Therapists in California

I believe that you already possess the resilience and wisdom needed to navigate life’s challenges; sometimes, you just need a dedicated space to reconnect with those inner resources. My approach is rooted in a supportive, strength-based perspective, blending mindful awareness with practical tools to help you move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling grounded. Together, we will work to quiet the noise of "autopilot" living and cultivate a compassionate, present-focused path toward the life you want to lead.

Therapy can feel uncertain or even overwhelming — and that's completely normal. I use practical, straightforward tools to help you understand how your thoughts affect your feelings and actions. More importantly, I help you see the strengths you already have — because you have them, even if no one has pointed them out lately. I believe every person deserves to be heard without judgment. Whatever brought you here, my goal is to help you find a way forward that works for you.

Hello, my name is Enrique Botello. Glad you are seeking support. Life is not all about sunshine and rainbows but a good thing that they do exist right. Often, life will confront us with emotional obstacles that will make us feel stuck or that there is no hope. I help people to reach their best version of themselves even when life throws rocks at them. Whether you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or other serious mental health symptoms, there is always hope. The use of evidence-based therapeutic modalities will be a process that will help people at different recovery times. No matter how long the road to the best version of yourself might take you, I will be alongside you. Finally, although not a requirement, I specialize in working with athletes of all ages. Sports create a lot of pressure in and out of the sport. Whether it is keeping grades up during school to continue to play a sport or a professional athlete having personal problems. I am here for you. *To ensure enough time for your appointment, please make the appointment on Saturdays at the start of the hour. For example 9:00 am or 11:00 am. For Thursday evening, it is only scheduled for 6:30 pm.

Hello, and welcome. I am Dr. Diari Banigo, Ph.D, LCSW, a Christian, doctoral‑trained clinician, and adjunct professor. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence‑informed therapy that honors the whole person. My approach emphasizes emotional resilience, meaningful connection, and healing from life’s stressors. I believe therapy is most effective as a collaborative process, and I encourage patients to actively engage in their care with me and with other providers who support their overall wellbeing. Important Notice: Dr. Banigo provides psychotherapeutic services. Requests for administrative documentation—such as disability certification, FMLA, or emotional support animal letters—will be referred to another mental health provider. This policy ensures that therapy sessions remain focused on clinical care and your healing process.

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.

All things are interconnected. To feel better, you have to act better. To feel better, you have to think better. To think better, you have to feel better. To act better, you have to think better. To think, feel, and act better, you have to care for your physical health. To care for your physical health, you have to think, feel, and act better. Each has a corresponding effect on the other. However, the aspect of ourselves that we have the most direct control of is what we do, our acting. While we can influence other people, we cannot control other people. A great source of conflict and unhappiness results from our efforts to control others. If you want better relationships, the only thing we can control is what we do, how we choose to relate. We are responsible for what we do. Others are responsible for what they do. Accepting this fundamental reality and thinking, feeling, and acting in accordance with it is how we increase our experience of power, freedom, belonging, meaning and, very importantly, fun. My professional experience includes over 30 years of post-Master’s clinical work, including leadership experience in foster care, chemical abuse and addiction, inpatient and outpatient mental health services, and crisis intervention, de-escalation, and hospitalization. I am experienced in working with ages three through the elderly. I have worked extensively with youth and families, diverse populations and life issues, providing services in various settings, including family homes, schools, juvenile detention facilities, jails, outpatient clinics, and inpatient psychiatric facilities.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who values authenticity, connection, and creating a space where clients feel truly seen and supported. I believe therapy should be both practical and meaningful—helping you build tools for daily life while also gaining deeper insight into yourself and your experiences. I have experience providing in-person and telehealth therapy services to pregnant and parenting mothers as well as individuals with severe mental illness who needed follow-up after hospitalization or just an on-going therapeutic relationship. As a member of the Queer community, I enjoy working with others who identify within that population. I have experience working with grief, end of life support for individuals as well as their family.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and private practice therapist with over 13 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based care. As an African American therapist, I am passionate about helping clients heal from trauma, navigate life transitions, build healthier relationships, and achieve meaningful personal growth. I am known for being empathetic, encouraging, authentic, and committed to creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported.

