Therapists in California

I provide Cutting Edge Therapy which is a scientific method and state of art approach to life struggles, challenges, and achievements. This unique approach focuses on world transitioning relationships in a new light with the following lenses: A multisystemic and multidimensional innovative relationship therapy approach for individuals, couples, families, and organizations. Designed to help people help themselves in marriage, family, and social relationships and focuses on people’s uniqueness without generalizing, categorizing, and labeling.

“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops at all.” – Emily Dickinson Often when people are coping with difficult issues in their lives, they do so in silence and isolation. As a psychologist, I want my clients to know they are not alone, and that there is hope. It is important for clients to feel safe to express their feelings openly. It is vital that insight be gained into one’s behavior and how your thoughts and actions can impact the way you feel. As a psychologist, I specialize in treating women coping with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, imposter syndrome, and maternal mental health.I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, where the therapist and client work together. I want my clients to feel empowered, and gain tools that they can utilize to cope with difficult emotions. Where they will feel that they are in control and dictate their own actions, and not allow emotions such as fear or sadness steal their hope and happiness away. I promise that your feelings will be recognized and validated. You will never be judged, and you will be supported throughout your journey. Often feelings of helplessness lead to hopelessness. I want you to know that these feelings can change, and be replaced by feelings of strength and excitement for the future. I provide both video and telephone sessions, let me know what works best for you.

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.

Dr. Carol L. Gandolfo is a Psychologist and Marriage Family Therapist licensed in both California and Arizona. She has over twenty years’ experience working with developmental disabilities, major mental illnesses, domestic violence victims, family therapy, etc. She is the current owner of CLG Behavior Consultants, LLC. She has forensic experience in the areas of assessment, competency training and expert witness for individuals with developmental disabilities and attendee at the Academy Group Violent Criminal Behavior and Criminal Profiling. She is a Board Certified Founding Fellow of the College of Advanced Prescribing Psychologist, certified in mediation training with the Arizona Attorney General, Certified Trauma Therapist. She is the Co-creator of the Sex Trafficking and Interdiction for the Protection of Children Manual currently being distributed throughout Arizona for use by law enforcement personnel. She is a member of the Critical Incident Team for the Sedona Fire Department and volunteer with the Sedona Police Department.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my degree from California State University, Northridge, and have been practicing for over 20 years. As a therapist I specialize in providing a supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My goal is to help clients navigate life's challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and work towards their personal goals in a safe and confidential setting.

Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

My name is Alanna Walker, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Las Vegas, Nevada. I currently provide telehealth services to clients in California and have experience offering both in-person and virtual therapy in Nevada. I’m certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and domestic violence intervention, and I also have specialized training in substance use disorders and addiction.

My name is Michael Brollini. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist, with 7 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health disorders and non-mental health disorders. It is my goal to help with learning alternative self-care activities, utilizing coping skills, and grounding techniques that could help us to function in the present moment. These are the basic fundamentals that are important through the healing process which could help improve your personal growth.

I am Jamula (Jamalah) Taylor and I am an LMFT. I have worked with many adults from various backgrounds from homelessness to prison inmates. I pursued my career path so that I can help others like myself, my friends, and my family obtain the support they need. I know seeking help can be difficult and scary especially when you do not know where to start. I want to let you know identifying you may need/want help is the first step that many do not take so great job!! I specialize in working with adults with depression, anxiety, codependency, stress, and Domestic Violence. My approach is calming and can be laid back when necessary. I am not the expert in your life, I am a supporter. I like to think of myself as a member of your team to see you reach your goal of being a better you.

Life moves fast and sometime we can’t keep up. Sometimes we don’t feel like we can talk to others for fear of judgment. Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you withdraw and shut down when you are struggling? Do you have thoughts come at you a mile a minute? Do those same thoughts take off into uncharted territory? It’s not uncommon, and you don’t have to feel that way forever. You might not have the tools to sort out or process these emotions. Maybe you know some skills, and are unsure how to or when to use them. These are just a few reasons why people seek therapy and I provide a supportive, non-judgmental and encouraging environment.

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).

California State University Stanislaus of Social Work, Master's in Social Work License LCSW# 76744 23 Years of experience Hello! My name is Robert Garza, LCSW Bi-lingual. I have over 18 years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood, adolescence, children/families, adults, and end-of-life care. I have always viewed my professional career to learn as much as possible and be able to impact the largest number of people in need of support, counseling, therapy, and a safe space. I have worked in educational settings, healthcare settings, and clinical settings. I was born in Corcoran and raised in Central California. I currently reside in Rocklin CA, and enjoy horseshoe pitching, long walks, the ocean, and family and friends. My historical area of focus ranges from challenges in school to overcoming childhood traumas, depression, anxiety, social isolation, and conflict within family units. These are common things that we all face as we grow and evolve into our adult selves.

