Therapists in California

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.

Hi there, I'm Jonathan, a licensed marriage and family therapist. Congratulations on taking your first step toward wellness and recovery! I specialize in helping people with issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, marital/pre-marital issues, and more. It is my personal and professional commitment to assist and support you in any way possible on this journey of change. I have been practicing therapy since 2005 and completed my Bachelor's degree at Appalchian State University in Boone NC (class of 2003). I completed my Master's in MFT Psychology at Phillips Graduate Institute of Psychology in Chatsworth, CA (class of 2005).

Hi, I’m Gisela—a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience supporting adults through life’s unexpected transitions, emotional healing, and personal growth. I specialize in culturally responsive care, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors interact—and how small shifts can lead to meaningful change. Whether you're navigating grief, anxiety, workplace stress, or simply feeling stuck, I offer a space where your story is honored and your strengths are the foundation of our work.

Welcome, I'm Rachelle Knight. As a mental health therapist, I'm dedicated to fostering a warm, nonjudgmental space for you to begin sharing your story at your own pace. I will ask questions to better understand your concerns, background, and goals for therapy. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions, get a feel for my style, and start building a trusting connection. The focus is on creating comfort, clarity, and a collaborative foundation for the work ahead.

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

Hello! My name is Brenda and I am a licensed clinical social worker. As a dedicated and empathetic mental health professional with over 7 years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate their emotional and psychological challenges. My journey into therapy began with a profound personal interest in understanding human behavior and a desire to support others in their pursuit of mental well-being.

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.

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

Welcome to my professional profile. My name is Paul Quezada, and I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a potential ally on your journey towards improved mental health and overall well-being. First and foremost, I want to acknowledge your courage in seeking help. Your mental health is paramount, and I commend you for prioritizing it. I am here to offer my support and guidance as you navigate life's obstacles and challenges. My role is to provide you with the necessary tools and support to manage the various struggles impacting your mental health. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating significant life transitions, I am here to accompany you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your therapeutic journey. I look forward to the opportunity to work together and support you in achieving your goals.

I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion for helping clients explore new perspectives on mental health. I specialize in working with first responders and their families, offering a relaxed and inviting approach that creates a safe space for growth and healing. I particularly enjoy supporting individuals who are navigating everyday stress and looking to build healthier coping strategies. I often say, “Our toolboxes need to be big—because life requires a lot of tools.” My goal is to help clients expand their toolkits so they feel more equipped and empowered in their daily lives.

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 professional clinical counselor in the state of California, I live in the Palm Springs area of Southern Cal. My goal in life is to assist others with their mental health challenges and provide them with tools and education that will help them successfully manage these challenges. I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions.

Hello! I'm Norit Bercovicz (pronounced Nor-reet Berk-o-vitz), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#122569) and a Registered Art Therapist in California. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Rutgers University and a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University, I've dedicated over 7 years to working with with diverse populations, from children to military veterans. In my practice, informed by personal growth and training, I blend Art Therapy, mindfulness practices, and more to promote heightened awareness. Embracing a client-centered approach, I meet you where you are, whether or not that involves art-making. Specializing in day-to-day challenges like anxiety, depression, and adjustment difficulties, I also guide individuals in transforming uncertainty into opportunity. Beyond my therapeutic work, I find joy in nature—whether hiking, camping, or on a backpacking trip with loved ones. I recharge by spending time with family, friends, and my delightful fur baby, Shoko.

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!

Hi! and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed therapist committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience. My work integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate, client-centered approach. I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, heal from trauma, and build stronger relationships—with others and with themselves. I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs and goals. At the core of my practice is the belief that lasting change comes from both insight and action.

Therapy can be a frightening, overwhelming process, yet one of the most rewarding and life changing experiences of your life. It allows you to be you, share your thoughts and feelings without judgement, feel safe, gain insight into your thought process, your behaviors, and learn to be in control of your overall experiences. Through your strengths and weaknesses, you will learn to embrace each and every experience, and you will gain the knowledge to make the changes you need to achieve your goals. You will find the power within you to bring fulfillment to your life journey. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience helping people, couples, and families grow, and learn what they need to have a more fulfilling life experience. I will listen to your life experience. I will listen to your challenges. I will work with you on reaching your goals or helping you identify your goals in order for you to feel successful in our therapeutic process.

