Therapists in California

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem. I bring a compassionate, culturally informed approach that honors diverse experiences, particularly within LGBTQ+ communities. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients explore self-love, address social anxiety, process difficult emotions like guilt and shame, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming space where individuals can explore their identities, relationships, and life purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support clients through a wide range of experiences—from workplace stress and relationship dynamics to personal transformation and healing from past challenges. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and tailored to each individual's unique journey.

My name is Susan Madson, I am a LCSW. I specialize in depression, anxiety, anger issues, identifying coping skills, build relationship skills, identify client strengths, increase self care tools, build self esteem, teach meditations skills, grounding, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. I help to reduce trauma symptoms by helping clients to learn self regulation skills. I encourage client to participate in homework assignments to build skills to stabilize a clients emotional and behavioral functioning. Further, specialties include addiction issues, grief work and couples therapy. My most common therapy techniques that I use first is client centered therapy approach. I start where the client is most comfortable and work on building a safe environment for the client. My first goal is to build a therapeutic relationship with my client. Then my goal is to work with strength based, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, solutions focused, interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness therapy techniques. I use an eclectic approach as each client is different and has different needs. My goal is to help the client's to identify the fact that sometimes therapy is identifying the small steps that client is making towards their treatment goals.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I work with clients navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and complex family dynamics, always honoring their cultural background and personal story. Through a compassionate, client-centered approach, I help individuals build resilience, gain insight, and develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and lead more empowered lives.

I’m a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to helping adults and young adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical tools. I work with clients facing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, chronic health conditions, and identity exploration—including those within LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse communities. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming space where you feel seen and supported, while also offering evidence-based strategies that bring real change. Together, we’ll work toward reducing distress, strengthening relationships, and building a more balanced and meaningful life.

I am someone who is deeply committed to guiding you on your journey toward developing essential therapeutic skills. My work focuses on fostering safe internal environments, cultivating self-compassion, nurturing caring relationships, and other crucial elements that support each individual's quest for an authentic self and full self-expression. I passionately believe in empowering you to harness your own intrinsic power, supporting you to become your own hero in your healing process.

Gustavo is a licensed clinical social worker who has been providing therapy for the past 5 years. Overall, he has 17 years of experience in the social work field. Gustavo has worked in child welfare, hospital social work, tele-health and is currently a school mental health provider. These experiences have given Gustavo the tools and skills to be the compassionate clinician that he is. His experiences have also provided him the ability to see life situations through difference lenses. Gustavo's ultimate goal is to provide a safe environment, empathy and hope to individuals who are going through life challenges. He strongly values the importance of empowering clients, acknowledging their strengths and providing hope. On a personal note, Gustavo has been married for 15 years and has 4 children. He enjoys reading mystery, faith based and fictional books.

Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence to working in Oakland shelters for youth 13-21. I have worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments. I have focused my professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

With nearly a decade of experience supporting adults, I bring a holistic, trauma-informed lens to therapy—creating a space where you’re invited to (re)discover your true nature and build genuine confidence. I’m a certified mindfulness meditation teacher, and I weave presence and curiosity into every session. My goal is to foster a trusting, collaborative relationship so we can explore difficult thoughts, complex emotions, and life’s challenges together, with care and clarity

Hello. My name is Brian Kaufman. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My commitment to you is to be by your side every step of the way. I believe there is goodness inside of everyone and I will be sure to point out to you where that goodness is inside of you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hello, I am Sandra Cantrell, LMFT. Currently I am serving individuals and families with grief and loss support specifically those impacted by treatments for long-term illness, including preparation for end of life. I include Christian values and practices in my perspective on coping and thriving through suffering. My education, which encompasses both practical experience and academic training, has equipped me with skills necessary to support individuals seeking to incorporate therapy into their coping strategies. Both life experiences and professional developments have led me to be passionate about extending compassion and support to those in need. It is an honor to companion with fellow sojourners on the challenging path toward resilience.

¡Hola! I’m Blanca Mendoza, LMFT a bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist dedicated to helping individuals and families heal from the weight of inter-generational trauma and life’s many challenges. I work with adolescents, first-generation students, and adults navigating identity, life transitions, relationships, and cultural expectations. My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally grounded, integrating mindfulness and practical tools to support healing, growth, and self-compassion.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been practicing for 15 years. In the past 7 years, I have engaged in doing short-term, goal-oriented therapy with adults. I have always thought that individuals (especially adults that seek out therapy willfully) have in them the potentials to rethink their situation and work towards resolving their concerns when provided the appropriate tools allowing them to clearly see and identify what their objective is at that time.

