Therapists in California

Alexis focus on treating adults, particularly those experiencing life adjustments. for older adults utilizing cognitive behavior therapy for the treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, AD(H)D, brain injury, and adjustment disorder. She also offers the opportunity for clients to vent about life’s disappointments and difficulties. She also offers the person-centered approach for talking through grief and other hardships. She is also trained in EMDR. Specialties also include stress management and recovering from trauma.

I am a LCSW with over 7 years of experience working as a therapist & life coach. My clients have consisted of those dealing with stress/anxiety, depression, work stress/burnout, interpersonal relationship conflicts, couples, and those dealing with life transitions. I work with clients 18 and older. I also work with several college age adults dealing with the integration into adult life, campus living/being away from home, and understanding who they are as they transition into adulthood. I have worked with many couples (pre and post marital) in developing better communication skills, better conflict resolution skills, and understanding how to relearn their partner.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help adults struggling with stress and mental health issues become the best versions of themselves. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and helping them feel better and reach their goals.

My name is Rhianna French and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and Nationally Certified Counselor. I have training in many different approaches and techniques to service clients in unique ways that best fit their unique concerns and personality. I take an eclectic approach to counseling matching various approaches and theories to every client's specific need. I often utilize humanistic approaches, which focus on each person's uniqueness and potential. I also have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) in addition to many other techniques.

Welcome! I'm LaToya Sykes, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Northern California. You've made it to the first step of self-improvement! I understand how this process can be overwhelming and empowering, all at the same time. There may be some doubt in this process, but I want to let you know that you are not alone and I am here to support you every step of the way. I follow the client-centered approach in our sessions, therefore, you will be the leader of your treatment goals. I will empower and guide you throughout this journey. I will provide a safe environment so you can explore life challenges, concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, racial issues, and relationship stressors, plus more. I will guide you to identify triggers, understand your symptoms and how to regain control of your life. We will work together to create healthy coping strategies and ways to build healthy relationships in all aspects of life. We will create a plan to navigate life and the challenges that come along with it. The choice is yours to decide what the overall treatment plan will be and I will support you with the customization. You are the leader in your treatment. Schedule your initial session and lets get started today with making a difference in your life and creating a healthy environment for you to thrive. Hope to see you soon.

My name is Olesya Leskel and I am a Licensed Professional Counsellor with 14 years of experience helping adults, children, and couples with a variety of mental health issues, relationship concerns and life transitions. I am versed in various counseling techniques and have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, and depression. I take time to learn about the needs of a person I am serving to help find the best way of meeting thier hopes as they embark on a journey of healing and personal growth.

I bring a pragmatic and logical approach to therapy, emphasizing balance in personal development. My style focuses on guiding individuals (adults & teenagers) who are committed to healing themselves from the ground up. Together, we can work towards fostering qualities such as confidence without arrogance and resilience without inflexibility. My approach is grounded in humility, recognizing the importance of being a “salt of the earth” in my practice.

Hi there! My name is Laura, and it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m a marriage and family therapist based in California. I’ve been practicing for over a decade now and earned my master’s degree from St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California. Taking the first step towards improving your mental health is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself. Counseling may seem intimidating at first, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. I create a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your concerns about anxiety, depression, and self-care. My goal is to help you develop assertive communication and boundaries with yourself and others, which can significantly improve your quality of life. Counseling can be a powerful tool for personal growth and help you build the life you truly deserve. If that’s what you’re looking for, I’m here to support you whenever you’re ready to share.

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

PLEASE NOTE: I am a Gerontological Counselor. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.

Hello, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I am a graduate of Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary and have been a practicing clinician for the past 10 years. I enjoy assisting clients in discovering their unique strengths and gifts that can be applied to improving mental health. My practice focuses on adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and parenting difficulties.

My name is J.P. De Oliveira Estevão, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (L.P.C.C.). I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful change. I use proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic approaches, and Adlerian ideas to customize treatment just for you. My goal is to help you understand yourself better, find ways to cope with challenges and build a happier life.

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

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

Hello, my name is Christina and I am passionate about serving those who have been suffering and are looking for real solutions to their problems. I look forward to helping you meet your long and short term goals through our collaborative and therapeutic work together. I have 7+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.

