Therapists in California

Are you searching for meaning or clarity in your life? Feeling stuck in a transition, questioning your identity, or moving through an existential crisis? You’re not alone—and healing begins with awareness. I help people of all ages reconnect with their authentic selves by exploring the unconscious patterns that shape our thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Together, we uncover what no longer serves you and create space for new growth and purpose. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Doctoral Candidate at Pacifica Graduate Institute, where I specialize in Depth Psychology and Integrative Healing Practices. My holistic approach honors the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and I believe every person already holds the wisdom needed for healing. My role is to walk beside you as a compassionate guide, helping you integrate insight into everyday life.

My approach is based on who you are and what is relevant for you in order to be your best self. I collaboratively work with clients in re-connecting with their innate strength and resilience in their journey to face change and heal unresolved issues. I use a variety of modalities that support a client's ability to reconnect with their inner-self and identify ways in which they want to make positive changes. I treat a number of issues including unresolved complex trauma, addiction, co-occurring disorders, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, impact & insight into historical trauma, and sexual abuse. I am warm, empathetic and supportive but not afraid to challenge clients when necessary. I utilize evidence based and creative approaches such as CBT, Strength-Based approach, Trauma Informed CBT, Family Systems, DBT, Jungian art based skills and concepts, Assertive communication skills, and Mindfulness Based. I currently hold active LCSW licenses in both California and New Mexico.

Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!

My name is Ty Bufford, LCSW. I have over 15+ years of experience. I specialize working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life stressors, relationship issues, generational trauma, grief, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, inner child work, and racial trauma. Thank you for taking the first step during these challenging times. Therapy is a journey, and I am here to walk you through this process

Hello, my name is Mario and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2021 but have been working in the mental health field since 2011 in various roles (e.g., Child Specialist, Intensive Care Coordinator) for different programs including Wraparound, IFCCS, Outreach Triage Team and others. I am bi-lingual speaking (English and Spanish) and was raised in Los Angeles.

My name is Alyssa (she/her) and I am a licensed therapist who provides holistic, trauma-informed virtual therapy throughout California. I work with older teens and young adults to navigate life transitions, build a healthy sense of self, increase confidence and resiliency, and address the roadblocks that hold us back in life. I offer client-centered individual therapy. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming.

Hello my name is Edwin, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the mental health field for 13 years and counting. I have been a social worker/therapist for the past 7 years. During my years of working in the mental health field I have worked with children, youth, adults and older adults. I have worked with clients/patients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, acute and long-term changes in their life. I became a therapist because I find it rewarding knowing that I am able to help others.

Hello, I am Luis Martinez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have been serving my community helping families and individuals for over 8 years. Whether it's helping people with simple day to day stressors or deeper rooted concerns, there's an approach and solution to the problem. Together we can focus on building strengths and help facilitate positive change to help empower you moving forward in your life.

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

Healing begins when you are honest with yourself about what’s not working. But getting raw and real can be difficult with people who know you– or think they do. Their view of you, expectations and agendas influence what you feel safe to share. This is where the magic of therapy comes in: it offers a space for an honest conversation between you and another human being–one where you can finally get real. We all need to feel felt—to be seen and understood. We yearn for a safe space where we can speak openly about what we’ve experienced and embrace all parts of ourselves. This kind of authentic connection helps us make sense of why we think, feel, and act the way we do–and to discover who we are beneath the stories and defenses. This is the key to real, lasting change. I bring 30+ years experience guiding people on their path. My approach is collaborative, although clients often say they are grateful to have a therapist who can be direct in service of their growth. A former yoga teacher and massage therapist, I focus on embodied healing. I’m also a published author and professional editor—and yes, I’ve been to Burning Man (several times). I have worked with all sorts of people—from Silicon Valley CEOs to moms who lost custody of their kids to addiction. I work with artists, athletes, dancers, writers, and hold a special place in my heart for geeks and those who’ve lost capacity after an accident or injury. I weave bio-hacking principles into therapy for those who want optimal vitality. It is possible to transform emotional pain into a deep sense of being at home in your own skin. There is a calm, wise essence within you that knows the way to healing. Let’s explore this together.

You don’t have to keep pretending everything’s fine when it’s not. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families ready to break free from stress, disconnection, or emotional overwhelm. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship struggles, or feeling stuck in old patterns, I’m here to help you reconnect with yourself and those around you. Together, we’ll create a space where healing and growth feel possible, and where real, lasting change can begin.

