Therapists in California

I enjoy working with adults who struggle with anger management. It's important to identify and understand the root cause of anger . Often, clients discover that hurt, shame, fear, embarrassment or loss are the triggers to unresolved anger. The good news is this can be solved, allowing clients to live more healthy, nurturing and fulfilled lives. I use a strength based, skill driven, cognitive approach that is backed by research. Focus is given on identifying and eliminating thinking patterns that lead to unwanted aggressive behavior, homework assignments are provided to track daily thoughts and emotions and communication skills are taught to help you say what you mean - in a meaningful way.

Hello! I’m Cynthia Valenzuela, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I specialize in supporting young adults as they navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, major life transitions, career stress, and complex family dynamics. My goal is to create a space in which you feel safe, seen, and heard to start your journey towards healing and self-discovery. My approach blends evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based strategies, all while honoring your lived experiences and cultural identity. Therapy with me is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in trust. Together, we’ll explore your story, uncover the patterns that may be holding you back, and develop practical tools to help you move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and connection to yourself.

Seeking help takes courage and I am here to provide a safe, welcoming space that encourages healing and positive change. I am a licensed Marrage and Family thearpist that works with individuals dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, and disruptive behavior/parenting concerns. I am currently licensed in California, and Virginia. For the past 17 years I have been providing individual counseling to children and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationsip issues. I have also been working with family with parenting issues including supporting a neurodiverse child, working with neurodiversity affirming parenting methods, behavioral concerns, ADHD, eating disorders, and family separation. I use variety of techiniques depending on your needs, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, and motivational interviewing.

Hi, I am Yeny! I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist, Latina (ablo espanol). I have worked in the communities of Los Angeles for 20 years, with different socio-economic status and age groups from as young as 3 years to end of life. I am a passionate, compassionate psychotherapist, counselor and life coach who wants to empower people in their journey of becoming a better version of themselves. In a safe space that will navigate with clients the areas of depression, self-esteem, culture, family, and relationships.

Hello! My name is Jessica Canada-Rudolph and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I received my Master's degree from Alliant University and have been practicing for 5 years. I love what I do! I am here to help with things from decreasing anxiety symptoms to improving communication. As an LMFT, I can be a neutral ear to listen with compassion and help you discover your solutions!

I'm so glad you found your way here. Seeking treatment is an indication of being ready for change and having a new experience of life. I'm an insight oriented therapist meaning I assist clients in illuminating their inner workings and wounds that have created struggles in their lives. I work at a level of healing and empowering with the intention to offer guidance rather than to instruct. You are the expert of your life. Together we take a look at what needs to be addressed and resolved then move into recognizing one's own strengths, value, and worth. This allows individuals to move into greater appreciation and acceptance of self. I have worked for several years with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a strong focus on personal acceptance, self-compassion, and resolution of internal conflicts based in trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship strain, or lack of direction and focus in one’s life. I specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. Having been in recovery for 10 years myself, I understand the journey of ending the cycle of self destruction and moving to a place of healing and greater peace.

I am a licensed clinical social worker based in California with extensive experience providing mental health support to youth in the school system, foster adolescents, and young adults. In recent years, I’ve specialized in helping young adults navigate the emotional and psychological barriers to pursuing higher education and career goals. Through therapeutic interventions, I focus on building self-esteem, addressing anxiety, and fostering the motivation needed to achieve their aspirations.

Hello! I'm Jennifer, a License Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master degree from the University of Southern California 9 years ago and have been in the social work field for almost 15 years. While I have worked with a range of ages, from school age to older adults, my focus for the last 9 years has been dedicated to Adults and Geriatrics. Over the years I have committed to supporting Adults navigate the many different chapters of life, including end of life.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Master's Degree from California State University, Fullerton and I have been practicing for over 10 years. I have experience working in community mental health, schools, private practice and in the hospital setting. I love working with different communities and I have experience serving different ages and demographics. I know the courage it takes to seek help and I want you to know that you are in the right place and you do not need to go through it alone. I've had the privilege to support individuals who have faced challenges with depression, anxiety, loss, transitions in life and among other challenges guiding them on their journey of healing and living a more fullfilling life. I am a huge believer that therapy can help heal and empower.

Hi. I'm an old white lady with years of experience living on this earth. I want to share what I've learned with you and assist you to recover from trauma, abuse, and attachment dysregulation. I'm culturally competent and have specific experience working with people who are first-generation Americans who are walking the line between two cultures, learning how to integrate all their parts into a cohesive whole.

