Therapists in California

Hello-My name is Ryan, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based out of Southern California (Long Beach). I work with young people and adults in an individual setting, and I specialize in men's issues, substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and anger issues. It is my goal to support you in getting back on track and finding your way again. I will help you identify negative self-talk and faulty cognitive errors that are causing emotional pain and discomfort. My approach involves providing you with the tools and techniques that will assist you in being the best version of yourself- which is happy, joyous, and free. We can work together to modify thought processes which will improve feelings, behaviors and outcomes. My therapeutic orientation is cognitive and behavioral based, as well as solution focused. My approach is geared toward helping identify negative thoughts and belief patterns which cause emotional discomfort and unhealthy outcome results. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with substance abuse issues, depression, and anxiety. You are not alone.

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

¡Hola! Hi, my name is Jessica Pelaez. I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker and I have been providing therapy for six years. I graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters in Social Work. I was born to Guatemalan immigrant parents and experienced many challenges and mental health struggles growing up. I believe my life experiences led me to pursue my education in the mental health field and because I wanted to make a difference in peoples lives. I have had a passion in helping people since I was a little girl. When I was in Kindergarten my teacher took me and my class to visit a senior center. I remember that I sang and served cupcakes to the seniors. That was the first time I experienced the power of compassion and my passion in helping others feel happier. The best part of being a therapist is when I have the honor to celebrate clients progress no matter how small that accomplishment is.

I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of paraprofessional experience working with (end-of-life, grief, chronic illness, Veterans, HIV/AIDS , and LGBTQIA+) based in California. I am a graduate of Azusa Pacific University with a Master's Degree in Social Work. I help people learn how to identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns, reflect on issues and make positive changes.

Hello, my name is Bryan Llorente, I am a licensed clinical social worker and have experience working in several clinical and therapeutic settings. I started my career at Advent Health Hospice Care, one of the largest non-profit hospital systems in the country. Through this position I gained experience in providing therapeutic counseling services to individuals and families who are going through major transitional period in their lives (receiving a terminal illness, death of loved one, living adjustments etc.) As a result I am well experienced in dealing with depression, anxiety, situational stress, loss of a loved one, grief, and am understanding of how medical issues can affect a person’s mental health. I have also worked for Orlando Health at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies covering the ED/Triage, antepartum and postpartum units of the hospital. This position gave me experience with providing crisis interventions and psychotherapeutic counseling to patient's who have a history of severe mental health issues, or who are actively experiencing medical emergencies, traumatic events, domestic violence, manic/depressive episodes, psychotic episodes, and suicidal ideations. In addition, I provided education on post partum depression and child care. In 2021 I began teaching classes as an Adjunct Professor for the University of Central Florida's College of Health Professions and Sciences. I have also worked for the National Suicide Prevention Line where I learned how to deal with a variety of mental health and emotional crisis situations over the phone. I feel well equipped to help my clients deal with a variety of issues, whether in person, or online. I take an objective and collaborative approach to understanding problems, and work with clients to create strategies to address problems head on so that clients learn the skills necessary to achieve their goals.

Hello there : ) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I have been practicing for 12 years. I create confidential, non-judgmental, and safe space for you to unpack your thoughts and process your feelings about whatever is causing you to feel sad, stuck, angry, or confused. It is a privilege to be a part of your journey of healing.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I offer clients over 20 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in providing a holistic environment that is collaborative, client-centered, and strength-based for clients. Whether you are seeking tools to help you face current challenges or looking to improve your mental health, I am here to support you.

I am not only a therapist but a real person. Everyone struggles with mood and thoughts and sometimes we all need help navigating the intensity of these experiences. I hope to be a guide for you as you walk through whatever challenges are keeping you from moving forward. This process will be challenging and will take work, however if you take away one thing from reading this, it is that you are not alone and there are people out there waiting to offer help.