I believe we all have the strength within us to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. I am here to help you develop confidence and skills to better manage your negative thinking patterns, distressing emotions and destructive behaviors. My goal is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, reconnecting with your authentic self and building a life that is more aligned with your values. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, relationship issues & life transitions. I have a particular focus on helping individuals with emetophobia (fear of vomiting).

Do you want a better day tomorrow than you had yesterday? Do you worry about things you have no control over? Do you ask, “Is this all there is to my life?” What happened to your dreams, your goals, your “someday I’ll be…I’ll do…, I’ll have…”? Hello, please call me Stephanie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years in the helping profession. I love the Martial Arts for it’s discipline of the body, mind, and spirit. I believe everyone should learn some Self-Protection techniques for all aspects of life; Physical, Mental, Emotional, Spiritual, Financial etc. Wellbeing is my personal ambition. My two favorite words are Peace and Hope. I also have a faithful trust in God. I am not in charge.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I’m a California native who graduated from the University of Southern California in 2019 with a Masters in Social Work degree and have been working in the mental health field for 7 years. My passion is for normalizing mental health in order to reduce the stigma often associated with it. We need to get comfortable talking about our mental health.

Hello! I am Vanessa Ly and it's so great to meet you. Am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I specialize in treating younger adults and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, or relationship concerns. I have also worked closely with first generation individuals and families to be the cycle breaker. I believe that positive change and growth can happen and it’s the first step to your journey of healing.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who offers individuals, adults, geriatric populations in a general private practice setting in Texas & California. My practice offers a place where you can feel heard in a supportive, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment. I focus on adult care including women’s issues, career/educational issues, interpersonal communication, self-esteem, anger management, stress management, relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I like to do therapy in an “eclectic” manner, drawing on cognitive-behavioral, narrative, spirituality, solution-focused, and others.

I am a dedicated psychotherapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, improve emotional well-being, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, or life transitions, I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights to create lasting change and live a more fulfilling life.

I’m Kourtney Carter, PhD, LCSW, CCS, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience working with individuals and couples facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, and ADHD. I integrate evidence-based therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide a compassionate, safe, and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to empower clients to build resilience, enhance emotional regulation, and live in alignment with their core values. Together, we work collaboratively toward meaningful and lasting change that supports your overall well-being and personal growth.

Marcus Jones is a result driven therapist that assists individuals in managing symptoms of mental illness, maintaining sobriety, resolving motivations for self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, and improving relationships. His experience is inclusive of adolescent and adult populations. Marcus is a Licensed Psychotherapist, Certified Alcohol and drug Counselor, and Certified Anger Management Specialist. He earned his Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Southwest, Masters of Business Administration and Bachelor in Organizational management from Ashford University. Marcus has has worked in the field of Mental health for 20 years. In the last 7 years, he has provided counseling services in individual, families and groups, with experience in a range of settings from community counseling to inpatient treatment settings. He specializes in Addiction, Anger Management and Men issues. He has served as the Director of Inpatient Addiction and Outpatient treatment services at an Atlanta based Mental health hospital, he is the former host of 102.6 the Situations Radio’s Mental Health Monday’s. He has an in-depth understanding of the different levels of mental Healthcare and how they can best serve individuals suffering from Mental Illness.

By coming upon this page, you could be feeling stuck, dissatisfied, or unfulfilled with your current position or path in life, thus considering a new direction. I hold the belief that therapy can assist in managing the frustration of life’s detours, rerouting one’s path, and/or navigating to new destinations. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. I see clients who have eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, grief & loss, family planning/(in)fertility issues, and/or self-harm behaviors. I also support couples and families to increase their understanding, communication, and connection. I aim to collaborate with you on developing a road map for your goals while engaging with curiosity, a non-judgmental stance, and encouragement.

Hello, my name is Allie Gubin, I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in supporting people navigating unforeseen and unwelcome change. Some of the common emotional experiences of the people whom I serve include coping with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, and loss. My background is with people impacted by cancer. I have worked on the east and west coasts in hospitals and outpatient clinical settings. A life-threatening illness can impact overall quality of life including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My area of interest is to support people who are facing various life transitions and stressors – whether it be a conflict in a relationship, a concern at work, or worries about the future. It is completely “normal” not to know exactly what it is that brings you to therapy, to know what it is that you are feeling, or what, if anything, you would like to be different in your life. With an open mind and some patience, together, we can explore what matters most to you, and what might promote a sense of meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.