Hi there! My name is Marianne and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am Filipino, Chinese, and Spanish and born and raised in the Bay Area. I have been in the mental health field for 10 years and worked with children adolescents and adults from all cultures and socioeconomic status. I specialize in treating ADHD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, and anxiety issues. I look forward to working with you. Let's grow together!

I have been licensed as Marriage Family Therapist since April 3,2003. My area of clinical practice has focused on addressing the underlining causes of anxiety, addiction and depressive disorders. In addition, I have acquired a fundamental understanding of crisis that affects the struggle involving martial relationships. As a Marriage Therapist, I have expertise in the utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It my clinical experience that if you can effectively change your thoughts process your life will radically change for the better.

I was born in Amsterdam but moved to California. I am the mother of one child. I was born into a dysfunctional family and overcame trauma. I like to help you heal your painful past as well. Talk therapy can only take you so far because it does not process your emotions. I can help you integrate the cognitive part of the brain with the emotional part. This integration is a fast-lane approach to healing very fast. My therapy adds a deeper dimension to regular talk therapy as I incorporate EMDR, EFT, NLP, Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, and hypnotherapy. Try a new approach; it is beneficial.

Hello, I'm Mary E. Watts, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for guiding individuals, especially women, children and teenagers through mental and emotional challenges. With 29 years of experience and a Master Degree in Social work I've committed myself to foster personal growth and healing in my clients. I have worked with clients from all walks of life, genders, nationalities, ages and races. My life experiences coupled with my education, and professional experiences makes me a therapist who is well rounded, grounded in reality and capable ofmeeting my client's needs.

Hey there! I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist from California with 40+ years of diving deep into mental health, spiced with a dash of international flair. My journey has taken me through a Psy.D. program to complete in Clinical Psychology, a master's in Counseling Psychology, and a bachelor's in Sociology. Living and working across the globe has fine-tuned my knack for connecting with people from all walks of life. I'm all about helping you find your ‘Zen’ again, mixing and matching the best bits from CBT and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy to create a chill, judgment-free zone where we can work things out together.

Greetings! My name is Carrie McElwee and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in California. I believe in meeting the client where they are and creating a safe space for each client to feel empowered as positive change occurs, judgement-free and unapologetically. My mission is to promote mental health services through prevention, education, and interventions. I have in my professional career integrated humor, compassion, empathy, and realness. I am trained in using various evidence-based practices.

Hi! My name is Erin and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California providing therapy to teenagers and adults. I have personal and professional experience in managing and coping with anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma. I often incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), positive psychology, attachment theory, and additional approaches individualized to you. I enjoy learning about clients' interests, hobbies, and strengths, and occasionally incorporating them into our sessions.

Hello. My name is Dr. Alandrea Martin. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I received my Masters from Argosy University in Alameda, California and my doctorate from Walden University. I have been practicing 15 years. I am passionate about helping clients achieve success while going through struggles and life challenges. I also have extensive experience working with couples and families to help increase communication and to resolve conflicts.

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

As a licensed clinical social worker, my position is to help you work through the challenges that are affecting your ability to live a healthy lifestyle mentally, emotionally, psychically and mentally. As your clinical social worker, functioning as a therapist I will focus on how social factors and systems are affecting your wellness and help you create strategies to address them.

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in East Bay, California. I have 15 years experience working with clients, providing therapeutic counseling services. I have worked with a diverse population of clients ranging from children, teens, adults, and elders. I provide services for individuals and families assisting with issues such as depression, isolation, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds and I value genuineness and collaboration with my clients. I provide a safe and supportive holding environment that is authentic and nonjudgmental in nature. I tailor my specific approach depending on client situation, needs, and goals for therapy. As well as draw from theories such as CBT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Client Centered modalities. Growth and change are encouraged through self reflection and finding practical solutions to problems. Making a change can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you are ready to take the first step and begin the road to a new way of life, I am here to help uplift and support you! I appreciate your courage and I look forward to hearing from you!

Hi my name is Abby and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over five years of experience. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, caregiving responsibilities, or navigating a major health diagnosis, you don’t have to go through it alone. I help adults process complex emotions and life transitions by creating a supportive space grounded in compassion, cultural awareness, and practical tools. Tambien hablo Espanol! With over five years of experience as a medical social worker—I bring a deep understanding of how mental health intersects with chronic illness, family dynamics, and life-changing events. In our sessions, we’ll work together to explore your unique story, identify what’s holding you back, and help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and strive to meet clients exactly where they are—with warmth, patience, and genuine respect for their lived experience. If you’re looking for a therapist who can help you cope with stress, set boundaries, or make sense of difficult life changes, I’d be honored to support you.

