Therapists in California

Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here! My name is Ester Raha, and I’m a licensed therapist with 12 years of experience in the mental health field, including the past 7 years as a practicing therapist. My journey in this profession has been shaped by both my personal experiences as a female veteran and mother, a trauma survivor, and my passion for supporting others through life’s challenges.

Hi, I'm Casandra, and I'm glad you are here! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a master's degree from the University of Southern California. I decided to become a therapist because I love being able to help others. One of my favorite things is getting to know others and helping them to discover (or re-discover) who they are. Getting to help others realize their potential and overall improve their mental and emotional well-being is something I enjoy doing and consider it such a privilege.

My name is J.P. De Oliveira Estevão, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (L.P.C.C.). I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful change. I use proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic approaches, and Adlerian ideas to customize treatment just for you. My goal is to help you understand yourself better, find ways to cope with challenges and build a happier life.

I am licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and clarity. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, transitional life phases and grief. My goals is to create a safe, non judgmental space where the client can explore their feelings, gain insight, and develop strategies for change. Together we work toward a greater self-understanding, healthier relationships, and a life that aligns with your values, goals, and to be a better version of yourself.

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

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem. I bring a compassionate, culturally informed approach that honors diverse experiences, particularly within LGBTQ+ communities. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients explore self-love, address social anxiety, process difficult emotions like guilt and shame, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming space where individuals can explore their identities, relationships, and life purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support clients through a wide range of experiences—from workplace stress and relationship dynamics to personal transformation and healing from past challenges. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and tailored to each individual's unique journey.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Rutgers University. I have experience working with teens, and adult dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem, self -harm, ADHD, life changes and other challenges. I specialize in working with teens, women and men who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, negative self-image and trauma. I work with clients to help them discover their true self. I will meet you where you are in your journey, and will you facilitate the changes you need to reach your fullest potential. If your tired of your emotional rollercoaster consider coming to see me.

I choose to practice trauma-informed care because intention and corrective experiences are important aspects of healing. I value helping clients identify strategies they can apply towards stressors that are impacting their lives in order to experience relief from suffering, develop healthy skills, and improve confidence. I enjoy assisting clients in identifying new ways of coping, communicating, and finding sustainable solutions.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. With over 11 years of experience and a Master's degree from Antioch University, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their experiences, rebuild confidence, and rediscover their inner strength. My approach is compassionate and tailored to each client, helping them navigate challenges and achieve meaningful personal growth.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been practicing for 15 years. In the past 7 years, I have engaged in doing short-term, goal-oriented therapy with adults. I have always thought that individuals (especially adults that seek out therapy willfully) have in them the potentials to rethink their situation and work towards resolving their concerns when provided the appropriate tools allowing them to clearly see and identify what their objective is at that time.

Mike Valenzuela, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is dedicated to helping adults overcome anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and depression. I employ evidence-based therapies, including EMDR, to provide effective support tailored to your needs. My collaborative and empowering approach ensures that you not only heal but also acquire practical skills that promote lasting well-being and resilience. Together, we can unlock your potential for a more fulfilling life.

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.

Welcome to your first step at receiving the care you need. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a Master of Science degree from California State University, Los Angeles. I have experience helping clients with a wide range of challenges, and I believe you have the strength within you to overcome what you're facing. I was drawn to the field of mental healthcare through my own personal experiences and a deep desire to help others. Pursuing my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at California State University, Los Angeles, provided me with the knowledge and skills to support individuals in their healing journeys. My goal is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and authentic life. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, or personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we will work to identify and overcome obstacles, build resilience, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in the state of California. I received my Master's Degree from Antioch University Los Angeles and have been practicing for 18 years. Working together, I help adults work to find solutions to ongoing issues causing anxiety, sadness and loneliness in their lives so they may become the best version of themselves.

Isabel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor at Mountain Counseling and Training. She provides compassionate, culturally responsive therapy to children, adults, and families, with a strong background in crisis intervention and supporting clients through life’s most challenging moments. Beyond her clinical work, Isabel has led community mental health initiatives and continues to advocate for accessible resources and education, particularly within the Hispanic community.

I have been in the field of mental health for 29 years. My goal as a therapist is to help you achieve ultimate happiness and peace in your life. As human beings we can not go back and change our past but we can find the tools that can help us live our lives fully and find the ways to use our full potential. I will listen to you and will try my best to support you in finding the path to happiness by practicing and using the tools and methods that are helpful and tangible.