As a therapist, I am committed to helping you have healthier, more balanced, harmonious lives and relationships. My therapy approach includes traditional and holistic healing techniques that involve mind, body, heart and spirit as well as things unseen. My years of experience in community mental health include individual, child, couples, co-parenting and family therapy. I am able to relate well to many different cultural, ethnic, socio-economic groups. With an M.A. in transpersonal psychology and an M.B.A. from University of Chicago plus 25 years of corporate experience, I use a broad range of skills to help my clients explore their needs and goals. As a certified yoga and meditation teacher, many of my clients have learned mindfulness techniques that enhance their recovery. All of us need confidential support for different things at times. My job is to compassionately support you in what you need, with your values, to have the life that you want.

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Santa Monica. I received my masters degree from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for the past 5 years in community mental health. I feel it is important to create a safe, judgement free environment where clients can openly share experiences and address intimate details of life.

I am Wes Hardcastle-Orr a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the State of California. I have lived in many states and several countries overseas in my work with active-duty personnel and veterans. I practice a type of CBT called Rational Emotive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This therapy works well for a broad range of problems and difficulties. Common issues I work with include Depression, Anxiety, Alcohol and Cannabis Use Disorders and Work or Personal Stress and much more.

My name is Aarti and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am of South Asian (Indian, Desi) descent and a first-generation college graduate. A little bit about my journey to becoming a therapist started with my own mental health journey and finding a therapist who understood the South Asian culture and how it contradicted the American culture. I was always described as a “helper” and always felt a sense of fulfillment when helping others. Becoming a therapist for me was a way to make a positive impact on individuals and communities as well as empower them to know it is OKAY to be NOT OKAY.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who had been seeing Clt for over 10 years for individual, couples and family issues. I've got my education from Pepperdine University. I enjoy working on helping you to achieve your goals in life, decrease your stress and improve your self-esteem. I've been very successful in helping Clts to eliminate their feelings of depression, anxiety, fears, uncertainties related to struggles in the relationships and also helping families to have significantly better understanding of each other.

Coy is a licensed psychotherapist with a decade history of working with survivors of combat trauma & sexual trauma, couples, grieving families, military, law-enforcement/ first responders, and coaches & athletes. Coy is also a Purple Heart recipient Marine Veteran with multiple combat tours. He has first-hand experience with what most people are going through. NOTE: Unfortunately, my caseload is full for COUPLES THERAPY and I only conduct this in-person.

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

Hi i am Aimee a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in the San Diego area. I enjoy working with 16 and up and specialize in LGBTQ+, prenatal and postpartum, women’s issues and grief issues. I like to help see pregnant and new mom’s achieving the most out this time and find ways to feel less anxiety and depressed and more fulfilled. For people in the LGBTQ+ community i have specialized in gender health issues since 2014 and have always been an ally. During Covid I decided to increase my skill and knowledge with assisting people moving through grief and took a few seminars focusing on grief work with David Kessler.

Hello! I'm Cassie Ueberrhein. I commend and honor your interest in therapy. I aim to provide support, guidance and clinical insights to uphold the ways in which you wish to grow. It is important to me to facilitate a therapeutic environment that is safe and free from judgement. Decreasing stigma around mental illness as well as suicide prevention and LGBTQ+ rights are important causes to me as an individual. I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I have in-depth training on LGBTQ+ treatment and I continue to humbly learn more.

Mo Kim is a licensed therapist based in Los Angeles County, California. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, job stress, life transitions, men’s issues, and supporting Asian clients. Through active listening and personalized guidance, Mo utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy, to help clients overcome personal challenges and achieve meaningful growth. Mo is passionate about supporting individuals in reaching emotional well-being. He provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore emotions, fostering an environment of compassion, warmth, and humor where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Mo offers online therapy sessions with availability most weekdays from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Therapy can be a unique opportunity to work through and resolve obstacles that are preventing you from leading the life you truly deserve. I provide a safe and supportive space to facilitate emotional well-being, healing and growth. I utilize an interactive approach and will challenge you when needed. Therapy can be short-term or long-term depending on your specific needs. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of speciality include anxiety, complex traumas and chronic pain.