Hi! I'm Maggie. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, and a Registered Expressive Arts Therapist (REAT). I have a Masters from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA. I have been working as a therapist for the past six years. I have worked with many different populations in the past including Alzheimers patients, Children in the hospital and their families, neurotypical school aged kids as well as special ed. I have also worked with couples and adults. When clients are interested, I like to use art and music as a tool in the therapeutic process.

Greetings everyone! Thank you for stopping by my page. My name is Salinas Tan & I am a Cambodian-English speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker Therapist. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work in May 2012 & began my career as a therapist shortly after. I currently work full time for LA County Department of Mental Health. Additionally, I have 3 years of experience in crisis management, over 10 years of experience in case management as well as with clients who experience various mental health disorders/ie Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, etc)

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) (LCPC) (LPC) (LCMHC) (LMHC) based in Arizona. I am licensed in various states. I received my Masters from Avila University in Kansas City and have been practicing for over a decade. I have adults struggling with life problems and aid them in regaining control over worry, panic, fear, or dread in order to become the best version of themselves.

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

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.

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in the counseling field for over 20 years. Through my years of experience, I have helped adults, young adults, adolescence, and children to manage anxiety, depression, stress, and family related conflicts. As a therapist My passion is and has been to help individuals become the best versions of themselves.

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!

Hi, I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist with 7 years of experience. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. My approach is rooted in a blend of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic Therapy, and Solution-Focused techniques. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make lasting changes. My goal is to help individuals, couples, and families build stronger, healthier relationships. I truly enjoy working with clients from all walks of life and find great fulfillment in seeing them grow and achieve their interpersonal goals

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California and a proud first-generation Mexican American. I earned my degree from the University of Houston and bring both professional knowledge and personal perspective to the work I do. I am passionate about walking alongside others in their healing and growth journey. I understand that therapy is not “one size fits all,” and I strive to create a space that feels safe, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. My hope is to be the right match for you as we explore challenges, build resilience, and work toward the changes you seek.

Hi. I'm Jasmine, I'm a LMFT. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 2008. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.

Hi, my name is Idania Arellano, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received a master's degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University in 2019. I have worked in human services for since 2010 in various capacities including drug and alcohol and case management in group homes. I enjoy working as a therapist and feel privileged to help others work on themselves.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, I received my master of social work (MSW) from University of Southern California (USC). My experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults with depression, anxiety, and trauma; helping them identify triggers to their symptoms and helping them create effective coping mechanisms to decrease their symptoms and live emotionally healthy lives.

As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), I’m passionate about helping people create lasting change through a collaborative, supportive, and results-oriented therapeutic relationship. My approach is grounded in empathy and flexibility—I meet each client where they are and tailor sessions to fit their unique goals, pace, and preferences. I draw from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, or identity exploration, we’ll work together to build insight, develop practical tools, and strengthen your sense of self. Clients often tell me they feel truly heard, respected, and empowered in our work together. I prioritize creating a safe, culturally responsive space where you can explore, heal, and grow—on your terms. I also believe therapy should be both reflective and action-oriented, helping you gain clarity while making tangible progress toward the life you want. If you're ready to take that next step, I'm here to walk alongside you.

My clinical approach is aligned with "Radical Healing Theory," which encompasses a holistic approach to healing beyond physical health and addresses the underlying causes of suffering and inequality. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of various social, economic, political, and environmental systems and their impact on individual and collective well-being. Radical healing is rooted in critical theory and social justice frameworks. It challenges traditional notions of health and healing by centering marginalized voices and experiences. It seeks to dismantle oppressive structures and promote equity, justice, and liberation.

I am a therapist with ample life experience, as well as experience serving the client populations of California. I will meet you where you are and have the ability to empathize with you on many levels. I will listen, encourage and support you in a non-judgmental environment. Feel free to express yourself how you like and be open about how you feel. Let's begin this journey and make some progress together.

