Therapists in California

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's from California State University of Long Beach. I have over 5 years working in outpatient and inpatient medical settings. I have worked as medical and mental health social worker. I have experienced working with adults, older adults dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use, life changes and other challenges.

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.

My approach centers on deep listening, empathy, and honoring each client’s lived experience. I intentionally consider cultural, environmental, and systemic influences, ensuring therapy is respectful, collaborative, and client-led. I believe in creating a comfortable space that supports growth while affirming each person’s identity and self-determination. I am especially enthusiastic about returning to a practice setting focused on working with adults, where I can support clients in exploring identity, healing, and growth.

My approach is a therapist who works collaboratively with clients to create a space that feels safe, respectful and grounded in authenticity. It is important that my clients feel emotionally safe, seen and empowered. I intend to create an environment where they can feel comfortable to navigate the challenging and difficult experiences they have endured throughout their life. My focus is on supporting clients as they learn to understand and manage their emotions, express their thoughts and feelings effectively, and explore how childhood experiences shape who we are today.

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.

Welcome! I am glad that you are here taking a step towards change. I appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself. I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than twenty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Southern California. I have worked in a wide range of areas supporting POC and the queer community. I have helped clients manage and cope with challenging emotional issues, life transitions, and relationship problems. I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Hello, I am Desiree Trinidad, a passionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California. My journey began at USC Medical Center, where I gained invaluable experience working in the ER and Psychiatric Unit. My career has since encompassed roles in hospice care, counseling for the severe mental illnesses, and facilitating support groups for women in recovery. Each step has reinforced my love for working with diverse populations and the fulfillment I find in this work.

My passion is helping people transform the life they have into the life they want!!! In the pursuit of my passion I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine and my Master's in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University. I have been privileged to work in a variety of environments providing psycho-therapeutic services and support including Concordia University, numerous elementary school campuses, various social service agencies and churches as well in my own private practice. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families offering Solution-focused short term and long term therapy, customizing therapy based on the client’s needs and seeing them more fulfilling lives.

I am a licensed counselor, with 20 years of experience. I have a warm and interactive style. I believe that real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. My approach is to combine cognitive-behavioral, developmental and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Hi, I’m Megan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health and psychotherapy. I strive to create a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel safe exploring life’s challenges, emotions, relationships, and personal growth. My approach to therapy is collaborative, open-minded, and grounded in evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, REBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma-related concerns, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, and substance use concerns. I value authenticity, inclusivity, and meeting clients where they are in their healing journey.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and families through a variety of life challenges. I have been practicing in school-based setting for over 6 years, helping clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and move toward meaningful personal growth. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and I value truly listening to what each client hopes to achieve. My role is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space while equipping clients with practical skills to manage daily challenges and move confidently toward their personal goals. I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish and am committed to providing culturally responsive care where clients feel understood and supported. I pride myself on developing strong, authentic relationships with my clients and consider it an honor to be included in their healing journey. My approach is warm, collaborative, and goal oriented.

Hello, my name is Jackie. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I'm dedicated to supporting my clients navigate life challenges, experience emotional healing, and an improved quality of life. I believe in taking time to get to know you, and understand your world view and life experiences. I have extensive experience assisting clients in managing and reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics. I also offer therapy in Spanish language. As you embark on your therapeutic journey, I welcome the opportunity to walk with you on your road to self-discovery and emotional healing.

Greetings! My name is Crystal, I am a therapist with a passion for my work. I come from a client-centered approach because I believe you, the Client, is the expert on the current experience. My experience has taught me from this central humanistic standpoint, the relevant and helpful interventions are at arm's reach. I believe in educating my clients and partnering with them through their unique experience with therapy. I enjoy living in the Joshua Tree area and exploring the beautiful desert. My new and healthier lifestyle is keeping me busy with exercise and cooking. The combination of the two has made my new life a true second chance!