My name is Vanessa Labarga and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. The majority of my clinical experience has been with children and teenagers in the foster care and juvenile justice systems, but I also have experience working with adults who are experiencing severe mental health concerns. I have also worked as a mentor and supervisor to new therapists and supported and trained them in learning therapeutic skills to help their clients. When I'm not working, I can be found spending time in nature, finding new restaurants to enjoy, travelling to new countries, and spending time with my cats and my partner at home.

I'm Sheldon like the TV show! (Big Bang Theory). I help analytical high-achieving adults who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety and depression untangle their inner world and reconnect with their deeper self-using insight-driven therapy, dream exploration, and a creative lens that helps them uncover what's been buried beneath the surface. Do you often say, "I'm successful on the outside but exhausted and anxious inside," "overthinking everything, but still feeling stuck," or being in a "constant sense of restlessness or dissatisfaction," or being a person who "struggles to access or name emotions clearly." I help clients have greater awareness and emotional clarity and begin to feel grounded, self-trusting and more internally connected. I hope to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms through deeper insight and ability to recognize and break unconscious patterns. I help clients discover meaning through creative exploration, and dream work. I want clients to increase their confidence in navigating relationships and decisions and moving from analysis paralysis to self-acceptance and expression. My areas of expertise are in Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Mental Illness, Risk Assessment, Trauma, PTSD and Substance Abuse Disorders.

Greetings! My name is Leslie Bartholomew and I am excited to get to know you and help support your road to healing and change. Although I have achieved licensure fairly recently, I have about 14 years of therapeutic experience in a vast array of populations (individuals, teens, children, young adults, couples, foster youth, unaccompanied minors and migrant families). My passion derives from providing a safe and accepting environment to prepare clients to undergo healing and achieve a full and balanced life. I particularly enjoy giving back to the Latino community which I am a part of and an advocate for equality and a world free from discrimination and abundance of acceptance. My goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered to reach your personal goals.

Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful and courageous decision. Whether you're seeking support for life transitions, navigating overwhelming emotions, or simply desiring a deeper connection with yourself, I am here to walk alongside you. You don’t need to have all the words or even know exactly where to begin—that’s what we uncover together. I offer a compassionate and grounded space where you can safely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Vulnerability isn’t always easy, but I believe that when someone dares to step into that space, profound growth can happen.

Hello and welcome! I'm so glad you have taken the steps towards self-improvement, and hope this will be a good match. I have worked in various settings over the last 10 years from school-based therapy, juvenile detention, group private practice and now telehealth. I enjoy working with a wide population, including couples and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and BiPolar II disorder to name a few.

Thank you for visiting my profile. I have been in the mental health field for 35 years and have worked in many settings and with many issues throughout my career. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology, a masters in clinical social work and a masters in counseling. I am comfortable working with all populations and strive to meet my patients where they are in their process.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I use evidence-based practice with a therapeutic and collaborative approach in therapy. I work together with my clients to help improve the person's well-being and health. I've worked in the Emergency Department in San Luis Obispo, CA, for 8+ years and 10+ years at the CA State Hospital as a Clinical Social Worker. I have a Master's degree in Social Work, licensed in the State of California. I retired from the US Army after 20 years of military service: two war tours and many deployments. I know how important Mental Health is in our society. I'm here to break down any stigma.

Therapy is a journey we walk together. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I'm bilingual in English y hablo español, so you can choose the language that feels most comfortable for you. I work with individuals and families to explore emotions, build resilience, and find balance in a safe and supportive space. Together, we’ll develop practical skills and strategies to help you navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Los Angeles area and have been practicing mental health in social work for 15 years. I have worked with clients from across the life spectrum and in different settings, including acute medical and family clinics, but most recently have specialized in adults going through life transitions and managing depression and anxiety through telehealth.

Hello! My name is Nicole Chess and I have a masters in sport psychology and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's sport psychology degree from John F. Kennedy University and I have a Masters in marriage and family therapy. I also have a B.A. in Business with a specialization in management information systems from San Jose State University, which I played on the number #1 golf team for many years and was in the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association). I have a passion for helping individuals transform their lives and dreams into bigger and better ones. I will collaborate with you so we come up with a plan to implement practical ways to make them come true! I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy plus hypnotherapy. I can incorporate these inside therapy so that you can improve outside of therapy and in your daily life. My clients usually see improvement in as little as 3 to 4 sessions. I have worked with lawyers, pilots, pro athletes, techies, and people from all faiths and all walks of life. I also have half of two doctorate degrees I have not completed in transpersonal psychology from Sophia University and half of a doctorate in clinical psychology from San Diego University of Integrative Studies.

