Therapists in California

Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.

I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and grounded in evidence-based practices such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, attachment-based work, and mindfulness. I strive to create a safe space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful, lasting changes in their lives.

I am a licensed bilingual psychologist (Khmer and English) with a passion for helping people explore themselves deeply, understand their relationships, and grow into their fullest potential. My approach blends humanistic, insight-oriented, and experiential therapies, including talk therapy, drama therapy, play, and expressive arts. I create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients can slow down, reflect, and explore who they truly are. I work with immigrants, BIPOC individuals, and anyone navigating identity, transition, cultural stress, or existential anxiety as well as people seeking deeper self-understanding and meaningful growth. Many of my clients come looking for ways to process difficult experiences, explore relationships creatively, or develop resilience in the face of challenges. I work with people with various backgrounds ranging from college students to mental health worker themselves. My approach is deeply shaped by my own experiences growing up in Cambodia. As my parents taught me and my siblings: “It is not the world of survival of the fittest, but the world where you always need to be a little kinder than necessary.” Like many Cambodian families, ours lived through the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge, facing loss, suffering, and hardship. Yet my parents always found ways to give, even when resources were scarce. Their example of kindness and generosity became a core teaching in my life, and it now guides my work as a therapist. Practicing kindness, compassion ,deep listening, presence, cultural humility, and sensitivity is central to how I support clients. I believe most of us are doing the best we can, and when we cannot see that in ourselves or others, life becomes more difficult. Therapy becomes a place where people can engage with themselves fully, let go of self-judgment, and cultivate self-compassion.

Hi, I’m Eve, and I realize that reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and supported as you work toward greater confidence, balance, and emotional wellness. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and certified life coach with over 11 years of coaching experience. I’m certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy. I enjoy helping clients strengthen emotional regulation, increase self-awareness, and navigate life’s challenges in ways that feel realistic and sustainable. If this sounds like a good fit for what you’re looking for, I’d love to connect and explore how I can support you.

I am passionate about helping each individual live life to the fullest. I take a compassionate and action-based approach. We will strategize together and collaborate on possible solutions for your long standing or brief challenges. I will guide you as you reflect upon whichever subject you choose and together we will come up with a plan of goals and strengths.

Therapy is a healing process that allows us to trust ourselves and empowers us to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Therapy can serve as the light in darkness and can guide us with what we need to live our highest potential. I provide a warm, accepting, and safe environment to explore and learn how to navigate life's challenges. I provide an integrative and holistic approach that focuses on all aspects of one's self (emotional, behavioral, mental, spiritual). I am licensed in California with over 10 years of professional work experience in community mental health agencies, health care agencies, and school settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, breaking generational cycles, and confidence, & career difficulties. My therapy style and approach draws from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I believe that each individual has strengths in overcoming challenges. You do not have to walk alone. Taking the initial step to sign up for therapy takes courage. I hope to help you heal and find your inner peace.

I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults navigating anxiety, ADHD-related challenges, depression, relationship stress, and life transitions. Many of the individuals I work with are thoughtful and self-aware but feel stuck in patterns they can’t quite shift — whether that’s overthinking, people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, or feeling overwhelmed by competing responsibilities. Many of the adults I work with feel stuck or overwhelmed, even if they’re not entirely sure why. They may struggle with overthinking, people-pleasing, setting boundaries, or balancing the many demands in their lives. Therapy becomes a space to slow down, gain clarity, and begin making intentional shifts. My style is collaborative, structured, and supportive. I believe therapy should feel both grounding and practical. In our work together, we’ll explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck while also building skills you can apply in everyday life. I aim to create a space that feels calm, respectful, and focused — where insight and action go hand in hand. I approach therapy with warmth and clarity, helping clients better understand themselves while developing tools that support healthier relationships, stronger boundaries, and greater confidence in their decisions.

