. We often don’t really understand how deeply connected they are to our well-being. I will help you learn that self-care is just as important and or even more important as everything else you do. We have within ourselves the ability to create the life we want and become the person we want to be. I would like to support you on this journey and look forward to meeting you.

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.

*My Expertise: Chronic Pain Recovery/Nervous System Recovery, not general mental health. I'm Dr. Les Aria, a pain psychologist with over 23 years of experience helping people understand and recover from chronic pain. I specialize in the neuroscience of pain — how the brain and nervous system learn pain, and more importantly, how they can unlearn it. My work draws from Polyvagal Theory, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mind-body medicine. I offer both individual therapy and group-based pain recovery programs.

Hi, I’m Jessica Shivers, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 13 years of experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families through life’s challenges. My passion for helping others began in the 11th grade when I took my first psychology class. I became fascinated by how people grow, heal, and overcome difficult experiences. I knew early on that I wanted to help others build the same sense of support, stability, and connection that I was fortunate to experience growing up with loving parents who guided and encouraged me throughout my life. Over the past 13 years, I’ve worked in community mental health, agency social work, intensive treatment foster care, case management, and behavioral health services supporting individuals and families navigating a wide range of life challenges. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the real-life obstacles people face and the resilience they bring to the healing process. As a wife, mother of two young children, and bonus mom to a preteen, I understand firsthand the joys, stressors, and complexities that come with balancing family, work, relationships, and personal well-being. My goal is to create a warm, judgment-free space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful changes.

Hello!! My name is Chloe Meshel-Wood, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about creating a safe, open, and supportive space for my clients. I have learned that getting to know you and understanding your values is an important part of the healing process. My goal is to support you in navigating challenges, building on your strengths, and feeling confident taking charge of your own life. Every person is unique, and I strive to recognize and highlight my clients strengths. If you feel like we might be a good fit, please connect so I can learn more about you. Starting therapy can often feel like a challenging step, and I would be honored to support you through that process.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with people navigating relational strain and moments of transition or inner questioning. My approach is reflective and relational, guided by curiosity, meaning, and an understanding of how past experiences shape the present, as well as the importance of connecting with a deeper sense of self to create meaningful change. I aim to offer a steady, compassionate space where clients can slow down, listen inward, and reconnect with themselves in ways that feel honest, grounding, and sustainable.

Yes, life can be difficult, and you're here looking for help. For 35 years I've helped people like you look at their lives. I've helped them find ways to directly look at the pain, fear, anger, shame, depression, trauma, and other things that feel overwhelming. More importantly, I've helped people move beyond today's focus on pain and struggle to discover new ways to manage their lives, to suffer less, to feel more space, trust, and aliveness.

Welcome! I'm Erica Fitts, LMFT You're here, which means that you have taken steps toward enhancing your mental wellness. Beginning your therapy journey can be scary, exciting, and powerful. One of the primary benefits of therapy is emotional support and validation. I encompass a therapeutic, non judgmental, safe space for clients to express themselves freely. I foster a sense of comfort, empathy, and compassion while helping clients navigate their emotions and gain fresh perspective. Therapy serves as a tool for self exploration. By engaging in meaningful introspective exercises clients will develop healthier coping tools, leading to personal growth.

Hi, I’m Justin, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults with anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, and relationship stress. My approach is compassionate, structured, and grounded in evidence-based treatment, including EMDR, CBT, and DBT-informed skills. I believe therapy should feel both safe and effective—where you feel deeply understood while also gaining tools that lead to meaningful change. I strive to create a calm, supportive environment where healing feels possible.

I care about how you feel. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, clarity, and collaboration. I help you to explore your stories (emotional, relational, and spiritual) with curiosity and care. The therapeutic relationship is the basis for insight and change. This collaboration provides a safe place to navigate challenging life stressors. My approach incorporates Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, Strength-Based, and Solution-Focused methods to best meet your needs. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, job stress, self-esteem concerns, and other issues. My focus is on helping you build coping skills to manage difficulties and make positive changes. My goal is for you to feel supported, gain new understanding, and make strides toward the life you want.

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.

Welcome! My name is Dr. La Toshia Palmer, and I provide a supportive, culturally responsive space for students and young adults—particularly those from historically marginalized communities who are navigating anxiety, depression, anger, and life stressors. My approach is grounded in psychoeducation, helping clients better understand their emotions, build practical coping skills, and develop confidence in managing everyday challenges. I work with individuals who are ready to grow, heal, and strengthen their sense of identity and resilience. Together, we focus on creating clarity, emotional balance, and meaningful progress toward personal, academic, and long-term goals.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned my Master’s from USC in 2014. If anxiety or depression has made you feel disconnected from who you are, I am here to help. I pride myself on seeing the fullness of every client I work with, embracing life's complexities and dualities to help you navigate your unique path toward healing.