My name is Shant Bardakjian and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Glendale, California. I currently work with children, adolescents and adults within the greater Los Angeles area. Currently, I work with clients aged 18 to 64. My approach to therapy is tailored to the client’s needs. I enter into therapy with whatever you bring into the session. If you need a creative approach to solve your problems, then I would use an eclectic approach with a person centered lens that can be flexible for whatever need is brought into the room. My communication style is calm and approachable. I would like my clients to feel at ease in sharing whatever is on their heart without fear of judgment. I decided to become a therapist because I have wanted to help people discover their best selves. I have been drawn to helping people discover their innate ability to heal past whatever is keeping them stuck in life. My aim is for whoever works with me to be able to define a goal that can be accomplished and for trust to be gradually built within the therapeutic relationship. In this way, the progress that is seen in therapy will in turn translate to improvements in multiple areas of your life. In our first session together, you can expect the primary focus to be for me to hear your story of what brought you to therapy. The first session is to determine if there is an initial connection and also questions that would enable me to better understand what would work best for you as treatment progresses.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 7 years of experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have provided therapeutic services for adhd, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family conflict, grief, and trauma. I focus on healing, challenging negative thoughts, and establishing new healthy perceptions. I look forward to meeting with you on GROW!

Hello and Welcome! Life is too short to surrender to bad relationships, holding grudges, carrying guilt, poor boundaries, trauma that control us, or being anxious/angry all of the time. I would like to help you free yourself from emotional pain, deal with life on life's terms, and to experience a satisfying life. I will do my best to provide you a balance of constructive advice, honest feedback, empathy, humor, and warmth. I have a lot of experience working with individuals struggling in relationship. I can help with anxiety, trauma, grief, and much more. I also do relationship work with individuals. I know that sometimes the loneliest place is in a relationship that is not working. While I'm not accepting couples, there is some amazing work that can be done when one partner changes their patterns. I can teach you how to talk so that your loved ones will listen, and teach you how to listen so that your loved ones will feel heard by you. We can break patterns that aren't work, and learn how to be in a balanced and healthy relationship. I welcome diverse cultures and the LGBTQ community.

Hi. I’m Anupama. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD. Panic disorder. I have lots of experience with couples issues and domestic violence. I have also worked with parenting issues I have a calming and gentle approach I like to make my clients feel comfortable right away.

My name is Judy Jordan and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years years of professional experience in counseling with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I took an evening course in Psychology 5 when starting school, and by the end of it , I knew I wanted to become a therapist. I was drawn to understanding people on a deeper level and helping them through their struggles. With support from my dad, I left my job and went back to school starting from scratch. I loved every minute of learning and felt more certain with each class that I was on the right path. My dedication paid off...I earned straight A's and received the Academic Achievement Award in Psychology. More importantly I found a sense of purpose in supporting others on their mental health journeys.

Hello, My name is Dan Powell, and I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing a wide range of mental health challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and professionalism, ensuring that every client feels heard, supported, and respected. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized care through evidence-based treatments tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. My diverse professional background allows me to draw from a broad range of therapeutic approaches, ensuring that my clients receive the most effective and personalized care possible. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to help them achieve their goals and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence. My areas of specialization include treating anxiety, depression, phobias, and life transitions. I also provide support for parenting challenges, couples conflicts, and more complex mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, personality disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Additionally, I have extensive experience in helping individuals overcome alcohol and chemical addictions, as well as working with those who have experienced trauma. If you’re ready to take the first step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being, I encourage you to reach out. Contact me today to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey to healing and personal growth. Best, Dan Powell MA., MFT, BCBA

Hi there and great job on taking that first step in considering if therapy is right for you. I invite you to come with me on a journey of your own choosing where we will walk together in darkness to find the light you’ve been seeking. Whether it’s life’s little annoying stressors or more complex issues, as a trauma survivor myself, I know firsthand what this is like and wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Whether you choose me or another therapist, make the choice to just give it a try. Sometimes all you need is another person to hold the light while you do the work you need to heal.

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my master's in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University in California and have been practicing for the last 8 years. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts, and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.

Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.

I am licensed in California . I have 20 years of professional work experience . I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work , from California State University Long Beach. I thrive in the opportunity to help clients move through the counseling process , with the goals of adaptive coping and wellness in the management of their issues and stressors. I enjoy educating clients on Wellness Practice and extending supportive psychotherapy to clients .

