Therapists in California

I am a licensed mental health therapist with experience across private practice, community, academic, governmental, nonprofit, and corporate settings. As a Vietnamese refugee who has faced profound hardship, I bring a deep understanding of resilience, trauma, and healing to my work. I support individuals, couples, families, and communities navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex cultural, relational transitions. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client, blending evidence-based practices with cultural awareness, trauma-informed care, and spiritual flexibility. I meet clients where they are, honoring their experiences and challenges. Through a collaborative and compassionate process, I help clients develop insight, strengthen resilience, and create lasting change—so they heal and thrive. Tôi là một nhà trị liệu sức khỏe tâm thần được cấp phép tại California, với kinh nghiệm trong nhiều môi trường như thực hành tư nhân, cộng đồng, học thuật, chính phủ, tổ chức phi lợi nhuận và doanh nghiệp. Là người tị nạn Việt Nam từng trải qua khó khăn, tôi có sự thấu hiểu sâu sắc về khả năng phục hồi, sang chấn và chữa lành. Tôi làm việc với cá nhân, cặp đôi, gia đình và cộng đồng đối mặt với sang chấn, lo âu, trầm cảm và chuyển đổi phức tạp trong văn hóa, mối quan hệ và cuộc sống. Phương pháp của tôi mang tính tích hợp, điều chỉnh theo từng thân chủ, kết hợp các thực hành dựa trên bằng chứng cùng sự nhạy cảm văn hóa và linh hoạt về tinh thần. Tôi tôn trọng trải nghiệm và bản sắc riêng của mỗi người. Thông qua hợp tác và thấu cảm, tôi hỗ trợ thân chủ phát triển nhận thức, củng cố khả năng phục hồi và tạo ra thay đổi ý nghĩa, bền vững—để họ có thể chữa lành và phát triển.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who supports adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Los Angeles, and my Master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on Adult Mental Health and Wellness from the University of Southern California. I have experience working with clients ages 5 to 65 from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, with specialties in domestic violence, grief, and trauma. I provide a warm, empowering, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel safe to explore their experiences. Using a blend of CBT, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused therapy, I help clients build practical coping skills, heal from past experiences, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 15 years experience. I trained in Somatic Psychology at John F. Kennedy University. I have also trained at the Sensorimotor Institute for Trauma Treatment. I am a grief Counselor. I have a certificate in Nutritional Psychology. I work with adult individuals. My work integrates evidence based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I work with Anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and relationships. I work to help clients build resilience, a safe environment, boundaries and meaningful connections.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and for over 25 years I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people on their healing journeys. My work has included supporting adults, children ages 3–18, transitional age youth, families, and young people facing behavioral health challenges. Over the years, I’ve worked with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post‑traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and personality disorders. What I love most about this work is helping people discover their own capacity to heal and grow. I draw from approaches like CBT, DBT, supportive therapy, trauma‑informed care, and strength‑based therapy. At the same time, I believe therapy is never one‑size‑fits‑all. Each person is unique, and together we’ll find the approach that feels right for you. Above all, I believe you are the expert of your own life. My role is to provide a safe, affirming space and a supportive relationship where you can explore, grow, and move toward the life you want

Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.

Hi, I’m Charlene, a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I take an integrative, evidence-based approach, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients develop practical skills, increase self-awareness, and create lasting positive change. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. I work alongside my clients to understand their unique experiences, identify patterns that may be holding them back, and develop strategies to manage emotions, improve relationships, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence. My approach is compassionate and nonjudgmental, providing a safe space to explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and build the life you want. In our work together, you can expect to gain tools to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and reduce anxiety or depressive symptoms. I also focus on helping clients strengthen self-esteem, set healthy boundaries, and develop skills for resilience in everyday life. Whether you’re facing a major life change, struggling with ongoing emotional challenges, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to empower you to feel more in control, resilient, and aligned with your values.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor with experience in the mental health field dating back to 2014. I received my training providing crisis care at the Community Research Foundation (i.e. crisis houses), Bayview Crisis Stabilization Unit (affiliated with Paradise Valley Hospital, Kaiser and Horizon Adult Daycare Center. In those roles, I gained experience working with kids 3 and up, adolescence, couples and adults. I have experience using various modalities: Trauma Informed Care, Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (just to name a few). I received my Masters of Science from SDSU. I received my Bachelors from St. Mary's College of Maryland.

Hello, my name is Serina Palomino. I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor), and NCC (nationally certified counselor), and I like to meet my clients where they are utilizing an integrative approach. I provide therapeutic services to children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation, primarily utilizing CBT, EMDR, art therapy, and mindfulness. My approach to therapeutic services is holistic and integrative. I provide in-depth assessments to determine therapeutic needs and identify core underlying issues contributing to client symptoms and behaviors. I integrate the qualities of a humanistic approach to establish and maintain the therapeutic alliance to support the client's successful discharge from services.