I love working with young professionals struggling with burnout, compassion fatigue, and impostor syndrome. I assist individuals in overcoming anxiety, depression, and addictions tied to childhood or adult trauma. While therapy can be challenging, it can also be a fun and creative journey. I work best with clients who have a growth mind set and are not afraid to try new things. I am open minded and love to help people from from diverse backgrounds.

Hi! My name is Jamaya Clay and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in CA. I have been a therapist since 2019 and licensed since 2021. I have experience working with youth and adults providing individual therapy to help improve their functioning and achieve their own goals. I am passionate about supporting individuals to get through those life challenges in a healthy way.

I have been providing therapy for the last ten years. I am specialized in therapy for trauma and PTSD, as well as peri-partum mental health. My treatment approach is evidence-based and collaborative, which means that I will bring in the therapy that is backed by science to be effective, and I will work with you, the client, as an individual to create a holistic treatment plan that works for your specific needs. I take a gentle yet firm approach - I will maintain an unconditional positive regard toward you, embracing diversity and your own unique perspective. Yet, I believe good therapy is not necessarily easy and I will challenge you at times to examine new understandings, try new approaches, and maintain practices that are established in our sessions. Ultimately, my goal is that you work through what you have come to therapy for and become able to implement gains from therapy into your real life outside of the sessions.

Greetings! My name is Angelica, and I am grateful to be a part of this team and to assist you with addressing and fulfilling your mental health and treatment needs. I hold a blended educational background (MPH, MSW) which has allowed me to obtain duality of experience in terms of social work and public health as impactful avenues of study and intervention. My background currently leads my approaches to therapeutic interventions with elevated consideration to the interplay between individual, societal, and environmental factors and how these variables affect mental health, access to quality healthcare, and ultimately one's well-being. My current experience stems from both fields and spans clinical settings, hospital settings, substance abuse, and rehab facilities where I have conducted biopsychosocial and psychiatric diagnostic assessments, treatment planning, and both individual and group therapy in these settings. My therapeutic approach consists of collaboration and helping clients feel safe, supported, and above all, for them to feel seen and heard. Conducting a robust assessment, tailoring appropriate interventions, and utilizing respect, tact, and authenticity are at the heart of my values for optimized therapeutic outcomes.

Hello. My name is Amilcar and I am a clinical social worker for the past 14 years. I received my BA in Sociology from UC Berkeley and my Masters in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I obtained my LCSW in 2015. I have spent my professional career providing outpatient mental health services to vulnerable populations in Los Angeles and Santa Clara County. I have extensive experience working with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. License No. LCSW 68949

As a Navy veteran, mom of four, and therapist with over 14 years of experience, I understand the weight of responsibility, the exhaustion of caregiving, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going when life feels overwhelming. I’ve lived through the chaos, the transitions, and the moments of doubt, and I bring that lived empathy into every session. My work is grounded in attachment theory and trauma-informed care, helping you make sense of your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and heal in a space that feels safe, attuned, and deeply supportive. Whether you're navigating burnout, relational wounds, or the long arc of trauma recovery, I’m here to walk alongside you with clarity, compassion, and unwavering respect for your journey.

WELOME! So glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the state of California. I received my Master of Social Work from California State University Bakersfield in 2020 and have been practicing for over 3 years. I have dedicated over a decade to Community Mental Health and helping individuals with severe mental health disorders/illness obtain a better quality of life. My unique style, life experiences, and approach provide a genuine connection.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step. I congratulate you on starting your journey, and I’m here to make sure that it is meaningful to you. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and difficulties with self-esteem. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. I welcome you to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin. I’m here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself.

I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing for 8 years and enjoys the power of healing through seeking deeper understanding of self discovery. I enjoy many activities including the outdoors and physical fitness. I value family and focus on creating a closeness in interpersonal relationships. I am passionate about giving to others and helping those who seek to gain an understanding of self improvement.

I take a warm, collaborative, and solution-focused approach to therapy, working alongside clients to help them find practical ways forward. Much of my work centers on supporting adults living with PTSD, depression, and anxiety, and I’ve developed a strong niche working with men in the gay community. My primary approach is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but I believe therapy should fit the person—not the other way around. Depending on your needs and goals, I adjust how I work so that treatment feels useful and relevant to what you’re facing. Clients can expect a conversational style of therapy with me. I offer nonjudgmental support, space to reflect, and concrete strategies that can be applied outside of session. My goal is to create an environment where you feel understood, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life.

Life can be difficult and, at times, feel overwhelming. When navigating depression, anxiety, or trauma, our perspective can become blurred, making it hard to see a way forward. During these moments, having someone who is nonjudgmental and understanding can make a meaningful difference. I believe we are all capable of growth and everyone deserves a life filled with hope, purpose, and a sense of belonging. It will be a privilege to walk with you through this journey of examining your inner self, breaking generational trauma, overcoming anxiety/depression, and improving your relationships. Please note, I currently only see individuals no couples or families.

