Therapists in California

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters from the California State University of Los Angeles and have been practicing for 8 years. I have experience treating a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relational problems, and career and/or academic stress and burnout. Together we can discover and find meaning in your unique life experiences.

My name is Isai (E-sai-EE), and I’m a Therapist based out of Southern California. I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds. My training as a social worker focuses on individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. My professional interests and specialities include working with teens, young adults, older adults, family therapy, and those who struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relationship issues, men’s issues, autism, anger management, and those with difficulty understanding/controlling big emotions. As a male therapist, I try to make my sessions feel like a conversation with a friend and offer a calm space to talk about difficult issues, a new perspective to help better understand situations, and can help you identify and understand how you might be feeling.

Hey there! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from Antioch University, Los Angeles and have been in practice for 7 years. I like to use a calm, affirming, personable communication style to encourage an emotionally safe and contained space for you to acknowledge the painful memories and emotions stuffed down as a means of survival.

I support adults, teens, couples, and families. I utilizes several theory based therapies that include, but are not limited to cognitive behavioral, narrative, solution focused, and emotionally focused. I have a direct, but compassionate style that allows her clients to explore and develop their relationship with others as well as themselves. I help to keep my client's focused on their therapeutic goals.

Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 13 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."

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in East Bay, California. I have 15 years experience working with clients, providing therapeutic counseling services. I have worked with a diverse population of clients ranging from children, teens, adults, and elders. I provide services for individuals and families assisting with issues such as depression, isolation, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds and I value genuineness and collaboration with my clients. I provide a safe and supportive holding environment that is authentic and nonjudgmental in nature. I tailor my specific approach depending on client situation, needs, and goals for therapy. As well as draw from theories such as CBT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Client Centered modalities. Growth and change are encouraged through self reflection and finding practical solutions to problems. Making a change can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you are ready to take the first step and begin the road to a new way of life, I am here to help uplift and support you! I appreciate your courage and I look forward to hearing from you!

My name is Brandon A. Sandate Rodriguez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California with four years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked with adolescents and young adults in the juvenile justice system and with adults with serious and persistent mental health concerns. In working with marginalized communities my focus is toward enhancing self-awareness by emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s culture and identity. I aim to connect deeply with my clients and build professional and supportive relationships that can provide healing and growth.

Welcome to my practice. I am a seasoned therapist and have worked in many different settings over many years. All I ever wanted to do is help people have their best lives. I practiced social work with a Bachelors degree in prisons, community agencies for the disabled, a state hospital, a state facility for people with cognitive challenges, child and family welfare work and working with folks in community care homes. I also developed and led a community program for Guardians ad Litem in child abuse and neglect cases. Then I went back to school and earned my Masters in Social Work and then my therapy credentials after many hours of supervision. I truly enjoy listening and encouraging clients to embrace strategies for wellness and self-compassion using mindfulness and compassion and strength based materials. I am actively engaged in consult groups with other therapists focusing on trans and queer issues. For several years I taught at the graduate school level in South Carolina and then Utah, teaching social work students skills for working ethically and compassionately.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with clients California wide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults while specializing in stress, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, while tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. I welcome you to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin. I’m here to provide a safe and supportive environment, where you can thrive and be yourself.

As a compassionate and affirming therapist, I strive to create a warm, accepting space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered in their unique identities. My practice is deeply rooted in trans-affirming and LGBT-inclusive care, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life are met with respect, validation, and understanding. Grounded in anti-oppressive principles and a strong commitment to social justice, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate life’s challenges while honoring their lived experiences. I believe that healing is not only personal but also deeply connected to the broader systems in which we live. My approach fosters self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, helping clients cultivate meaningful change in both their inner worlds and their communities. Whether you are exploring your identity, seeking support for life’s transitions, or working through personal struggles, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering support.