I help couples and individuals to navigate turbulent times to find their innate vitality and loving relationships. As a couples therapist, I can help you move beyond patterns of arguing and conflict. You will learn how to communicate and express yourself and be heard and received. I also help couples who are striving to find a path to either stay together or move in. I also guide individuals with financial and/or time constraints to move towards a life balancing family, work and personal passion. I have decades of experience helping people achieve a healthy, happy long life filled with joy and connection. When we work together, I listen to your story. I bring decades of experience, but you are the expert on your own life. I’ll do a deep dive to understand how your symptoms affect you. My role isn’t to diagnose or label you. Instead, I offer invitations to explore new perspectives, try different approaches, and gently challenge the patterns holding you back. I feel confident about my abilities to help you to move forward into the life you have always desired. Therapy can be a daunting experience. I appreciate your courage in pursuing help. I always bring a sense of playfulness to the journey. Things can be hard and still be fun. I look forward to hearing from you.

My name is Rosemary. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. In my practice, I integrate evidence-based techniques with a warm and supportive approach. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel understood and valued. My role in our therapeutic relationship is to assist my clients in setting realistic and achievable goals, provide support, teach skills and strategies to manage emotional and mental health, facilitate self-discovery, challenge narrative patterns, and provide feedback and insight.

As a **licensed marriage and family therapist** with 15 years of experience, I've had the opportunity to work with diverse clients, from individuals as young as three to adults of all ages, as well as couples and families. I began my career in substance abuse counseling and DUI classes. Over the years, I’ve specialized in **talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy**, with a focus on helping clients resolve **unresolved trauma**. I'm also trained in **Parent-Child Interaction Therapy** and can provide these services via telehealth. Most recently, I spent six years as the **Behavioral Health Program Director** for a foster agency in California. This role was incredibly rewarding and allowed me to work with children in foster care, their biological and foster parents, and adoptive families. Although I loved my work as a director, I truly missed the hands-on experience of working directly with individuals and families in a therapeutic setting, which is why I am back in private practice.

I am a licensed therapist with a passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. With a strong background in mindfulness and yoga, I believe in the transformative power of integrating mind-body practices to promote healing and resilience. My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and crisis de-escalation strategies, to help clients manage anxiety, depression, and life's challenges with greater ease and clarity. I work collaboratively with my clients to create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where they can explore their emotions, build coping skills, and develop greater self-awareness. Whether you are facing overwhelming stress, struggling with mental health concerns, or navigating a crisis, I am here to support you in cultivating balance, emotional well-being, and inner peace.

Hello, my name is Cathy Ruffin and I am a licensed therapist specializing in trauma and trauma related issues. I also treat those with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions and loss. I use a biopsychosocial approach that recognizes the importance of addressing the interaction between physical, psychological, and social factors in both the prevent and management of symptoms. I have over 25 years of experience and will provide a nonjudgemental, warm and relational style of therapy. I am licensed in the following stated and jurisdictions. AZ, CA, DC, DE, FL, IL, MD, MI, NJ, NV, NY, OR, PA, TX, VA, VT, AND WA.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters in Counseling from California State University, Sacramento and have been practicing for 6 years. I have spent all of my professional career supporting children, teens, and young adults in a therapeutic and school setting and I am passionate about creating a safe space in which clients feel heard, seen, and understood.

I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 12 years of professional experience coming alongside clients on their journey towards change and wholeness. I believe you are the expert of your story and have the strengths to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself. It truly takes courage to seek help in order to lead a more fulfilling and satisfying life. On a professional level, my experience encompasses working with adults and college-age young adults who experience stress, relational conflict, anxiety, trauma, and grief/loss. I pay attention to how clients’ past experiences may present themselves in the client's present realities and assist clients gain greater awareness of these dynamics. I also incorporate a culturally competent approach to therapy that can include a client’s faith tradition or spirituality, ethnic and cultural background, disability identity, and/or sexual and gender identity. I am here to support and empower you through your journey in becoming the best version of you.