As a trauma-informed therapist, I am a compassionate advocate for healing and growth. With a background deeply rooted in understanding the profound impact of trauma, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, drawing from a diverse range of evidence-based modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Through a lens of empathy and validation, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery, empowering them to navigate the complexities of their experiences. I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing space where healing can unfold organically. Specializing in trauma-informed care, I am committed to fostering resilience and supporting individuals in reclaiming their narratives. If you are ready to embark on a transformative path towards healing, I am here to provide the guidance and support you need.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I am a passionate and results-driven professional dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals through personalized support and expert guidance. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I am committed to providing inclusive and culturally sensitive care. My goal is to give a voice to the voiceless and ensure every client feels seen, heard, and empowered. *If you don’t see a time that works for you please feel free to message me :)

I am a dedicated psychotherapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, improve emotional well-being, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, or life transitions, I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights to create lasting change and live a more fulfilling life.

Welcome! I’m Jenni Carlsen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in the Bay Area in California. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and have a passion for helping adults overcome anxiety and depression. My approach is personalized and rooted in the latest research, designed to help you gain the tools and confidence to face life’s challenges. I appreciate you taking the time to learn more about my services and how I can assist in your journey to mental health. In addition to CBT and DBT, I integrate Gestalt and Humanistic-based approaches to foster self-awareness, self-acceptance, and authentic connections. This holistic perspective allows for deep healing and personal growth, ensuring that therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client. Whether working with individuals seeking personal growth or couples striving for healthier communication and stronger relationships, I believe that a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and goals is essential. Through the development of collaborative goals, I will work alongside you to develop practical strategies for change while also nurturing inner strength and resilience.

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.

Greetings. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I am a graduate of California Baptist University and I have 25 years experience and licensed 18 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. However for approximately the past seven (8) years I am working with adults only; ages 18-65. I assist them with acknowledging challenges they are facing and learning new ways of coping.

I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my approach is rooted in warmth, empathy, and respect for each client’s unique experience. I aim to create a supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. I use an integrative approach, blending CBT, ACT, CPT, and Exposure Therapy. These evidence-based methods help address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, fostering resilience and personal growth.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in Northern California for 20+ years. I believe everyone has inner wisdom that is often difficult to access when we have dealt with trauma, fear, shaming and abuse. My goal is to help clients access the parts of themselves that they feel disconnected from or would like to develop further. I believe very strongly that healing and change are possible at any age! I like to teach skills that help with finding the strong parts of each person, that may have been suppressed or cut off, due to life circumstances.

Hi there, I'm Ollie! As I am aware that the process of searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, I would like to commend you for taking this first step. I specialize in working with individuals who are finding themselves in a tough spot or difficult transition in life. Work stress, breakups, grief, or other life stressors can all be the catalyst to seeking a safe and supportive environment to explore more about ourselves and learn more adaptive ways of coping. That's why I'm here! I meet individuals and couples where they are at and help facilitate an environment to heal and grow. I also integrate mindfulness, somatic work and art therapy, as each unique individual benefits from different modalities of therapy. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making a brave and vulnerable choice. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Hello there, I'm Heather, it's so nice to connect! I've been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2012 and love the work that I do! I offer remote sessions to people in California, Arizona, Oregon and Washington. Originally from California myself, I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of CA at Santa Barbara, and my Masters Degree from San Francisco State University. I especially love helping adults live with more intention, awareness and self-compassion. I can't wait to meet you!

I am a dedicated Licensed Professional in Private Practice in the Los Angeles area, with over 20 years of direct counseling experience. I provide high-quality services aimed at helping clients achieve a balanced perspective on their mental health. My goal is to assist clients in developing the skills needed to maintain emotional well-being through life's challenges. Ultimately, my primary aim is to enhance the overall well-being and mental health of my clients.

Thank you for taking a moment to connect with me. My name is Shohreh, but you can call me Sho. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I genuinely care about helping people navigate their unique journeys toward healing and self-discovery. I understand that life can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost or unsure about the next steps. I want you to know that you’re not alone in this experience. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you, guiding you as you reclaim your true self. My approach to therapy is holistic, recognizing the connection between the soul, body, and mind. I incorporate various techniques, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR for trauma, brainspotting, mindfulness, motivational therapy, psychoeducation, and client-centered therapy. Each session is tailored to your individual needs, ensuring that you feel heard and understood. You deserve a life filled with harmony and joy. I want to hear your story, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your journey to a brighter future can begin today. * Currently not accepting couples * Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #129882 Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor #14134

Your life is changing and you’re not sure why you’re not handling it better. In my work with clients, I’ve seen that even good changes can make usually well-adjusted people struggle with day-to-day stress that didn’t seem to be a challenge in the past. I’ve worked with people who struggle with communicating emotions, prioritizing themselves, or feeling like their best is not good enough. If you feel like you can identify with those experiences and are not sure how to change things, I’d love to work with you.

