Therapists in California

I am a highly empathetic, positive individual that seeks to assist my clients in finding their worth, self love and myriad of abilities to thrive within life challenges. I enjoyed walking with my clients to find the best version of themselves and who they want to be. I meet my clients where they are and walk with them through awareness and healing process.

Welcome, I am a PsyD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist focusing on clients with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting, divorce, trauma, substance abuse, breast cancer, and Survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I work with individuals, adults, and young adults. I have extensive experience working in non-profit organizations with culturally diverse populations, working with individuals, adolescents, and young adults from a natural, strength-based, and client-centered approach. My clinical experiences include West Valley Counseling in Tarzana, CA practicing depth psychology, active imagination, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy. I spent 3 years at For the Future and Guiding Our Youth, a short-term residential treatment program working with at-risk adolescents ages 13-17 who have experienced loss, neglect, abuse, subsequent substance abuse, PTSD, and trauma. Before becoming a therapist, I worked for over 20 years as an actor in the entertainment industry and can personally understand what contributes to depression, anxiety, and a compromised sense of self. Goals ● Increase Self-Esteem and Self-Acceptance ● Strengthen Coping and Interpersonal Skills ● Stress and Self-Care Management ● Provide a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship

I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist and I’ve been practicing for the past 14 years. I worked with the range of clients managing trauma related symptoms, such as dysregulation, dissociation and relational issues to emerging adults attempting to manage multiple responsibilities. I enjoy, supporting my clients using a trauma informed lens to help them develop self soothing techniques when they feel this regulated, identify attachment styles which impact their close relationships, and managing their visions for the future, using visualizations and somatic techniques.

My dream client is a high-functioning woman who appears to be managing it all—but inside, she’s carrying the weight of anxiety, pressure, and deep emotional overwhelm. She might be navigating a major life transition like divorce, a career pivot, motherhood, fertility challenges, or menopause. She may be successful on paper yet struggling to maintain boundaries, meet others’ expectations, or feel truly connected to herself. She could be facing workplace discrimination, identity shifts, or silently asking, “When is it my turn to exhale?” I work best with women who are insightful, motivated for change, and ready to explore the roots of their stress—not just cope, but understand. Using an integrative blend of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy, I offer a collaborative, empowering space where clients can slow down, reflect, and build tools for realignment—emotionally, mentally, and authentically.

I am an LPCC in California and an LPC in Texas. My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master's in clinical counseling, and a Master's in Addictions. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a certified addictions counselor. My past clinical experience includes working for a crisis center where the majority of clients experienced issues related to suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and child and elder abuse. These issues impact people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. I have also worked for a county-based permanent assisted housing development where all of the clients have experienced episodes of homelessness, and have been significantly impacted by issues of trauma, depression, addictions, domestic violence, and child abuse.

As an LCSW with 10+ years of experience working with a variety of populations. I provide a safe, supportive space for adults and youth. Together, we address anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, relationships, and life transitions using mindfulness, ACT, DBT, and trauma-informed care to create meaningful change. I also am an approved SoberLink monitor and California Medical Board group facilitator. Christian counseling available upon request.

Hello, I'm Georgina! I have had numerous experiences and training opportunities throughout my career. I have served as Lead Pediatric Therapist, Group Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor. I have worked in both intensive inpatient settings and with people with mild, temporary issues. I am licensed in Nevada and California and am certified in several evidence-based practices. Feel free to send me a message to see if we might be a good fit.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master's degree from the University of Michigan. I have been practicing as a clinician for the past 9 years and have been in private practice for the past 5 years. I love my career and what it has enabled me to do. I help my clients normalize their mental health journey.

Hello. I chose to become a therapist after recognizing its value as a tool for managing life's challenges. I am committed to fostering self-growth and exploration. I aim to support others in their personal development journeys! My style is eclectic, meaning I utilize a wide variety of therapeutic modalities and tools to help you achieve your therapy goals. Together, we can help to get you to a better place.