Building solid, trusting relationships is among my greatest strengths as a therapist. It is essential for me to help you work on your issues without fear of criticism and a secure sense that you feel accepted. I strive to create a safe, productive place for you to grow, learn and change. I take a comprehensive approach in my work so that we may consider your life experiences, biology and social environment - all of which influence who you are. We will work collaboratively to identify and change repetitive patterns that may be getting in your way. I work with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, depression/ mood disorders, anxiety, as well as various other issues as they pertain to relationships. I have had success in working with individuals who struggle with high emotional reactivity, as well as having difficulty coping and self soothing. Through this journey, we will work together to understand and improve each unique life circumstance.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a decade of experience specializing in treating individuals struggling with substance use disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. I work with dual-diagnosis clients, where I provide therapy to clients facing complex challenges, including addiction, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic therapy, family and couples therapy, and interpersonal relationships helping clients uncover the underlying emotional and relational patterns that contribute to their struggles.

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

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

Hello, my name is Carol Metcalf-Roth, LMFT, and I have been working with clients for 21 years as a Licensed Marriage Therapist. My career history includes progressive experience as a Therapist, Director of Social Services, and Clinical Supervisor, working in agency services, hospitals and private practice. I am also a licensed Military Family Life Counselor.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and California, and I show up in therapy as a real person first. I know how important it is to have a space where you can be seen and understood without judgment. My style is warm, honest, and down-to-earth. I don’t use labels to define you. I listen, reflect, and walk with you through whatever challenges you’re facing. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, or shame, I help you untangle what feels heavy so you can move toward healing and peace.

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

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

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

My name is Shawna Reynolds, and I have been in the social work field for 20 years, and the clinical field for over 15 years now. I was drawn to social work to specifically to help provide a sense of safety, security and stability for youth and families. I bring that same sense of safety, security and stability to my Therapy Practice where using a variety of CBT and TFCBT different modalities I now help adult clients identify areas of self-improvement so that they can make positive behavioral changes in their lives to experience more positive pleasurable emotions such as excitement, happiness and a healthy self-concept.

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 was a CPS Social Worker before I was a therapist. Both of my degrees are in Social Work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and hold licenses in California, Washington, and Oregon. I am very responsive, and your story matters to me. I have been practicing for 7 years. I assist clients ages 12 and older who are struggling with their mental health.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who believes in the power of change, all you need are the right tools. I have invested in earning additional certificates to ensure that I am equipped to support you to meet, and surpass, your goals. I am a registered Art Therapist, EMDR and Energy Psychology practitioner. After a thorough assessment and creation of a care plan, together we can work towards creating the life you've dreamed of, embracing who you are and moving through the traumas that have held you back. As a therapist, I believe in possibilities. Anything is possible when you are willing to do the work. Are you ready to go beyond? Beyond your ideas or conclusions of what you can create. Together, we will go there.

Greetings, my name is Dr. Katherine Andrade, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 28 years of experience working in Medical, Health, Mental Health, and Substance Use. I have worked as a school, mental health, medical, and military social worker. I have a Master's and Doctorate degrees in Social Work. I specialize in working with adults/seniors with mental health and substance use challenges as well as family issues, stress, adjusting to medical challenges, and military/veteran issues.

"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.

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.

My name is Palei, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but my approach is anything but one-size-fits-all. My passion is helping people create a safe space to explore, process, and better understand the complexity of who they are. I consider myself an unorthodox therapist—I self-disclose when it’s appropriate, because I want my clients to know I’m a real person, not a detached clinician. My own life experiences, from childhood to now, have shaped a deep sense of empathy and authenticity in the way I show up for others. What sets me apart is my positive attitude and the fact that I practice what I teach. The same skills I share with clients are ones I use daily in my own life, and they’ve allowed me to create a life worth living. I’ll never ask something of my clients that I wouldn’t ask of myself, and I believe that makes our work together grounded, genuine, and collaborative.

Hi, I am Matthew Ortega! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the beautiful, sunny state of California with nearly 15 years of experience working with clients in the community. Are you longing for more right now? Is ADHD executive dysfunction ruling your day? Are you needing help coping with a new diagnosis of Bipolar disorder or OCD? Or are you looking for a safe place to discuss topics with your spouse, validate your feelings and restore your relationship to its former glory? I help empower individuals and couples of all ages and relationship statuses to overcome their obstacles and live a happy and fulfilling life. I use an educational and interactive approach to elevate and validate you. My approach offers cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, harm reduction, and trauma-informed perspectives as needed for YOUR unique situation. Together we dig deep to bring forth your most rewarding and fulfilling life. I take pride in leaving the stigmatizing labels at the door, here you are welcomed as you are! I believe it takes great strength and courage to take the first step in connecting with a therapist. My goal is to make you comfortable and empowered throughout the entire experience. If you’re ready to make the commitment and put in the honest effort to dig deep and blossom, then I am here to support you! I look forward to working with you and building this relationship!