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196 therapists in California specializing in Child or Adolescent

Find a therapist in California that meets your specific needs. Book an appoin...

Kimberly Borden

(they/them)

Kimberly Borden profile image
LMFT
7 years of experience
Warm
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Virtual
As a therapist, I would be honored to join you on your journey toward healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. Let me share what I bring to the therapeutic table and how our collaboration can benefit you immensely. First and foremost, I believe in each individual's incredible resilience and potential. I am dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely. I will listen attentively and compassionately, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. Together, we will work towards unraveling your challenges and finding meaningful solutions. By embarking on this therapeutic journey with me, you can expect to: 1 - Gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your emotions, and your experiences. 2 - Develop healthier coping mechanisms and tools to manage life's challenges. 3 - Experience personal growth and self-empowerment. 4 - Cultivate more robust relationships and improve communication skills. 5 - Increase your self-confidence and self-esteem. 6 - Find inner peace, balance, and a sense of purpose. Therapy is a collaborative process, and active participation will be crucial in achieving the desired outcomes. I am committed to supporting and guiding you every step of the way, offering insights, encouragement, and practical strategies. If you feel ready to embark on this transformative journey toward healing and growth, I would be honored to be your therapist. Together, we will explore the depths of your inner world and help you discover the strength and resilience within. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want to schedule an initial session. I am here to support you on your path to well-being.

Next available: Jun 26

Michelle Young

(she/her)

Michelle Young profile image
LMFT
7 years of experience
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Virtual
Greetings! I'm Michelle, and I am so happy you are taking this step on your wellness journey. We want to live our best lives. However, things can sometimes get in the way. We often feel as though our emotions are spiraling out of control, or that we are walking on eggshells trying to avoid negative interactions with those around us. We may be struggling to cope with the effects of trauma or feelings of worry, hopelessness, or detachment. We might have a loved one who is experiencing a chronic physical or mental health condition that influences our emotional well-being. These challenges can impact us in many ways. It is not uncommon to feel stuck or overwhelmed. Sometimes we may even feel as if our very identity is defined by the problems we are facing. You may feel isolated ashamed, or unsure of how to move forward. I love joining my clients on their healing journey. I help them identify the areas in their life that are preventing them from embracing their self-worth and potential. I use storytelling and art to separate the problem from the person. Utilizing evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy will help you get to the root of the problem and develop skills to regain control. When working with children, adolescents, and teens I use my training in Play Therapy to create an experience that is relevant and engaging for younger clients. My job is to be a safe harbor while you grow during this process. I work with children, adolescents, and caregivers as they improve their sense of well-being, safety, happiness, recovery, and health. I’ve worked with many youth and caregivers who are missing out on the joy of living. My passion is helping youth and caregivers find the best parts of themselves and grow to love themselves again. Contact me today for a free consultation and we’ll get started on your journey together.

Next available: Jun 24

John Cothran

(he/him)

John Cothran profile image
LMFT
22 years of experience
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Warm
Virtual
Change is stressful and adolescence is a period of enormous change - especially so these days with the pandemic, social media, gender politics, and looming concerns about the future. Many, many teens today feel overwhelmed by pressure. Struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm, relationship problems, drugs, alcohol and academic problems is common. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that by 2021 49.5% of adolescents in the U.S. had a mental disorder, with females, LGBTQIA, and multiracial individuals at the highest risk. If you are a teen or the parent of a teen in pain and looking for a way forward, I can help. I began work as a counseling psychotherapist in 1994. Since then I've helped many adolescents, adults, couples, and parents ease their suffering and overcome problems such as these. My effectiveness as a helper comes from 1) listening carefully to understand your concerns and experience 2) non-judgementally accepting you as you are 3) knowing that you are the expert on you and planning treatment collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. 4) Providing the tools of skills training and coaching to empower you to heal and thrive For me, it's all about knowing that my clients don't need to be fixed. They need to be understood, accepted, provided with effective tools for solving their problems and trusted to overcome their difficulties in a way that works for them so they can feel better, function better and begin living life as they choose to. My approach is straightforward and built on compassion and evidence-based techniques.

