Therapists in California

Finding a place where you can be completely honest about how you’re doing shouldn't be so difficult. I’m Elizabeth, and I help people navigate the deeper, more complex parts of their lives that often feel hard to put into words. I believe that the challenges you’re facing today are usually connected to a larger story. Whether you are dealing with the long-term effects of trauma, the weight of life changes, or a persistent feeling that something is 'off,' I’m here to help you make sense of it. My goal is to move beyond just managing symptoms so we can understand and address the root causes of your distress.

Hi, I’m Ashley Pearce, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I am passionate about providing therapy in a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental environment to support you in identifying your goals and achieving meaningful change. I have a professional background in a hospital environment, supporting patients through major medical decisions, stressful life transitions, new parenthood, anxiety, depression, and loss. I look forward to partnering with you!

Hello, I am Elizabeth Kelly, a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with individual adult clients aged 18 and older. If you are seeking help with working through grief, loss, difficult changes, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, aging challenges or any other issues that may be hard to overcome alone, I am here to help you through. I follow a client-centered approach, meaning that I believe that you have the internal strength and ability to grow. Together, we will create goals to best serve you. I will listen to your concerns and provide coping skills and resources to help you through your difficult situations.

Luke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in emergency medical services and hospital emergency departments. He is a United States Coast Guard veteran located in California. Luke believes in healthy habit development, consistent focus on goals, and problem solving to improve quality of life. Luke's approach to therapy includes: positive psychology, stress management, reducing substance use, communication skills, solution focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Outside of work Luke enjoys outdoor activities like camping, mountain biking, sailing, and scuba diving.

Sometimes you can understand exactly why you feel or behave a certain way and still find yourself repeating the same patterns. I’m Yvette Weeks, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who helps adults move beyond simply understanding what is wrong. Together, we explore the experiences, beliefs, and protective patterns influencing your life so meaningful change can become possible and sustainable.

Hello, I'm Tasfia, I'm a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with a passion to help individuals reach their personal goals. I have over 10 years experience providing individual therapy, family work and case management for children, adolescents and adults. My approach to therapy is cohesive and client-centered. I assist individuals identify their strengths and barriers through individual therapy, behavioral rehabilitation, and collateral support within a multicultural community.

Sometimes, the most profound connections are formed when someone truly listens.I’m Cintia, here not just to hear, but to deeply understand you. In a world where trauma and anxiety often drown out our inner voices, I know that beneath the spoken words, lies a heart’s true narrative. What a degree in Clinical Psychology and a seven-year journey as a therapist has allowed me to is delve deep into the realms of trauma, anxiety, and depression. While these are my primary focuses, I also bring profound insights into PTSD, intricate family dynamics, relationship challenges, and concerns faced by the LGBTQ community.

Are you struggling with your work-life balance, family unit, parent-child relationship, or other relationships? Are these conflicts bringing you overwhelming emotions and distress? Are you in need of more healthy coping skills? As a professional therapist (LMFT) of over 14 years, I strive to empower client success while being a guiding presence in a supportive and safe space. By managing anxiety and dealing with burnout in the workplace, at home, and in relationships you can involve yourself in ideas and activities that bring you to the present and guide you toward your desired future. I am currently working with individual clients 18 and over only, and not accepting couples.

I am a Doctor of Psychology and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 37 years of experience in the field. During that time, I worked on issues of domestic violence, community violence, and child abuse while on staff at several community, not-for-profit, and governmental agencies in the San Francisco Bay Area (CA). I have been in private practice for over 29 years.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I offer compassionate and professional therapeutic guidance to address problematic situations negatively impacting your overall functioning (in relationships, work, or general overall life). I have extensive experience working with adults and teens who are in crisis and need support. Focusing on brief therapy, I assist people in stabilizing their functioning and feeling better. Feel free to message me with any questions and we can create a comfortable time for your first session!

Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 14 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."

Hi, I’m Brian Mitchell. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but more importantly, I’m a dedicated partner in your healing. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma and PTSD through a lens of safety and genuine support. Whether we use EMDR, CBT, Somatic, or mindfulness, my approach is never "one size fits all"—it’s tailored entirely to your unique story. I entered this field to help marginalized voices find their strength and advocacy. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, empowered, and equipped with the tools to build a better path forward.