Everyone needs support;have you been dealing with life with no support from friends or family? Are you dealing with childhood trauma,estrangement and or abandonment from your family of origin?Are you having difficulty attracting and keeping a healthy intimate relationship?Do you feel you are repeating generational patterns? Maybe you have been coping all these years without really exploring and understanding your pain.We help clients understand themselves with compassion rather than shame and self judgment.I help you to change generational patterns that are not serving you .We are sensitive to your values ,needs and are culturally sensitive. My work mainly consists in solution focus with collaborative efforts from the client in order to attain goals . Todo el mundo necesito ayuda,aqui le ofreceremos la terapia totalmente en espanol para que pueda entender.

I was born and raised in California, the daughter of immigrants from Mexico, they came to the United States hoping for a better future and opportunities. I am a first-generation college graduate and understand the sacrifices many parents make to give their children a better future. I attended California State University Dominguez Hills and have a background in Child Development and Human Services. I recognize that it takes courage and vulnerability to embark on a journey of self-discovery through therapy. I have a strong background in Critical Race Theory, which offered me a lens to analyze critically how systems of oppression affect people in underserved communities. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach. I have worked in community mental health for six years, helping individuals recognize their potential and greatness. My values and beliefs embody my Mexican culture and spirituality. They align with the core values of the social work profession of service, respect, justice, dignity, the worth of a person, self-determination, integrity, importance of human relationships, and competence (National Association of Social Workers [NASW], 2017). I believe individuals can rebuild their lives, change, and recover. Effective helping constitutes the ability to believe that people can change by showing empathy, showing them that you care, respecting their culture, and by showing people that what you do is consistent with what you say.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned my Master’s from USC in 2014. If anxiety or depression has made you feel disconnected from who you are, I am here to help. I pride myself on seeing the fullness of every client I work with, embracing life's complexities and dualities to help you navigate your unique path toward healing.

As a therapist, I work with my patients to establish a foundation of mindfulness. We begin here to increase awareness and reduce judgements of the self and others. I take a collaborative approach with my clients, allowing autonomy in all aspects of treatment; while holding them accountable. I provide clear action steps after session to facilitate and foster a culture of implementation of skills and topics covered in sessions. After all, this is your life! Who know's it better than you.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. With a passion for supporting individuals, couples, and families to navigate the complexities of relationships and personal growth, I've dedicated my career to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where my clients can explore challenges, heal, and thrive. My approach is grounded in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique dynamics and strengths. Whether addressing communication issues, conflict resolution, emotional intimacy, or personal development, I aim to empower my clients to achieve greater harmony, understanding, and fulfillment in their lives and relationships.

My Approach is non judge mental and client centered. I am passionate about helping others grow through mental health and realize that life can be challenging and creating change can be difficult. I have been providing individuals with mental health treatment for 10 years and find my clinical strength is with individuals who struggle with thinking patterns, anxiety, depression, anger, parenting, and marriage discourse. I focus a lot on thinking patterns, emotions, behaviors and their connections as well as building insight and awareness into thoughts and behaviors that create barriers in life or sustain challenges. I utilize CBT, DBT, EFT, SF, and Narrative therapy for the most part and also focus on the nervous system/polyvagal to assist with calming the body and rewiring what it has learned through distress. My objective is to create an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and to allow clients to feel safe while processing their thoughts and feelings while gently providing psycho education and techniques to assist.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. During my undergraduate career at Towson University in Baltimore, Maryland I studied Psychology with a minor in Family Studies. I then proceeded to earn a Master's degree in Marriage and Family therapy in Los Angeles, California from the University of Southern California. I have been providing therapy to children, teens, adults, families, and couples for over 10 years. I am passionate about helping the clients I work with to come into alignment with their truest wants, needs and desires. I strive to support my client's in developing a sense of clarity and direction over their life. My intention is to create a warm, safe, and comfortable space, where client's can feel heard and supported as we work together to navigate the various challenges at hand.

First and foremost, I am a father of two. I hold a doctorate in clinical psychology and have worked in government setting as a supervisor to many social workers over the past 28 years. I have been licensed as a therapist in California since 2004 and have worked with 100s of individuals, couples and teens since then. I have had over 200 hours of post PHD training in the areas of anxiety, depression, child abuse and neglect, bipolar disorder, couples counseling, divorce, child custody and phobia.