Next available: Jun 24

Matthew LaCapria

Matthew LaCapria profile image
LMFT
14 years of experience
Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Virtual
Life's struggles are hard. Every day we are dealing with the stressors of relationships, responsibilities & the demands we put on ourselves. It takes a toll on us Mentally, Physically, & Emotionally. It is absolutely normal to experience symptoms of Depression &/or Anxiety when we are significantly overwhelmed. You may feel stuck & it is hard to move forward. Talking with a Therapist can help provide you with the symptom relief you need to focus on the things that matter to you the most. I have worked in clinical settings with individuals, couples & families for over 25 years. My career started with adolescents in Social Services & at Orange County Health Care Agency. I worked 2 years for Sober Living by the Sea, as a Program Therapist and 12 years at College Hospital Costa Mesa, also as a Program Therapist working with Adolescents & Adults. Within the last year, I began Interactive talk Therapy providing individuals, couples, and families Therapy in a Private Practice setting. In that time I have mastered the ability to provide the guidance, compassion, understanding & empathy necessary to assist with relieving Mental & Emotional pain & distress associated with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Relationship struggles & Childhood Issues. If you need someone to talk to please call for a free consult.

Next available: Jun 25

Carli Sterling, LMFT

(she/her)

Carli Sterling, LMFT profile image
LMFT
9 years of experience
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Virtual
Hi! My name is Carli Sterling (she/her) I am an LMFT in CA. I have a bachelors degree in psychology from UC Santa Cruz and Masters in Counseling Psychology from Palo Alto University. Trauma informed care and eating disorders are my wheelhouse. Wheelhouses? Wheel homes. Outside of therapy, I enjoy yoga, wakeboarding, producing music via GarageBand and Soundtrap; investing in stocks, cryptocurrency, and blue chip art. During the pandemic I taught myself how to change fancy watch batteries and install closetmaid systems. I have a 3 year old mini me. I work from home and she is the worst co worker I’ve ever had. Always open to consult and help in any way I can.

Next available: Jun 26

Melissa Decraene

(she/her)

Melissa Decraene profile image
LMFT
12 years of experience
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Virtual
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 11 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/school, 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.

Next available: Jun 26

Ashley Garrison

Ashley Garrison profile image
LPCC
4 years of experience
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I am based out of Los Angeles and am passionate about supporting individuals toward becoming the best version of themselves. I have been practicing since 2020 through a variety of settings such as intensive trauma therapy and private practice settings. Throughout my career I have carefully selected modalities and interventions that I have seen make big changes in people's lives.

Next available: Jun 25

Sharon Stewart

Sharon Stewart profile image
LMFT
22 years of experience
Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Virtual
The most precious you can give to yourself is a little bit of your own attention. Life can get so busy and it's easy to become distracted by daily tasks. This makes it easy to loose sight of the most important person in your life....YOU! You are the most important project that you will ever work on and I am so glad that you are here. I have over 22 years of experience in the mental health industry and I am passionate about working with clients from all different backgrounds and life paths. I have experience working with a wide variety of ages from children to adolescents and adults. I also have experience working with with a variety of mental health diagnosis. It has been a blessing to work as a School Counselor for 22+ years, and know that it has provided me with a wealth of experience in so many areas with a large variety of clients with all different needs. I strive to meet my clients where they are and am passionate about helping them work on their goals. I have particularly enjoyed helping clients manage transition, trauma, depression, grief, adjustment, anxiety and parenting. I also am passionate about working with First Responders and their families. I have been part of a First Responder family for 27+ years, which has provided me with a wealth of information as well as compassion and commitment to serve this population.

Next available: Jul 9

Xiaoting Joyce

(she/her)

Xiaoting Joyce profile image
LMFT
10 years of experience
Intelligent
Warm
Direct
Virtual
Deep within, I believe everyone holds the keys to a life of profound meaning and joy. By discerning their dreams and charting their personal journeys, my clients unlock doors to lives they cherish all the more. In the wise words of Carl Jung, 'Man's task is to become conscious of the contents that press upward from the unconscious.