Healing doesn't just happen in therapy, it happens when you feel seen, challenged, and supported enough to create lasting change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I help adults and couples navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach is warm, authentic, trauma-informed, and rooted in accountability. Clients often tell me I feel like the auntie, big sister, cousin, or trusted friend who listens without judgment, tells you what you need to hear with compassion, and lovingly holds you accountable. I believe growth requires both empathy and action, so don't be surprised if you leave our sessions with practical tools, reflection exercises, or homework to continue your healing between appointments. My background spans clinical social work, crisis intervention, nonprofit leadership, community mental health, advocacy, program development, and systems change. Because of this, I understand that healing isn't just about changing your thoughts—it's also about understanding your environment, your relationships, and the systems that have shaped your experiences. Whether you're healing from trauma, processing grief, navigating a difficult season, improving your relationships, or trying to reconnect with yourself, my goal is to help you build resilience, discover your strengths, and create a life that feels more peaceful, purposeful, and authentic.

Welcome and thank you for considering me in your wellness journey. I'm Ekaete Ekpo, a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy. I bring warmth, care, compassion, and a nonjudgmental presence to our work together, tailoring therapy to your goals and the unique needs of each client. We'll build insight and practical tools.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences openly. I believe that emotional distress is a natural response to life’s challenges and that, with appropriate support, individuals can develop insight, resilience, and effective coping strategies. I am committed to working collaboratively with clients from diverse backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse individuals, and I prioritize creating an affirming and inclusive therapeutic space.

To others it may seem like you've got it all together, but on the inside you're spinning out of control. Panic randomly punches you in the chest, taking your breath away, and you can't focus on anything else other than how to make it stop. You are consumed by trying to keep up with everyone else since they seem to have it all together, but you can barely function through the day. You feel like an awful mom because you are lashing out on your kids and hating the daily monotony instead of "embracing the joy of motherhood." You feel like you are failing your partner because somewhere along this journey you just lost yourself. You want to be a better mom to your kids. And remember why you fell in love with your partner. And stop the tornado of anxiety that knocks you out on the regular. You want to stop living by the expectations of others and rediscover who you truly are. It's time to win back some peace of mind and self-worth and attract the life you want. I have the DBT and mindfulness skills, which uses both mind and body exercises that will help you manage the crippling anxiety, love yourself better, be a more present and joyful mom, improve your relationships, and attract the life you want.

Hi. My psychotherapy practice serves individual adults who feel stuck in old, negative patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior linked to childhood trauma. My perspective is that childhood trauma can have a lifelong impact on the ability of people to like, accept, and have compassion for themselves; to feel personal and social competence; to feel, express, and regulate their emotions; to be vulnerable, honest, and communicative in relationships; to take risks at work and in relationships; and to find meaning, satisfaction, and joy in life. If you have struggled for years to function in one or more of these areas due to identifiable childhood trauma, you are welcome to set up an initial appointment. The most common emotional problems connected to childhood trauma are depression, anxiety, and OCD. Prior to the appointment, it's best that we speak on the phone to determine if we are a good match.

Hello my name is Belinda Valdivia and I am a bilingual therapist licensed in California and have been working in different settings with diverse populations. Are you constantly worried about your problems and having difficulties controlling your anxious thoughts? Do you feel sad and low motivation to do the activities you once enjoyed? Have you experienced recent or past trauma that you have tried to avoid thinking about but keeps replaying in your mind? Is your child having issues managing his emotions and not sure how to help them? Having difficulties sharing how you feel with others? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help guide and empower you to meet your therapeutic goals. I have been providing for the last ten years individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults as well as family therapy. As your therapist my goal is for you to have a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings and feel that someone is listening to you without judgment. You can check out my website for more information at https://guzmanbelinda.wixsite.com/therapy-with-belinda