Hello, my name is Carol Metcalf-Roth, LMFT, and I have been working with clients for 21 years as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My career history includes progressive experience as a Therapist, Director of Social Services, and Clinical Supervisor, working in agency services, hospitals and private practice. I am also a licensed Military Family Life Counselor with previous counseling to current and former military and their families. I have many successfully treated clients. I do accept private paying clients if you do not have insurance. I require a credit card on file for non-insurance clients.

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.

Hi, I'm Hazel. I'm a bilingual Asian mental health therapist fluent in both Vietnamese and English, dedicated to supporting neurodiverse adults, including those with ASD, ADHD, and co-occurring conditions. I am also trained in assessing and diagnosing adult ASD and ADHD, and I understand the importance of accurate identification to inform effective treatment. I am deeply passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and understanding the unique challenges they face, such as low self-esteem, mood regulation difficulties, relationship struggles, loneliness, stress, executive dysfunction, and rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD). I strive to provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore these challenges and develop strategies for growth and healing. In addition, I have extensive experience working in hospice care, which has given me valuable insight into the complex emotions surrounding grief, loss, and mourning. I also specialize in supporting clients through grief, narcissistic abuse and healing, as well as processing trauma. My approach is holistic, emphasizing compassion and understanding through these profound experiences. Having endured my own share of trauma throughout my life—including experiences with sudden death, betrayal, and resentment—I bring a deep sense of empathy to my work. With a culturally sensitive approach, I aim to create a safe environment where my clients feel seen and supported. My overarching goal is to empower individuals to navigate their challenges, foster resilience, and promote overall well-being. I am committed to breaking down barriers to mental health care and walking alongside my clients through life’s many transitions with sensitivity and care.

I believe that therapy is most effective when it is a collaborative journey of discovery. Having served in the mental health field for more than 15 years, I focus on identifying your inherent strengths and what truly inspires you. By meeting you where you are without judgment, I strive to understand your world and help you navigate life’s hurdles. Together, we will turn learned skills into real-world results, empowering you to live your most authentic and vibrant life.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience specializing in domestic violence and substance abuse treatment. I came to the field of therapy later in life, and I believe my own life experiences help me connect with others in a genuine, empathetic, and nonjudgmental way. I live in the San Diego area with my husband on a small farm filled with animals. When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, gardening, and creating art—activities that help me stay grounded, creative, and connected to the world around me.

Hi! My name is Ana Maria. I received my master's degree in social work from California State University of Long Beach. I have been practicing social work for the last 17 years. I have worked with adults going through depression and anxiety by providing support and discussing coping skills that can help them improve their mood, relationships and quality of life. I also collaborate with clients helping them to identify clients' strengths and resources to solve their problems. Please note that I am currently not able to complete any letters, reports or forms including but not limited to leave of absence and FMLA.

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.

Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my master's in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University in California and have been practicing for the last 8 years. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts, and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.

I am a client-centered professional with 15 years of experience providing broad mental health services to diverse populations of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified art therapist with specialization in utilizing multiple evidence-based modalities to address substance abuse, dual diagnoses, depression, anxiety, trauma, and domestic violence. I work with couples to increase effective communication skills in order to understand each other as well as grow emotional intimacy.

I have been providing mental health services since 2003. Throughout my career I have worked communities large and small and have provided services to client of all ages and clinical presentations. I have worked with Foster Youth struggling with attachment all the way to helping Older Adults find purpose and meaning. I specialize in trauma, particularly that which occurs in the context of the relationship. I enjoy working with couples and individuals struggling in relationships. I like to focus on promoting healthy connections with others and how to ensure this creates a lasting structure to manage life's challenges. In addition to this I encourage areas of strength to ensure our life has purpose.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia focused on providing services to individuals and families. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work and a PhD. in Social Work: Policy, Planning and Administration and have over 10 years of experience providing clinical services to children, teens and families. The onset of my career began with helping children and families within a community mental health setting as well as those involved in the child welfare system. My clients have a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I've also worked with clients who have experienced trauma and abuse. I believe in a humanistic, person-centered, cognitive behavioral approach to therapy where the focus is on helping clients develop a stronger sense of self within a non-judgmental therapeutic setting. I am a proponent in addressing factors that contribute to the healing of the spirit, mind and body. I am happy that you have taken the first step in your healing process and I look forward to working with you.