My name is Victoria Wuest, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Redding, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults; I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and stress. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-focused CBT, harm reduction, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help my clients meet their goals and develop skills to help them feel better.

I feel my primary responsibility as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is to foster a calm, safe and trusting environment with all clients through a warm and non-judgmental relationship. Therapy is a “we” program. My former career tracks in communication and education gives me the ability to connect with clients from various backgrounds and cultures with empathy and support to help you meet your goals. As a private practice and community mental health therapist, I was able to experience working clinically with children, youth, adults and couples. I use an individually tailored approach to therapy matching the needs of each client in the present moment.

I am a licensed therapist who believes that meaningful change begins when we slow down and meet ourselves with curiosity instead of judgment. My path to this work wasn’t linear; I spent fifteen years in a different career before making my own midlife transition to mental health a decade ago. That experience taught me firsthand the courage it takes to reinvent yourself. My clinical foundation was forged in community mental health and crisis work, where I had the privilege of working with a beautifully diverse cross-section of people—including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent folks, elders and other marginalized communities. This rich background has shaped me into a practitioner who values inclusivity, honors identity, and meets every client exactly where they are in their healing journey. See my website Returning Presence for more info about my approach and background.

As a licensed psychotherapist in California, I have been working in the field for over 25 years. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage Family Therapy. I am here to empower both women and men who struggle with anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression. I have also incorporated the use of journaling, art, and sandtray therapy into my practice.

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist practicing in California. I earned my master’s degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University – Los Angeles. I received my license in 2020, and work with adults, adolescents and seniors. At present, I meet clients in-person or virtually for couples and individual therapy. Often people seek therapy when they are going through a rough patch. We can work together to navigate, and attempt to improve the situation by applying coping strategies, reviewing options., and other techniques.

Dr. Norman Quintero is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over seven years of clinical experience supporting individuals and couples through life’s emotional, relational, and personal challenges. He is licensed to practice in California, Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, and Florida, and provides compassionate care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, stress, anger management, and self-esteem concerns. Dr. Quintero’s approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. He integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic principles to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where they feel heard, respected, and validated. His goal is to help clients gain clarity, develop healthier coping skills, strengthen relationships, rebuild confidence, and move toward meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a strong foundation in both community development and clinical practice, allowing me to bring a comprehensive, systems-informed perspective to my work with individuals and professionals. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Community and Regional Development from UC Davis in 2007, where I developed a deep understanding of how environments, systems, and relationships shape overall well-being. I went on to complete my Master’s in Social Work at Sacramento State University in 2010. My career in social work has provided me with diverse and extensive experience, including supporting individuals through acute psychiatric and medical hospitalizations, working with trauma, navigating complex systems, and serving youth and families involved in foster care. I began my clinical practice in 2019, where I transitioned into providing direct therapy and further developing my therapeutic approach. Over time, I have expanded my role to include clinical supervision, mentoring and supporting associate clinicians as they grow their skills and professional identity. In my work with clients, I take a practical, collaborative approach, helping individuals navigate anxiety, stress, life transitions, and executive functioning challenges. I am committed to creating a supportive and empowering space where meaningful, sustainable growth can occur, while also contributing to the development of thoughtful, ethical clinicians in the field.

Hi i am Aimee a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in the San Diego area. I enjoy working with 16 and up and specialize in LGBTQ+, prenatal and postpartum, women’s issues and grief issues. I like to help see pregnant and new mom’s achieving the most out this time and find ways to feel less anxiety and depressed and more fulfilled. For people in the LGBTQ+ community i have specialized in gender health issues since 2014 and have always been an ally. During Covid I decided to increase my skill and knowledge with assisting people moving through grief and took a few seminars focusing on grief work with David Kessler.