Hello my name is Natasha Simon and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Are you a trauma survivor? Do you experience intense and uncontrollable emotions? Do you experience depression and anxiety? Do you struggle with low self-esteem and body image issues? If you are experiencing any of these issues, I am here for you. At this very moment you may feel helpless, but there is hope for you to overcome and move forward from the issues you may be experiencing. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and collaborative. I use principles of psychodynamic therapy, CBT and DBT and I adapt my treatments to best fit your needs. I believe strongly in the therapeutic relationship and I make sure to co-create a space where you can feel safe to be you and embark on your journey of self-discovery and healing. I meet you where you are at and welcome you without judgment. My purpose as your therapist is to be a resource and tool to assist you with becoming empowered to make positive changes and healthy choices in your life.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California. I hold a Master's degree from Alliant International University and boast over a decade of professional experience. Throughout my 11 years in practice, I have specialized in providing comprehensive support to adults spanning various age groups, addressing a wide spectrum of mental health conditions. I feel like the impact I have on clients is to help empower clients in defining meaningful and achievable goals that align with their personal growth and well-being, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation throughout their therapeutic journey

I utilize a positive theoretical orientation which assumes that all individuals possess an innate desire for well-balanced emotional/mental health. I believe a person enters therapy with a strong wish, whether conscious or unconscious, to overcome obstacles and free themselves from constraints that are holding them back. I find that everyone needs a slightly different approach to accomplish these goals, so I adjust in technique for each specific challenge. I truly enjoy the experience of guiding my clients through this process and consider it a privilege to play such an important role in a person's life. “Crying does not indicate that you are weak. Since birth, it has always been a sign that you are alive.” ― Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

Hello, my name is Yesenia Segovia, with an LCSW based in California. I really value listening, being a warm presence, bringing a sense of calm, understanding where you're coming from, validating your experiences, and empowering you to make changes. Seriously, this is a judgment-free zone! Feeling safe and comfortable in therapy is super important to me. We'll team up and work through whatever you're facing together, and I'm here to support you in reaching your well-being goals. Over the years, I've helped many people just like you find healing and achieve what they're aiming for.

Hi, I’m Fabiola Serrano, a first-generation Latina and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I help people who are navigating anxiety, depression, low self-worth, and relationship struggles—especially those who often feel overwhelmed by strong emotions. My approach blends evidence-based tools like CBT and DBT with compassion and cultural sensitivity. Together, we’ll work on building emotional balance, confidence, and more meaningful connections in your life.

Hello I am a dedicated therapist who graduated from Antioch University in 2012 . I have worked at Las Encinas Hospital for 11 years before working for online platforms. I am committed to providing therapy to motivated individuals and couples. I provide a safe space for clients to share with me and we work together to achieve therapeutic goals. I enjoy helping clients discover coping skills which will make their life easier and more enjoyable. I enjoy working with anxiety, OCD, depression ,trauma, and substance abuse.

Marjorie is a Spanish language Bilingual Psychotherapist from South America and has been practicing in the USA since 2008. Marjorie graduated with both a bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in social work from California State University Los Angeles. Marjorie works both in her own private practice -focusing on women’s issues and minority populations - and as a Psychiatric Social Worker for a large managed care organization, helping clients with diverse psychosocial stressors or chronic mood disorders. Marjorie has extensive experience in social work, advocacy, case management and mental health services for over 15 years. Marjorie has provided psychotherapy services for adults and children from various cultural backgrounds, she’s sensitive to the linguistic needs of the clients served (Spanish/English). Areas of focus: Assessment and diagnosis formulation, treatment planning, counseling (short term specific or situational issues), psychotherapy (long term broader range for mental illness) and crisis intervention.

Congratulations for taking the step to seek counseling. The world we live in is increasingly complex, and we can find ourselves feeling disconnected, stressed, and uncertain about what direction to take. How do we identify solutions for our life’s challenges? How do we let go of stress and sleep at night? As a therapist, I have counseled with individuals and families for over ten years and have found that problem-solving does not have to be stressful, and that we can work through our toughest issues. It is common to believe that people in our relationships, or circumstances in our lives cause us to feel the way we do. But it is our thinking, and the way we relate to people and circumstances, that create our feelings and emotions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps us observe what we are feeling and identify the thoughts that create our feelings. With increased self-awareness, we determine which of our thoughts and perceptions are distorted and unhelpful. As our thinking becomes more realistic, we feel better. There are several therapy methods that are effective in creating positive change, including Narrative Therapy, Goal Setting, Visioning for Personal Growth, and Mindfulness to promote focus and attention. Let’s engage in a conversation to explore your individual needs, and how best to meet them.

