Therapists in California

Hello, my name is Ritika Kaur. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California (License #101199) providing psychotherapy services in English and Punjabi. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help individuals navigate life's challenges and find hope, healing, and well-being. I was drawn to the mental health field by a deep desire to help others overcome adversity and lead fulfilling lives. After earning my Master's in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2011, I gained diverse experience in community mental health, substance use treatment, and providing evidence-based services before becoming licensed in California in 2017.

I am a Christian-informed therapist licensed in multiple States. With a background in clinical social work and a desire to see the building up of the body of Christ, I am passionate about supporting and encouraging my brothers and sisters as they seek to navigate the difficulties of life and develop resilience that can lead to personal healing and spiritual growth. My areas of expertise include managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, faith formation, identity and purpose, peer relationships, transitional challenges, conflict resolution, forgiveness, etc.

Hello, my name is Salomon Garcia, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in southern California. I have been practicing for over 6 years. I have worked with a broad range of individuals ranging from teen to older adults. I have helped clients struggling with anxiety, depression, work-stress, low self-esteem and life transitions. My aim is to provide a relaxing and safe space to help people to be the best version of themselves.

Hello! My name is Bianca Ruiz. Are you feeling, tired, sad, or unmotivated to complete daily tasks? Are you having difficulty sleeping or focusing on matters that are important to you? Let’s work together to improve your life, work, and relationships. I have worked with people for over thirty years as a mentor, social worker, and as a therapist. I am a parent of two adults, and I have worked with clients of all ages. I understand that every life stage presents its own struggles and confusion, but nobody should have to deal with things alone. I am here to help. It would be my pleasure to go on this journey with you. Let me help you understand the way patterns, ideas, and beliefs influence the decisions we make. Let’s clean that closet of things that are no longer useful to you and make room for a better life! ¡Hola! Mi nombre es Bianca Ruíz. ¿Te sientes cansada, triste o desmotivada para completar las tareas diarias? ¿Tiene dificultad para dormir o concentrarse en asuntos que son importantes para usted? Trabajemos juntos para mejorar su vida, trabajo y relaciones. He trabajado con personas durante más de treinta años como consejera, trabajadora social y terapeuta. Soy madre de dos adultos y he trabajado con clientes de todas las edades. Entiendo que cada etapa de la vida presenta sus propias luchas y confusiones, pero nadie debería de lidiar sola con esas cosas. Estoy aquí para ayudar. Seriá un placer emprender este viaje contigo. Permíteme ayudarte a comprender la forma en que los patrones, las ideas y las creencias influyen en las decisiones que tomamos. ¡Limpiemos ese armario de cosas que ya no te sirven y hagamos lugar para una vida mejor!

As a licensed therapist of more than thirty years, I have the experience and expertise to work with clients on a variety of issues. I provide a safe therapeutic environment that builds trust and openness. Clients who engage in the counseling process discover new energy for life and relationships. This results in positive change and increased self-awareness. I’m actively involved in the sessions, providing guidance, structuring interventions, and setting goals. Positive change happens one step at a time, trusting that life can get better. I also have expertise in anger management/domestic violence treatment.

Hi, formalities first! I am Tanya Gray-Dorsett, a Licensed Marriage, Child and Family Therapist with 10 years of post graduate experience providing therapeutic services to individuals needing mental health support, whether it be life-stressor related problems or more intense mental health concerns. These can include job stress, problems with life transitions, Anxiety and Anxiety disorders, depression, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenic and Schizoaffective Disorders. I want to highlight that I have advanced skills in working with trauma and PTSD symptoms with children and adults, and I have extensive knowledge and experience working with children with ADHD and educational problems. When I speak about my work with children and adolescents, caregiver involvement is of great significance! Which is where I lean to family systems work. I am currently mission-focused to help those who struggle with self-doubt, low self-esteem, problems with making self-sufficient decisions, and simply want to exist with confidence. Together we will work to empower you to challenge the negative self-talk that results in triggering emotions that lead to your undesired behaviors. I also currently aim to support individuals who have trauma history and need that non-judgmental approach that allows them to feel safe and be open to talk about that trauma so that they may put it behind them and build brighter futures. Problem just surfaced without significant pre-existing history or history of causing continual issues in your mental health and emotional functioning? Lose the worry, let's find the solution which is tailored by my Solution-Focused approach. I am here to help!