Im dedicated to helping people navigate life's more complicated emotional terrain with greater clarity, stability, and self understanding. I believe therapy should feel like a connection first. The therapuetic relationship matters, and I work to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, respected, and supportd while also challenged toward meaningful growth. My approach is collaborative, compasssionate, and practical. I integreate evidence-based practices including DBT, CBT , mindfulness, attachment -focused work, and trauma informed care to help clients develop healthier coping strategies, regulate emotions, and better understand long-standing patterns that may be keeping them stuck. I have worked with adults, teens and their parents and couples to improve their communication, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. I am interested in teaching people skills that are effective to help them to communicate their wants and needs in an effective way. Please note that while I do couples therapy I can NOT bill insurance companies for problems in the relationship. If you would like to have couples therapy it will be $200 cash pay per session.

I specialize in helping clients break out of codependency and being stuck in repetitive cycles of behavior by addressing self-sabotage, low self-esteem, and developing self-sufficiency. I focus on helping you understand and manage your physical responses to the world, which leads to managing overstimulation and emotions. You'll develop a sense of control and understanding of your experiences, finding freedom from impulsivity and overwhelm so you can feel calmer and make more intentional, healthy choices. I work with individual adults (18+) only. I do not see couples, minors, or families. Specialties: -Individuation & identity development -Codependency & relationship patterns -Life transitions & life stage challenges -Boundaries, self-worth & people-pleasing -Self-discovery & personal growth -Anxiety related to change & uncertainty

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my master's from the University of California, Sacramento State, and have been practicing for 10 years. I help Individuals who are committed to personal growth and have a strong desire to explore their inner world and make positive changes. Are you someone who is ready to take a brave step towards emotional wellness and personal growth? Do you seek a compassionate guide to help you navigate through life's challenges? If this sounds like you, then you might just be my dream client!

Hello! I’m Danielle. I am from Massachusetts where I completed my undergraduate (Criminal Justice & Psychology) and graduate (social work) studies. During undergrad, I volunteered with a program that help inmates with serious mental health disorder re-enter to the community. I was told the most efficient way to engage in that type of work was to go to a MSW program, so I did. During my graduate program, I heavily explored crisis intervention/assessments. Since then I have worked at a variety of places, including therapy, case management, prisons, and emergency response. As someone who has been in and out of therapy since I was young, I never wanted to be administering therapy. I thought being a therapist would be boring and I didn’t really understand it. However, as I’ve explored what therapy should be- treating someone using an evidenced-based practice- I enjoy administering mental health treatment, using a scientific approach. My goal is to help you gain relief from symptoms, maintain or enhance daily functioning, and improve quality of life. Ultimately, I want you to gain a sense of independence and confidence in your ability to navigate life’s challenges, using the tools and insights you’ve developed in therapy.

Hello...Most of my work is Brief Emotional Therapy, 4-7 sessions, although I do have folks that have been with me for longer. I work with issues of anxiety and depression as well as relationship issues and problems with emotional intimacy, both with ourselves and others. Much of my work involves moving towards your most meaningful or valued life while accepting the pain /anxiety that inevitably comes with it I'm here to facilitate your journey on whatever you are experiencing or going through without judgment or attitude. I help manage the depressions or anxieties that come with life, cope with a crisis, or move into the growth and evolvement that are ours to have. I practice tele-therapy daily. If you see an open slot you are welcome to take it without any advance notice. Thank you, Dr. Robert Lusson

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

I’m a Licensed Clinical psychologist dedicated to helping you create real, lasting change by tapping into your inner motivation and embracing your true personality, without the need to mask who you are. I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the APA-accredited California School of Professional Psychology, with a focus on Clinical Multicultural Community Psychology. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in psychological assessment.