With a faith-based perspective, I provide solution-focused & mindfulness-based cognitive therapy strategies to promote individual care for client growth. I communicate with compassion, directness, and an emphasis on problem solving strategies. My faith-based perspective informs my supportive and pragmatic approach to helping you develop greater coping skills towards personal growth and healing. Over the past 20+ years, I have partnered with Federal, County, and Private Agencies in meeting the needs of diverse clientele populations.

Hi, I have been providing social services for the last thirty years and have learned that at times we all need some support as life happens. I have also learned that people have benefited from being heard, provided emotional support, tools and greater understanding of solutions to unique challenges. It would be my honor to partner with you in your wellness journey.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and work full time with veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs. I see clients in the evenings or weekends. I enjoy helping clients to navigate life changes, process feelings, and learn healthy coping strategies. Sessions with me will be comfortable, relaxed and productive. I see California clients only. I look forward to working with you!

Greetings! I'm an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has devoted my career to helping others successfully manage mental distress and make meaning of their painful experiences. Since graduating from UCLA with my MSW, I have provided compassionate trauma-informed therapy, as well as supervised and trained a large number of other mental health professionals. Through a collaborative partnership, I have witnessed clients heal and grow!

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.

With over twenty eight years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, qualified supervisor, certified yoga instructor, and equine assisted psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals reconnect with their inner wisdom and to tap into healing energy in order to live more authentically. My belief is that everyone has the right to reach their full potential. I strive to create a warm, collaborative environment where healing a transformation are not only possible-they are achievable. I welcome the opportunity to walk along side you on your journey of healing.

Hello, and welcome. I'm Jane Griffin, a licensed clinical social worker, with a background in clinical social work and over 20 years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life challenges. My professional journey has taken me through diverse settings — from working with military service members and their families, to supporting patients in hospital environments facing acute and chronic illness, to empowering women navigating life transitions, trauma, and identity. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the resilience of the human spirit and the unique complexities we all carry.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step. I congratulate you on starting your journey and I'm here to make sure that it's meaningful to you. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life, transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also specialize in working with couples families and relationship difficulties. I take a client centered collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. I welcome you to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin. I'm here to provide a safe and supportive environment, where you can be yourself.

For over 10 years, my work spanned from court advocacy to case management for immigrant and underserved communities in Los Angeles. I have worked in community mental health providing culturally responsive therapeutic services including harm reduction and crisis counseling. Rooted in social justice, my work as a therapist is an extension of my passion in helping others empower themselves and assist in their healing journey.

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor dedicated to promoting healing and growth through a personalized, multidisciplinary approach. Understanding that each individual is unique, I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities to meet the specific needs of my clients, recognizing that what works for one may not apply to all. I place a strong emphasis on building a trusting rapport and establishing a collaborative therapeutic alliance, where we work together to create lasting change. I firmly believe that every person has the potential to shape and develop the life they envision, and my role is to guide and support them in this process.

Brannon La Force, a Mobile, Alabama native, is a mental health professional with 35 years in the field. He holds licenses in Alabama, California, Florida, Kansas, Oregon, and Texas as professional counselor. He completed a BA in History from Asbury University, and a MS in Counseling from the University of South Alabama. He is a PhD doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology with Walden University. He is the Owner and Senior Clinician with Brannon La Force, LPC-S & Associates, PLLC and currently lives and works abroad as a digital nomad. Mr. La Force is also an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University where he teaches forensic psychology. In addition to owning a private practice, he has worked in community mental health, a forensic hospital, hospital emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric units. While the bulk of his work has been in the US, Mr. La Force has also written behavior plans for intellectually disadvantaged adults in Australia, treated genocide survivors in Rwanda, and supported sailors in the US Navy with their mental health needs on the island kingdom of Bahrain. His areas of expertise include trauma, relationships, and borderline personality disorder. He is an avid proponent of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and runs a DBT group. He also supervises associate counselors in Texas and Kansas and precepts psychiatric nurse practitioners nationwide for their psychotherapy rotation. Mr. La Force has three adult children, two of which are also counselors. He is an avid Crimson Tide fan, loves seafood and provides support to Village Health Team in western Uganda.

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.

My name is Jennifer Poole and I’m a licensed martial and family therapist. Not only do I specialize in families and couples, I also provide individual psychotherapy. I’ve been practicing since 2008 and worked in both private practice settings and hospital settings too. I believe growth and transformation is possible. I’m excited to be a part of your journey and work towards your goals. I believe good therapy is possible and together we can make good things happen. Transformation is possible with the right clinician by your side.