If you're dealing with depression or anxiety, or situations in your life that you're not happy with, first of all, you're not alone. Lots of people are dealing with hard times now, and it's affecting how lots of us feel, work, and engage with our relationships. But you should know that most problems can be dealt with effectively -- sometimes all we need is a little help. I'm good at providing that kind of help. I usually work with clients on core issues, foundations of well-being, like self esteem, codependency, self assertion, and also, how do they do with relationships? What's going on with work? Are there family issues? Is there solid self esteem there? Most of my clients come in feeling very uncertain about what their next steps are, and most often, they tell me that feelings of sadness, or worry, are definitely in their way. I've been helping people heal and grow for over 20 years, and what I hear back from clients is that I'm honest, smart, kind, and that I don't waste their time. The work we do together is not just about soothing and comforting, but also, and more directly about problem solving: if you're unhappy, what do you need in order for that to change? And what are all your needs, anyway? Are you even sure of how you need your life to be? I'd like to help you find the answers to those questions. And if you're in a relationship, getting over one, or hoping to find a new one, I do a lot of work with people who are dealing with that, too. I hope I can help you feel better, and get your needs met in life. Because there's nothing that matters more.

Hi and thank you for your time to read about my background. 📘 Introduction I have been providing mental health services as a psychotherapist and disaster mental health specialist for my entire adult life. Relationships with professors led to my first becoming a therapist as a twenty-one-year-old undergraduate student majoring in Community Service at University of Oregon. The majority of my career was working 23 years for the National Center for PTSD. Over the course of these years, I responded to a dozen Presidentially declared catastrophic events. Additionally, I created a therapy integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and meditation endorsed by a leading 20th century cognitive therapy psychologist who assisted the work being published in an international clinical journal dedicated to CBT. Retired from the federal government in 2013. Worked in Ukraine in 2014 and 2018 providing services to veterans and civilians in addition to teaching at universities in Kyiv, Lviv, and Rivine, and training Ukrainian mental health professionals throughout the country Provided pro bono remote clinical supervision for six years to Ukrainian psychologists. To directly book an appointment click the htpps address that follows. https://growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=12920&utm_source=provider-sourced&utm_medium=booking-link&utm_campaign=provider-dashboard 📘Overview: • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) helping clients cope with anxiety, depression and traumatic events to achieve behavioral change. • In 2022, I began offering telemental health therapy. • Former Health Science Specialist and Editor-in Chief of clinical journal at National Center for PTSD. • Provided direct services, training, and consultation in the aftermath of terrorist attacks, plane crashes, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, & civil unrest. International Work • Assembled and led Disaster Mental Health Team, Ukraine (2014) Post-Maidan Revolution • Fulbright Grant: Ukraine (2018)

My name is Deenne Houston.  I have been a License Clinical Social Worker for over 14years, in Los Angeles, California.  I have extensive experience as a Director, Trainer, Administrator and Clinical Supervisor in Intensive Services within Los Angeles County Mental Health Services.  My work is strongly grounded in wellness, resiliency, the promotion of self sufficiency, and support. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, self-esteem, depression and relational issues. I have also assisted many people who have experienced trauma or emotional, physical abuse, PTSD, anger, communication issues, and family members impacted by addiction.  My goal is to assist in the  process of establishing coping skills to help individuals achieve, their therapeutic goals, overall fulfillment and wellness.

With 15 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping create lasting, positive change through integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution Focused Brief Treatment (SFBT) to offer a comprehensive, evidence-based approach tailored to each client's unique needs. My work with clients emphasizes building emotional resilience, improving communication, and fostering deep connections. I am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals and develop the tools they need for meaningful, fulfilling lives.

Hi my name is Jehalin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with 16 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families from various walks of life. I have experience with helping people who are experiencing various hardships in life and difficulty adjusting, as well as people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, mood disorders, etc. I am known for being a good listener, caring, accepting, and compassionate, regardless of the challenges one might be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches I use is cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, client centered, play therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness, and more. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may assist.

Hi there! I'm Cindy Nguman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I’m so glad you’re here. I work with clients all across the state through the convenience of Telehealth, creating a safe and supportive space, wherever you are. I specialize in supporting young adults and adults who are navigating life’s many ups and downs, whether that’s anxiety, stress, depression, dating, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. You're not alone in what you're going through, and together, we’ll work to help you feel more grounded, confident, and understood. My style is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I use a person-centered approach, which means I deeply value who you are and what you bring to the table. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy to help us make meaningful progress toward your goals. Reaching out is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. 💛

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who supports adults and older adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC) and my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from California State University, San Bernardino, which together shaped my strong foundation in both clinical practice and understanding the broader social factors that impact mental health. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you feel truly heard, supported, and empowered to be yourself. Using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), grief-informed care, and a strengths-based approach, I help you better understand your thoughts, build practical coping tools, and create a meaningful change. Together, we will work toward helping you feel more grounded, confident, and connected so you can move through life with greater clarity, balance, and a renewed sense of purpose

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.