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

Mental health is more than just managing symptoms. It’s about fostering overall well-being, inner peace, and resilience. I have ten years of practice using a holistic approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit, offering you personalized care that honors your unique experiences, culture, and values. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health services that empower individuals to achieve emotional well-being and personal growth. Through a client-centered approach, I create a safe, supportive environment where each person is treated with respect, empathy, and understanding. My goal is to help individuals and families overcome life’s challenges, foster resilience, and promote long-lasting mental health and wellness.

Welcome! My name is Janae and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. I received my Masters in Social Work from the Univerity of Southern California and have been in practice for 5 years. I am trained in TF-CBT and EMDR and work primarily with youth and young adults who have experienced trauma. I believe in creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for my clients to work on what is most important to them.

Hi there and great job on taking that first step in considering if therapy is right for you. I invite you to come with me on a journey of your own choosing where we will walk together in darkness to find the light you’ve been seeking. Whether it’s life’s little annoying stressors or more complex issues, as a trauma survivor myself, I know firsthand what this is like and wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Whether you choose me or another therapist, make the choice to just give it a try. Sometimes all you need is another person to hold the light while you do the work you need to heal.

Hello, I am Kathleen. Do you feel overwhelmed, burnt out or pulled in a million different directions? Are you struggling with your relationships, work or health? Is it difficult for you to find time for yourself, let alone, be kind to yourself? Do you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward? Many of us are experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety and social isolation, so it is important to make caring for yourself a priority. Therapy can help you feel more connected, balanced and peaceful. Together, we can help identify what is not working and regain a sense of balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your body, mind and spirit. We will develop a "toolbox" of coping skills and create new insights and awarenesses to help you become a happier and healthier version of yourself. Seeking therapy can feel threatening but it's one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and by doing so also give to others. In our sessions, I will meet you with kindness, compassion, humor and evidence-based modalities, so you can overcome obstacles and habits that may be holding you back. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and empathic environment in which to work through current issues, conflicting relationships and/or past pain. I look forward to meeting you and working together.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a degree from Phillips Graduate Institute in California. I have extensive clinical experience working with children (using play therapy), individuals, families, couples, and groups. My therapeutic approach focuses on identifying and addressing underlying issues, empowering clients to navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and create lasting positive change. I am bilingual in English and Farsi, which allows me to support a diverse range of clients with cultural sensitivity and understanding.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 40 years of experience in the fields of addiction, domestic violence, and medical social work. In my years of experience, I've worked almost exclusively with adults individually and in groups who had difficulties managing their lives due to substance abuse and the concomitant mental health issues of depression and anxiety. I also facilitated groups of male and female substance abusers and perpetrators of domestic violence. In our groups, we focused on CBT lessons and exercises involving role play, modeling, and demonstrations. Clients were given homework to continue their learning and practice on their own between sessions. As a social worker working in public and private agencies, I worked with clients experiencing relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, and day to day life problems. I strongly uphold the Social Workers Code of Ethics that includes, respecting the dignity and worth of a person and exercising compassion and a non-judgmental approach with each individual. I endorse and utilize multiple therapeutic techniques that include the following: psychodynamic techniques, cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, person-centered techniques, and solution focused techniques. I am sensitive and respectful in using techniques that are agreed upon by the client and suitable to meet each individual's needs. I look forward to the opportunity to assist you in working through challenges that will help promote and maintain a better, happier and more peaceful life. My style is loving, compassionate and direct. If you just want someone to listen and not give you suggestions on how to improve your life, then I am not the right therapist for you! I actively participate in each and every session.

I use a client centered approach in therapy sessions. I am here to listen to your words and be understanding, I will also provide feedback as needed. You can count on a nonjudgmental, safe and confidential space. It has been a privilege to work with adults, families, and children. I look forward to joining you in discovering all that life has to offer.

I am a psychotherapist with over 15 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings. I received my psychotherapy training at the San Francisco State University and graduated in 2012. After working at a private counseling center for 6 years, I opened my private practice in 2018 as a licensed marriage and family therapist. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults and Asian adults. My areas of interests include gay/lesbian and gender issues, sexuality, psychotherapy education, and psychotherapeutic technique.