I am Brandy Stewart, a licensed clinical social worker in California with 19 years of clinical experience serving children, adolescents, transition age youth, adults and families. I help individuals who struggle with managing relationship issues resolve interpersonal conflicts to promote healthy overall functioning. I also help people manage emotional distress and conflict, as they heal from the past, in order to achieve a greater wellbeing.

Hi, I’m Danielle, a psychotherapist with over 8 years of experience. I hold a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a touch of humor—because healing doesn’t always have to feel so heavy. I blend evidence-based techniques with a personalized, down-to-earth style to ensure therapy feels like a collaborative and empowering journey.

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

My name is Jesse and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master’s degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and have been in the mental health field since 2008. I understand that life can be challenging, as everyone balances different roles and responsibilities. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand your struggles and empower you to overcome them.

Hello/Hola, I'm Jessica Reyes-Feliscian, a bilingual (Spanish Speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to helping individuals overcome self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression and stress, process grief; navigate life transitions. My goal is to empower you to develop healthy coping strategies, find inner strength, and foster a deeper understanding of yourself. I offer a safe, compassionate, and collaborative space where you can grow and heal. I look forward to joining you on your journey to self-discovery and emotional well-being.

Hello, I am Luis Martinez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have been serving my community helping families and individuals for over 8 years. Whether it's helping people with simple day to day stressors or deeper rooted concerns, there's an approach and solution to the problem. Together we can focus on building strengths and help facilitate positive change to help empower you moving forward in your life.

It can be hard to know where to turn for help when you start to recognize that something is off in your life. My goal as a therapist is to help you get to the source of your distress and start seeing positive change. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Utah, California, Idaho, Nevada, and Montana and have been providing therapy services for over 6 years to children ages 5 and up, adolescents, and adults. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with a range of difficult issues. I am very client-centered in my approach, letting you lead the way in determining your goals and direction, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities depending on your individual needs. I am intimately familiar with the devastating impact that abuse and other adverse experiences can have on your life. Your sense of safety, trust in others, core beliefs, and even your faith can be shaken and may even seem to be destroyed. I have been trained and certified in trauma treatment in order to effectively help you overcome these experiences. My other areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, foster care/adoption issues, addictive behaviors, self-harm, self-esteem, stress management, domestic violence (perpetrators and victims), relationships, anger management, and sexual abuse. If you are struggling to move forward in your life, I would consider it a privilege to assist you with your unique healing process.

Hello, my name is Derek Nunn and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California. My approach to our collaboration is a solution-focused therapeutic approach revolving around you being the expert with your desired outcomes and my use of specific questions to help identify and amplify strengths, skills, and resources moving you in the direction of your preferred future. Each session is driven by you as we will address your best hopes for each conversation to encourage a respectful collaboration between the two of us. We will also explore increasing psychological flexibility utilizing skills from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I have worked with diverse populations in varying settings and programs such as schools, community mental health programs, crisis intervention team programs, and outpatient settings providing individual and group services to clients ages 8-75 both face-to-face and on telehealth platforms. Currently, I have availability to work with individuals ages 18 and older through telehealth only. After working in the fire service for 14 years and recognizing the need to bridge the gap between public safety and mental health services, I transitioned into the mental health field in 2014 and discovered passion for helping people of various ages and health needs. Therapeutically, I have gravitated towards solution-focused therapy blended with acceptance and commitment therapeutic work, mainly because of the drive I have to maintain hope for others, ingrained in me from my fire service career. If you are looking for court mandated counseling, seeking letters for emotional support animals, work disability, custody, or other court related services, I do not provide those services, and refer individuals to other providers having those services as their specialties. I am looking forward to working with you to build solutions towards your preferred future.