Hi, I am Trisha Leamon, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have had an interest in human behavior for as long as I can remember. I enjoy helping my clients source their strengths and achieving effective ways to navigate life’s challenges. My professional experience has given me the opportunity to work with clients who are facing substance abuse, depression, anxiety, divorce, codependence, and grief. I especially enjoy working with clients who are navigating difficult transitions such as divorce, relationships, work, adding to their family, retirement, and the many other journeys of life. My personal experience of my sons passing in 2008 was a large part of my desire to work in the counseling field. Through my own journey, I recognized how difficult past experiences can often play large roles in how we navigate life. My goal with therapy is to offer my clients a caring, attuned therapist as we find new ways to solve problems, heal old wounds, and strengthen the way you live your life. I embrace client focused/strength based theories, CBT, and love the works of Brene Brown and Internal Family Systems.

As a clinician, I am dedicated to achieving results for my clients. I believe my clients can find their best solutions, and my job is to help them navigate towards these goals. I take a collaborative approach, working together with my clients to explore and distinguish difficult emotions and their underlying story. Once my client has a good understanding of where they’ve been and where they are, we can work together to plot a course towards where they want to me.

I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion for helping clients explore new perspectives on mental health. I specialize in working with first responders and their families, offering a relaxed and inviting approach that creates a safe space for growth and healing. I particularly enjoy supporting individuals who are navigating everyday stress and looking to build healthier coping strategies. I often say, “Our toolboxes need to be big—because life requires a lot of tools.” My goal is to help clients expand their toolkits so they feel more equipped and empowered in their daily lives.

I am a licensed social worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, and addiction. I have experience working with adults, including Veterans and members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach to care. As a native Spanish speaker, I offer services in both English and Spanish. I also have extensive experience working with Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), helping clients navigate personal and workplace concerns effectively.

My focus is to provide support and guidance. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy (ages 5+) using a client-centered approach. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), etc. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I provide a client-centered approach with motivational interviewing. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches.

Hi, I have been providing social services for the last thirty years and have learned that at times we all need some support as life happens. I have also learned that people have benefited from being heard, provided emotional support, tools and greater understanding of solutions to unique challenges. It would be my honor to partner with you in your wellness journey.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I provide compassionate, expert care for individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. My practice encompasses all core mental health issues, with specialized expertise in supporting the military population, addressing addiction, healing with domestic violence, and working with survivors of child abuse. With a deep commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment, I tailor evidenced-based approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you build stronger relationships and a healthier future.

Hi, I’m Luke Lorefice, a therapist and college/career counselor dedicated to helping young adults, including neurodivergent students and those facing emotional or academic challenges, find clarity, confidence, and purpose. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University and a College Counseling Certificate from UCLA Extension. My work blends mental health expertise with practical career guidance to support individuals navigating education, employment, and life transitions. Through Grow and my private practice, Wave Point Counseling, I help clients explore meaningful paths whether that’s higher education, a career pivot, or rediscovering a sense of direction.

Hello. My name is Amilcar and I am a clinical social worker for the past 14 years. I received my BA in Sociology from UC Berkeley and my Masters in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I obtained my LCSW in 2015. I have spent my professional career providing outpatient mental health services to vulnerable populations in Los Angeles and Santa Clara County. I have extensive experience working with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. License No. LCSW 68949

I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Sierra, and I am a California-based licensed Psychologist with over 10 years of clinical experience supporting adults as they navigate life's challenges. My passion is helping people not only understand themselves more deeply, but also make lasting positive changes. I take a holistic approach to therapy that supports the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This often includes mind-body strategies such as nervous system education, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), somatic healing, and when helpful, collaboration with integrative providers like nutritionists. I also draw from additional evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while paying close attention to how stress or trauma may show up in the body. In our work together, we’ll create a personalized plan that blends insight, practical tools, and meaningful action. My goal is to provide a space where you feel truly seen and supported, and where therapy becomes not just about coping with challenges, but about moving toward the life you most want to live.

Hello and Welcome! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have received my Masters and Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology. I help adults and children struggling with mental health concerns and addictions to improve various aspects of their life, such as interpersonal relationships, and employment. I offer a safe, non-judgemental environment where a person can be themself.

Hello. My name is Brian Kaufman. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My commitment to you is to be by your side every step of the way. I believe there is goodness inside of everyone and I will be sure to point out to you where that goodness is inside of you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hello, and welcome. I'm Jane Griffin, a licensed clinical social worker, with a background in clinical social work and over 20 years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life challenges. My professional journey has taken me through diverse settings — from working with military service members and their families, to supporting patients in hospital environments facing acute and chronic illness, to empowering women navigating life transitions, trauma, and identity. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the resilience of the human spirit and the unique complexities we all carry.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My therapeutic practice is rooted in acknowledging your multicultural experiences and understanding how these dynamics influence your personal goals and interpersonal relationships. Coming from a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed perspective, I’ll work with you as you navigate gender, social, or cultural concerns, especially those that may differ from your family’s expectations. Together, we explore these complex layers to foster personal growth, healthy relationships, and help you live by your core values.