I provide psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs, using evidence-based interventions to address your mental health challenges. Whether you’re seeking traditional talk therapy or a more integrated approach, my customizable services empower you to decide the focus while I guide you every step of the way. My psychotherapy style is designed around your goals, addressing factors that may impact your mental health, such as stress, relationships, and sleep. With options like nutrition guidance, cognitive behavioral therapy for sleep, stress management tools, and collaboration with your healthcare providers, I take an integrated approach to help you achieve meaningful and lasting change.

As an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, young adults, couples and Families. Throughout my experience, I have successfully worked with individuals, couples and families to gain insight and understanding regarding unhealthy/dysfunctional behavioral life patterns, processing trauma, navigating depression, anxiety and OCD behaviors and helping clients to overcome their struggles and better manage their responses to life stressors. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, addressing mind & body. As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in a variety of evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, strengths-based therapy & psychotherapy, to help clients overcome negative thought patterns and behaviors. I want to provide clients with the tools they need for growth, as well as educating them on important concepts like trauma and emotional regulation and long-term healing. I am here to provide a safe, empathetic space where healing and growth can begin. To ensure we’re a good fit, I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation.

Hey! I'm Kylee (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I started my social work journey in 2013; however, my experience working with families started long before then. I have been working with kids and their families as a therapist since 2019. I have supported people from all walks of life with a wide range of challenges and needs due to anxiety, depression, trauma, SOGIE/LGBTQIA2S+, ADHD, Bipolar, Autism, self-harming behaviors, suicidal thoughts, anger, and many others. While I'm laid back, I’m also direct. My goal is to create a safe space for my clients to feel comfortable sharing.

Hi, I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 13 years. I graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies in expressive arts therapy. I also have lived in a Zen Buddhist temple to do residential practice for five years. My goal is to help people feel better as soon as possible. Usually by the time a person enters therapy they have been under stress that has been building for a while. I help people identify and clarify what their goals are and present interventions that I have supported people using that help them feel better.

Greetings! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm licensed to practice in Mississippi, Texas and California. I received my Masters in Social Work from Jackson State University and have been in practice for over 20 years. I help adults who struggle with burnout ,stress and poor boundaries. I love supporting adults in reclaiming balance, joy and peace in their lives.

I enjoy working with individuals, children and couples that are hoping to gain confidence in healthier communication skills. Getting to understand you and getting to know one another will help improve our relationships. This will help recognize where you are hoping to improve your qualities in daily functioning. Building an alliance with me can create a safe place to practice and process your thoughts and feelings. Being able to process your past experience will allow you to identify and process ongoing needs within your daily lifestyle. Therapeutic alliance helps individuals grow within and become aware of their own needs

I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Sierra, and I am a California-based licensed Psychologist with over 10 years of clinical experience supporting adults as they navigate life's challenges. My passion is helping people not only understand themselves more deeply, but also make lasting positive changes. I take a holistic approach to therapy that supports the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This often includes mind-body strategies such as nervous system education, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), somatic healing, and when helpful, collaboration with integrative providers like nutritionists. I also draw from additional evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while paying close attention to how stress or trauma may show up in the body. In our work together, we’ll create a personalized plan that blends insight, practical tools, and meaningful action. My goal is to provide a space where you feel truly seen and supported, and where therapy becomes not just about coping with challenges, but about moving toward the life you most want to live.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I’ve worked in hospice, school settings, and private practice over the past several years. I help individuals who are feeling anxious, stuck, or overwhelmed reconnect with themselves and build confidence from the inside out. Clients appreciate my grounded yet flexible approach—I guide each session while creating space for them to lead, which helps them feel truly seen and supported.

I am a psychotherapist, a meditation teacher, and an amateur naturalist. In my home country, I am licensed to conduct learning disability evaluations. My growing up was first-hand impacted by 3 very different languages and cultures. These cultures informed the style of my relationships and my esthetic preferences. For as long as I can remember, I have been mystified by human memory functioning, first as a scientist, then as a meditator. Having gone a long way from trying to remember everything I deemed worth remembering to a more effortless and drama-free attitude toward memory-creating moments, I am still making sense of what it means to integrate each moment of life as it comes. Approaching this subject experientially and relationally informs who I am as a practitioner and as a person. If topics like cognitive functioning, memory styles and focus make your curiosity antennas hum, this is a place for you. My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational and somewhat didactic. I love to explain everything I see and say at every step of the process. With me, you will never experience a blank screen characteristic of traditional psychoanalytic approaches (from which I draw inspiration in the realm of dream interpretation and theory).