Hello! My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from San Jose State University and my PhD from Alliant International University. I primarily support the LGBTQ+ Community, particularly children and adolescents. Although I do work with clients from various backgrounds and identities. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families.

I have been in practice for 28 years. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and healing, and I am committed to being your partner in this process. Together, we can work towards understanding the factors that contribute to your current feelings or challenges and identify actionable steps to help you move forward. Your comfort and well-being are my priorities, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Let’s explore how we can work together to enhance your quality of life and achieve your goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles who frequently uses Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I work collaboratively with adults, exploring ways to invigorate clients who are stuck creatively, relationally, professionally, emotionally, or are reacting in the present to a trauma that they have not fully processed (EMDR works well with this). I work effectively with clients experiencing a trauma response, professional malaise, writer's block, family issues, or a stagnant relationship. I work compassionately with the client to identify any dynamic that is no longer helpful, and together we explore the path to relief and a more connected and vibrant humanity.

Some background: I have 12 years teaching in secondary schools in California prior to becoming a therapist. I have dealt with considerable childhood adversity and loss and continue to build a skillset to help others through difficult times. I am proud to say I love what I do. I am passionate about seeing others change themselves for better, and heal through trauma, injury, and all kinds of adversity which has taken a toll on their spirit.

Dr. Kobliska is a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in working with adolescents and the adult population. She has over 9 years of direct experience conducting psychological assessments, diagnosing, coordinating and teaching groups, and individual psychotherapy. She is trained and highly skilled in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Dr. Kobliska is a detail-oriented, go getter that helps others take charge of their lives, and live it out effectively. She loves problem solving and coming up with creative ideas to make sure that everyone she partners with can serve their highest potential. She has a strong drive to live life with intention, serving both her family and clients.

Hello. my name is Diane Gibbs and i have been a licensed clinical social worker since 2008. I have worked inpatient and outpatient mental health. I am Rogerian trained, which means i have awareness of my boundaries and the clts boundaries. I am clt centered, being aware of my transference in the therapy relationship; often using the transference for clt growth. I am humanistic, which means any one of us can experience disturbance of mood, thought, or emotion; simply because we are human. As a clt centered therapist my role is to hold a mirror up as to allow the clt to witness their experience and offer reccomendations for tx plan. Also, empowering the clt to connect and use their strengths; support, spirituality or agnostic beliefs. I have used various modality interventions including meditation, visualization, and exposure acclimation. I have worked with 5 yo to 80+ yr old. My experience is broad, from post partum to end of life issues and many life stages in between. Whether its anxiety or depression. From bipolar to ocd or schizophrenia; i work at creating a safe environment where boundaries are clear and the clt feels free to discuss their issues in safety and privacy.

Exhausted by the way you think about yourself? We are often (if not always) our own worst enemies. Whether this pattern has caused you problems with guilt, shame, anxiety, depression, addiction or you name it - the starting point is generally the same. When we embark on the project of therapy you will be asked to put your painful thoughts and feelings into words. As the process unfolds, the strength and fervor used to overthink and condemn yourself will become accessible to use productively in reaching your goals.

Hi! I am an LMFT based in California, more specifically the Bay Area. I am a father of two beautiful girls (#girldad), an avid golfer, and blackbelt in Brazilian Jiujitsu. I have been working in mental health and performance coaching for over 10 years. My passion is to help athletes and their parents find strategies to balance the demands of their sport and other areas of their life that they may be struggling with. I especially love working with fathers trying to engage their fatherhood in new ways.

Hi! I'm Lesly. I'm a first -generation Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California who is committed to making therapy accessible, relatable, and meaningful—to people who often feel unheard or paused by their past. I’m bilingual in English and Spanish, and I specialize in working with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life‑transitions, and the unique challenges of identity, culture, and self‑esteem. My mission is to create a safe, affirming space where your story matters, your voice is heard, and your growth is intentional. If you’re ready to start thriving, let’s connect :)

Hello! My name is Melissa Bautista and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. In life, different circumstances can arise that can affect our mental health. Although these circumstances may be inevitable, I would like to be able to be a resource to help you during those times. I work with adolescents and adults. I have had the opportunity to work with diverse populations and diagnoses. I would like to be a part of your first steps toward getting back to a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step, I will provide a safe space for you and I am here to support you.