I'm a licensed MFT #81396. My ultimate goal in my therapy work is to help my clients believe in themselves as much as I believe in them. I work with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and countless life issues. While I am deeply humanistic, I also frequently employ elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge clients' negative self-talk, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help them navigate big feelings. My work is informed by Object Relations theory, in which the therapist provides the client with empathy and attunement. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR, which is an invaluable tool for clients struggling with trauma.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from LA County. I believe in developing/practicing coping strategies as well as providing psychoeducation to my clients to assist them in achieving their mental health goals. I pull from my previous training and certifications in Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy and parent-child interaction therapy, to assist my clients with their mental health. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families/caregivers to assist with decreasing symptoms and behaviors such as sadness, over-thinking, non-compliance, etc.

Hi there, I'm Gut (Goot)! Thanks for looking at my profile, "the journey of 1000 miles begins with one step". I am a Veteran looking to assist others with their own "1000" mile journey. My approach I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals on their perspective journeys. I utilize Solution Focused Brief Therapy primarily with couples. My focus I have found that my style and approach work well with individuals who prefer a straightforward, assertive approach. My communication style is assertive, direct, with a curious undertone to solicit perspective. My journey in mental healthcare I wanted to assist with preventing Veteran suicides. My goals for you My goal is not that of a pastor; I do not want you to keep coming back, but to take what we have learned and continue the journey.

Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or just not ok. Are you overwhelmed trying to manage life's ebbs and flows? Do you have repetitious thoughts despite efforts to push them aside? Living with uncertainty while experiencing so many different feelings can be exhausting. I offer culturally sensitive services to clients of all socioeconomic backgrounds and abilities in a respectful, safe, supportive space. Together, we will work to identify your presenting concerns and the internalized belief systems impacting how you address your them. Approaches designed to meet your specific needs, will be drawn from psychodynamic, art, mindfulness and somatic modalities. I hope my supportive, non-judgemental, and warm approach will support your work in clarifying goals and gaining insights and skills to reach them.

Everyone deserves to live a meaningful life filled with purpose, success, satisfying relationships and continuous growth but sometimes we need help and guidance to get there. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have over 7 years of experience working with individuals of all ages to overcome psychological and emotional barriers to accomplish their goals, find peace of mind and reach optimal health. Specifically, in my practice I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, mood instability, anger, divorce, relationship issues, family conflict, and work related stress. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I strongly believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, dignity and compassion. My approach combines mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, schema therapy, psychodynamic, dialectical behavior therapy, and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our counseling sessions to your unique and specific needs. ​I look forward to working with you!

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I obtained my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from California Baptist University. I have been working in social services/mental health field since 2016. I have worked with nonprofits, governmental organizations and acute care medical facilities. I have extensive experience providing services to medically fragile individuals, their families and older adults. As a therapist I strive to provide a safe space where my patients can obtain services with compassion, empathy and leave sessions feelings empowered. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey and looks different for everyone depending on the individual. My interventions and modalities will be tailored to fit your unique needs. I enjoy working alongside clients to set specific, measurable goals, to build rapport and trust but also to monitor and celebrate both short-term and long term therapy goals. My areas of speciality include anxiety disorders, work/school stress, life transitions, self-esteem and chronic medical conditions/severe medical diagnosis, poor medical prognosis and adjustment disorders. I understand the importance of being able to communicate your feelings with ease and how speaking with a provider in your native/cultural language can be an important part of healing and I am more then happy to offer therapy in Spanish for any client who would benefit from it. *** PLEASE NOTE*** I am unable to assist with paperwork; including disability forms, court documents, school documents etc.