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master’s in Counseling Psychology from National University and have been practicing for several years. I work with individuals navigating a variety of life challenges and support those managing a broad range of mental health diagnoses, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). My goal is to help each person become the best version of themselves—today and moving forward.

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

Hey there! I'm a young clinician that enjoys aiding clients through major and minor life transitions. I prefer a interactive, conversational style that allows for free flowing rapport building and client comfort through the treatment process. I know that counseling/therapy is not an easy situation to put oneself in, but if I can ease it in any way possible, that is the goal, so that we can focus on what most matters to you.

Hello, I’m Nizhu—a licensed therapist with over 8 years of clinical experience, specializing in men’s mental health, trauma recovery, and motivational interventions. My approach is grounded in strength-based and evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Multisystemic Therapy (MST), where I’m honored to rank in the top 1% of therapists globally. I work with individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, often supporting clients in breaking generational patterns, rebuilding confidence, and developing healthier coping strategies. My style is warm, collaborative, and direct—because healing doesn’t have to be stiff, and growth rarely happens in silence. Expect real conversations, grounded techniques, and the occasional well-timed joke (because, yes, therapy can be both effective and human). Outside the therapy room, I’m a committed gym enthusiast, fueled by black coffee and protein-packed meals. Tattooed and purpose-driven, I believe in showing up authentically—for my clients and myself. Whether you’re here to build resilience, process trauma, or just get unstuck, I’m here to help—one honest conversation at a time.

I’m Dr. Jordan Elaine Fink. I hold a Ph.D. in Counseling Education, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have over 10 years of experience helping people achieve meaningful life changes and rediscover hope. I am certified in evidence-based & strengths-oriented therapeutic modalities that I will draw from and tailor to your unique needs. You are not meant to carry the weight of problems alone, or struggle in isolation. You deserve safety, empathy, and connection. I will provide a non-judgmental and emotionally safe space for you to discuss your concerns and begin building the life you want. When you are ready, I am here for you. Session Rates for Cash Pay/Out-of-Pocket: Individual: $250 Couples/Family: $300

I’m Baharak, LCSW, specializing in OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative, emphasizing strategies practiced between sessions. I provide telehealth across California and in person therapy at PsychiatryOC in Newport Beach. All appointments, virtual or in-person, are scheduled through Grow Therapy’s official contact line. Please call (646) 687-9932 to schedule an appointment conveniently and securely. Book in person by calling the office: https://share.google/PzlPB9XRGP9UAlUo9

Hi, I’m Luke Lorefice, a therapist and college/career counselor dedicated to helping young adults, including neurodivergent students and those facing emotional or academic challenges, find clarity, confidence, and purpose. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University and a College Counseling Certificate from UCLA Extension. My work blends mental health expertise with practical career guidance to support individuals navigating education, employment, and life transitions. Through Grow and my private practice, Wave Point Counseling, I help clients explore meaningful paths—whether that’s higher education, a career pivot, or rediscovering a sense of direction.

Hello! I’m a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to recognizing the inherent worth of every individual, even in challenging times. Residing in a cozy cabin in the San Diego mountains, I often incorporate nature into the healing journey. I provide in-person therapy for individuals and couples around a campfire, as well as virtual sessions or a combination of both. As your clinician, I will meet you where you are, offering support without blame or judgment. While I may not have all the answers, I'm here to listen to your goals and accompany you on your path to achieving them. If you're feeling unsure about your direction, that is completely okay—we can navigate that together.