I have almost 10 years of experience in this field of work. Most of it has been with the geriatric population within various settings, as well as with individuals challenged with a severe mental illness in forensic environments. I am very familiar with the impact of trauma on the life cycle. Additionally, I work with young adults navigating school-work-life-family balance, setting priorities, making challenging life decisions and developing self esteem and confidence while learning to maneuver life's ongoing challenges.

I am a client centered therapist, which means I believe that the client is the expert on their experiences. I ask questions, am open to feedback, and trust the client's capacity for growth and self-actualization. Additionally, I provide coping skills and evidenced based practices to help clients in these areas. I also use art therapy in my practice, which is workable in telehealth.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California (USC) emphasis in Mental Health and Military Social Work. I have been practicing for 7 years. I help US Military Service Members and Veteran's struggling with adjusting to civilian life, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and Anger Management skills. The military teaches structure and purpose everyday. You know what you have to do, where you have to be and when you have to be there and going to waking up as a civilian to “what do I do now” can be a struggle. This is where I can help with the transition to civilian life.

Congratulations! You have taken the first steps in the journey to your goal(s). I am extremely grateful you are considering me to partner up with. I consider my relationships as instrumental in learning who I am. The relationships that most speak to who I am include being a spouse, father, brother, son, colleague, and friend. My grandparents are deceased. Through these relationships I have learned a great deal.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical counselor. I have worked treating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTS, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and other mental illnesses. I have facilitated child abuse intervention groups for child abuse perpetrators. I also enjoy facilitating coparenting groups for adults who are going through divorce or separation to shield children from conflict.

Hello, I am Guadalupe T. Rios, LCSW, licensed in California with professional work experience of 25 years. I have experience in helping clients in coping with childhood/adult trauma, grief and loss, intimate partner violence, military trauma, addictions, racism and work related stress. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. Taking the first step in seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I welcome the opportunity to support you in this journey.

Hello. I am a licensed social worker in California. I began practicing in the mental health/behavioral health field in 2011. I originally was licensed in Maryland in 2015 but then returned to California in 2016. Since starting in the field, I have worked with individuals ranging in age from 4 years old to 75 years old; most experience working with individuals between the ages of 10 and 35. I have experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, depression, anxiety, parenting problems, and relationship issues. I am an ally of the LGBTQI community and can provide a safe, telehealth space for them. Unfortunately, at this time, I cannot accommodate individuals seeking letters for emotional support animals or those mandated by the court or legal system for therapy. With that said, my goal in being a counselor, is to assist my clients in meeting their identified treatment needs. I am flexible and willing to do whatever I need to do to assist you and help you in any way that I can. If when viewing my profile, you feel as though I am a good fit, but my schedule does not meet your scheduling needs, please feel free to send me a message as I may be able to fit you in at a different time. I work evenings and weekends.

Hello! I am motivated and excited to walk through this season in your life and to assist you in a way that finds you as comfortable and at ease as you can be. I am solution-focused and have a warm teaching style yet lean in closely to the strategies and skills you may be seeking so that your goals are achieved. I have been a therapist for close to twenty years and have competency, education and experience necessary to accept a variety of cases with varying degrees of complexity. I am described by many to be warm, empathetic and at times share guidance that may be challenging to hear and with all intent it would be to see a different point of view for the greater good.