Hi, My name is Rhonda David and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have over 30 years of experience and knowledge. My goal is to really listen to my client's needs and offer a safe non-judgmental supportive environment to help them find solutions to their inner struggles and in their relationships. I have a high satisfaction rate. My common approaches to therapy are self-understanding, understanding of others, self-acceptance and empowerment to help clients develop and initiate solutions for their lives and relationships that bring them satisfaction and deep happiness.

I'm Claudine and I'm looking forward to working with clients who are seeking a positive therapeutic relationship. I'm compassion focused while still pushing clients to do their best and meet their goals. Psycho education is big part of what I include in sessions to help clients understand how the process of therapy works and how my interventions can help you.

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.

Hello, Welcome! Bienvenidos! I am an LCSW who has been providing services for over 7 years. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations (adults, children, and college students) and experience with psychodynamic therapy, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness. I strongly believe in whole person care. I believe that in order to help you improve we need to understand the root of the presenting symptoms.

Hello, thanks for visiting my page. I am Dr. Banigo, and I love to collaborate with patients and render needed assistance. I am a skilled clinician, and I provide clinical supervision to clinicians focused on sharpening their clinical skills. I am an adjunct professor. I encourage patients to actively participate in their care with me and other treatment providers such as primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and others. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc).

My name is Jason Stewart, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with a genuine passion for helping others. With nine years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including couples, families, individuals, and the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout my career, I have found that connecting with my clients on a deep and authentic level is at the core of effective therapy. I bring empathy, warmth, and curiosity into every session, creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and life's challenges. Whether you are struggling with relationship issues, navigating complex family dynamics, facing personal obstacles, or seeking to understand and embrace your own identity, I am here to walk alongside you on your unique journey. In addition to my professional approach, I believe in the power of humor as a therapeutic tool. Laughter can bring lightness to difficult situations and foster resilience. By combining my years of experience, genuine empathy, warmth, curiosity, and a touch of humor, I strive to create a therapeutic experience that is both enriching and transformative. If you are seeking a therapist who values your unique experiences, understands the intricacies of diverse populations, and can provide a safe space for exploration and growth, I invite you to connect with me. Together, we can embark on a path of healing and create a life filled with fulfillment and well-being.

My name is Nick Davis I'm a 34-year-old, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), based in San Diego, California working with clients throughout California via telehealth. I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in a variety of areas including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, impulsivity, relationship concerns, and suicidal ideation. My approach to therapy is eclectic, meaning it is based on the needs of the client. I believe in a collaborative approach to help the client identify their primary needs and tailor therapeutic interventions to meet those needs. I specialize in several modalities however I most commonly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach to therapy is integrative and personalized, drawing from a variety of modalities-including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Brainspotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Humanistic Therapy. I believe that meaningful change begins with self-awareness and compassionate understanding. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, or feeling stuck, I’m here to help you identify what’s holding you back and support you in reaching your personal goals. Through CBT and DBT, I help clients challenge unhelpful thinking patterns and build emotional resilience. With Brainspotting and EMDR, we can gently access and process unresolved trauma and deeply held emotional pain. My humanistic lens ensures that our work always centers on your unique values, strengths, and capacity for growth. No matter where you are on your journey, I’ll meet you with empathy, encouragement, and practical tools to help you move forward. My goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change in your life.

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 Vanessa (she/her), a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals facing stress, burnout, and mental health challenges. I work collaboratively with clients to build self-determination, practical strategies, and radical self-love. My approach is holistic and informed by trauma-informed care and various therapeutic modalities. Together, we explore your unique experiences, heal past wounds, and reconnect with your inner strengths, empowering you to create lasting growth, resilience, and deeper self-awareness. I believe in the transformative power of connection and support, and I’m here to guide you on a journey of healing and self-discovery.