Thank you for visiting my profile. I consider myself to be a focused, inspired, compassionate, curious, solution-oriented, somatic, holistic, client-centered therapist. Providing the kind of support, understanding, and insights that give my clients the hope, motivation, and aha moments to elevate their self experience and personal healing to the next level. My intention is to provide the best and most consistent service to each person I have the privilege to meet.

Warm Welcome! I’m Dr. Nancy – Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Taking the first step toward therapy can feel difficult, and finding the right fit matters. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based work, and trauma-informed care to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and patterns in relationships. I focus on creating a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, build coping skills, and develop more secure and meaningful connections. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families, including those navigating complex relational dynamics. As a Certified Anger Management Specialist and Certified Breakthrough Parenting provider, I offer practical tools alongside deeper emotional work to support lasting change. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, empowered, and capable of handling life’s challenges with clarity and confidence.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience specializing in trauma and relationship dynamics, including narcissistic and emotional abuse recovery. I work with high-functioning adults who feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them, offering a direct, insight-driven approach that goes beyond surface-level coping. My work is focused on helping clients gain clarity, break deeply ingrained patterns, and develop healthier, more secure ways of relating, to themselves and others.

I have been privileged being a therapist for over 40 years. I have worked as a probation officer, child protection worker and directer of various treatment programs. I have also been in therapy which gives me a perspective of the the value of therapy as both a client and therapist. I enjoy working with folks in the recovery community, first responders and those who had traumatic childhoods. I respect the courage it takes to ask for help. I treat your courage with honor and dignity.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) (LCPC) (LPC) (LMHC) licensed in various states. I received my Masters from Avila University in Kansas City and have been practicing for over a decade. I have helped women 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.

I have been a licensed therapist for over 15 years, licensed in California and Nevada. I understand that reaching out and starting the therapy process can be a little overwhelming in and of itself, so I work to set a pace that is comfortable for my client. If you are ready to dive into the deep end, we will go there. If you need some time to ease into the hard work of therapy, we will go at a pace that feels comfortable. I see myself as a guide in the process of therapy and, at times, more of a teacher, sharing strategies and information. My goal as a therapist is to help you develop the resources and strategies to feel confident in your ability to handle life challenges. Sometimes that involves really getting in touch with the way you think and what you believe, or exploring how you are talking to yourself, or it might involve healing childhood wounds. Since each client is unique I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, I incorporate evidenced based strategies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and sometimes complimentary therapies such as Guided Imagery. I tend to be eclectic in my approach because each person is an individual, and there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to resolving life issues.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17 years in foster care, supporting individuals through trauma, loss, family disruption, and immigration-related stress. I bring a warm, ethical and compassionate approach, shaped by my lived experience. I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate today's challenging climate, build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and create stability and healing in their lives.

Welcome, my name is Kiran and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #28451) with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in and provide mental health support to people dealing with fertility issues, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, postpartum depression, and postpartum anxiety. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California in 2002. In 2005, I started working on the maternal-child health floor in a hospital setting where I was able to help patients experiencing grief, loss, postpartum depression, and medical trauma. My passion truly lies in working with individuals going through their journeys and challenges in pregnancy, childbirth, any type of loss, adoptions, or surrogacies. In 2019, I struggled with my own loss of losing my father and felt it was the right time to move on from the medical field in the hospital setting to a smaller medical setting. Working as a preceptor in this new smaller medical setting, I quickly realized that this was not my calling as I began to miss working with the perinatal population. Soon after, I was given an opportunity to provide mental health therapy to the perinatal population and I believe this remains my calling. I am of Asian descent and love learning about everyone's family histories, cultures, foods, etc.

I’m Dr. Shaina L. Joseph, PsyD, a licensed psychologist specializing in working with children and adolescents. I received my degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. My approach to therapy can be summarized using a famous quote: We see things as not they are, but as we are. Essentially this means that I believe in the importance of every person's unique perspectives and lived experiences.

