Therapists in California

Hi! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Gallaudet University. I am fluent in American Sign Language. I would describe my own as warm, caring, non-judgmental, compassionate, sensitive, respectful, knowledgeable, experienced and committed. I’ve been using CBT in my practice. It’s helped dozens of clients challenge reoccurring thoughts and manage their anxiety. We’ll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and stressed life

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.

Counseling can be a place where you make meaningful changes in yourself and your life. I tend to focus on strengths and use Coaching and Positive psychology. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT) can be helpful to change your thought process and develop new coping skills. EMDR and Brainspotting are both very effective for quick trauma relief. Please note I have a special interest in working with the LGBTQ community and consider myself an Ally.🌈 I look forward to working with you!

I get satisfaction from being a voice of reasoning for others through my genuineness. I consider this a life purpose for me. I am driven by a deep desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those struggling with their mental well-being. I believe in providing a safe space with a non-judgmental stance while supporting the patient through his or her emotional well-being and encouraging autonomy.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from New York University and have been practicing for 13 years. I have also have 7 years of experience as a educator and supervisor for pre-licensed therapists. I love helping my supervisees and clients overcome their challenges, learn great lessons in the process, and achieve their highest potentials.

Have you been managing a chronic illness on your own and feel exhausted and in need of some support? Did you also experience medical PTSD? Are you struggling with substance abuse and feel the time has come to re-evaluate its role in your life? As a woman, are the daily challenges of life starting to feel overwhelming? If you are experiencing anxiety, are you ready to let that go and explore a world of more peace and less fear? I empower people to build a life that holds meaning and purpose regardless of past setbacks and negative experiences. Together we will work to identify and overcome challenges that are specific to you. I love asking the right questions to help change the way you are thinking about a problem. It’s important to me that we work together, through talk therapy, to get to the heart of your pain and resolve it so that you can move forward.

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida who works with young adults navigating their transitions into adulthood, adults struggling to balance her work and family life, and older adults helping them find meaning in their lives. I think therapy works best when it feels like you're talking to someone who's on your team—someone who gets where you're coming from, isn't afraid to ask the tough questions, and helps you figure out what actually works for you in real life. My approach is personalized- I meet you where you are and tailor our work to support your unique goals. For young adults, we work on finding ways to manage stress and work on improving relationships. In working with adults, treatment can be focused on managing anxiety, navigating difficult transitions in life, and improving relationships. For elderly adults, we can focus on finding meaning in life, working through family issues, and building a stronger support network. My goal is to create a strong foundation for our work together and help you feel comfortable and ready to begin your journey toward greater well-being.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I received my Masters from Sacramento State University and have been practicing for 14 years. I have worked in various settings supporting individuals and families in the foster care system, residential facilities, psychiatric hospitals, hospitals, outpatient, nonprofit community agencies and crisis intervention. I've worked with adults from all backgrounds and I've worked with individuals struggling with individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD and those who are experiencing significant emotional distress due to stress, acute illness, domestic violence, homelessness and trauma.

Building self-awareness is often a hard place to start. I meet my patients where they are in their journey and support the process. Sometimes taking the first step to explore psychotherapy is confusing. Ask questions so you can find a therapist who is the right fit for you. My approach meets people where they are presently, to determine where they want to be in the future. I like to get to know my new patients to determine their needs in treatment.

I am a psychotherapist with over 15 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings. I received my psychotherapy training at the San Francisco State University and graduated in 2012. After working at a private counseling center for 6 years, I opened my private practice in 2018 as a licensed marriage and family therapist. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults and Asian adults. My areas of interests include gay/lesbian and gender issues, sexuality, psychotherapy education, and psychotherapeutic technique.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

Hi, I'm Audrey! I’m a therapist dedicated to helping individuals break free from cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and past trauma so they can reconnect with their authentic selves. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can explore challenges at your own pace and develop the tools to create a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based techniques to help you heal and grow.

It is not always easy to reach out for help, but you are on the right path. Things will get better as we approach your struggles and goals together. I have any easy going straight forward approach to therapy as I work to meet each client’s unique needs. I have been a therapist for over 30 years and have worked with clients on a myriad of issues including anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, perinatal loss and other women’s issues. My work has also included working with folks on life transitions whether it be family or career related, as these can create much stress for people. I have worked in Connecticut, Florida and Texas, both as a clinical leader and practicing clinician. I am currently licensed in Connecticut, California and Texas. My training was at the Columbia School of Social Work where I received my masters degree. I truly look forward to the opportunity of working together and hope we will talk soon. You are not alone.