I have been playing and coaching basketball for years and, in the process, developed a passion for psychology and philosophy. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. I have completed one year of a master’s program with a focus on sports psychology. I received my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I wanted to improve my communication, relate better to the people and clients I was working with, understand myself better, and adequately face personal issues and past traumatic events. I consequently developed an interest in mental health, emotional resilience, and intricate family dynamics that shape us as individuals. I became a believer that with the proper support and resources, people could find solutions and become active in authoring preferred narratives. Resourcefulness exists in all people. Additionally, I believe clients are best understood if we take time to reflect on relevant cultural and dominant societal factors to ensure treatment objectives and interventions are consistent with the attitudes and behaviors distinctive of a range of multicultural perspectives and backgrounds.

Hi, I’m Meashline Faith Komara, LCSW, a psychotherapist. I work with adults, couples, and families who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by stress, trauma, or life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel truly heard and supported as you navigate life’s challenges. I use a mix of evidence-based approaches—like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care—while honoring your unique experiences, culture, and strengths. Together, we’ll work toward helping you understand yourself better, build confidence, and create meaningful changes that lead to a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.

I provide a safe, supportive space for individuals seeking to navigate their emotions and experiences. I specialize in working with young adults, and enjoy helping clients navigate life transitions. I'm also passionate about working with survivors of trauma, and have particular experience helping people work through developmental and childhood trauma. My approach integrates practical, day-to-day strategies combined with emotional exploration, helping you gain insights into your thoughts and feelings. I

Benzion is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their mental health journey. He holds a Master of Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary, graduating in 2007. Benzion believes in a holistic approach to care, building a trusting and collaborative relationship with each client to foster hope and lasting change. "I am humbled by the courage and vulnerability my clients display every day. I am honored by the privilege of being with you in your most intimate places to develop trust and build hope for the future. Thank you for considering the journey of building a better future with me."

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'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.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, specializing in military culture. I have a master's in psychology and a master's in mental health counseling with six years of professional work experience; I have experience and compassion in helping clients with stress, depression, anxiety, addictions, military culture, self-esteem, fear, and impaired confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am a good listener and can help and motivate clients through change. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hello, my name is Deserae, and welcome to my profile! As a licensed clinical social worker, I am passionate about supporting individuals in identifying their own path toward their mental health goals. With a Master's degree in Social Work with an Emphasis on Hispanic Culture from Our Lady of the Lake University, I bring a diverse background and skill set to my therapy practice.

Hi, I am Boris. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been practicing for the past 7 years. In your unique life journey, you have navigated a path full of diverse experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Your story is a testament to your resilience and the growth that has emerged from your personal adventures. Throughout your life, you have embraced the power of self-discovery, learning, and transformation. Your narrative highlights your individual strengths and the lessons you've gathered along the way, shaping the remarkable person you've become today. It is your story, and I am here to listen, support, and help you explore your aspirations, identify your goals, and work together to create a future chapter that aligns with your desires and values.

Hello, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist offering therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I am passionate about reducing the stigma around therapy and creating a supportive space for healing, exploration, and growth. As a grounded therapist I seek to help clients navigate life’s challenges with insight, clarity, and accountability. With over 15 years of clinical experience that spans diverse settings, including community mental health, high-crisis inpatient care, and residential programs for foster youth. I have supported individuals and families facing anxiety, grief, depression, blended family dynamics, neurodivergence (including ADHD and Autism), and significant life transitions such as loss, incarceration, or shifting roles within family structure.

Greetings, My name is Kimberly Merritt Barrett and I grew in a small rural area in SW Georgia. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have a plethora of experience in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, High School Counseling; Self Esteem; Body Imaging; Self-Awareness, Couples Therapy, Anger Mgmt, Grief/Loss, Relational Issues; etc. My functional statement in this field and what has kept me grounded is: To help someone, you must have been helped at some point in your life. We all need support and a clear vision to operate in this thing called 'life'. I am sorry to inform you I do not submit letters/recommendations for you to be off of work.