My name is Jose Leonardo Del Toro and I am a LMFT, LPCC, NCC. I specialize in working with 16-65 year old population who struggle with depression, family issues, and transitions in life. I help by providing a psychodynamic approach utilizing CBT and DBT interventions. In our first few sessions, you can expect in our work together, we will focus on building resilience, self-awareness and developing coping strategies. I aim to create a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you feel heard and empowered to move forward with greater confidence, clarity, and aid in the healing journey.

Therapy should be a safe place where you can debrief, process your thoughts, find clarity and work out issues without any judgement or negativity. My approach has always been client centered-working through presenting problems that affect day-to-day activities. I believe individuals should feel comfortable, supported, respected and valued when seeking help during vulnerable times. I have 10 years’ experience in providing mental health treatment. I am experienced in working with individuals experiencing depression and anxiety. I have worked with adults and children. My therapeutic approach is a mixture of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy. It would be a privilege to work with you to assist you with your journey of growth and development.

Hi, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I support women who feel stuck in unfulfilling relationships, carry the weight of wounds like feeling unseen or not enough, and are exhausted from trying to hold it all together. My purpose is to help you heal your past, build self-trust, and feel empowered to create the life and relationships you desire. With a warm, compassionate approach, we’ll explore what’s been holding you back and work to break free from old patterns. Together, we’ll strengthen your emotional tools and deepen your sense of worth, guiding you toward a more connected, confident, and fulfilling life.

My name is Nana-Stella Eugene, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and also have a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Haiti. I am ready to work with you to identify coping strategies and teach you the skills necessary to achieve your goal of living your best life. Change begins with hope, hope for a better outcome and a glimmer of possibility that something good will come to those who believe and take action.

Short-term counseling with an experienced professional to clarify thoughts and feelings, learn mental health management skills and plan for mental health and wellness. Possible topics include general mental health questions, improving mental health, goal setting, building cognitive and behavioral skills, dealing with life transitions, and clarifying thoughts and feelings. I am not licensed in treatment of substance abuse or addictions. I do not do court related work. Adults only.

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.

I received Doctorate and Master’s degrees in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Francisco and a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Dominican University of California. The majority of my training has been in community clinics and hospitals throughout the SF Bay Area including the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) and Kaiser Permanente. I am certified by the American Psychological Association and licensed to practice in the State of California.

Hello my name is Belinda Valdivia and I am a bilingual therapist licensed in California and have been working in different settings with diverse populations. Are you constantly worried about your problems and having difficulties controlling your anxious thoughts? Do you feel sad and low motivation to do the activities you once enjoyed? Have you experienced recent or past trauma that you have tried to avoid thinking about but keeps replaying in your mind? Is your child having issues managing his emotions and not sure how to help them? Having difficulties sharing how you feel with others? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help guide and empower you to meet your therapeutic goals. I have been providing for the last ten years individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults as well as family therapy. As your therapist my goal is for you to have a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings and feel that someone is listening to you without judgment. You can check out my website for more information at https://guzmanbelinda.wixsite.com/therapy-with-belinda

Kenana is a Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. Kenana has a wide array of experience and is a highly regarded and knowledgeable clinician. She works with children, youth, and families using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. Kenana assists clients coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and trauma. She utilizes a blend of Solution Focused and Client Centered Therapy while also incorporating elements of EMDR and CBT. These advanced methods promote healing and desired change in a unique, gentle and respectful manner.

Hi there, I'm Dr. Cee Do you feel stuck or struggle with worry thinking behavior about yourself and or your relationship(s)? Is it difficult to be patient and kind to yourself? Many of my clients have struggled with relationship distress and loss. I specialize in helping people to rebuild after a significant loss. With over 9 years of experience, addressing family conflicts, depression, anxiety, trauma, and life-changing events. I believe each client is the expert in their story, I enjoy assisting my clients to thrive by uncovering their strengths and emotional resilience. Through a collaborative approach, your success can be achieved. Let us begin!