Hello, I am Kathleen. Do you feel overwhelmed, burnt out or pulled in a million different directions? Are you struggling with your relationships, work or health? Is it difficult for you to find time for yourself, let alone, be kind to yourself? Do you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward? Many of us are experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety and social isolation, so it is important to make caring for yourself a priority. Therapy can help you feel more connected, balanced and peaceful. Together, we can help identify what is not working and regain a sense of balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your body, mind and spirit. We will develop a "toolbox" of coping skills and create new insights and awarenesses to help you become a happier and healthier version of yourself. Seeking therapy can feel threatening but it's one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and by doing so also give to others. In our sessions, I will meet you with kindness, compassion, humor and evidence-based modalities, so you can overcome obstacles and habits that may be holding you back. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and empathic environment in which to work through current issues, conflicting relationships and/or past pain. I look forward to meeting you and working together.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed or find yourself stuck in the same relationship patterns? Life can throw us emotional and mental challenges that leave us feeling lost, disconnected, or unsure of what to do next. My goal is to help you make sense of what’s happening, understand yourself more deeply, and find healthier ways to move through difficult moments. Since 2002, I’ve worked with men and women who are tired of always putting others first. Together, we’ll explore what’s keeping you stuck and build clarity, confidence, and direction—so you can create relationships (and a life) that feel more authentic and fulfilling.

I spent twenty years as a writer in the entertainment industry and began training to be a therapist in my forties. I am a father and live in Los Angeles with my partner, our kids, and several cats. As someone who changed careers late in life, I know better than anyone that it is never too late to start living by your deepest principals, and that transformation is always possible.

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), and I have worked with clients with a wide variety of concerns including schizophrenia, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship problems, and trauma (physical, emotional, sexual). I also have extensive experience working with people involved in the criminal justice system. Reaching out for support is the start of achieving your goals and enjoying a more fulfilled life. I recognize that starting therapy can be a scary process and opening up to someone you don't know can be uncomfortable. This process will open the door for therapeutic healing and success in achieving your treatment goals. I look forward to working with you!

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'm so glad you're taking this step to prioritize your mental health—it's the foundation of everything else in life. As a mother of three young adults, including boy-girl twins and a neurodivergent daughter, and with experience as a psychologist, coach, and leader in both tech and education, I bring a wide range of lived experience to my work. I work with individuals and families at all stages of life, helping them release outdated mindsets and adopt empowering new ones by uncovering the root causes, patterns, and obstacles that hold them back. My approach integrates neuroscience, cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and depth psychology, always focusing on creating meaningful connections that unlock new possibilities. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I hold an unwavering belief in each person’s boundless potential. By focusing on what truly matters, we can always transform challenges into opportunities.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 14 years of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida and am currently licensed to practice in Florida, Maine, Virginia, Arizona, and Colorado. While I reside in Florida, I work with clients across these states through telehealth. My approach is compassionate and collaborative—I believe in helping clients recognize their own strengths and inner resilience to create meaningful change. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I'm here to support you in finding balance, clarity, and healing.

My name is Sheilly Arora, and I am a practicing psychologist for almost 20 years. I love what I do and find it a privilege to be of help to others. I am fluent in several Evidence Based treatments including and not limited to treatments for depression, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia and PTSD. While originally from the East coast, I did both my internship and post-doctoral training in California. I have been here ever since and feel lucky to be able to call California my home.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in San Francisco, specializing in psychotherapy for adult/elder individuals and couples. I’ve had the privilege of working within various multidisciplinary teams providing psychotherapy for over a decade. This work has enabled me to develop my therapeutic skills and expand on personal attributes vital to the therapeutic processes. I’m passionate, committed to work with people toward their goals, to heal emotional wounds, to achieve more clarity while allowing for growth and improving lives.

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 24 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 have worked 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.