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.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I am a passionate and results-driven professional dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals through personalized support and expert guidance. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I am committed to providing inclusive and culturally sensitive care. My goal is to give a voice to the voiceless and ensure every client feels seen, heard, and empowered. *If you don’t see a time that works for you please feel free to message me :)

Hello, I am a therapist who focuses on improving the lives of his clients. I will help empower them to enrich their lives. Together we can explore methods on helping the individual deal with everyday life stressors and also past trauma. I am someone who wants to see their clients excel and be able to manage life's difficulties. Hoping to help my clients see positive results in therapy.

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

Hello! I’m Ignacio. I am a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) based in Monterey, California that truly enjoys helping clients overcome life struggles. While English is my primary language, I also speak Spanish fluently. I have worked with clients that have different life experiences including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, recovery from break-ups, identity issues, and other challenges. I am also welcoming to LGBTQIQ folx as an ally and I am gender-affirming. I am bicultural (Mexican-American) and bilingual (Spanish). The clients I have served in the past have benefited from the way in which I do therapy and help them overcome the difficulties in their lives to help them live and enjoy life more. I use science-backed (EBT) methods to help my clients including CBT, MI, and Mindfulness.

Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California for 20 years and I hold a doctorate degree in the Philosophy of Counseling. I am in my second marriage for 29 years now, after my 24-year first marriage failed. We have seven children between the two of us, 31 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. I have had good success counseling couples who have given up on their relationship, especially those who have experienced infedelity. I don't counsel children until they are 18. I enjoy helping people understand how they became the way they are and therfore find ways to leave dysfunction behind.

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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and graduated with my Masters from the University of Southern California in 2014. I work with people who are struggling with their self identity due to anxiety and depression. I lead with understanding and commitment toward seeing the fullness of my clients. I enjoy working with clients to see the dualities that exist within our world in order to help them meet their goals.

My name is Aarti and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am of South Asian (Indian, Desi) descent and a first-generation college graduate. A little bit about my journey to becoming a therapist started with my own mental health journey and finding a therapist who understood the South Asian culture and how it contradicted the American culture. I was always described as a “helper” and always felt a sense of fulfillment when helping others. Becoming a therapist for me was a way to make a positive impact on individuals and communities as well as empower them to know it is OKAY to be NOT OKAY.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

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.

I practice as a dual licensed therapist (MFT & LPCC) in Fresno, California and offer online service via Grow. Call me for consult at (559) 242-6670 or inquire at: Justin@Stargaardtherapy.com. I have more availability than posted. I contract on site service in Fresno area including group therapy and consulting. Before joining Grow, I served my local community in Fresno for six years with a local office and also provided on site therapy with sex offenders via containment model. I've worked with survivors of various traumas & family dysfunctions, depression, sexual abuse survivors, anxiety, life stressors, ADHD, co-parenting dynamics, anger issues, and a whole host of other stuff that brings one to seek therapy. As far as specialty, I am certified as an independent provider with California's sex offender management board and trained in areas surrounding sexual abuse, offending, and how therapy is rendered based on reducing risk. At present, I offer my expertise in this area primarily to parents who want to protect their kids, survivors who want to assert against future grooming/victimization, and to adults desiring to build safe and healthy sexual expression. Theoretical models I apply, include a cognitive behavioral model emphasizing using behavior to get the changes you want. In practice, I've found this model to be accessible for first time clients, offer a practical conceptualization of therapy work, and all while offering an ease of going "deeper" as work may incorporate childhood experiences, attachment, relational dynamics, and in room transference. When I work with couples and families I utilize a structural model which emphasizes getting parents on the same team and building a functional hierarchy for the family unit. I've seen first hand how smooth a family can run when mom and dad work together and own their home. Consults welcome 24/7.

My aim is to foster a supportive and safe space for you to explore your feelings, thoughts and challenges. My work will help you recognize the power within you & source( whatever you believe in is totally okay in my world, I respect all) and trusting that it all works out the way it should! I have also faced my own life challenges, moved across the country to my dream states and more, which I believe has taught me to have more compassion and an open mind. Hence, why I always state I am a human first. One of my biggest strengths that helps foster a safe space for my clients, is my unconditional acceptance & operating from an unapologetic authentic framework, whilst helping them get to the level they desire. * I do offer a scaling rate for fees, please reach out for more information on that*