Hi! I’m a licensed therapist who believes therapy should feel like a real conversation—not a performance. I bring warmth, honesty, and a sense of humor into the room, and I work best with people who are ready to get curious about themselves—even if they’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start. Before becoming a therapist, I earned a BFA in Film & Television Production, and I especially enjoy working with creatives and folks in non-traditional careers—but ultimately, I love supporting people from all walks of life. Before shifting to telehealth, I worked in residential treatment with individuals recovering from drug and alcohol addiction—an experience that deeply shaped my compassionate, non-judgmental approach. My style is collaborative and flexible, drawing from CBT, solution-focused therapy, ACT, and person-centered methods to meet you where you are. Outside of therapy, you can usually find me hanging out with my husband and our dogs, listening to and discovering new music, making playlists, going to shows, making jewelry, passionately cheering on my favorite sports teams, or catching a movie on the big screen. I know life can feel like a lot sometimes—and I’m here to help you sort through it, at your pace, with no judgment and a little humor when it helps.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping you learn how to cultivate the life you deserve and want. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, thinking patterns, and self-limiting beliefs that create daily barriers to life fulfillment. I believe in taking a collaborative approach towards helping clients reach their goals. I hold space for you to narrate your journey without fear or judgment. I welcome your invitation to walk beside you in letting go of the things and ideas that no longer serve you. You deserve the opportunity to cultivate a better you.

I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters oof Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University.

I am a licensed mental health professional (LMFT, LPCC) with an MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology (Mumbai University), a Master of Public Health in Public Health Practice (University of Arizona), and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on Professional Clinical Counseling from Touro University. With over 20 years of experience across clinical care, mental health, healthcare management, research, program development, education, and training, I bring a multidisciplinary perspective to advancing healthcare delivery.

My work is rooted in warmth, directness, and genuine relational connection, guided by a psychodynamic and attachment-focused lens. I walk alongside individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds, drawing on thousands of hours of clinical experience. I work extensively with the lived experience of marginalization—of feeling outcast or never quite belonging—and the internal pressures of a relentless drive to improve or achieve. These are distinct yet often intertwined realities. Clients come to me sensing their struggles run deeper than surface symptoms. No matter how hard they strive, they're met with the same feelings of inadequacy, emptiness, and a deep sense of isolation – Something invisible guides these patterns. My practice focuses on navigating depression, general anxiety, ADHD/neurodivergence, and the lingering effects of childhood adversity and past trauma. What defines our work together isn't just the challenge itself, but how we address it. By attending to attachment wounds and relational trauma—those invisible forces that shape so much of our experiences—we don’t just manage symptoms; we heal the roots. This might look like untangling how early relational experiences fuel your depression or anxiety today; helping ADHD brains thrive by tending to the shame or self-doubt that often accompanies neurodivergence, while building strategies that honor your unique wiring; and transforming childhood adversity and past trauma from a weight you carry into a story you now own. What moves me most profoundly is witnessing clients rediscover the integrity of their selves—not through "fixing," but through coming home to the internal freedom that lets them envision more for their lives. Together, we’ll create space for you to believe in possibility again: to breathe easier, trust yourself, and reclaim those simple joys and wild dreams you inherently held as a child—before the world taught you that you were too much, yet not enough.

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 7+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I work with clients navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and complex family dynamics, always honoring their cultural background and personal story. Through a compassionate, client-centered approach, I help individuals build resilience, gain insight, and develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and lead more empowered lives.

Hi there! I’m Tracy Birkinbine, a Licensed Professional Counselor with two decades of experience helping people feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more like themselves again. I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and all the curveballs that life tends to throw, whether it’s a major life transition or just that nagging feeling of being stuck. I also have a special place in my heart for those dealing with infertility, adoption, and the rollercoaster of parenting (I’ve been there, in more ways than one — through infertility, adoption, biology, and stepfamily life). Clients often tell me I’m easy to talk to, down-to-earth, and real. That’s exactly what I strive for: a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can show up just as you are. I take a collaborative, practical approach to therapy using tools from CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused work, always tailored to what you need. I’m LGBTQIA+ affirming and deeply committed to inclusivity. My goal is for you to feel safe, heard, and empowered, whether we’re tackling a lifelong struggle or just trying to get through a tough season. If you’re feeling nervous about starting therapy, know that you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place!