Pleased to meet you! My name is Ashley Gomez-Hotko LMFT. I provide individual telehealth therapy to adult clients within the state of California. If you are experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, grief and loss, family or relationship issues, or enduring a difficult life transition, I would love the opportunity to hear your story and support you. Carrying our pain without addressing it may not only make life less satisfying, but it can take a toll on other aspects of our health. Mental health IS health, and therapy can be medicinal for untangling the mind and heart. I applaud you with taking the first step in exploring seeking therapy! Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

Hi I'm Kristal Bayer, I attended the University of California, Santa Barbara for undergrad where I majored in Psychology and minored in education and went on to complete my Masters degree in Social Work at Cal State Long Beach in 2011. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in California. I have worked with a wide range of clients in my practice, including Toddlers to the elderly. My therapy style is warm and client-oriented. I walk alongside my clients, helping them learn to cope with life stressors and bring insight into harmful coping mechanisms. To assist clients in developing positive problem-solving skills and positive social interactions to increase self-esteem and develop self-awareness. My approach is tailored to each client upon initial assessment. I applaud you for coming this far and seeking therapy, a decision that sometimes may not be the easiest. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in your journey.

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

I am a bilingual LMFT. In 1991 I obtained a B.H in Social Psychology from The Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (Mexico). In 2008, I graduated from University of Phoenix with a M.A in Marriage, Family, and Child therapy. I have more than 20 years working with patients (adolescents, parents, adults, and couples) to improve relationships, mental and/or emotional issues related with depression, anxiety, phobias, traumas, psychosocial stressors, life challenges, and goals.

Hello, my name is Gloria Gonzales, I am a bilingual/bicultural licensed psychotherapist, with three adult grown children. My experience is working with individuals, families, co-parents, and couples since 2011. I have also had the opportunity to work as an adjunct professor teaching Clinical Psychology, to Master Level students. My hope is to help you heal and live an abundant life filled with happiness. I don't believe there is anyone who has had a perfect life, however our trials and mishaps can also give us wisdom as we go through life. Everyday is an opportunity to learn, heal & change!

I am a compassionate therapist who uses a blend of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and REBT, to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I work with individuals and couples to build coping skills, improve communication, and create meaningful change. My approach is friendly, supportive, and solution-focused, providing education and guidance to help clients feel heard, empowered, and motivated to achieve their goals.

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

I am a dedicated professional who works tirelessly to meet the needs of my clients. With a focus on relationships and exploring options, I strive to deliver exceptional service in all aspects of my work. My goal is to build strong, long-lasting relationships based on trust and mutual respect. I like to explore the history of an issue and its relationship to you.

Hi! I'm Susanna Franchi. I have been working in the mental health field over twenty years. I earned my Master of Science in Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Northridge. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am very dedicated in doing my best work in sessions with clients to help them improve and lead satisfied lives. It has been rewarding seeing my clients improve and grow which has given me continued motivation to continue my work as a therapist.

Hello and thank you so much for having enough courage and honesty to take the first big step. My name is Erlynn Cabarles, LCSW and I have a Master’s in Social Work from SFSU. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 2015. I have 20 plus years of experience in the mental health field and I believe that the first step of healing is self-discovery and the development of personal goals to overcome challenges. My intentions are to instill hope and inspiration and to empower you to be able to move on to a more fulfilling life. Remember that You are resilient and determined to change for the positivity. My purpose is to provide a safe space and non-judgmental environment. If you’re ready, I’ll be here to support you on your journey towards healing!

Hi! I’m Tammie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 19 years of professional work experience. I enjoy working with people of all ages and guiding them through their clinical goals. I have a strong background in working with adults with chronic mental illness and substance misuse challenges. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced physical, sexual, and or emotional abuse and neglect. My clinical experience has included psychotherapy services at correctional institutions; psychiatric hospitals; mobile crisis units; home health agencies; child, adolescent, and adult residential programs; and outpatient mental health clinics. I provide an eclectic approach utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused, Crisis Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative, and Solutional Focused Therapies.

Hello, I'm therapist, Keith Jones . I am a LPCC with extensive experience with Substance Use Disorder issues. My passion is in the area of performance which has lead me to counsel individuals, athletes, artist, students, professionals, executives , groups and teams. This person- centered approach has been successful in helping clients identify their strengths, and to address the areas that keep them from their top performance. Together we will device a treatment plan and practice that will help you reach your goals and and let you be your best self.

With over 17 years of experience, Georena is a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges. With expertise in anxiety, depression, anger management, addictions, and other struggles. Georena provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore emotions, build resilience, and develop practical strategies for growth. Committed to personalized care, Georena helps clients navigate change and achieve meaningful, lasting well-being.