Do you feel that you have been pulled in a thousand directions? Are you struggling with self-care, low self-esteem, negative thinking, your job, or your relationships? Is it hard for you to relax? I help clients manage anxiety, and depression and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify your work/life balance. We'll use a whole-self approach addressing the needs of your body and mind to achieve your therapeutic goals. I also use mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and Psychoanalytic therapy to help identify and build a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you are dealing with relationship issues, being overwhelmed, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life transitions, acclimation, addiction, or recovery, I'm here to support you. Seeking therapy can be scary but it is the first step in helping your well-being. You deserve a space where you can grow, heal, and become more reflective. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with comparison and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the issues and habits that are holding you back. I want to help you improve the quality of your life and provide you with a support system. I look forward to working with you.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. I have been providing direct therapy since 2012. I have experience in the mental health field in office based therapy, school-based therapy, non-profits, community mental health, enrichment classes, and group homes since 2009. I have specialized experience working with many types of mental health, emotional and behavioral issues. I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, impulse control disorders, ADHD, depression, life transitions, adjustment disorders, stress, young adult hood, perinatal mental health, postpartum, college life, parenting difficulties, emotional dysregulation and relationship concerns. I use a wide range of psychotherapy modalities based on the individuals need. The sessions are focused on you and I am there with you every step. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND. I CHARGE A $75 LATE CANCELLATION FEE FOR APPOINTMENTS CANCELED LESS THAN 24 HOURS. FULL PAYMENT $150 FOR NO SHOW APPOINTMENT

Hello, I was born and raised in Stockton, California. I enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 17 and in 1997, after 25 yeas of service, I retired from the Marine Corps as a Master Sergeant. After retiring from the Marine Corps, I worked as a Farrier (Horseshoer), as well as a structural welder (Ironworker), as those were the most marketable skill that I had. I came to a point where old injuries came back to haunt me and I could no longer walk (several years later, thanks to a surgery through the VA, I can walk again; thankful for that). At this point, I changed professions and out of a desire to work with veterans, I returned to school, accomplishing all that was necessary to become a licensed counselor. I spent another career working for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically as a counselor in the Readjustment Counseling Service (Vet Center). I recently retired from the Vet Center and now I work part-time here with Grow Therapy. As a retired Marine senior staff Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) and disabled combat veteran myself, the Vet Center was the perfect job. Vet Centers provide readjustment counseling to combat veterans and provide counseling to survivors of military sexual trauma (MST). Vet Centers also provide group counseling, bereavement counseling and couples counseling when this is determined to be of support to the veteran. Readjustment counseling many times consists of treating/addressing symptoms related to post-traumatic stress (PTSD), I.e., anxiety, depression, exaggerated startle response, hypervigilance, sleep disturbance, etc. Many veterans go on to work as first responders and working with many first responders as well as medical personal, has provided me with a great deal of additional experience.

**ACCEPTING ADULTS (18+) ONLY** Hi, I'm Yang. And I'm here to help you heal from self-abandonment and emotional dysregulation. Self-abandonment occurs when we struggle to stand up for our needs and live by our authentic values; often, we don't even know what they are. Those who struggle with self-abandonment don't feel like they know who they really are, and what they want, and often feel directionless and ungrounded. We feel small, afraid, anxious, aggressive and dependent on others. Emotional dysregulation occurs when we don't understand our emotions and how to manage them. They control us, instead of the other way around. We behave in ways we wish we didn't, and we build up shame around those behaviors as if they are who we are. We cannot separate our emotions from who we are. These issues often lie at the heart of different mental health struggles, such as depression, anxiety, as well as many relationship challenges. The good news is that resolving these, therefore, can potentially lead to ripple effects of change in your life.

I’m Maria J Gonzales, a Bilingual therapist (English and Spanish). Reflecting on your life takes courage and bravery. Seeking help can be scary and confusing, but it's an important step towards improvement. I create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life stressors, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. When you are ready to share, I am available.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience in the field. Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse range of clients, providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including trauma, depression, and anxiety. I have had a successful career with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and have made a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans and their families.