"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." — Arthur Ashe Hello there! I am first a mom, a sister, an aunt, a grandmother, and a neighbor and friend. In my life, I have naturally been inclined to help others. Realizing this, I decided to embark on a journey to become a professional helper of other humans, to help improve their life and feel better about their choices. Along this journey, I have become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I obtained my MA from Pacific Oaks College in 2013 and my Psy. D. Marital and Family Therapy from The Chicago School in 2021. I then started working in counseling and after completing my continued education for counseling studies with an emphasis on alcohol/drugs abuse studies at UCLA in 2020. I support and promote clients to explore their potential and utilize strengths to manage challenges in life. As your therapist, I strive to be authentic and nurturing and come from this understanding, as my true self, and as a South-American therapist. My years of experience and navigating through life while learning the art of therapy and counseling helped me to develop a strong patient-centered approach to join patients where they are at. Feedback I have heard from clients is that my experience working with different cultural backgrounds helps clients feel safe and they report that I have a more inclusive therapeutic relationship with them than other therapists.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I received my Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from the California Professional School of Psychology (CSPP) at Alliant International University in 2017. I have been practicing in settings like the California Department of Corrections and the Department of Veterans Affairs, Central California Health Care System for seven years. My experience is primarily with adults who have a severe mental illness, or merely symptoms that are disrupting their sense of wellness and are a barrier to their happiness.

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.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations in different community settings. I have adapted different approaches in my clinical work to fit with the populations that I serve. As a therapist, I work to help make clients feel grounded and supported in our session appointments. I strive for authenticity when working with others. I try to help clients value honesty within themselves and in others. I hope to be able to facilitate growth and change in our time together.

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 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 Pak. I am a licensed therapist providing services for individuals in California, Texas, and Nevada. If you're considering therapy, you're likely facing challenges or difficulties that are impacting your well-being and quality of life. It takes courage to acknowledge these struggles and seek help, and I want you to know that I understand how difficult this can be. I want to help my clients develop meaningful insight that will contribute to better self-awareness and personal growth. I want to help couples strengthen their relationship through better support and communication. I am a true believer in relationships. Healthy relationships will lead to emotional strength, which is ultimately my goal for all my clients.

I help people overcome issues that might prevent them from leading healthy, fulfilled lives. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Client Focused therapy as well. It takes courage to start therapy, but I have seen those who do and apply themselves, come out with a greater understanding of self, and many times with new tools to help them relate better with others in their lives. I look forward to helping you on your “Therapy Journey.”

Hello, my name is Salomon Garcia, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in southern California. I have been practicing for over 6 years. I have worked with a broad range of individuals ranging from teen to older adults. I have helped clients struggling with anxiety, depression, work-stress, low self-esteem and life transitions. My aim is to provide a relaxing and safe space to help people to be the best version of themselves.

Hi and thank you for your consideration. Please note, I currently only see clients who are insured by Kaiser. Relationships with professors led to my providing therapy as an undergraduate student majoring in Community Service at University of Oregon. After receiving a Masters Degree in Social Work, the majority of my career was working 23 years for the National Center for PTSD. I had the extraordinary experience of creating my own job description as a Health Scientist in the emerging field of Disaster Mental Health. Over the course of these years, I responded to more than a dozen Presidentially-declared catastrophic events. At first, I worked with survivors or next-of-kin. As a first responder, I learned what every first responder learns when working with people in need. Without intention, we receive more than we give. It is, if you will, sacred work. It has long been important to me to conceptualize what I am trying to achieve professionally. Toward that end, I published research, published guidelines to practice, etc. Eventually, I became a national, and then international consultant regarding emergency response policies, be they federal, state, county, or institutional. In 2018, I received a Fulbright grant to continue the work I began in Ukraine, following the revolution in 2014. In 2022, I began offering telemental health therapy and have been enjoying the work and the progress with my clients.

My name is Krystal Johnson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Children, Youth and Families, from California State University, Hayward, in 2011 and received my Licensure in 2015. A little bit about me- wife and mother of 4, Licensed Zumba Instructor, Musician, & love to scrapbook! I enjoy working with individuals and couples in meeting their goals!

There is always room for growth no matter what age or where you are in life. It is my mission to help people in their personal growth and reach their full potential. I genuinely care for others and provide a safe and non-judgmental space for healing. Life can get overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Through the Rogerian approach, I meet people where they’re at, being compassionate and warm, yet honest and straightforward. As a therapist I love utilizing a combination of therapeutic techniques from person-centered, CBT, TF-CBT, mindfulness, REBT, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, Gestalt and other modalities that have research proven results. Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you want to live.

Greetings and congratulations on taking the first step towards change. My name is Dr. Betina Wofford-Gilmore and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and/or your loved one. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. My goal is to provide a warm and welcoming therapy environment that allows clients to feel at wase with processing life's challenges.