Next available: Jun 24

Jeongeun Moon

(she/her)

Jeongeun Moon profile image
LCSW
5 years of experience
Warm
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Virtual
As a dedicated therapist, I am deeply committed to empowering my clients on their unique paths to healing and growth. Specializing in trauma-focused therapy, I incorporate a holistic and integrative approach, blending client-centered methods with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). My practice is founded on cultivating awareness, insights, and knowledge, aiming to facilitate positive changes in your life. At the heart of my work is the creation of a supportive and inclusive environment, tailored to embrace and address your individual needs and journey.

Next available: Jun 24

Michelle Coleman, LPCC

Michelle Coleman, LPCC profile image
LPCC
21 years of experience
Solution oriented
Empowering
Warm
Virtual
Hello! Thanks for reviewing the information for my online practice, "Coleman Counseling". My name is Mrs. Michelle Coleman. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked in the field for over 20 years. I specialize in mood disorders, adjustment disorders, & addressing life stressors. Counseling is a collaborative effort between the counselor and the client and is action oriented. Previous counseling experiences have allowed me to work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, with a host of presenting concerns. I am dedicated to working collaboratively with individuals to help them bring about positive changes in their lives. I use solution-focused and cognitive behavioral techniques to assist with concerns. Solution-focused techniques work well for individuals who present to reduce or relieve their symptoms. Cognitive therapy works best for individuals who have issues related to negative and unsuccessful patterns of behavior and make plans to change those patterns. My goal is to assist individuals with applying these strategies to their current goals and plan of action for change.

Next available: Jul 1

Brendan Kearns

(he/him)

Brendan Kearns profile image
LCSW
14 years of experience
Open-minded
Authentic
Intelligent
Virtual
For those who struggle with decision-regret and anxiety around making the perfect choice, picking a therapist is three steps into the therapy already - if you're here reading this and that's you, I commend you as your therapy has already begun. Anxious and seemingly uncontrollable thoughts, "imposter syndrome", endless struggles to be perfect, only to be met with guilt and regret; all uncomfortable things that we humans try to avoid and control, yet all of that avoiding and controlling just doesn't seem to do any good. You're here to learn better ways to manage these experiences, and that's where I can help. I leverage 14 years of clinical experience as an adjunct professor in clinical social work and as a therapist in the public and private sectors in Canada, the US and Australia to assist my clients. I am a well traveled surfer, climber, author, entrepenuer, and musician and I enjoy spending time in my backyard that is the central coast of California, exploring all that it has to offer.

Next available: Jun 24

Sandra Nunez

(she/her)

Sandra Nunez profile image
LMFT
13 years of experience
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Virtual
Hello my name is Sandra Nunez, and I provide intuitive psychotherapy services to individual, children, couples, and families in need of counseling. People search for therapy for various reasons. Most often these reasons include feelings of sadness, experiencing difficulties adjusting to life changes, difficulties dealing with chronic physical pain, emotional pain, trauma, depression, anger, and anxieties. Perhaps you are trying to heal from a difficult relationship breakup, leaving you feeling sad and defeated. It could be that you are a part of a newly formed blended family, living together for the first time, and instead of joy you are experiencing chaos. You may be seeking help, because your spouse has received orders for yet another deployment with the military. Having to say goodbye once again, leaves you feeling frustrated, anxious and sad. Often people come to therapy due to grief and loss. People dealing with difficult life changes, may experience a range of negative emotions, from sadness, anxiety to anger. These feelings often manifest as stress, which may cause further strain in personal relationships or affect one’s quality of life. Guiding Hope Individual and Family Therapy in San Diego, California is a private online practice owned by a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Doctorate in Behavioral Health, serving clients in the State of California and Colorado.