Hi! I’m Marilu Lemos, a therapist with an eclectic approach who frequently uses CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused techniques. I’m passionate about tailoring therapy to each client’s unique needs to help them overcome challenges and achieve lasting positive change. My style is collaborative, compassionate, and empowering—I aim to create a safe space where clients feel truly heard, supported, and encouraged to grow. I believe that healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship and a willingness to explore what’s getting in the way of living life fully. I work with clients to build insight, develop coping strategies, and take meaningful steps toward their goals. I’m excited about the opportunity to join Grow Therapy and to support clients on their healing journeys with care, respect, and accountability.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I earned a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology from JFK University. I have 15 years of experience helping individuals cope with the challenges they face in their lives. I have a specialty in treating individuals struggling with alcohol and substance use. I also have been trained in Brainspotting techniques that reduce the effect traumas and other upsetting life events have on a person's ability to find the happiness they want from life.

Reaching out for help takes courage, and you are taking a step towards healing. Although this decision is brave, it can also be overwhelming. Life is full of situations that can leave you with sadness, anxiety, depression, or simply feeling lost and hopeless. Struggling with mental health can feel lonely and isolating. Working together with a therapist CAN change that. I find it meaningful to help clients better understand their inherent value and self-worth. In this way, while building a mutual understanding, we can find the best pace for you to take steps that can lead to growth. I am here to support you, to hear you, and to help you. I believe in a client-centered approach, meaning you are the expert on your life and I am here to help you.

Hello! I’m Gloria, a Filipina licensed clinical psychologist originally from Guam, now based in the Bay Area, CA. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, and multicultural concerns, areas that continue to guide my work today. My clinical experience includes working in a variety of settings, where I’ve supported clients through identity exploration, emotional challenges, and major life transitions. I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, and tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. Before becoming a psychologist, I spent eight years as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a memory care unit, supporting individuals with dementia and their families. That experience shaped my understanding of caregiver stress and inspired my doctoral dissertation, which focused on the emotional impact of caregiving. It also deepened my belief that self-care and balance aren’t luxuries, they’re essential to our well-being. At the core of my work is the belief that therapy should be a safe, inclusive, and empowering space, one where your full self is welcomed and affirmed. I bring a deep commitment to cultural sensitivity, authenticity, and compassion, drawing from both my professional training and lived experience. Therapy with me is not just about managing challenges, it’s about growth, healing, and creating a life that feels true to you. I look forward to walking alongside you on that journey.

Are you looking for a provider who specializes in working with young children who display difficult-to-manage behaviors? Are you desiring a stronger and more positive relationship with your child? Does your child struggle behaviorally or show difficulty adjusting to the birth or presence of a new sibling? Early intervention is essential to helping young minds thrive, and it’s not too late to get the help your family needs. If your child is displaying temper tantrums, depression, anxiety, clinginess, hyperactivity, impulsivity, aggression, defiance, or any other challenging behaviors, then seeking professional help may be a great next-step for you and your family. Disruptive behaviors can lead to familial/ marital distress, increased parental distress, and can negatively impact a child’s ability to learn and develop meaningful connections with others. Our team also includes professionals who are trained in addressing issues related to maternal and paternal mental health, postpartum complications, birth trauma, and mental health challenges experienced throughout the perinatal period.

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

I believe healing can be found in a variety of ways that are unique to each of us. Our identities, experiences, and stories shape who we are. I believe it is monumental to learn how all of our pieces intersect to create our authentic self. By understanding these, healing can be transformative. I believe social justice work is a requirement for therapists. I believe you have a right to know about who you work with morally, ethically, and politically. I am progressive leaning and do what I can to support human rights and the social justice movements. As a white therapist, I believe it is a requirement for me to be engaged in social justice work along with consistent learning experiences. By providing guidance, support, safety, and empowerment my main goals are to enhance the healing process and promote thriving. I want to create the safest space I can to support connection with your whole, authentic self. In my sessions, I promote self-discovery, transformation, and self-compassion. I use techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems). I believe using trauma centered, intersectional feminist, social justice, CRT, and Queer Theory perspectives are fundamental in therapy.

Hello there.....My name is Maria Paola Cortes Elser, I was born in Colombia and have been living in the USA for 23 years now, and as an immigrant, I confronted different situations that helped me to grow personally, and spiritually and understand how special it is to be from somewhere else and become part of this extraordinary country. I understand the challenges that come from this transition from different land to America and all the life experiences that those changes include, mentally culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Santo Tomas De Aquino University in Bogota Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University in the USA. I have been working in this field for 10 years, and I have experience with DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to help and support individuals and families who struggle with relationships, and Mental illnesses through faith and professional clinical counseling.