Dr. Mario Rocha is a psychotherapist, CEO of a non-profit organization, author, speaker, and father. He has spent over 10 years in the mental health field. He obtained a doctorate of psychology in marital family therapy and is a licensed marriage and family therapist. He specializes in working with trauma, complex PTSD, family trauma, and couples therapy. He also works with anxiety, depression, and other mental health-related issues. He has done extensive research on sex trafficking victims and complex trauma. He has a passion for the arts, underserved communities, and program development.

https://sherryyamlcsw.com Hi, I am a trauma consultant who graduated from the University of Southern California, with years of culturally diverse EMDR therapy experience since 2011. My expertise is to tailor research-supported EMDR therapy with highly successful expat, AAPI professionals (e.g. Journalists, Actors, Scientists, Corporate Leaders, Producers, First Responders) who experience a Medical Related Trauma, Fear of Flying, Stage Fright, Phobia, Unprocessed Grief, car accidents, wild fires, War Trauma or Cultural Issues. I received my trauma training at the National Center for PTSD and the EMDR Trauma Recovery Humanitarian Assistance Program. In our society, we overlook the necessity of trauma work for our highly successful leaders. Many of my clients come to me are specifically looking for EMDR therapy to resolve barriers so they can be a better leader and find a better work-life balance. Others come to me for EMDR therapy after they tried talk therapy for years and didn’t see the progress they hope for.

Hi, I’m Marvin West, a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist with training in Expressive Arts. I believe therapy is a powerful tool for growth, healing, and self-discovery. You are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to meet you where you are—through the highs and the lows—offering guidance and support along the way. Let’s take this journey together to create a brighter, healthier future for you.

Hi, I’m Lainie Popp. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in EMDR, parts work, and mindfulness-based approaches. I help adults who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism learn how to feel more calm, present, and less overwhelmed in their daily lives. My style is warm, collaborative, and supportive, focused on helping you understand yourself with compassion and feel more comfortable in your own mind and body.

I enjoy meeting new people. Each of you has your own challenge. My objective is to listen and work collaboratively with you. I would like to hear your needs and help you find your way through them. Life is short. If I can help you discover a happier life, that will be outstanding. I have a sense of humor. I thinks that's necessary in this life. Please feel free to call me Jen.

Hello, My name is Tiffany Bell and I am a licensed marriage, family, and child therapist. I specialize in learning disabilities and neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, etc.). I have over 21 years of experience working with this population. I love to help this population of people maximize their full potential through direct, fun, and practical ways of understanding their disorder, what will work and what does not, and how to effectively navigate through that. I also have experience in the education system and I understand how specialized education works. I take pride in not only helping those individuals navigate this system and advocate for themselves,

I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. I bring a unique, spiritual, Latino/Hispanic perspective to mental health counseling that focuses on the needs of our community. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. Aporto una perspectiva única, espiritual, latina/hispana al asesoramiento de salud mental que se centra en las necesidades de nuestra comunidad.

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.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and the elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments. She teaches at five local universities, including UCLA’s medical school. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising. She also works with family and criminal law courts as an expert witness.

You don’t have to struggle alone! I look forward to the opportunity to work collaboratively with you in your journey in discovering how to make positive changes, decrease negative behaviors and thoughts, and help improve your mood and engagement with life! In our hectic world we often find ourselves afraid to take risks that could jeopardize the stable lives we have created for ourselves. We remain in jobs, relationships and old patterns that no longer work, while symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger and self-defeating patterns keep us from making real changes to our lives. If that sounds like you, you are stuck. We can feel lost and alone when we are unable to move forward, whether in work or a personal relationship. Therapy can help you break free of that and thrive. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on teens, adults, and couples. I have worked with clients on concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and family reunification. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I also minored in sociology.

I am a License marriage and family therapist I provides services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have been helping individuals with anxiety, social difficulties, Anger management, Depression, trauma and grief. I have experience in facilitating violence prevention programs and anger management groups. I utilizes a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, DBT, Psychoeducation, Play Therapy, behavior modification, mindfulness and relaxation.

I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space where clients can truly be themselves. In our sessions, I encourage clients to explore their experiences, make meaning out of what they’ve been through, and identify the direction they want to take in their lives. My goal is to help clients navigate their journey with greater self-awareness and purpose, empowering them to move forward with clarity and confidence.