Migdalia Villafane or “Dalia” as she prefers to be called believes that the therapeutic relationship is to assist individuals through therapy, changing the individuals’ lives for the better. Because this relationship is so essential, she believes it is important that she provides a safe, open and non-judgmental atmosphere where an individual can feel at ease. She knows that no single approach is the right one for every individual, so, she utilizes a range of therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused, Family Systems, as well as mindfulness training. Her educational background includes an MSW from the University of Southern California and she is licensed in the state of California as an LCSW.

Your life is changing and you’re not sure why you’re not handling it better. In my work with clients, I’ve seen that even good changes can make usually well-adjusted people struggle with day-to-day stress that didn’t seem to be a challenge in the past. I’ve worked with people who struggle with communicating emotions, prioritizing themselves, or feeling like their best is not good enough. If you feel like you can identify with those experiences and are not sure how to change things, I’d love to work with you.

I’m really glad you’re here. I’m Shannon, a licensed psychotherapist and certified yoga therapist. I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck in their relationships, or disconnected from themselves. If you tend to overthink, feel anxious in connection, or shut down when things get hard—you’re not alone. Together, we slow things down so you can understand what’s actually happening inside you, and learn how to feel more like yourself again. My work blends talk therapy with body awareness, because real change doesn’t just happen in your head—it happens when you can feel it.

Therapy is a place where you can show up as you are, without judgment or pressure to have everything figured out. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, understood enough to explore difficult experiences, and supported enough to create meaningful change. My name is Arakel Aristakessian, MS, LPCC, NCC, CCMHC, a licensed therapist with experience in community mental health, higher education counseling, and rehabilitation settings. I earned my bachelor's degrees in Social Welfare and Spanish Language & Literature from UC Berkeley and my Master of Science in Counseling, with emphases in College Counseling/Student Services and Clinical Counseling, from California State University, Northridge. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, identity development, family conflict, and major life transitions. As a first-generation American of Armenian immigrants, I understand how culture, family expectations, and identity can shape the way we experience ourselves and our relationships. I provide therapy in English, Spanish, and Armenian, and strive to offer care that is culturally responsive, affirming, and tailored to each person's unique experiences. My communication style is warm, respectful, and collaborative. I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood. I believe meaningful change begins with understanding the deeper patterns behind our thoughts, emotions, and relationships. My role isn't to judge your past or tell you who you should become, but to help you better understand yourself with curiosity and compassion so that shame loses its power and lasting growth becomes possible.

I understand the apprehension in seeking therapy and counseling. I also understand the importance of obtaining therapy in a safe and non-judgmental environment. There are times when we all face a need to seek counsel and professional therapy with someone who is able to relate to your struggles. My clients are provided a safe and understanding environment; an environment where we are able to focus on "solutions".

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California with over eight years of experience supporting individuals and families through a variety of mental health challenges. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Bakersfield, and have since dedicated my career to serving diverse populations across multiple settings. Currently, I work as a school-based mental health provider, where I collaborate with educators, families, and students to promote emotional well-being and academic success. My previous roles include working as a substance abuse counselor for adults and as a children’s therapist in an outpatient community mental health agency.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California with more than 15 years of experience working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and grief. I also hold a certification in the treatment of perinatal mental health disorders including mood changes during pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety. I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMH-C). My approach is collaborative and I use evidence based therapies to help you move in the direction of your goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals with complex and high acuity mental health needs. My work is grounded in trauma informed and trauma responsive care, with a strong commitment to creating inclusive, affirming spaces for BIPOC, LGBTQI+, neurodivergent clients, and individuals in rural communities. I work across the lifespan, including children (7+), adults, older adults, families, and couples. My approach is collaborative and empowering, centered on the belief that clients are the experts in their own lives and require my clinical expertise. I often describe my role as “working myself out of a job” to help clients build the insight, skills, and confidence needed to advocate for themselves and navigate systems independently. As a trauma specialist, I tailor evidence based interventions to each client’s identities, needs, strengths, and goals. My primary approaches include Somatic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)-(EMDRIA certification pending), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. I also integrate Internal Family Systems informed interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, exposure based strategies, mindfulness, and other approaches as clinically appropriate. I adapt treatment for neurodivergent clients and clients with intellectual or developmental disabilities because therapy should adjust to the person and not require the person to adjust to therapy. I am continually shaped by the courage, insight, and lived experiences clients bring into our work. Every advanced training, specialty, certification, and state license reflect lessons learned from clients. I carry their trust, stories, and influence into every session with gratitude and responsibility. To learn more about my clinical approach, specialties, services, book an initial consultation, and private practice, please visit Mapping Resilience Therapy Center at https://mappingresiliencetherapycenter.com/