Hello! I’m Sandra V. Chávez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Psychological Assistant with the California Board of Psychology. I’m passionate about helping individuals grow both personally and emotionally through client-centered, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapies. As a first-generation Latina, I learned ambition, tenacity, and determination from my parents. My educational journey includes dual bachelor’s degrees in Liberal Arts and Sciences and Psychology, as well as a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I’m currently on the path to becoming a licensed psychologist. Before entering the mental health field, I worked as a nurse and briefly attended medical school in Southern California. That experience deepened my interest in understanding the brain, human development, and the impact of environmental factors on behavior. I specialize in supporting clients through mood disorders, life transitions, and self-empowerment challenges. My strengths lie in helping individuals develop emotional intelligence, identify, and understand their emotions. I believe therapy should be tailored to each person’s unique needs, which is why I use an integrative, eclectic approach that draws from evidence-based methods and holistic practices, including mindfulness and positive psychology. I also enjoy working with individuals who incorporate their faith into their mental health journey. For those open to incorporating their faith as a tool for healing, I create a safe, welcoming space where spirituality and therapy work hand in hand. Above all, I value building a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental environment where your thoughts and emotions are respected and where real progress can be made. Together, we’ll explore strategies, assignments, and tools that help you overcome life’s hurdles and achieve lasting personal growth and fulfillment. Let’s begin this journey together!

My name is Ana Maldonado and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Ventura, California. I am currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families, and specialize in anxiety, stress, and family conflict. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Strength Based Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.

My name is William Money, a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I have 8 years in the field and I love my job. I am not the person to give advice or tell you how to live your life. I will not tell you I know everything because I don’t. I will meet you wherever you are therapeutically no matter where you are in your journey. I am not judgmental and I have experience with lots of things so if you feel we are a good fit please reach out to me to schedule our first appointment.

Welcome. My name is Tannaz Talasazan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I invite you into a supportive, collaborative space where feelings are processed, thoughts are heard, perspectives are respected, and meaningful change becomes possible. Life can present challenges that feel overwhelming, especially when we don’t always have the tools to navigate them. Reaching out for therapy is a powerful first step. Together, we will identify emotional patterns, relational dynamics, and internal obstacles that may be holding you back, while working toward insight, clarity, and lasting change. Over the past 13 years of training and clinical experience, I have worked with individuals, couples, women, families, adolescents, adults, and older adults, with a focus on relationship concerns, life transitions, conflict resolution, and crisis management. I especially enjoy supporting couples in strengthening communication and connection, helping women and individuals navigate personal growth and identity, and working with older adults as they process life transitions, relationships, and meaning. My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw from Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Narrative therapies, carefully matching each approach to support insight, emotional growth, and practical change.

Welcome! I truly believe that we can all feel better. Safer in this world, stronger within ourselves, connected to ourselves and others. As a licensed MFT in CA, I am most helpful working with folks feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, fearful and uncertain. Those wanting help w emotional self-regulation, emotional connection to self and others. Those struggling with substance challenges as a way to regulate and/or get needs met. Those feeling unlovable, flawed and unworthy. Negative inner voices, rumination, distorted thoughts. My style is interactive, sensitive and direct. Let's clarify what's happening for you and why, let's create a plan with sustainable steps. This is a collaboration and no one knows you better than you! Please take the time to read my specializations/profile. Let's talk! Thank you.

Hello, thank you for coming to my web page, and I want to help you with whatever journey comes our way. I have 8 years of experience, with combined internship and as an LMFT in dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma. Being married, I believe that I can relate when married couples have struggles and they need my help with a tune-up or their restart. I empower clients to use different ways of thinking to whatever life situations come your way, by giving many different ways to solve problems, and improve communication and strive for assertiveness and self-confidence, and let go of past hurts. I strive to listen to clients at their lowest lows and highest highs and bring Christian views and values whenever possible.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than 19 years experience working with children, adults, and families, the last 10 years in Teletherapy. I received my masters degree in psychology with a focus in marriage and family therapy in 2011, and I have completed certification training to be a functional family therapy supervisor. I'm a military veteran and have worked with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as well as provided supervision to interns. I also provide cognitive processing therapy for trauma, a gold standard evidence-based psychotherapy.