Hi, I'm Jacqueline. Do you ever wonder, am I enough, as an individual, in relationships with others, at home, at work, or in other environments? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I would love to help you manage anxiety, depression and improve your relationship with yourself and others. Together, we can identify opportunities to feel balanced and to be your best self. We'll use an approach that will address your need for a healthy mind, body and spirit. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, self-judgment, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can make a difference. Taking the step to reach out can be the right choice. Carl Bard once said, "Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start today and make a brand-new ending". I am available to support you during your life transition, self-growth and renewed healing. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can be your best and feel your best. Let's work together!

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 have 37-years of clinical experience including, trauma-informed therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Anger Management, Domestic Violence Intervention ,victims of sex and child abuse. Other areas of expertise include performing Immigration Evaluations, Marriage Annulments and evaluations for applicants for seminary studies. I am compassionate and empathetic. I am fluent in both English and Spanish.

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

I'm so proud of you for taking the first step in you're therapeutic journey! This takes a lot of courage and bravery, characteristics you'll need along your therapeutic journey. I'm Aaron, and I'm licensed marriage and family therapist, and I'm here to help people grow in emotional maturity through learning the art of self-compassion and developing a positive mindset. When you start strengthening your emotional maturity, you can begin to face the future with more confidence, peace and hope.

Hi I’m Destini a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My hope is that with every client I am able to proved them with a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space to deal with life stressors in order to create balance and to live their best life. I graduated for California State University, Sacramento’s Counseling Education Masters Program specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy.

I am Jaron Haynes, an African American/Native American licensed therapist with 20 years of clinical experience which includes working with families, adolescents, the chronically mentally ill, those struggling with substance abuse and addiction, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, domestic violence, and personality disorders. As an expert in Marriage & Family Therapy he brings to the team a wealth of knowledge and vast experience to provide the highest quality of care and patience necessary for even those high conflict parenting clients. Jaron is a licensed professional that exhibits compassion and empathy. His passion to help those in need and his desire to give back to the community that helped shape him has led him to work with clients from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in helping those in need of healing and coping with life issues and struggles that may interfere with daily living. My therapy approach is to build a relationship with my clients and create a safe space to allow clients to feel comfortable enough and trust in when sharing difficult emotions.

If you’ve been feeling disconnected, anxious, or weighed down by the past, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m Sujin Ma, a licensed therapist and board-certified dance/movement therapist. I help people feel more connected, understood, and at ease within themselves. My approach is gentle and collaborative, blending conversation, mindfulness, and creative expression. As an immigrant and bilingual therapist who has lived in several countries, I strive to create a space where all parts of you feel seen, supported, and accepted.

I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Shannon and I’m a licensed psychotherapist and yoga therapist. I work with individuals and couples in California via online talk therapy sessions. I also facilitate in-person and online group yoga programs. My mission is to help people reconnect with the best versions of themselves.

My clinical experience has been providing individual therapy services to adolescents, adults and seniors. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief and family issues. My goal is to create a space where clients can authentically express themselves without fear of judgment or misunderstanding and to empower individuals to present their true selves confidently to the world. I aim to help clients embrace all parts of themselves as they heal and grow. You are the narrator of your story and I am here to guide and help support you through your journey.

My focus at the outset of therapy and throughout is to provide you an open, supportive, and encouraging environment. I strive to create a safe and welcoming therapeutic setting for you to begin to process and heal. I belief that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance for the therapeutic journey to be effective. For this reason, building strong and collaborative trusting relationships with you is essential. It is my view that every individual is unique and arrives in therapy with their own unique strengths. I seek to empower you to identify and utilize your strengths to create meaningful change.

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 have been working in the mental health field since 2009 and completed my Master’s in Counseling Psychology in 2013. Throughout my career, I’ve supported individuals experiencing severe mental illness, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and bipolar disorder. My passion lies in helping youth and adults navigate life transitions and the emotional shifts that often accompany them. I view therapy as a collaborative space to explore frustration, mood changes, low motivation, anger, and the many complex feelings that emerge during periods of change. My goal is to provide a supportive, grounded environment where clients can deepen insight, develop effective coping strategies, and move toward meaningful, sustainable growth.