Maple Moriji was born on December 29, 1970 in Tokyo, Japan, an only child of a Japanese father and Danish mother. Instead of enrolling at a Japanese school, he attended a private international school called the American School in Japan (ASIJ). At ASIJ, he befriended other third culture children of different nationalities from across the globe. In 1989, he graduated from ASIJ and moved to Washington, DC where he enrolled at George Washington University. He received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 1994 after which he began his career in information technology. He eventually relocated to Los Angeles in 1998 and subsequently became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2004. After having worked in the corporate world for over 13 years, he was prompted by his lifelong interest in human psychology to become a Marriage and Family Therapist and enrolled at Antioch University in 2009. Over the years, he explored the subject extensively, attended a conference for Victims Of Incest Can Emerge Survivors (VOICES) in Action, and studied depth psychology at C.G. Jung Club of Orange County. Starting in October 2010, he began seeing clients regularly for psychotherapy at inpatient and outpatient facilities including The Center in Long Beach, Tarzana Treatment Centers, Solid Landings Behavioral Health, Hope by the Sea, Personal Involvement Center, Oceanfront Recovery and BLVD Treatment Centers. In private practice, he has been treating clients using a number of different approaches including EMDR since November 2012. In December 2011, he received a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. His calling is to specialize in treating clients who have struggled with issues related to cultural diversity and who have suffered from trauma while growing up (such as childhood sexual abuse). As of March 2017, he has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Hello, I’m Deric Placker, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Lancaster, California. Beginning my career in 2018, I have dedicated my life to helping individuals break unhealthy behavioral loops, navigate complex life transitions, and discover their full potential. I absolutely love this career, and there is nothing more rewarding to me than watching my clients grow, heal, and reclaim their personal agency. What makes me uniquely easy to relate to is that I haven’t always sat in the therapist's chair. I spent the early part of my life working hard as a miner. However, my path shifted permanently in 2009 when I suffered a stroke and subsequently fell into a deep, consuming depression. During that dark period, my own therapist threw me a lifeline and inspired me to pull myself out of the spiral. That pivotal experience changed my life, driving me to go back to school so I could dedicate my life to helping others find their way back from rock bottom.

I am a clinical psychologist with 18 years of experience working with a variety for people from young adult to older adults. I like to create a supportive environment that fosters growth, exploration, and healing. Building resiliency and adapting to life circumstance is an important aspect of what I do. I like to help people feel better while promoting independence and insight.

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in sunny southern California, living with my partner, of many years, John, and our three cats, three dogs, and tortoise, who by the way, is currently hibernating...and don't we all wish we could do that at times? I have many years of experience working with individuals, and with a varied range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationship challenges. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings with many ethnic populations. My style is down-to-earth, relatable, at times, direct, and always with a touch of humor. I love what I do and consider it an honor to help you resolve whatever it might be that is holding you back. I look forward to working with you! By the way, a former client recently said: "I am so grateful to have worked with you, you are truly gifted, and I have learned so much!"

I want to get to know you and what you are seeking help with as much as possible. I like to ask questions, try not to make assumptions, and keep us focused on your goals. I have a background in short-term therapy as well as ongoing, open-ended therapy. I want you to feel supported but also know you are an independent adult.

Hi! I'm a Mexican American, Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters of Social Work from California State University San Marcos. I love working with a variety of clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I help individuals challenged with grief, anxiety, depression, substance misuse and trauma, to become better versions of themselves. I like to provide a nonjudgmental approach, and really find out who a person truly is, to have a better understanding of all the parts that make a person who they are.

If you’re looking for a therapist who will actually listen—who won’t dismiss your concerns or pathologize your pain—you’re in the right place. Maybe you're wondering if you have ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Maybe you've been masking for years and don’t know where to start. Maybe you're carrying trauma, grief, or a deep sense that something has always felt a little off. I work with people who’ve spent too long feeling misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or minimized—and are ready for something different. You don’t need a perfect narrative. You don’t need to show up polished. You don’t even need to be sure what you need yet. With over 11 years of experience, I specialize in working with neurodivergent and emotionally complex clients—including first responders, trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I have a Master’s in Clinical Counseling, a Master’s in Forensic Psychology, and I’m currently completing a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology. I combine clinical insight with curiosity, humor, and a belief in your capacity to grow—even if it’s messy.

Hello I'm Gina, I have been living and working in Palm Springs California for the past 9 years. I have truly found a home here with rich diversity, living among people who have lived and worked throughout the United States. I have enjoyed working with people local to the Coachella Valley, including first generation Americans, as well as long term HIV survivors, other members of the LGBT+ community, and the local Jewish community. I have been a therapist for more than 19 years, living and practicing in many areas of the state.