Hello! I'm Michael and if you are reading this, you are likely considering therapy as an avenue to make a change in your life. This is the first step in building the life you deserve. Are you overwhelmed by your emotions? Stuck in your past? Worried about the future? Do you just feel...blah...like you can't quite put your finger on what's wrong? You are in the right place! These are questions I can help you answer. I help men and women improve emotional skills, reduce symptoms, and develop coping skills to deal with life's challenges. Together, we will create a plan that works for you. This is your life and only you know the answer. You just need a little help uncovering it. Change is scary and uncomfortable, but if you can choose to show up anyway, amazing things can happen. I realize coming to therapy can be tough and so I like to make your experience with me as safe and comfortable as possible. I hope to hear from you soon.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California with more than 15 years of experience working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and grief. I also hold a certification in the treatment of perinatal mental health disorders including mood changes during pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety. I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMH-C). My approach is collaborative and I use evidence based therapies to help you move in the direction of your goals.

Hello, my name is Christina and I am passionate about serving those who have been suffering and are looking for real solutions to their problems. I look forward to helping you meet your long and short term goals through our collaborative and therapeutic work together. I have 8+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.

As a Black clinician, I also provide a unique perspective by integrating a strong multicultural framework to fully understand your experiences, relationships and the way you navigate to the world around you. Brionne (Bri) Clemons is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in the heart of Los Angeles. Bri received her Undergraduate Degree from California State University Northridge in 2016, Majoring in Sociology: Criminology and Criminal Justice as well Minoring in Africana Studies. Bri continued her education at California State University Northridge receiving her Masters in Social Work, Class of 2018.

Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy that you reached out for help. I am Robert Nwanganga, a licensed therapist. I have been a Social Worker since 2003. I also need to let you know that I am more interested in finding out why a certain behavior is occurring than I am in demonizing you for exhibiting the behavior. I have worked with a diverse populations and I have learned that therapy has to be personal if it is to be effective. I am committed to working with you in finding what modality works with your personality and focus on your strength in dealing with the situation that brought you to us.

I’ve had the honor of working closely with children, families, and individuals healing from various forms of trauma and impacts of mental health from a cultural lens. Along the way, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the many different ways family life can shape us, sometimes in unexpected or challenging ways. I’ve worked in a variety of roles and settings, as a Director, Clinical Supervisor, across government agencies, to private and mental health centers, which has helped me see each person’s story from many angles. My approach is compassionate yet direct, down-to-earth, and tailored to you. Whether you’re looking for support for yourself, your family, or your relationships, I’m here to walk alongside you with kindness and respect. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore, heal, and grow at your own pace.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with five years of experience providing individual therapy for adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, and major life transitions. I am deeply committed to helping clients heal emotionally, build resilience, and reconnect with their sense of worth and purpose. My passion for this work is rooted in lived experience. Moving to Nigeria at the age of six, losing my father at twelve, and later experiencing the loss of my newborn taught me firsthand about grief, strength, and the importance of compassionate support. These experiences shaped both who I am and how I show up as a therapist—with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a deep respect for each client’s journey. I believe healing happens when people feel safe, understood, and empowered. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and grounded in helping clients move from feeling overwhelmed or stuck toward clarity, emotional balance, and meaningful personal growth.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California, and I help adults navigate burned out, anxiety, and life transitions. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. My approach combines evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness techniques, helping you build practical tools while also understanding the deeper patterns that keep you stuck. In our sessions, you can expect a space that is both compassionate and practical-no nodding silently for 50 minutes. I'm here to help you get back to feeling like yourself, only more grounded and resilient. I offer secure, convenient virtual therapy throughout California. Please, reach out to see if we are a good fit.

Are you stuck in conflict-with your partner, your teenager, a family member, or even within yourself? Do you find yourself questioning your worth, overthinking your relationships, or feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? You don't have to figure it out alone. Therapy can help you understand the patterns that keep you stuck and build healthier ways of connecting with yourself and the people you care about. I help teens and adults build confidence, manage anxiety, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful, lasting change. I also help parents strengthen their connection with their teens while reducing conflict at home. My approach is compassionate, relational and trauma-informed, integrating mindfulness, CBT, DBT, psychodynamic and narrative principles to support insight and healing. A bit about me...I became licensed in the state of California in 2011. Prior to that, I received a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University and a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Women’s Studies from the University of California at Berkeley. I have worked in schools, non-profit agencies, and in private practice, serving diverse populations to include children, adolescents, adult individuals, families, and couples. I look forward to connecting with you. ** También hablo español. No dude en comunicarse conmigo si necesita apoyo. Espero poder conversar con usted pronto.