For those who struggle with decision-regret and anxiety around making the perfect choice, picking a therapist is three steps into the therapy already - if you're here reading this and that's you, I commend you as your therapy has already begun. Anxious and seemingly uncontrollable thoughts, "imposter syndrome", endless struggles to be perfect, only to be met with guilt and regret; all uncomfortable things that we humans try to avoid and control, yet all of that avoiding and controlling just doesn't seem to do any good. You're here to learn better ways to manage these experiences, and that's where I can help. I leverage 14 years of clinical experience as an adjunct professor in clinical social work and as a therapist in the public and private sectors in Canada, the US and Australia to assist my clients. I am a well traveled surfer, climber, author, entrepenuer, and musician and I enjoy spending time in my backyard that is the central coast of California, exploring all that it has to offer.

As an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, young adults, couples and Families. Throughout my experience, I have successfully worked with individuals, couples and families to gain insight and understanding regarding unhealthy/dysfunctional behavioral life patterns, processing trauma, navigating depression, anxiety and OCD behaviors and helping clients to overcome their struggles and better manage their responses to life stressors. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, addressing mind & body. As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in a variety of evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, strengths-based therapy & psychotherapy, to help clients overcome negative thought patterns and behaviors. I want to provide clients with the tools they need for growth, as well as educating them on important concepts like trauma and emotional regulation and long-term healing. I am here to provide a safe, empathetic space where healing and growth can begin. To ensure we’re a good fit, I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation.

I'm a clinical therapist with six years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and children, who've faced challenging situations, such as domestic violence or family separation. My focus is on creating a safe, empathetic space where clients can explore their strengths, heal, and grow. I use a humanistic approach, meaning I’m here to support you without judgment, helping you connect with your own goals and resilience as we work together toward positive change.

Hi my name is Hilary Matthews and I am a therapist specializing in mood disorders, substance use treatment and trauma. People often report fears and sadness as life changes affect them. I beleive that change is something to embrace and I will show you how. In my client centered practice I use Cognitive behavior, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, trauma informed care to assist clients with their challenges.

My name is Jesse and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master’s degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and have been in the mental health field since 2008. I understand that life can be challenging, as everyone balances different roles and responsibilities. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand your struggles and empower you to overcome them.

Compassionate, Intuitive, Holistic Psychotherapist who has created and led therapeutic programs for emotional and mental well-being in addiction treatment centers utilizing Indigenous Ways and Wisdom, Psychodynamic therapy, DBT, CBT, Healing Arts Therapy, and Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy for Veterans, First Responders, Adult Children, those who've endured Complex PTS, and anyone with underlying, unresolved emotional pain that needs to be grieved, honored, healed, and released, through various therapeutic modalities which allow for Spiritual (Energy) Healing; Somatic and Polyvagal activation and calming, regulating one's nervous system, Meditation, Breathwork, Regression therapy, Nature based therapy, Creative Arts Healing, Psychodrama, Inner Child Healing, empowerment, and Past Life Regression Therapy (trained by Dr Brian Weiss).

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.

As a therapist with a curiosity about what makes humans tick and my own struggles with mental health, I understand how one’s experiences shape our mental health and how we strive to have hope to cope. My own pursuit of healing and Chinese-American background has inspired me to combine culture with therapy, offering relatable care that embraces our brokenness and yet, finds strength in our weaknesses. I deeply enjoy having deep conversations about challenges like cross-cultural identity issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions because I know how important it is to have an accepting professional that can offer an objective viewpoint with unconditional positive regard.

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.