Welcome! I'm Lanelle P. Laws, LMFT. For over 15 years, I've had the privilege of helping people overcome challenges related to trauma, incarceration, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ+ identity. My passion is empowering individuals to build their self-esteem and thrive. I offer an environment that is non-judgmental, comfortable, and encouraging but from a BIPOC approach. I'm a unique therapist because my lived experience gives me relatability that others do not have. I have dedicated my life to breaking generational traumas that have plagued most underserved communities and I aim to bring voices to marginalized populations that have been misrepresented. I always say, "I'm not your average therapist!" I don't say this because I'm better...I say this because my approach has been elevated to attract individuals that have fallen through the cracks due to unhealthy relationships with therapy. I know what it's like to need help and not be able to find it...let me "Change Ur Narrative".

I provide humor, warmth, and a compassionate, non-judgmental place where you can feel safe to share your concerns. Together, we will work to make goals and through goal-directed activities and conversations, help you make positive changes in your life. I can include faith-based treatment if wanted. This will be work, but it will be worth it. My approach I use an eclectic, person-focused approach tailored to your individual situation and goals. I incorporate CBT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused approaches. This flexibility allows us to form a treatment plan that meets your specific needs and helps you reach your goals. . Treatment goals are set as a team, with you determining what your desired outcome from treatment is, and me assisting you in creating the goals based on how best to assist you with the realistic goal you have set for yourself.

Hi & Welcome. I am a proud Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the social service and mental health field. I specialize in working with transition aged youth, crisis support and working with those who have been incarcerated/ have loved ones incarcerated. I've been licensed in state of California since 2021. I began my calling as a licensed social worker in 2014 after completing my bachelors degree while living in Ohio and completing my masters at the University of Cincinnati. There, I discovered my calling to serve humanity and embarked on my pursuit of a Master of Social Work (MSW) at USC. Throughout the years I have gained valuable experiences working in a variety of settings such as clients homes, star run group homes, correctional settings, psychiatric hospitals, homeless shelters and outpatient settings. My approach is supportive and empathetic while empowering clients to live their best life. Together we will navigate life’s “curveballs” , heal from past situations and strive to get you to your desired future.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges. My work is grounded in creating a safe, culturally responsive space where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to grow. I specialize in working with individuals impacted by trauma, domestic violence, and chronic anxiety. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed internally. Together, we work to untangle patterns, strengthen emotional regulation, and build practical tools hat create lasting change. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma informed care, and skills-based interventions to help clients process past move from survival mode into stability, clarity, and confidence. You don’t have to carry everything alone. Healing and growth are possible.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's degree from California State University, Fresno, and my Doctorate from Walden University in Minnesota. With 18 years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their emotional and relational challenges to lead more fulfilling lives. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on empowering my clients with the tools they need to achieve their personal and interpersonal goals.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy honors your individuality to support your unique journey towards exploring, growing, and healing. Life is filled with both beautiful and challenging experiences. I appreciate establishing strong therapeutic alliances with my clients so I can assess the best interventions towards treatment. My therapeutic approach is flexible. Ultimately, I am here to support you.

Self-knowledge can only take us so far in dealing with our challenges. It may go deeper than that with our most persistent issues. It can be invaluable to have a trusted and non-judgmental person to help us see our blindspots and to provide insights that we can't see on our own. If you feel ready to talk about making more progress in your personal growth and recovery, I hope you'll schedule a session today.

Are you feeling weighed down by memories that hold you back, battling persistent sadness or emptiness, dealing with anxious thoughts that make daily life feel daunting? You are not alone, and I commend your courage in seeking support. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and client-centered. Therapy should feel like a safe space where you can bring your whole self, your struggles, your hopes, and your strengths, without judgment. I draw from evidence-based approaches, tailoring each session to fit your unique needs and cultural background.

I am a clinical therapist dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. My approach focuses on helping individuals recognize and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and modify behaviors that may be interfering with their well-being. I work collaboratively with clients to strengthen problem-solving skills, build emotional awareness and regulation, and foster resilience. My goal is to support each person in gaining insight, developing practical tools, and moving toward meaningful and lasting personal growth.

I’m a trauma-informed therapist who works with adults navigating anxiety, grief, and complex relationship dynamics. My approach is supportive, grounded, and tailored to your unique needs. I help clients better understand their emotional patterns, process difficult experiences, and build practical tools for lasting change. I also have experience supporting individuals impacted by domestic violence and veterans. I aim to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and able to move forward at your own pace.

I have a passion for helping people find hope in their most vulnerable moments. I believe everyone has a right to be heard and validated. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach allowing you to discover the barriers that keep you from living your best life. I serve as a guide for you to reach your personal goals. I help clients reach their goals by creating a space where growth feels possible and sustainable. We start with where you are, clarify what you want to change, and work step by step toward it. Whether you're learning new ways to manage ADHD, process trauma, or navigate life's transitions, I focus on building awareness, resilience, and confidence.