Hello! My name is Ari. My pronouns are they/them/theirs. I have been practicing therapy for 5 years, and have worked with neurodivergent children and adults for 10+ years. Some things I love the most are: good food, weird art, and my little Maltipoo. I am a good fit for children, teens, or adults who are autistic, have symptoms of ADHD/ADD, and other mental health symptoms.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a doctorate degree in P-12 Educational Leadership and a Masters degree, in Social Work. I have over 12 years of experience working with children, families, and adults in both in-person and telehealth. Through strength-based and culturally sensitive approaches, I support children and families who are dealing with a multitude of challenges including anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression. Having professional experience working at a Children’s hospital, I utilize a family systems approach to child therapy and worked closely with children with complex medical and/or mental health challenges. I also have extensive experience with leading parent support groups and social skills groups for kids. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my three kids, going to the beach, and baking.

Bienvenidos! Soy Norma. Welcome! I am Norma, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specialized in depression, anxiety and life transitions. Culturally sensitive therapist, committed to help older adults (60+) overcome life challenges utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which focuses on identifying and changing maladaptive thought patterns and replace them with more objective and realistic thoughts. As a Latina woman, I have had the privilege of serving the Spanish-speaking community, and my goal is to create a compassionate, supportive space where older adults could feel safe, understood and empowered.

Hi, I’m Erim a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist born and raised in Southern California. One of my biggest priorities is creating a safe and welcoming place for my clients. I am experienced in treating anxiety, stress management, relationship challenges, grief, loss of relationships, job stress, disappointment management, and life transitions. My aim is to allow room for processing as well as equipping, educating, and empowering my clients with practical tools and techniques that they can use in their everyday lives.

Hello there, I'm Alma. I'm bilingual in English and Spanish. I have experience working with elementary-age children and young adults. I can help you manage anxiety to avoid burnout, and in children to avoid losing control of their emotions. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I integrate mindfulness to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with being overwhelmed, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety, I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to be heard, heal and grow.

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.

Hi there, my name is Tabitha. I am based in rural Northern California and have been working as a therapist for the past 12 years. I am beginning my online private practice and enjoy supporting people through life’s transitions. This may include juggling the responsibilities of becoming a new parent while also trying to maintain your own mental health, moving forward after the end of a relationship, adjusting to the changes that come with blending families, or navigating other significant life changes. I view these periods of transition as opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and learning to thrive as you step into a new chapter of your life. I am also passionate about supporting people in improving their relationships whether it be with a romantic partner, family member, coworker, or other significant person. We can explore communication skills, boundaries, attachment styles, navigating conflict, and/or recognizing and addressing any patterns of codependency. We can also work toward gaining clarity about what is within your control and how to respond to what is outside of your control.

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, I'm Paula Whidden, LMFT, LPCC. MDiv You may look like you're managing on the outside while feeling overwhelmed on the inside. Perhaps your mind won't slow down at night, anxiety keeps you on edge, or painful experiences from the past continue to affect your relationships, confidence, or sense of peace. You may feel exhausted from carrying burdens that no one else can see. I help teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, stress, and life transitions find healing, hope, and practical tools for lasting change. Together, we'll work to understand what is keeping you stuck, process difficult experiences, and build skills that help you move forward with greater confidence and emotional freedom. My approach is warm, supportive, and goal-oriented. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel heard, respected, and safe enough to explore both your struggles and your strengths. I strive to create an environment where clients can heal without judgment while learning new ways to respond to life's challenges. I am a trauma-focused Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with specialized training in EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Gottman Method couples work, Prepare/Enrich, and anxiety treatment. These approaches allow me to tailor therapy to each client's unique needs and goals. Over the years, I have helped clients who felt anxious, depressed, fearful, overwhelmed, or emotionally stuck discover new ways of understanding themselves and relating to others. Clients often describe me as calm, compassionate, and encouraging. My goal is not simply to help you manage symptoms but to help you experience greater peace, resilience, and hope for the future. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel difficult, but you don't have to face life's challenges alone. I would be honored to walk alongside you as you pursue healing and growth.