As a child I was always very sensitive and curious about the world that surrounded me. It came natural to help people and I knew that I wanted to give back to the world at large. Just like you I suffered from some childhood wounds. My parents did the best they could with the tools they had. But due to their struggles I became a very codependent child wanting to save and fix my parents to simply gain the love I desired. Later on I would be able to understand this cycle and name some of the patterns I lived out. People pleasing, losing myself in toxic relationships and not fully loving that little girl inside of me. Once I became a LMFT and gained the knowledge and tools necessary I was not only able to break my own patterns, I was also able to help others find joy and deep meaning in their lives. Ultimately I specialize in helping people understand their patterns and be more effective communicators in their world. My role has been a guide and coach for my clients, providing innovative approaches based on Gestalt Method, Ancient Forgiveness Techniques, Psychodynamic Therapy, NLP and Hypnosis. I use these techniques to help my clients break patterns, many of which are fear based as a result of early childhood trauma that causes emotional issues in the present. This is deep and powerful work, and is necessary to enable a positive path to desired future. I look forward to working with you and guiding you on the path to healing and freedom.

A unique perspective on your life and life phase. You may want a better work/school/life balance. You may be struggling with a deeper loss or trauma. I give a clients the space to seek, find, and triumph, without getting lost. You may have goals you feel are out of reach. You may feel so swept up with others that you’re not even sure what your desires are. No matter what, as your therapist, I am here to help you find your goal and help you reach it with passion.

Welcome! I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist practicing in the golden state of California. I received my Master’s from John F. Kennedy University in California and have been practicing for 8 years. I work with couples, families and individuals as young as 16 years of age. I look forward to supporting you and working towards a better version of yourself! A little about myself: I love being active, which includes hiking, cycling, working out in the gym. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I believe in practicing what I share with clients, I don’t just say things and live the complete opposite. SELFCARE is the best care and the best way to ensure you’re in the best position to help! Be well. And cheers to a long healthy life!

Hi! I'm James McLaughlin, I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. Located in the city of Temecula. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are looking for help navigating the challenges of life. I focus on getting to the core of what may be getting in the way of fulfillment and work actively and collaboratively to re-write your life story. I'm warm and welcoming. I believe everyone deserves compassion and a helping hand. I can also be direct and challenging. My goal is to create an environment to encourage growth and change. After working a career in sales and marketing, I pursued a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and became licensed as a Marriage & Family Therapist. Since then, I've helped populations cope with life's challenges such as trauma, addiction, grief, depression, and anxiety. My specialty is in helping people take control of the narratives of their own lives, to write the future they want to tell. In my spare time, I can usually be found running, wine tasting with my wife Sarah, and playing with my young son Dean, and dog, Noah.

I work with Brainspotting mainly as a modality of healing. My work is IFS informed and I draw upon many different therapeutic techniques and models such as EMDR. I also work with EFT, Mindfulness and Family Constellations. I have experience in community mental health, medical social work, domestic violence/women’s issues, Hospice social work and sexual assault/crises. I have degrees in nutrition and education, I am in Yoga teacher training, and have a Master's Degree in Social Work. I am spiritual and Reiki trained. I live with my partner of 10 years and our four furry children. I live in Lake Tahoe. I have lived in Oregon and Hawaii. I am born and raised in Southern California.

Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed. Mental Health Professionals have taken on this role in their respective communities and are an excellent resource for you to realize your strengths and improve your well-being. When your car breaks down you take it to a mechanic. When your tooth hurts you see a dentist. When your mental health can use a “tune-up,” see a Mental Health Professional!

I am a licensed therapist in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am a psychotherapist, a meditation teacher, and an amateur naturalist. In my home country, I am licensed to conduct learning disability evaluations. My growing up was first-hand impacted by 3 very different languages and cultures. These cultures informed the style of my relationships and my esthetic preferences. For as long as I can remember, I have been mystified by human memory functioning, first as a scientist, then as a meditator. Having gone a long way from trying to remember everything I deemed worth remembering to a more effortless and drama-free attitude toward memory-creating moments, I am still making sense of what it means to integrate each moment of life as it comes. Approaching this subject experientially and relationally informs who I am as a practitioner and as a person. If topics like cognitive functioning, memory styles and focus make your curiosity antennas hum, this is a place for you. My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational and somewhat didactic. I love to explain everything I see and say at every step of the process. With me, you will never experience a blank screen characteristic of traditional psychoanalytic approaches (from which I draw inspiration in the realm of dream interpretation and theory).