Hello! Thank you for reviewing the information for my online practice, Coleman Counseling. My name is Mrs. Michelle Coleman, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and helping individuals navigate life stressors. Over the years, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds who bring a wide range of concerns, and I remain passionate about supporting adults as they pursue growth and healing. At Coleman Counseling, I view therapy as a collaborative partnership. Together, we will identify your strengths, set goals, and work toward creating meaningful, positive changes in your life.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's in 2014 and have been practicing for 11 years. I help adults manage their stressors in life and help them reduce their symptoms to be successful in their own life. I have experience working with children from 4 years old to older adults of the age of 80 years old.

Dr. Charness is a former assistant district attorney specializing in prosecuting domestic violence and sexual assault, and rape cases. Additionally, she has her PsyD in clinical psychology specializing in trauma, attachment theory, and affect regulation. She has worked extensively with patients suffering from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse trauma. Further, Dr. Charness has a wealth of experience with PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality, and self-harm. She incorporates many modalities in her sessions, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and somatic work. She effectively supports clients working through past trauma and finding resolve and peace within themselves, which is crucial to individual mental health and functionality. Inclusivity and remaining culturally sensitive to patients are of utmost importance to her. Dr. Charness has also contributed to several books, including Voices of Pain, Voices of Hope, Students Speak About Racism, and Learning Through Discussion. Her most recent passion is her blog on Psychology Today (under law and crime) regarding the intersection of law and mental health. She focuses primarily on how legal rulings can impact our mental health, motive, trauma-informed interrogation, and investigation, particularly in domestic violence and sexual assault cases, and the failings of both the legal and mental health systems. Teaching about the realities of what life looks like inside the courtroom for a victim of domestic violence or rape, whether it be to a classroom of students or an audience of readers, is incredibly important to her.

I am firmly rooted in the belief that the therapeutic process is a symbiotic collaboration between therapist and client. Regardless of whether you're navigating a temporary challenge and seeking targeted, solution-driven guidance, or grappling with a persistent concern that requires long-term therapeutic involvement, there are moments when we all benefit from external assistance. I recognize the importance of individualizing therapeutic interventions. Everyone's journey is distinct, influenced by their unique life experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual belief systems. It's essential to take a comprehensive view, taking into account not just the present symptoms but the whole person and their life narrative. By understanding each person’s individual story, I can offer more tailored guidance and interventions. This personalized approach not only addresses the immediate concerns but also empowers clients to better handle future challenges with increased confidence and self-awareness. I earned my doctorate degree from the esteemed California School of Professional Psychology. My professional journey has seen me serve in a range of environments. This journey includes my work at the UCLA Anxiety Disorder Clinic, where, as a psychological assistant under a seasoned psychologist, I honed my skills in managing anxiety disorders. My expertise also extends to substance abuse environments, both in acute inpatient psychiatric hospital, as well as outpatient clinics, where I've addressed the intricate dance between anxiety, depression, and addiction. My work in collegiate settings, such as President Barack Obama’s alma mater, has equipped me with insights into the stresses and anxieties faced by students navigating academic pressures and life's pivotal decisions. Furthermore, In the unique and challenging setting of maximum security prisons. Where as a forensic psychologist, I've supported inmates, including those serving life sentences, through the complex emotional landscapes of anxiety and depression linked to their circumstances. My therapeutic approach is anchored in both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic theory. Typically, I employ psychodynamic perspectives to facilitate deeper insights into the origins of a client's psychological concerns. This understanding then serves as a foundation upon which we build a CBT-driven treatment plan, ensuring you're well-equipped to achieve your therapeutic objectives.

Hi! My name is Jose Rodriguez, I have been working in behavioral health since 2008, and it has been a very rewarding experience. I have an energetic and enthusiastic approach. Please note that I am licensed in both California and New York. I stay up to date with the latest studies to provide the best care possible. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I am originally from New York, so I have had the opportunity to gain experience at reputable institutions such as New York Presbyterian Hospital and Montefiore Health System. I have also served as Director of the Behavior Health Department at Salinas Valley Health in Salinas, California. I earned my BA in Psychology from Boston College and my Master of Social Work from Fordham University. I also earned my MBA in Healthcare Administration in 2019. Outside of work, I enjoy boxing, playing golf, yoga, lifting weights, and going to the beach! The goal in psychotherapy is for you to become your own therapist. We would achieve this in a collaborative and strategic manner. There has always been a need to address our emotional well being but until recent times, this topic is more accepted than ever to discuss. Not only do I help people address their problems, but I also aim to help people be self-actualizing.