I came to this work with a deep desire to support others on their journey toward healing and wholehearted living. My approach is a trauma informed lens that affirms client’s culture, gender identity, and strengths. I create safe, inclusive, and warm environments that are uplifting while giving space to address the challenges that are standing in the way of living your best life. I believe our work is best accomplished when we work authentically and collaboratively.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes therapy should feel supportive, practical, and goal-oriented. My approach is collaborative, we’ll work together to understand what’s going on, identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and build tools you can actually use in your daily life. I tend to integrate cognitive-behavioral strategies with solution-focused work, helping clients create meaningful change without feeling overwhelmed. I value authenticity, humor when it fits, and creating a space where you can show up exactly as you are. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship stress, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, my goal is to help you feel more confident, regulated, and aligned with the life you want to build.

I am very fortunate to have found my purpose in the practice of psychotherapy. Being able to work every day while at the same time recognizing it as my purpose in my life is an honor. As a result, I truly love what I do. Approach: My therapeutic approach is collaborative and client-centered, focusing on your unique needs and goals. Whether you're seeking individual support, relationship challenges, or struggling with family dynamics, through an eclectic approach, I am here to help guide and accompany you on your journey to recover your True Self and live a life of purpose.

I’m Kasi Barkawi-Buck, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting adults through life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. I provide a warm, collaborative space where clients can explore emotions, strengthen coping skills, and work through stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, and past trauma. My goal is to help individuals build resilience, deepen self-understanding, and create a more balanced, fulfilling life.

My name is Kathleen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides compassionate, client-centered therapy in a supportive and respectful environment. I believe therapy is a collaborative process grounded in trust, understanding, and curiosity. My approach focuses on the whole person and the experiences that shape them, helping clients gain insight, build confidence, and develop practical tools that support meaningful, lasting change.

As an American Family Therapist, I work from a systemic perspective, focusing on the entire family unit rather than just the individual. My goal is to help families uncover and understand deep-rooted patterns and issues that interfere with healthy communication and connection. Through this process, I support each member in developing more effective ways of relating, resolving conflict, and fostering emotional safety with the family system. I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and view my work through that lens. This means focusing on mindfulness, expanding tolerance for discomfort, increasing effectiveness in relationships and strengthening emotional regulation. When challenges arise in therapy, I often find that the root of the issue can be addressed through one of these core areas. For clients struggling with post-traumatic stress injuries-particularly common in military populations-I also incorporate Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help them reframe and work through trauma-related beliefs. My approach is structured, evidence-based, and tailored to the needs of each individual or family.

Welcome! My name is Rosalinda Garza (Rosa) and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have years of experience working in various mental health settings; I have provided therapeutic services in correctional, residential, county/community based, and educational settings. I believe in creating a safe, respectful, sensitive, and compassionate therapeutic environment. I work with my clients to establish a treatment plan that is specific to their needs and one that fosters and supports growth, empowerment, and resilience.

You might be here because you’re feeling stuck — anxious, disconnected, or caught in the same relationship patterns no matter how hard you try to change them. On the outside, it may look like you’re managing, but inside you feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or emotionally exhausted. When you’re ready to stop carrying this alone, I’m here to help. Schedule your first session today, and let’s take that next step together.

I have been working with and supporting children, teens, and adults for twenty-seven years through various methods, including child therapy and individual therapy. I enjoy helping others conquer anxiety and depressive symptoms, and I focus on coaching them to better understand their choices and behaviors. When we find our inner authentic self and begin to find the courage to share that truth, we start to balance our lives through family therapy, where we truly discover our strength.

Kristyan Cortez-Gutierrez is a licensed clinical social worker with an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Human Development from UC Davis whom also graduated from the USC School of Social Work with her masters in 2019. She went on to work in the Alzheimer's and Dementia field with patients and caregivers and then worked with patients and caregivers in the hospice setting before moving into private practice. She has been working with individuals and families for 7 years as they navigate through difficult life transitions.