Hello! I am driven to empower individuals, couples, and families to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. My ideal client is navigating trauma, substance use, spiritual struggles, or relational conflicts. A client seeking clarity, healing, and stability, neurodiverse individuals, and those with dual diagnoses. With guidance, they pursue emotional resilience, faith-integrated growth, and meaningful change grounded in compassionate, expert support.

As a dedicated therapist, I am committed to empowering you on your journey toward a fulfilling and hopeful life. I specialize in a supportive yet direct approach, helping you uncover the roots of your challenges with expertise in areas like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Using an integrative methodology tailored to your unique needs, I draw from EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy to equip you with the tools for personal growth, goal achievement, and discovering deeper purpose

If you struggle with anxious attachment, people pleasing, setting boundaries, feeling triggered, anger, anxiety, depression, co-dependence, parenting issues, and ADD/ ADHD, then I want to work with you. These symptoms and attachment style are often related to each other and often related to similar childhood experiences of inconstant or abusive/neglectful caregivers. (ADD and ADHD is not cause by caregivers, however, when it goes undiagnosed in children, there is s strong correlation to symptoms described above)

Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.

Hello! Beginning September 23rd, I will have availability on Tuesdays only. 5pm: weekly or bimontly appointments 6pm: weekly or bimonthly appointments 7pm: weekly or bimontly appointmets If you have a question about a particular day/time, please feel free to message me. My name is I'm DuJuana Ware. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with a faith-based (Christian) background. I am licensed in California and Texas and currently provide only virtual sessions. I reside in the state of Texas which means I follow Central Standard Time (CST) for scheduling. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or sad? Do you struggle with low self-esteem and confidence? You are not alone. My goal is to help you become your BEST self. Together, we can identify what you feel is not working and address the WHY behind it. We will use a combination of cognitive-behavioral strategies with a client-centered focus to improve how you see yourself and experience life. Creating a more balanced view of yourself will enhance your relationship to self and empower your relationships and communication with others. Whether you are struggling with being a teenager or #adulting at any age, I am here to help. Let's GROW!

Hi, my name is Evan. For the past 25 years I have been helping people improve their lives. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma from childhood or events they experienced, substance use, sexual abuse, low self-worth, people pleasing and many other issues. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I am also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) to work with people living in California.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR Certified. I understand that individuals are continually adapting to their surroundings and doing their best to manage amongst systemic, environmental, and interpersonal stressors. In my therapy sessions, I offer a space for individuals to both process their experiences and explore strategies for managing stressors in a healthy way. I have extensive experience over the past 15 years supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.

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.

Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.

To others it may seem like you've got it all together, but on the inside you're spinning out of control. Panic randomly punches you in the chest, taking your breath away, and you can't focus on anything else other than how to make it stop. You are consumed by trying to keep up with everyone else since they seem to have it all together, but you can barely function through the day. You feel like an awful mom because you are lashing out on your kids and hating the daily monotony instead of "embracing the joy of motherhood." You feel like you are failing your partner because somewhere along this journey you just lost yourself. You want to be a better mom to your kids. And remember why you fell in love with your partner. And stop the tornado of anxiety that knocks you out on the regular. You want to stop living by the expectations of others and rediscover who you truly are. It's time to win back some peace of mind and self-worth and attract the life you want. I have the DBT and mindfulness skills, which uses both mind and body exercises that will help you manage the crippling anxiety, love yourself better, be a more present and joyful mom, improve your relationships, and attract the life you want.

We do not need to struggle any longer against our old conditioned patterns... we must only recognize them for what they are. Hello! My name Is Natalie Knight and I am an LCSW who is passionate about utilizing the strength of the therapeutic alliance as a support to enter into an exploration of what is beckoning for our attention at any given moment. I believe once we learn how to meet our emotions that we can clear ourselves of old past traumas or new ones. I have been doing this work for the past eight years professionally. I use a person-centered approach in my counseling practice which emphasizes that the client is the best authority for his/her own life and that the answers to his/her questions are inside of them. I serve as a mirror to reflect to the client the inherent wisdom that we uncover during our therapy sessions. I also rely strongly on EMDR as a modality to help client with the root of their trauma. This process has been quite effective for me in my search for understanding and I hope to be able to share it with others who feel called to this type of work with me as well.