I am a highly accomplished Licensed, Marriage, and Family Therapist with over 28 years of experience in managing challenging behaviors and helping individuals with ongoing significant social/emotional skill deficits, and/or mental health needs. Along with working with youth from many cultures and economic backgrounds, I also have over 20 years’ experience supervising and managing adults in the education field. My years of experience working for school districts, private practice settings, group homes and currently as a mental health administrator provide clients with a clinician who has a broad range of experience.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker fluent in English and Spanish. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Welfare from the University of Puerto Rico and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Nebraska in Omaha. I have dedicated my career empowering individuals, families, and communities. I believe in people's inherent ability to lead healthier lives and see it as the driving force behind every relationship.

I am a licensed therapist providing compassionate, collaborate results oriented therapy for clients seeking to change their lives for the better. I am devoted to acceptance and commitment therapy with the understanding that people have the capacity to grow and resolve. I believe that clients have the answers within themselves to remove barriers and challenges in their lives and it is a privilege to assist them in recognizing it and bringing it out.

You don’t have to struggle alone! I look forward to the opportunity to work collaboratively with you in your journey in discovering how to make positive changes, decrease negative behaviors and thoughts, and help improve your mood and engagement with life! In our hectic world we often find ourselves afraid to take risks that could jeopardize the stable lives we have created for ourselves. We remain in jobs, relationships and old patterns that no longer work, while symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger and self-defeating patterns keep us from making real changes to our lives. If that sounds like you, you are stuck. We can feel lost and alone when we are unable to move forward, whether in work or a personal relationship. Therapy can help you break free of that and thrive. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on teens, adults, and couples. I have worked with clients on concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and family reunification. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I also minored in sociology.

Tonya Meeks, LMFT Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Specialties: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety, Bullying, Addiction, Eating Disorders, Trauma, IVF/Fertility Support Hi, I’m Tonya—a therapist, writer, and performer with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. My approach is deeply informed by my background in writing and performance, blending creativity and empathy to foster healing. As a parent of a neurodivergent son, I understand the unique needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). My personal experience allows me to connect with families in profound ways and offer insights grounded in real-world experience. I also offer compassionate support for individuals navigating fertility struggles, having personally undergone IVF as a single mother by choice. In addition to traditional therapy, I integrate creative expression into my work. Through storytelling and performance, I help clients explore their narratives, reframe challenges, and unlock new pathways to self-discovery. This holistic, individualized approach allows me to support clients in ways that resonate with them personally. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults, offering tailored treatment plans for emotional regulation, social skills, and mental health challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and addiction. My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed, helping clients gain insight and build resilience at their own pace. Beyond therapy, I created and perform in Flying Standby, a one-woman show that explores themes of vulnerability and personal transformation. I believe in the power of creative expression as a tool for healing and personal growth. Whether you’re navigating trauma, addiction, or neurodiversity, I am here to guide you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.

Meet Tara Zandi, LICSW – a compassionate and highly skilled therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults, children, and families. Tara holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, blending deep academic knowledge with practical expertise. She’s trained in a powerful range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, PCIT, EMDR, and even yoga for children—offering a holistic and personalized approach to healing. Whether working through depression, anxiety, or behavioral health challenges, Tara meets her clients with empathy, insight, and culturally sensitive care. Fluent in English and Farsi, Tara creates a welcoming space for diverse communities to feel seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward wellness.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Hello there, I’m Lus. Do you miss feeling like yourself? Does it feel like you are going around in circles with the same problems yet can’t seem to find a permanent solution? I guide adults from a person-centered approach to find solutions to their problems when experiencing difficulty managing emotions such as those that come with depression and anxiety. I can help you work through major life transitions (newly married, becoming a parent, empty nester, starting school, grief, becoming ill, divorce, etc.) getting to the root of the problem and developing cognitive behavioral techniques that will get you back to stability. Obtaining therapy services can be intimidating but I can guarantee you that you are making the right decision. I possess bilingual abilities (Spanish), if it's your preference. You deserve your own space to heal and evolve. During our sessions, you will have a safe space where I will meet you with empathy and evidence-based practice. Let me help you.