Hello, my name is Brigitta. I empower individuals to take back their lives by identifying their strengths, identity, and learn useful skills to help develop a future with hope and expectation. Together, we will explore what is making you stuck by utilizing a holistic approach and address issues of the mind, body, and spirit to strengthen you as an individual. I utilize elements of various modalities with each individual to find out where the wounds began, to close the doors to an unresolved past, to reframe negative core beliefs and its maladaptive influence, and to work towards healthy goals for your future. I can integrate faith-based counseling to build resilience and hope at your request. Our sessions will be a place of safety, growth, and rejuvenation for your soul. I will meet you with a non-judgmental and compassionate approach. As we build our therapeutic relationship, the process of healing and restoration will come. I cannot wait to meet you!

Hello my name is Josie Cannon. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 20 years of experience working in social Service with individuals and families, as well as working in the community. I enjoy working with adults , teens, and the more mature folks. I look forward to working to together to help you address concerns, or moving forward into the next chapter of your life.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) who is passionate about supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. I have experience working with people of many ages and backgrounds in a variety of clinical settings. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and strive to create a warm, welcoming space where clients feel safe to be themselves and openly share their experiences. I believe in meeting clients where they are and building a genuine connection that allows for trust, growth, and healing. I have worked with concerns such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate difficult moments and discover their strength and resilience.

I am energetic, fun-loving, and charismatic. As a therapist, you will find me to be open, honest, encouraging, compassionate and supportive. My passion is to help all my clients explore their unique individuality, inspire them to discover their strengths and happily embrace their challenges. As a mother of teenagers, I understand and empathize with the struggles that all parents and children are facing as they try to navigate through these confusing, chaotic, ever-changing years. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, safe environment where individuals, teens, families, and parents can feel comfortable to be themselves. Here, they can explore their feelings and emotions in order to help empower change. I am a teacher, but I also listen and am able to challenge and help my clients grow into healthy, loving, happy, responsible individuals. For those who might be looking to integrate Christian faith and spirituality, I am in tune with that perspective. However, I also respect those who choose to keep psychotherapy separate from faith.

I believe that therapy can be Fun, Inspiring, and Healing (with hopefully some good LAUGHS if possible.) As a child, I was put on academic probation twice, expelled at one point, and even attended military school. My life/travel experiences (volunteered in an orphanage in Nepal, worked at Mother Teresa's House for the Destitute and Dying in Calcutta, India, photographed the Rohingya genocide in Bangladesh), have shaped and informed my humanity to serve clients as a therapist now.

Hello! I'm Alexandra Hund, a marriage and family therapist with 8+ years of experience providing psychotherapy in various settings (Community Mental Health, Schools, Residential Placements, and Group Practice). I am often described as laidback, authentic, warm, appropriately challenging and welcoming of humor. I have worked with many different people from diverse socio economic, cultural, educational and ethnic backgrounds. I offer telehealth services throughout the state of California with the goal of helping you heal, reconnect with yourself, and feel more grounded in your life.

I am a licensed bilingual clinical therapist who provides individual therapy for concerns such a depression, anxiety, truma, stress, anger management , communication difficulties and life transitions. I also have experience supporting individuals who have experienced domestic violence and sexual abuse. My approach is collaborative, supportive and grounding in creating a safe space where you can show up as your authentic self.

I am a lantinx female Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who enjoys hearing others stories and helping people discover their strength and authentic selves. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. As a compassionate-client centered therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgemental space where we will work together to uncover your inner wisdom, build your unique strengths, and collaboratively navigate a path towards growth, healing and balance. My work is primarily working with people who have some level of neuro-diversity (ADHD, Anxiety, ASD) themselves or love and care for a person who is neurodivergent.

Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of clinical and therapeutic experience. I have a masters degree from USC with a concentration in children and families. During my Master’s program, I lead and facilitated substance abuse group therapy, assisted multiple diagnosis individuals in a group home setting, and received internship hours at a women’s victims of crime outpatient treatment center, and a community clinic. I also have 5 years experience in mental health private practice.

I am a client centered therapist, which means I believe that the client is the expert on their experiences. I ask questions, am open to feedback, and trust the client's capacity for growth and self-actualization. Additionally, I provide coping skills and evidenced based practices to help clients in these areas. I also use art therapy in my practice, which is workable in telehealth.