I am a Christian Clinical, Forensic and Sports Neuropsychologist. Like many folks who get into the mental health field, I had certain mental health challenges. My family of origin was burdened with addiction and mental health. I currently have 40 years of sobriety and am intimately familiar with 12 Step, Christ-centered and Mindfulness aspects of recovery. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma and Addiction with family systems and attachment orientation. As a trained child psychologist I also place particular emphasis on developmental aspects of trauma. As a former Navy psychologist with many years working with veterans and first responders, I am very familiar with those cultures. I played college soccer, run 20 marathons, taught scuba as well as being an award winning underwater photographer and competed at the CrossFit World Games for 3 years. I am married, have a son (retired Navy) and a daughter in heaven.

My name is Tomekia Edwards. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Texas and California) with over 14 years of experience. I've worked in inpatient behavioral health, mobile psychiatric assessment, and HIV case management capacities. I've also worked with service members and their families around issues related to military life. Typical concerns I address through counseling include anxiety, depression, work/school stressors, and relationship stressors. I provide services based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused approaches with years of experience working with adults, children, families, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, Texas, and Virginia. I have over a decade of experience working with a diverse population of individuals. I have worked in community mental health, public schools, corrections facilities, hospitals, and as an EAP provider. I am most passionate about working with the younger generation as I feel like that is where the most change and progress can be made. I would love to be a positive influence on the next generation. As a first-generation Iranian American, I understand the feeling of being caught between cultures. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow. My approach is warm, empathic, and solution-focused.

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you feeling unsatisfied in your relationships or find yourself wanting more out of life? Whatever brought you here, you've taken a first step toward change. My approach blends practical tools from CBT and DBT with somatic work and EMDR, so you not only learn to shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors but also understand how the body holds onto experiences and how to release them. This combination of evidence-based techniques and genuine conversation helps you create real, lasting change.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, CEAP) based in California, Georgia, Maryland, and New Jersey. I received my Masters from the University of Maryland Baltimore and have been practicing for 25 years. I help young adults, adults, and elderly adults struggling with life transitioning issues that may cause stress, depression, and anxiety through CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation treatment modalities that helps individuals reach their highest potential.

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

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 earned my doctorate and post-graduate master's degrees in psychology and my master's degree in counseling from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Professionally, I retired from the United States Air Force as a senior non-commissioned officer, and since retiring, have worked in several different behavioral health settings. In addition to my private practice, I am a graduate-level adjunct professor of counseling psychology.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California, currently living in Florida. I received my undergraduate degree from William Jessup University, with a Master's Degree from Chapman University. I love people and I love to see relationships thrive. Research shows us that the quality of life that we have is more dependent on the quality of relationships than any other factor. I want you to have the most fulfilling and satisfying life as possible.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help adults struggling with stress and mental health issues become the best versions of themselves. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and helping them feel better and reach their goals.

I’m Kimberly M. Brooks, LCSW. I help adults and couples facing anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship strain, and emotional overwhelm find clarity and peace. My style is warm, direct, and grounding. I offer practical tools, honest insight, and optional faith-integrated support to help you heal, strengthen your relationships, and move forward with confidence. Clients often tell me they appreciate the calm space I create, the clarity that comes from honest conversations, and the steady guidance that helps them move forward.

Good day! My name is Daniel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience serving multiple populations including clients struggling through financial hardship, life changes, relationship issues, emotional/ physical abuse/trauma, diagnosis of a serious mental illness in the family, and depression/ anxiety. I graduated from the University of Texas A&M - Commerce and am currently licensed in California, Kentucky, and Texas. I believe the bravest and most fulfilling way to grow is to "do the work" and I look forward to assisting clients in that journey in every way that I can.

HI! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I have been practicing in a variety of settings involving mental health for the past 20 plus years and have a lot of experience working with minority adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, familial conflict, and stress management. My current clients have shown improvement with consistency in treatment at managing their thoughts and behaviors; which has impacted their relationships and life perspective overall.

My name is Sheilly Arora, and I am a practicing psychologist for almost 20 years. I love what I do and find it a privilege to be of help to others. I am fluent in several Evidence Based treatments including and not limited to treatments for depression, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia and PTSD. While originally from the East coast, I did both my internship and post-doctoral training in California. I have been here ever since and feel lucky to be able to call California my home.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California and I have been practicing since 2001. I graduated from the School of Social Work at Columbia University in the City of New York and have experience working with children and families, adolescents, transitional youth, young adults, elder adults, men, women, LGBTQ+, and the justice-involved. In this day and age, so many of us are bombarded with the day-to-day and simply living blindly, meaninglessly. So many tend to suppress and ignore just to survive. If you are experiencing a crossroads presently and wish to get out of being stuck, if you want to improve your relationships with your loved ones, or if you just want to be able to process safely and receive genuine and practical feedback, you may want to consider scheduling a therapy session with me.