Next available: Jun 24

Derrick Wright

(he/him)

Derrick Wright profile image
LCSW
5 years of experience
Challenging
Warm
Virtual
Hello, I am licensed in California, Illinois, and Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping teens, adults, couples, families, veterans, and military personnel with stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of shame, blame, or judgment. You are encouraged to take the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, it takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Professional experience and additional areas of focus: Adoption and Foster Care, Cancer, Caregiver Issues and Stress, Communication Problems, Control Issues, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Family Problems, Forgiveness, Hospice and End of Life Counseling, Impulsivity, Men's Issues, Military and Veterans Issues, Mood Disorders, Multicultural Concerns, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks, Post-traumatic Stress, Self-Harm, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Sexuality, Young Adult Issues Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy

Next available: Jun 24

Marisol Cendejas, LCSW

(she/her)

Marisol Cendejas, LCSW profile image
LCSW
6 years of experience
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Virtual
Deciding to begin therapy is the first step in a life changing decision. Welcome, my name is Marisol Cendejas , I am a bilingual therapist who cares about creating safer spaces to empower mental health and wellness in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color), and all communities. As a therapist who shares a similar background, I can understand your unique personal and professional experiences, family dynamics, and/or the stigmas against mental health in our community and culture. Have you noticed that you are often sad, worried, or irritable? Is it impacting your relationships with your partner or family? Changes in mood can be brought upon in many situations including life changes or stressors, maybe recent trauma or a past trauma that is now coming to surface. As your therapist, my goal is to provide a safe place for personal growth and healing and will provide you with specific tools to help you manage your thoughts and feelings in a new way so that you can claim your life back.

Next available: Jun 26

Denise Kalar

Denise Kalar profile image
LMFT
5 years of experience
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Virtual
Hi! I am glad you are here and know the first step is the most important. I look forward to meeting you and starting this journey with you. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), skilled in assessing the needs of my clients and using different approaches based on each individual. I have experience working in schools, private practice, trauma centers, and community-based outpatients. I received a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies (education) and a minor in peacemaking and conflict, as well as a Master of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling from National University in San Diego.--

Next available: Jun 24

Brad Davis

Brad Davis profile image
LMFT
11 years of experience
Authentic
Direct
Warm
Virtual
This is my third decade providing mental health services and interventions. My approach is genuine and authentic, warm and welcoming. I hope to help others appreciate what is sometimes the absurdity and incongruity of life's situations. For me, Grow is secondary employment and I continue practice in a county mental health plan delivering complex interventions for youth and families. I am a clinical supervisor and lead several teams providing intensive community based interventions, outreach, and supports. I offer my time in the evenings.

Next available: Jul 3

Uchechi Alozie

(she/her)

Uchechi Alozie profile image
LCSW
12 years of experience
Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering
Virtual
My name is Uchechi Alozie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is seeing my client within their environment and not just the issues they are presenting. My approach is trying to aid my clients holistically. I have worked with family units for more than 10 years. And have worked with individuals with chronic mental illness for 6 years. I am used to working with families with different dynamics. I have a background in child welfare services, so I am very familiar with the trauma that comes from familial interpersonal relationships. I have worked in an inpatient psychiatric setting, working with individuals suffering from debilitating chronic mental illness.

Next available: Jun 24

Norman Severe

(he/him)

Norman Severe profile image
PsyD
25 years of experience
Warm
Holistic
Challenging
Virtual
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in the local San Diego community for over 20 years. For the past 22 years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I believe everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up. I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in children and adolescents as well as adults who have experienced trauma related to abuse, car accidents and/or witnessing and being exposed to life-threatening situations. I also specialize in treating individuals who identify as Neurodivergent and/or have specific learning differences.

Next available: Jul 5

Michelle Ramos

Michelle Ramos profile image
LMFT
12 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and received my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco. I work with all age groups, though my primary focus for the last ten years has been children and adolescents. If you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, going through a transition or at a crossroads, I can help guide you to finding more clarity and lessen any burden you are carrying.