You know we all deal with our issues and sometimes we cannot do it alone. It is hard to talk to a stranger but give it a try. You won't be judged but welcomed and listened to. I am here to work together with you. I am a licensed psychologist and love working with diverse clients from diverse backgrounds who are dealing with the issues like anxiety, depression, identity, relationship, and life change difficulties. As a Korean immigrant myself, I particularly have great knowledge and experience working with Asian/ Asian Americans, People of Color and immigrants. I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling, and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology.

Hello! I'm Karen Weaver. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing for over 15 years. Life can be challenging at times and we can all benefit from some support. I listen non-judgmentally and provide unbiased feedback to help you determine what needs to change. My focus in working together is to assist you in becoming your best self. That could be anything from managing anxiety and stress better, to overcoming past challenges or getting along better with family or friends. Life can be challenging but we also can find joy and growth in the tough times.

I’m a therapist who believes that meaningful change begins with feeling seen, understood, and supported. My approach is client-centered and flexible, drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities to meet you where you are and support you in a way that feels both safe and empowering. I work with individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating anxiety, life transitions, or emotional challenges. Together, we create space to process difficult emotions, identify patterns that may be holding you back, and build practical tools to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. I especially enjoy working with individuals in the perinatal and postpartum periods, as well as those navigating reproductive concerns. I also support healthcare workers and first responders who are carrying high levels of stress, responsibility, and emotional burden. With a background in healthcare, I bring an added level of understanding to the unique pressures and experiences that can impact both mental and emotional well-being. I value openness, collaboration, and growth. I work best with clients who are willing to explore themselves more deeply, are open to feedback, and have a desire to become the best version of themselves, even if they’re not quite sure what that looks like yet. My goal is to provide a space where you feel supported, challenged in a meaningful way, and empowered to create lasting, positive change in your life.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and my goal is to foster resilience, to help you reach your goals, uncover strengths, explore challenges, and create meaningful change in your life. I believe in allowing each individual to be an active participant in therapy, and my role as a therapist is to work with you by offering support, reflection, and insights to help you reach your goals. I strive to make therapy a collaborative process and believe having a strong therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of effective therapy. I recognize the importance of tailoring sessions to suit your individual needs and would love to support you in your journey if you believe we would be a good fit!

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! My name is Erica and I am so proud of you for taking this first step to mind health and wellness. I am always rooting for you and I am honored to help you through this season in your life. Whether we’re working through a tough transition or identifying steps towards a personal goal, my hope is that you walk away with a stronger sense of self compassion and self love.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who works with children, adolescents, and adults to help them navigate challenges that impact their mental health. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space where clients feel at ease sharing their thoughts and emotions. I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families in developing healthier coping strategies, fostering emotional resilience, and achieving lasting well-being. I also offer therapy in English and Spanish, tailoring the therapeutic process to each person's cultural and linguistic needs. Soy terapeuta licenciada en matrimonio y familia (LMFT) y ofrezco servicios terapéuticos a niños, adolescentes y adultos que enfrentan desafíos relacionados con su salud mental. Mi enfoque es compasivo y libre de juicios, creando un espacio seguro donde los clientes pueden expresarse con confianza. Estoy comprometida a apoyar a individuos y familias en el desarrollo de estrategias de afrontamiento saludables, fortaleciendo la resiliencia emocional y promoviendo un bienestar duradero. Además, ofrezco terapia en inglés y español, adaptando el proceso terapéutico a las necesidades culturales y lingüísticas de cada persona.

Hello, my name is Laura Preciado, I am a bilingual, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #88476) based in Los Angeles, California. providing telehealth services. I endorse a client-centered approach and meeting my clients where they are in their life journey. Every individual is unique and has his/her/their own story to tell, thus I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental setting for all of my clients. Through a collaborative therapeutic process, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths Based Approach, Problem-Solving and Mindfulness to help my clients reach their goals.