My journey as a counselor began working with the Veterans Hospital in an outpatient clinic working with veterans with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, survivors of sexual assault and educating the family. I also have experience working with those who have experienced Intimate Partner Violence, Post Partum-Depression and family members who are caregivers. I am a mother, a caregiver and grandmother who plays an active role in grandkid’s life.

Hello, I am Jocelyn. I was drawn to this profession because of my deep empathy and desire to help others break through patterns during challenging periods. I'm comfortable discussing even the most uncomfortable topics. Nothing is more fulfilling than accompanying someone on their journey of growth. I look forward in working with you and guide you to make meaningful changes.

Hi, I’m Andrew and I’m really glad you’re here. I’ve spent the last five years working in the mental health field. After completing my undergraduate degrees and finishing my collegiate and professional sports career, I returned to school and earned my Master of Social Work from Eastern Washington University. I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals, couples, and families across a wide range of life circumstances. My experience includes working with foster youth, providing comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy, supporting clients in detox and rehabilitation settings, responding to community crises, and serving individuals experiencing homelessness within a housing-first model. Grounded in DBT, my approach blends acceptance and change. I work collaboratively with clients to deepen insight, identify patterns, and develop practical, empowering strategies. My goal is to offer clarity, encouragement, and a steady presence as you build the skills and confidence to move toward the life you want.

I help thoughtful, sensitive souls reconnect with themselves—so they can live with more presence, creativity, and ease. Together, we explore the liminal—the in-between space where you’re no longer who you were and not yet who you’re becoming. We slow down, listen to the body, and follow intuition. We practice voice and choice, shift from self-doubt to expansiveness, and build the capacity to meet life with steadier presence and more freedom.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 28 years of clinical experience. I have worked in County Mental, Substance Abuse, and Health Care settings with a wide range of individuals throughout the age spectrum. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. It takes courage and strength to reach out, yet it is the beginning of the healing process. I work from a client-centered whole-person approach that draws on your strengths to collaborate with you to bring about healing. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, struggle to stay focused, not being able to complete tasks, unable to find time to enjoy the things you like to do, and/or struggling with relationships; now is the time to take that step. Let's work together to create solutions to bring about a better quality of life. Today is the day to change your tomorrow.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and everyday stressors. I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years and have a wealth of experience with multiple types of people. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood and comfortable exploring what’s been weighing on you. Together, we’ll build insight, strengthen coping skills, and help you move toward meaningful and lasting change.

My approach varies based on your individual needs. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, aspects of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory and Solution Focused models, to help create awareness and understanding. Together, we work toward meaningful change that fits your life and goals. I have lengthy experience in high acuity, crisis settings, educational settings, and life challenges. My communication style is calm, personable, and accommodating. I want my clients to feel comfortable and connected with me, and I take pride in my nonjudgmental listening. I became a therapist because I have a genuine interest in helping others become the best version of themselves. I've been naturally drawn to supporting people since I was young, trusted by friends and active in my community.

Hi, I'm so glad you are here. My therapeutic approach centers on creating more opportunities for space and reflection. My hope is that our sessions will feel casual and warm, that you feel met right where you are, and that I provide skills and perspective as you work towards your best self. I have years of experience and am passionate about working through a relational, person centered attachment lens with individuals, children, and families addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, major life transitions and, supporting new and expectant parents. I have worked with client’s in non-profit organizations, school settings, and in group practice. Becoming a parent can be overwhelming and all consuming. I’ve been there. The first few years of my daughter’s life were a blur. I felt lost and like I was not a good enough parent. I felt like I was losing myself. I knew the parent I wanted to be, but did not know how to get there. That is when I knew something needed to change. My goal in practice is to together through a genuine connection, explore your experiences in the role of parenting to support confidence, communication, and well-being.