Next available: Jun 25

James McLaughlin

(he/him)

James McLaughlin profile image
LMFT
6 years of experience
Solution oriented
Warm
Direct
Virtual
Hi! I'm James McLaughlin, I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. Located in the city of Sacramento. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are looking for help navigating the challenges of life. I focus on getting to the core of what may be getting in the way of fulfillment and work actively and collaboratively to re-write your life story. I'm warm and welcoming. I believe everyone deserves compassion and a helping hand. I can also be direct and challenging. My goal is to create an environment to encourage growth and change. After working a career in sales and marketing, I pursued a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and became licensed as a Marriage & Family Therapist. Since then, I've helped populations cope with life's challenges such as trauma, addiction, grief, depression, and anxiety. My specialty is in helping people take control of the narratives of their own lives, to write the future they want to tell. In my spare time, I can usually be found running, wine tasting with my wife Sarah, and playing with my dog Noah.

Next available: Jun 25

Ermelinda Garza

Ermelinda Garza profile image
LMFT
10 years of experience
Solution oriented
Warm
Holistic
Virtual
Hello, I’m Ermelinda. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 10+ years of experience in providing therapy to adults, children, adolescents, and couples. Do you feel stuck, tired, and not being able to function in your daily life? Are you struggling to balance work, relationships, and life? Many times, we experience loss, grief, anxiety, stress, and depression. I look forward to helping you in your journey to healing. Life is hard and sometimes all you need is just a push. We will work together to explore how to get your life back on track. Don’t wait any longer it’s time to put yourself first! I utilize mindfulness, coping skills, meditation, and relaxation to help build a stronger you. This will be a safe place for healing and growing. In our sessions together, I will meet you where you are. I will greet you with compassion, respect, and understanding. You will be provided with evidence-based therapy practices so you can learn new ways of coping. Therapy is a journey, you drive the car through your journey. I would be horned to assist you in your journey.

Next available: Jun 26

Emmanuel Akuamoah, MSW, LCSW, MBA

(he/him)

Emmanuel Akuamoah, MSW, LCSW, MBA profile image
LCSW
22 years of experience
Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Virtual
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years of experience in psychotherapy. I hold a Master's degree in Social Work and dual MBAs in Finance and Cybersecurity. Based in California, my practice has been enriched by my extensive travels and a deep appreciation for nature and hiking. I have had the privilege of working with a diverse population, providing tailored psychotherapy to meet a wide range of mental health needs. My approach is informed by a blend of professional expertise and personal insights, aiming to offer compassionate, effective care to each of my clients.

Next available: Jun 24

Joshua Turov

(he/him)

Joshua Turov profile image
LMFT
18 years of experience
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct
Virtual
I believe that therapy can heal, but I also know that telling a stranger about your deepest pain can be a strange feeling. Perhaps you've been feeling sad, depressed or worried, and hopeless that anything in your life can change. Or maybe you aren't sure what you would even want help with. You know you feel bad, but if someone were to ask you "How can I help?", you aren't sure what you would say. These problems can feel permanent and unsolvable. After all, something feels broken and unfixable, so how could you not feel that it takes all the energy you have just to get up in the morning and go about your day? Depression or anxiety can also feel isolating, as if nobody else could possibly understand. You may have even received advice from people who you feel mean well but can't understand what you're going through. Depression and anxiety are not permanent or unfixable, and therapy can help. Imagine feeling peace of mind, and excited about life and its possibilities. It starts by learning about you and going at your pace. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 16 years experience working with adults and teens, I've seen therapy work, and I feel lucky that I get to be part of that journey for others.

Next available: Jun 24

Cassandra Mejia-Lee

(she/her)

Cassandra Mejia-Lee profile image
LCSW
9 years of experience
Direct
Intelligent
Virtual
Hola! I'm a biracial and bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have 9 years experience in the social work field. I have experience as an intensive therapist providing psychotherapy for those struggling with serious mental health conditions /Caregiver burnout/suicidal ideation/trauma/ anxiety/depression/grief & loss/life transitions/discrimination/self-harming behaviors/& stress. I support adolescents and adults rediscover themselves, own their self-worth, and use their strengths to become not only the best versions of themselves, but feel better so they can enjoy life again. I’m excited to support you on your journey, whether this is your first time with therapy or returning!

Next available: Jun 24

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