Hello! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.

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

Hello, my name is Tanya Andino, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and thank you for taking this 1st step. Life can be stressful and feeling stuck or overwhelmed can be exhausting, but I am here to tell you, that you don’t have to do it alone. And having the type of life and relationships you want, is possible. With over 17 years of experience practicing in the field of mental health, I have seen the power of how minor shifts in our daily lives, can lead to growth, self-discovery, transformation, healing and ultimately, fulfillment. With a background in social services and education, my journey into the field of mental health began with a firm belief in the intrinsic worth of each human being and the intention to effect change through compassion and integrity.

I am a therapist with over seven years of experience in community mental health, where I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, identities, and mental health challenges. I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and valued as they share their stories. Clients often describe me as warm, empathetic, and—when appropriate—a bit sarcastic. I strive to meet people where they are while also helping them recognize their capacity for growth and change. My goal is to support clients in building insight, developing healthier patterns, and moving toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Hi, I’m a therapist who works with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, life transitions, and high-stress situations. I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable being honest without fear of judgement. I believe therapy should feel human and collaborative, not cold or clinical. My style is warm, direct, supportive, and engaging, while also helping clients challenge patterns that may be keeping them stuck.

I have over 40 years of experience as a medical professional, first as a physical therapist and in 1994 as a Clinical Psychologist upon receiving my license. I have integrated the two professions with many clients, especially those with issues of pain. I have been able to coordinate my knowledge to deal with clients concerns. I offer a very open and supportive environment which allows safe self exposure. I have worked with anxiety, depression, relationship and pain and dysfunction issues. I include this expertise in my work with couples, heterosexual or same sex.

Reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, especially if you were taught to handle things on your own or if mental health wasn’t openly discussed in your family or culture. I offer a collaborative, trauma-informed space for adolescents (13+), adults, couples, and families who are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship stress, life transitions, or the lasting impact of difficult experiences. As a Punjabi Marriage & Family Therapist, I understand how cultural expectations, family roles, and stigma can make it hard to ask for support. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, not judged, and where your values and lived experiences are honored. Together, we’ll build insight, strengthen coping tools, and help you feel more grounded and confident in your relationships and daily life. You don’t have to be certain about everything to begin. Sometimes therapy simply starts with giving yourself permission to try. When you’re ready, I’m here to support you.

Marjorie is a Spanish language Bilingual Psychotherapist from South America and has been practicing in the USA since 2008 as a MSW provider and since 2012 as a LCSW therapist. Marjorie graduated with both a bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in clinical 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 health 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 18 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.

You might look like you have it together on the outside—but inside, you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Maybe you’re constantly overthinking, carrying a lot on your own, or feeling disconnected from yourself or your relationships. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10 years of experience. I provide compassionate, trauma-informed care for individuals, couples, and families navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, grief/loss, and past trauma. My approach is warm, grounded, and direct. I’ll meet you with empathy, but I’ll also help you understand your patterns, gently challenge what’s no longer serving you, and build practical tools that create real, lasting change. My goal is for you to feel more grounded, understood, and confident in how you move through your life and relationships. I am also a mother of three and the founder of Groundwork Counseling Center, a nonprofit organization focused on expanding access to mental health care.

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