Hello, my name is Tina Salazar, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA. Are you struggling with isolation, stress, depression, or anxiety? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Know that you are not alone. Asking for support is an act of strength and courage and is the first step in making positive changes. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and the things that give your life happiness and meaning.

Veronica Villanueva, LMFT Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist #149992 | Currently Accepting New Clients If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, I'm here to help you write a new chapter in your story. I'm Veronica Villanueva, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling. I'm licensed to practice in California and offer teletherapy throughout the state.

Hello, my name is Miaisha. Are you seeking a supportive space where you can be authentic and receive meaningful guidance? If so, you have come to the right place. I believe everyone deserves an environment where they feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported. I am a compassionate and culturally responsive Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life transitions, manage stressors, and develop greater self-awareness. I strive to create a safe, empathetic, and affirming space where your experiences are acknowledged and respected, while fostering growth in confidence, resilience, and meaningful, lasting change. I invite you to take the first step toward your well-being. You do not have to navigate this process alone. In our work together, you will be encouraged to take an active and empowered role in your therapeutic journey, while I provide guidance, clinical insight, and ongoing support. Together, we will develop a path forward that honors your unique experiences and aligns with your personal goals.

My name is Megan, not “therapist Megan,” just Megan. I am an authentic individual who genuinely strives to meet people where they are and support them on their life journey. In sessions, I approach each person with empathy, compassion, and a solution-focused mindset, providing psychoeducation and guidance to help them achieve their goals. Above all, I value the therapeutic relationship, built on a foundation of trust and non-judgment.

I believe with the right support, people can heal, grow, and resolve even the most difficult challenges. My approach is collaborative and solution focused. I tailor therapy to each client's unique needs, drawing from evidenced-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My goal is to create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel safe exploring meaningful change.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) who is passionate about supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. I have experience working with people of many ages and backgrounds in a variety of clinical settings. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and strive to create a warm, welcoming space where clients feel safe to be themselves and openly share their experiences. I believe in meeting clients where they are and building a genuine connection that allows for trust, growth, and healing. I have worked with concerns such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate difficult moments and discover their strength and resilience.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the state of California and Arizona. I received my masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing therapy in California for about 13 years in various settings. I recently obtained my license to work with clients residing in Arizona. I have experience working in a healthcare setting, school campuses, domestic violence shelters, and with substance abuse.

Hi, I’m Andrea Vega, and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and life transitions. I work with individuals who may feel overwhelmed, stuck in patterns of worry, or impacted by difficult past experiences. My approach is compassionate and trauma-informed, integrating evidence-based therapies such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and elements of EMDR, along with cognitive and skills-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and ACT. Together, we focus on helping you understand patterns, process difficult experiences, regulate emotions, and build practical tools so you can feel more grounded, resilient, and confident in your daily life.

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

My name is Brianna I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 4 years experience supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, life transitions, and overwhelming stress. I work with clients who may feel stuck, burnt out, or unsure how to move forward. I create a safe and compassionate space where clients feel heard and understood. Using a collaborative client-centered approach, I help individuals build effective coping skills, gain clarity, and reconnect with their strengths. My goal is to empower clients to navigate challenges with confidence, improve their emotional well-being, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

Do you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result? Are you struggling to find balance in your life? Do you feel like there's a part of you that has died and hasn't come back to life? Hi, my name is Merisa. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist and artist. I help highly functioning adults manage their stressors and find more balance in life. I am an art therapist, meaning we will use art as a communication tool to express emotions, process trauma and relieve stress. I have many clients who are not willing to do art therapy, and that's okay as well! Talking is just as effective. If you're from a family who didn't talk about feelings, and/or avoided conflict, it is possible that talking about your feelings isn't easy. I am here to help ease you into it. Therapy is like exercising. You will be working new muscles and I'm here to help you get stronger. Professional Background: I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts, minoring in Psychology in 2014 and graduated with my Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy in 2016. I was always creative and wanted to help others which lead me in the direction of art therapy and LMFT. I have worked at the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, providing therapy to patients and families; multiple addiction treatment centers and I was also a school counselor. I have been in recovery for years, and have personal and professional experience working with teens, adults and families in substance use and mental health treatment. I am willing to help you with addiction, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.

A bit about me, I believe that I am not an expert on your life; you are! I am a BIPOC trauma-informed clinician. I have provided mental health services in government, academic settings, and private practice. I have experience working with teens and adults who have histories of trauma. In our sessions, I’ll keep you accountable through at-home assignments, I’ll show you how to be vulnerable through role-play, and periodically I’ll integrate different techniques such as brain-spotting, tapping, or EMDR to ensure that you leave the session feeling lighter and more equipped to embrace any challenge. I’ll ask that you pivot and lean in when you feel most like running away. Yes, I’m going to ask that you be flexible and stretch. Write this down, “try it on,” because you will hear me say this time and time again. You’re here for a reason. Are you ready to take the first step? Getting started is usually the most challenging part. Call me so that I can answer your questions; it's time to get out of your head and into a session. Start living your BEST LIFE!