I’m a holistic, trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenges of mental health and substance use. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck—exhausted by cycles of relapse, emotional pain, or instability. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can explore your story, uncover patterns, and develop tools for lasting change. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a deep respect for your unique experiences, empowering you to heal, connect, and create a life aligned with your values.

I'm Elizabeth, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic self, develop compassion towards self and others, and live a meaningful life through transformation and healing.

I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in California with a doctorate in rehabilitation counselor education from Michigan State University. I have taught at three community colleges and four universities in the US. My book, Transgender Youth, was published in 2016 and I also co-authored a book, Trauma-Informed Care in 2021. I currently operate an online private practice providing therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma to individuals in the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. *If you would like a therapy session on a day and time that is not listed, send me a message to make an exception for you.

My name is Jacob Lapides and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and I have been in this field for over 10 years now. I am a Holistic therapist who likes to focus on healing an individual from all aspects including mind-body wellness. I bring an eclectic skill set of many different therapeutic approaches and orientations so that I can use different techniques to find the best tools and interventions to help and support whoever I am working with.

My name is Sue Fry Van Rheenen, a licensed Psychologist in Nevada City, California. I have 30 plus years of experience working with adults, couples and youth. I have experience in working with a wide range of concerns that include depression, anxiety and self-esteem. My focus is exploring and identifying those patterns of behavior that interfere with one's ability to find balance and productivity. I work with my clients to change these patterns and to establish a new way of being where happiness can be better realized. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment where my client can meet those challenges that require courage and patience. I am here to support you in this process.

Greetings, I am Dr. Mekeya. My background is as a licensed social worker. I became a mental health professional because I understand the importance of having support through tough times and a partner to cheer with you in times of victory. I have the pleasure of helping others recognize their strengths and abilities that can be used to overcome challenges and promote growth. Being a mental health professional allows me to positively touch someone’s life daily and be an ear for someone that just needs to vent.

I am a Latinx therapist who began practicing in 2014 and have experiencing helping people heal and continue on their mental health journeys. I love to support individuals in feeling confident in their own choices and finding their best self. I hope to help you too in finding your own healing path.

Hi. I am the daughter of immigrants which motivated me to study Multicultural community based psychology. I have worked in many different settings from community mental health to private practice. Currently I am the director of a consultation unit for youth and young adults in the foster care system. I really enjoy working with people on how to maximize their potential to create happier lives; sometimes this is achieved through more traditional therapy while other times this may require life coaching. I do not believe that therapy needs to be a continuous life long process, but rather a process individuals move in and out of at different stages of their lives.

I am a Licensed Clinician in California, with over three decades of clinical experience. I specialize in culturally competent, Christian-integrated, strength-based therapy. My approach combines Biblical principles, Christian values, wisdom, and clinical expertise to support those seeking healing through a holistic and compassionate framework. I offer culturally competent therapeutic interventions, respecting all cultures and emphasizing the client's strengths as the foundation for overcoming challenges.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from San Francisco State University with an M.S. in Counseling Psychology. I have recently been certified by the Cognitive Behavioral Institute to offer ERPT (Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for OCD). I have over 20 years of experience working with a very diverse range of folks (women, men, the LGBTQ community, those living with HIV,People of Color, those dealing with substance issues). I enjoy working with people who are seeking a caring, compassionate, understanding person who listens and offers a hand up while they battle back against depression and anxiety. I also enjoy supporting people who are struggling with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and employ a powerful tool (Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy) that is clinically shown to greatly reduce OCD symptoms.

I am an experienced Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with a strong focus on helping high school aged and older individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, and trauma/PTSD. With eight years of practice, I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to create a safe space for clients to explore their concerns and foster healing and growth to become the best versions of themselves.

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

As a compassionate and affirming therapist, I strive to create a warm, accepting space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered in their unique identities. My practice is deeply rooted in trans-affirming and LGBT-inclusive care, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life are met with respect, validation, and understanding. Grounded in anti-oppressive principles and a strong commitment to social justice, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate life’s challenges while honoring their lived experiences. I believe that healing is not only personal but also deeply connected to the broader systems in which we live. My approach fosters self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, helping clients cultivate meaningful change in both their inner worlds and their communities. Whether you are exploring your identity, seeking support for life’s transitions, or working through personal struggles, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering support.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I believe that therapy is a collaboration where we can focus on issues that may be negatively impacting you. Through my lived experiences, I have overcome significant challenges and now see them as blessings that have helped me grow. These lessons inspired my journey to become a therapist and help others. I became a therapist to offer a safe space, support system, and guidance to those in need. I empathize with a wide range of struggles and am dedicated to helping others become the best versions of themselves for themselves and their loved ones.