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 to working in Oakland shelters for youth 13-21. I have 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. I have focused my professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

I am an affirmative therapist and am LGBTQIA+ allied (I myself identify as gender queer and pansexual), BLM allied, Indigenous/native allied, API allied, Latinx allied, Disability allied, Deaf allied, Vegan allied (I myself am Vegan), and polyamory allied. I specialize in serving patients suffering suicide loss at any stage of the loss. I also specialize in attachment/family systems informed individual care and CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia). I also hold particular interest and experience in serving adults with ASD, ID or DD, adult children of narcissists, those who have suffered brainwashing and those who have suffered paranormal trauma. I have years of experience in serving patients with a multitude of mental health and relational difficulties. I consider my orientation as a therapist to be first and foremost client-centered and strength-based. Although I utilize various therapeutic approaches, I chiefly consider myself to be a narrative/Rogerian therapist. This means that I work to help my patients take back the power and control over their own stories and assist them by co-authoring a narrative that truly witnesses and respects their traumas, tragedies, injustices, achievements, triumphs, milestones, strengths, and resiliency. I do this while holding empathy, congruency and unconditional positive regard as my three major tenants in the therapeutic alliance. I specialize in therapy for: adult individuals suffering depression, anxiety, interpersonal/relational difficulties, traumatic grief, suicide loss, relational and attachment traumas, victims of psychological torture/emotional abuse/brainwashing, adult children of narcissists, sufferers of paranormal traumas, military and first-responder trauma, vegans, LGBTQIA+, adults with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Intellectual Disability (ID), Developmental disabilities (DD), people struggling with life stressors, and those struggling with identity.

I’m Kourtney Carter, PhD, LCSW, CCS, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience working with individuals and couples facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, and ADHD. I integrate evidence-based therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide a compassionate, safe, and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to empower clients to build resilience, enhance emotional regulation, and live in alignment with their core values. Together, we work collaboratively toward meaningful and lasting change that supports your overall well-being and personal growth.

I’m Herschel O’Brien, a clinical counselor with extensive experience in trauma-informed, client-centered care. I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and collaborative, drawing from modalities like mindfulness, narrative therapy, and systems thinking. Whether you're facing trauma, mood instability, or life transitions, I offer a safe space where healing is possible and meaningful growth can take root. I believe in empowering clients to become the authors of their own lives, with clarity, confidence, and emotional insight.

Hi, I’m Brenda Montgomery-Telfor, LMFT. I’m a compassionate, culturally responsive therapist with a deep heart for helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s transitions, losses, and emotional challenges. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space for healing, clarity, and growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, or self-worth, I’m here to walk beside you with grace, empathy, and empowerment.

Hi, my name is Cindy Pérez, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience supporting individuals and communities through life’s challenges. I specialize in trauma-informed care, stress management, and wellness education, integrating approaches like mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered in your healing journey. I offer services in both English and Spanish.

My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.

As a **licensed marriage and family therapist** with 15 years of experience, I've had the opportunity to work with diverse clients, from individuals as young as three to adults of all ages, as well as couples and families. I began my career in substance abuse counseling and DUI classes. Over the years, I’ve specialized in **talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy**, with a focus on helping clients resolve **unresolved trauma**. I'm also trained in **Parent-Child Interaction Therapy** and can provide these services via telehealth. Most recently, I spent six years as the **Behavioral Health Program Director** for a foster agency in California. This role was incredibly rewarding and allowed me to work with children in foster care, their biological and foster parents, and adoptive families. Although I loved my work as a director, I truly missed the hands-on experience of working directly with individuals and families in a therapeutic setting, which is why I am back in private practice.