My name is Marissa Ruiz, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. Some of my other titles include mother, wife, sister, daughter, niece, grandmother and friend. Sharing these titles are important to me because they represent current relationships and past relationships. My past relationships include grief, trauma and growth. I survived obstacles in my life with the help of a therapist. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, empathetic, supportive, and good listener. We will be working together with to make a goal. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles.

I am a licensed mental health professional with several years of experience working with individuals facing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions. My goal is to create a supportive and safe environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to take an active role in their healing process. I employ evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused techniques, and person-centered therapy, to help individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we work to identify patterns that may be holding them back and develop practical strategies to improve their overall well-being. I am committed to meeting each client where they are and guiding them toward meaningful, lasting change at their own pace.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

I am a Christian Clinical, Forensic and Sports Neuropsychologist. Like many folks who get into the mental health field, I had certain mental health challenges. My family of origin was burdened with addiction and mental health. I currently have 40 years of sobriety and am intimately familiar with 12 Step, Christ-centered and Mindfulness aspects of recovery. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma and Addiction with family systems and attachment orientation. As a trained child psychologist I also place particular emphasis on developmental aspects of trauma. As a former Navy psychologist with many years working with veterans and first responders, I am very familiar with those cultures. I played college soccer, run 20 marathons, taught scuba as well as being an award winning underwater photographer and competed at the CrossFit World Games for 3 years. I am married, have a son (retired Navy) and a daughter in heaven.

I am a licensed professional counselor (PhD, LPC, NCC) with years of experience supporting individuals across a wide range of mental health challenges. I am deeply committed to helping people explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a safe, supportive environment. My approach integrates evidence-based strategies with compassion and understanding, so clients can gain clarity, build resilience, and achieve meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

I was born in NJ where I completed my education at Rutger's University and now live with my family in DE. I have my LCSW in DE, NJ, and CA and currently practice in these 3 states. I am an animal lover of all kinds and enjoy being outdoors as much as I can. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, hiking, exercising, and reading.

I was born in Managua, Nicaragua but moved to the United States at a young age. I can say that I’ve learned to appreciate, value, and grow from every experience given in life. Good or bad experiences can potentially shape who we are. They can impact our view and perspective about life, and make us stronger to overcome challenges we face throughout our journey or disable us temporarily, making the journey less enjoyable and pleasing. I always had a strong desire to help others. I found in Psychology and Therapy a good option to provide others the needed tools to move forward, so they can find within them the strength to push toward a better and more productive lifestyle. I view therapy as a safe place to explore relationships, whether those relationships are with people (family, co-workers, partner) or things (food, money, alcohol). I also feel an important part of therapy is addressing the social, economic, and cultural influences on a person.

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you and walk alongside with you in that process.

Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.

My name is Shawna Reynolds, and I have been in the social work field for 20 years, and the clinical field for over 15 years now. I was drawn to social work to specifically to help provide a sense of safety, security and stability for youth and families. I bring that same sense of safety, security and stability to my Therapy Practice where using a variety of CBT and TFCBT different modalities I now help adult clients identify areas of self-improvement so that they can make positive behavioral changes in their lives to experience more positive pleasurable emotions such as excitement, happiness and a healthy self-concept.

Hi I’m a licensed professional counselor licensed in many states. I have been in the counseling field helping children and adults for more than 20 years. I help adults of all ages struggling with everyday stressors, my goal is to help you figure out and work through challenges to live life on your terms and create a healthy balance. ****Please note if you are currently or recently feeling suicidal, you will be referred to an in office provider, psychiatrist and/ likely a higher level of care, as I would only treat in severe depression and suicidality in office.******Please call 988 which is the free 24 hour crisis line, if you feel like you want to harm yourself or are feeling very overwhelmed.

Hello, I'm David. Do you have a change you are facing and are unsure about which direction to go? Are you questioning your identity or aspects of who you are? Are you facing struggles that feel too large to conquer? Are stressors weighing you down? I help clients navigate these tough questions and work together to understand how to face these challenges. Exploring the choices together and discovering a path that resonates with you. I use a whole-person approach to unlock who you want to be and I will walk alongside as your journey unfolds. The challenges of today can become the strengths of tomorrow! Let’s work together to find that peace of mind you are looking for.

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.

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!