Welcome, I'm Andrea, Perhaps you've been considering reaching out for some time. Are you noticing the past affecting your current relationships, or that strategies that once worked for you no longer do? You might even find yourself dismissive of inspirational content on social media. I help people understand the origins of their communication patterns and learn how to communicate more effectively. This reduces unnecessary conflict and misunderstandings at work, home, and in relationships. Whether you're facing relationship challenges, workplace stress, the demands of parenthood, or struggling with past trauma—or a combination of these—you've found a place of support and optimism. Together, we will use your strengths, my expertise, and evidence-based techniques to help you achieve your treatment goals. Let's begin your new journey together!

"You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." -A.A. Milne We all struggle at times to see our inner strengths and capabilities due to the life experiences which have shaped us. I work in the belief that we each have everything we need to achieve a fulfilled and successful life already present within us; sometimes we just need a little help accessing it. Using a multi-modality approach I encourage my clients to work in the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring us to self awareness, acceptance, and lasting change. I began my working career as an EMT in pre-hospital and Emergency Room settings. The desire to further my education and better serve my community led me to pursue becoming an LMFT. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brandman University and a Master’s degree in Psychology with a dual emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Counseling from Brandman University. I have additional training and experience in Clinical Pastoral Education from the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy at David Grant Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base and have worked in both residential treatment and clinical settings. I have four sons and two grandchildren. In my off time I enjoy spending time in nature, photography, and attending baseball games with my husband of 25 years.

Thank you for visiting my profile. I consider myself to be a focused, inspired, compassionate, curious, solution-oriented, somatic, holistic, client-centered therapist. Providing the kind of support, understanding, and insights that give my clients the hope, motivation, and aha moments to elevate their self experience and personal healing to the next level. My intention is to provide the best and most consistent service to each person I have the privilege to meet.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 40 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship challenges. I have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence, as well as individuals navigating complex life patterns shaped by past experiences. I specialize in working with adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up as they are. I also work with couples on occasion. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I bring both professional and lived understanding to this work. My approach is warm, compassionate, and direct. I believe therapy should be both supportive and effective—while you will always be heard and understood, I also actively engage in sessions to help you move forward. I won’t let you stay stuck. Together, we’ll break challenges down into manageable steps, build practical tools, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you. I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. I often incorporate structured exercises and between-session practices to help you apply what we discuss in real life, while remaining flexible and responsive to your individual needs. Clients often appreciate that I am clear, consistent, and gently persistent—I will meet you where you are, while continuing to support and encourage your growth, even when things feel difficult or overwhelming. My goal is to help you build insight, resilience, and confidence so you can create a more stable, fulfilling, and peaceful life. I am committed to practicing with empathy, respect, and without judgment, honoring each person’s dignity and lived experience. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. Option to insert (after paragraph 2):

My therapy approach is always non judgmental, attuned, and integrates active listening as well as unconditional positive regard. In addition, my multicultural personal and professional backgrounds allow me to work with a variety of cultures. Also, I try my best to meet the client where they are and learn where it is they want to be/go in life. This allows me to assist them in accomplishing the aforementioned in compassionate, authentic, and realistic ways. I am big on psychoeducation and insight driven change and or healing. Although emotional regulation based and emotion focused therapy are integrated into my clinical style, I do not utilize them in therapy without cognitive processing, cognitive behavioral, and or acceptance based modalities as well. This is because our beliefs, automatic thoughts, perceptions of ourselves and others play a role in our mental health just as much as our emotional experiences associated with them, they are interconnected.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore what's on your mind, process challenges, and move toward growth and healing. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience - guided by your needs, your voice, and your goals. Reaching out for support takes courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you in this process.

Thank you for taking the time to review my brief profile. My name is Dr. Sara Shuffer. I hold a Doctorate in Social Work and have extensive experience in healthcare for over 25 years. I have worked with many clients dealing with end-of-life, healing from grief and loss issues, depression, cultural conflicts, intergenerational and relationship stressors, work/life balance issues, and other life stressors that can potentially affect the daily living of a person. I am humbled to meet every client who selects me as their therapist.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and dual diagnoses. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and focused on treating the whole person—I utilize evidence-based and self-empowering modalities to help clients gain insight, heal from within, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.