I knew when I was eleven years old that I wanted to be a therapist, and I'm grateful to do what I love. I’ve worked in the mental health field since 1999, with a break to raise my two children. For the past six years, I worked with individuals, couples and families as a provider with a group practice, and before that, I worked in non-profit mental health organizations across San Diego. My experience includes supporting individuals and couples experiencing and adjusting to a variety of life issues such as the aftermath of trauma, birth of a child, marriage, divorce, teen issues, college students, career planning, dating, parenting, co-parenting, mid-life, grief, neurodiversity, chronic mental health issues, and BIPOC community issues.

Hi, my name is Wisdom and I am a LCSW. I have 7+s years as a therapist and became licensed in 2023. I received my undergraduate degree in 2013 from UCSB and my MSW in 2018 from CSUSM. I am certified in (C-DBT) , Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I believe that trauma, that is unprocessed and/or not fully integrated, can become stored in our bodies and lead to somatic, body, and/or emotional "tor-mentors" (Schwartz, 2023). As such, I utilize Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM), such as massage therapy, acupuncture, meditation, and yoga, in therapy sessions and/or bridge outside connections to these resources. I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed clinician and apply parts work in sessions that helps illuminate segments of ourself that holds onto certain burdens. Navigating through life can be quite complicated, though whether you choose to Accept this or not can allow room for Change or continued suffering.

My inspiration to become a therapist came from my parents, who immigrated to the United States with resilience, compassion, and determination to create a better life. Watching them navigate barriers while raising 7 children and running a small business taught me perseverance, growth, and kindness. From their example, I learned that even in hardship, barriers can be broken down with humility, care, and compassion. I carry those lessons into my work, integrating my expertise in the field and real-life wisdom into my work walking alongside with clients. For over a decade, I’ve worked in advocacy and mental health, serving underprivileged and underserved communities primarily the Latinx community. I support individuals from many walks of life, including those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum challenges, PTSD, multigenerational trauma, and relationship difficulties.

Greetings! I have relished working in this field for over 30 years and my practice has only gotten better over time--as I grow. Starting off my career in the field of Addiction Medicine assisting with patients embracing their own recovery over time. Through that lens my areas of expertise expanded: finding many people had other addictive/compulsive behaviors, mental health issues, childhood trauma, (including the impact of racism, sexism and homophobia). My patients have found psychoeducation incredibly useful. There is no question in my mind regarding the power of therapy can be an extraordinary avenue for healing, self-identity development and living more intentionally versus living by default. Together we will carve out the style that works for you. Many of the people I work with work a recovery program in AA (Alcholics Anonymous/NA etc.), ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional Families)--which has accelerated their healing and assisted immeasurably in our work together. Spirituality can be a wellspring of hope and vitality in our work together. Learning to treat oneself with gentleness, humor love and respect is the practice I hope to instill within my people over time. I learned for myself when starting my journey that all I needed to be was honest, openminded and willing (HOW) and it's working!

Welcome! I'm glad you are here considering starting your therapy journey. My name is Vik and I have been a marriage and family therapist for over 9 years. My therapy style includes a focus on empowerment and skill-building to assist you with the challenges you're facing. I focus on building a safe, caring, and respectful therapeutic relationship with clients. Our therapeutic relationship is an important aspect of the work we will do together. Court-mandated services are not provided.

Congratulations on starting your journey to healing. I believe that healing is possible for everyone. My passion as a therapist is helping people discover their strength, resilience, and ability to grow through life’s challenges. Over the past several years, I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults from many different walks of life—survivors of trauma, youth in foster care, immigrant families, and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. These experiences have taught me that no two journeys are alike, and that therapy should always honor your unique story and strengths.

As a trauma-informed therapist, I specialize in supporting adults, teens, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals with overcoming stress, anxiety, burnout, life transitions and trauma, by finding tools and solutions towards becoming the best version of themselves. I tend to use a variety of client-centered approach’s such as Solution-Focused, EMDR, IFS, and CBT to support you with identifying and processing your past and how it impacts your today. Through self-compassion and reflective work, I help clients reconnect with their inner strength and reclaim their stories. Together, we work toward healing that honors your identity, resilience, and truth.