I’ve been working with individuals for nearly 20 years, and if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s this: none of us are meant to do this alone. Sitting one-on-one with someone as they untangle their story is work I don’t take lightly. It’s an honor. Over the years, I’ve supported people through burnout, transitions, grief, relationship shifts, identity questions, and those quieter seasons where you just know something needs to change, even if you can’t name it yet. I also have advanced training in trauma and ADHD, which means I understand how deeply our nervous systems, past experiences, and unique wiring shape the way we move through the world. Whether you’re navigating the impact of trauma or trying to make sense of an ADHD brain in a world that doesn’t always accommodate it, we’ll approach your work with both compassion and practical insight. Individual therapy is powerful. There is something sacred about having a space that is entirely yours — where you don’t have to perform, hold it together, or take care of anyone else. I also believe people need people and that is why I lead women's groups and retreats as well. At the heart of my work is the belief that we’re all just trying to get home — home to ourselves. Home to steadiness, clarity, belonging, and alignment. My role is to walk alongside you as you reconnect with that place inside you that already knows the way.

I am a clinical therapist dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. My approach focuses on helping individuals recognize and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and modify behaviors that may be interfering with their well-being. I work collaboratively with clients to strengthen problem-solving skills, build emotional awareness and regulation, and foster resilience. My goal is to support each person in gaining insight, developing practical tools, and moving toward meaningful and lasting personal growth.

I work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related stress, or feeling overwhelmed during life transitions. Many of my clients are individuals who feel emotionally drained, stuck, or disconnected from themselves, and are seeking support to regain balance, clarity, and confidence in their daily lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health, care coordination, and trauma-informed practice. My professional background includes work across healthcare, nonprofit, and public-sector settings, supporting individuals at different stages of life. I currently focus on working with adults managing mild to moderate mental-health concerns, including the emotional impact of medical conditions and major life changes. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and practical. I meet clients where they are, helping them better understand their thoughts and emotions while building skills they can apply outside of sessions. I especially enjoy working with individuals who are new to therapy, and I bring a thoughtful, experienced approach to understanding symptoms and diagnosis to help guide meaningful, appropriate care in a supportive and respectful space.

Starting therapy takes courage, and having a space where you feel safe and understood can make that process less overwhelming. I take an integrative approach to therapy, with a particular focus on relationships and codependency, childhood trauma, attachment challenges, and experiences of loss and grief. I would be honored to hear your story and be a part of your journey.

Beginning therapy can feel vulnerable, but it can also be a powerful step toward meaningful change. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am licensed in New York, Virginia, California, and Washington, and am approved by the Virginia Board to provide clinical supervision. I have worked in schools, foster care, public mental health, substance use treatment, and private practice, which gives me a deep understanding of how trauma, relationships, and life transitions shape our emotional well-being. I specialize in trauma-informed care and support clients navigating anxiety, mood disorders, complex trauma, relational challenges, and identity development, including gender and sexuality exploration. As a PhD student at the International Institute for Clinical Sexology, specializing in Advanced Gender Therapy, I provide affirming and thoughtful care. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and grounded in evidence-based practice. Together, we focus not only on reducing distress but on building resilience, clarity, healthier relationships, and greater self-trust. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to move forward.

Do you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result? Are you struggling to find balance in your life? Do you feel like there's a part of you that has died and hasn't come back to life? Hi, my name is Merisa. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist and artist. I help highly functioning adults manage their stressors and find more balance in life. I am an art therapist, meaning we will use art as a communication tool to express emotions, process trauma and relieve stress. I have many clients who are not willing to do art therapy, and that's okay as well! Talking is just as effective. If you're from a family who didn't talk about feelings, and/or avoided conflict, it is possible that talking about your feelings isn't easy. I am here to help ease you into it. Therapy is like exercising. You will be working new muscles and I'm here to help you get stronger. Professional Background: I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts, minoring in Psychology in 2014 and graduated with my Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy in 2016. I was always creative and wanted to help others which lead me in the direction of art therapy and LMFT. I have worked at the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, providing therapy to patients and families; multiple addiction treatment centers and I was also a school counselor. I have been in recovery for years, and have personal and professional experience working with teens, adults and families in substance use and mental health treatment. I am willing to help you with addiction, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.

I am a fully licensed therapist who helps adult women and men who feel stuck in habits, emotions and thoughts that they know are holding them back. Professionals, moms, athletes, students and believers who know they have more potential in them. I help my client's get a clearer picture of how to let go, move forward and grow. Get started with the motivation you have now.