I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. I bring a unique, spiritual, Latino/Hispanic perspective to mental health counseling that focuses on the needs of our community. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. Aporto una perspectiva única, espiritual, latina/hispana al asesoramiento de salud mental que se centra en las necesidades de nuestra comunidad.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

I am firmly rooted in the belief that the therapeutic process is a symbiotic collaboration between therapist and client. Regardless of whether you're navigating a temporary challenge and seeking targeted, solution-driven guidance, or grappling with a persistent concern that requires long-term therapeutic involvement, there are moments when we all benefit from external assistance. I recognize the importance of individualizing therapeutic interventions. Everyone's journey is distinct, influenced by their unique life experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual belief systems. It's essential to take a comprehensive view, taking into account not just the present symptoms but the whole person and their life narrative. By understanding each person’s individual story, I can offer more tailored guidance and interventions. This personalized approach not only addresses the immediate concerns but also empowers clients to better handle future challenges with increased confidence and self-awareness. I earned my doctorate degree from the esteemed California School of Professional Psychology. My professional journey has seen me serve in a range of environments. This journey includes my work at the UCLA Anxiety Disorder Clinic, where, as a psychological assistant under a seasoned psychologist, I honed my skills in managing anxiety disorders. My expertise also extends to substance abuse environments, both in acute inpatient psychiatric hospital, as well as outpatient clinics, where I've addressed the intricate dance between anxiety, depression, and addiction. My work in collegiate settings, such as President Barack Obama’s alma mater, has equipped me with insights into the stresses and anxieties faced by students navigating academic pressures and life's pivotal decisions. Furthermore, In the unique and challenging setting of maximum security prisons. Where as a forensic psychologist, I've supported inmates, including those serving life sentences, through the complex emotional landscapes of anxiety and depression linked to their circumstances. My therapeutic approach is anchored in both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic theory. Typically, I employ psychodynamic perspectives to facilitate deeper insights into the origins of a client's psychological concerns. This understanding then serves as a foundation upon which we build a CBT-driven treatment plan, ensuring you're well-equipped to achieve your therapeutic objectives.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 40 years of experience in the fields of addiction, domestic violence, and medical social work. In my years of experience, I've worked almost exclusively with adults individually and in groups who had difficulties managing their lives due to substance abuse and the concomitant mental health issues of depression and anxiety. I also facilitated groups of male and female substance abusers and perpetrators of domestic violence. In our groups, we focused on CBT lessons and exercises involving role play, modeling, and demonstrations. Clients were given homework to continue their learning and practice on their own between sessions. As a social worker working in public and private agencies, I worked with clients experiencing relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, and day to day life problems. I strongly uphold the Social Workers Code of Ethics that includes, respecting the dignity and worth of a person and exercising compassion and a non-judgmental approach with each individual. I endorse and utilize multiple therapeutic techniques that include the following: psychodynamic techniques, cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, person-centered techniques, and solution focused techniques. I am sensitive and respectful in using techniques that are agreed upon by the client and suitable to meet each individual's needs. I look forward to the opportunity to assist you in working through challenges that will help promote and maintain a better, happier and more peaceful life. My style is loving, compassionate and direct. If you just want someone to listen and not give you suggestions on how to improve your life, then I am not the right therapist for you! I actively participate in each and every session.

Hi and thank you for your consideration. Please note, I currently only accept new clients who are insured by Kaiser. Relationships with professors led to my providing therapy as an undergraduate student majoring in Community Service at University of Oregon. After receiving a Masters Degree in Social Work, the majority of my career was working 23 years for the National Center for PTSD. I had the extraordinary experience of creating my own job description as a Health Scientist in the emerging field of Disaster Mental Health. Over the course of these years, I responded to more than a dozen Presidentially-declared catastrophic events. At first, I worked with survivors or next-of-kin. As a first responder, I learned what every first responder learns when working with people in need. Without intention, we receive more than we give. It is, if you will, sacred work. It has long been important to me to conceptualize what I am trying to achieve professionally. Toward that end, I published research, published guidelines to practice, etc. Eventually, I became a national, and then international consultant regarding emergency response policies, be they federal, state, county, or institutional. In 2018, I received a Fulbright grant to continue the work I began in Ukraine, following the revolution in 2014. In 2022, I began offering telemental health therapy and have been enjoying the work and the progress with my clients.