Is this the first time you thinking about having therapy? Let's talk about what therapy is and is not. Tell me your expectations. Therapy is in part, talking about how you are feeling whether you have depression, anxiety, or feel overwhelmed by your work, family or relationships or by all three . But that is just the beginning. My name is Judith Copeland, I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I want to help you achieve the positive changes would you like to see in your life. Do you feel you cannot cope, have no self-esteem or don’t even know what will make you happy? Together we will uncover your strengths and you will learn the skills you need to better manage your emotions. I use several treatment methods including, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Integrative Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to tailor your care to your specific needs. We will explore what is holding you back from achieving your goals and help you heal from past traumas. You will learn how your negative beliefs influence your mood and get in the way of your happiness. Often, we forget that everything is connected. Mind, Body, and Spirit. We need to take care of ourselves physically, psychologically, and spiritually. We often don’t really understand how deeply connected they are to our well-being. I will help you learn that self-care is just as important and or even more important as everything else you do. We have within ourselves the ability to create the life we want and become the person we want to be. I would like to support you on this journey and look forward to meeting you.

Hi, I’m Jessica Castro, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I’m a mother of two and have been married for 15 years, which gives me a deep, personal understanding of the joys and challenges that come with relationships and family life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in working with individuals who are seeking clarity, healing, and stronger connections. My clients often share that therapy with me helps them feel heard, empowered, and better equipped to handle life’s stressors. I’m committed to creating a safe, supportive space where meaningful change can happen.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree from California State University and I've been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I grew up in Italy and moved to the US 42 years ago. I work with adult men and women struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationships. I'm passionate about helping them live more fulfilling relationships and peaceful life.

Over the past nine years, I've offered therapy services in a diverse array of settings, ranging from elementary schools to correctional facilities. I am here to provide you with a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, as we work together to address your concerns and navigate life's challenges. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or personal growth, I am dedicated to helping you cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and overall well-being on your journey toward healing and growth.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for 12 years. I am a diplomate of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy. As a licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I am committed to helping clients identify and transform negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their emotional difficulties. Through CBT, therapy focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you in understanding and overcoming the challenges you face, while equipping you with the tools and strategies needed for long-term success. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, we will work together to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.

Greetings and congratulations on your decision toward cultivating a better you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of clinical experience treating youth, adults, and their families. It has been a privilege of mine to help individuals heal from psychological wounds associated with painful life transitions and experiences. Witnessing my clients' progress toward a better version of themselves has always been profoundly rewarding and joyful

I take a warm, collaborative, and solution-focused approach to therapy, working alongside clients to help them find practical ways forward. Much of my work centers on supporting adults living with PTSD, depression, and anxiety, and I’ve developed a strong niche working with men in the gay community. My primary approach is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but I believe therapy should fit the person—not the other way around. Depending on your needs and goals, I adjust how I work so that treatment feels useful and relevant to what you’re facing. Clients can expect a conversational style of therapy with me. I offer nonjudgmental support, space to reflect, and concrete strategies that can be applied outside of session. My goal is to create an environment where you feel understood, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life.

Have you been feeling stuck? Having difficulty connecting in your relationships? Or have been wanting to explore underlying core beliefs or unresolved trauma that have been impacting your relationships with friends, family, and/or even the relationship with yourself? The journey to unpacking and challenging those core beliefs is a gift to yourself. My experience includes working with BIPOC individuals, individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD* by a psychologist/psychiatrist, and women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. But most importantly, working alongside individuals who are struggling returning to their baseline. Taking the time to look for a therapist that best fits your current needs is important. If you are reading this and it aligns with your emotional and mental needs I would love to join you on this journey towards healing. These weekly or biweekly sessions are dedicated for you and only you. I am looking forward to beginning this journey with you. *DISCLAIMER: Under my license, it is out scope to diagnose a person with ADHD. However, I have experience in working with individuals who are having difficulties with managing attention/impulse/hyperactive behaviors. A formal ADHD diagnoses requires an extensive evaluation from a trained psychologist or psychiatrist.

Hi there! Nice to e-meet you. My name is Liza, pronounced Lisa, last name Castro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am not your ordinary therapist and will always be honest and truthful with you, even if it may sting just a little, but positive outcomes are always the goal. Change is never comfortable and neither is being confronted with the truth and lets be honest, both perspectives can and will hurt. If this is what you need, then I am who you seek. I am a great coach and cheerleader. I will help you understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors and help you explore how to become the best version of you. I am here to help you win in your own way; one choice and one session at a time. I am currently seeing clients on Mondays VIA TELEHEALTH ONLY. I will be seeing clients via telehealth and in-office Tuesday through Saturdays. Keep in mind I do work with a few other organizations, so scheduling will be sporadic and clients have the autonomy to schedule where openings are available. I am located in North County San Diego and hope to see you online or in person soon!

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and work full time with veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs. I see clients in the evenings or weekends. I enjoy helping clients to navigate life changes, process feelings, and learn healthy coping strategies. Sessions with me will be comfortable, relaxed and productive. I see California clients only. I look forward to working with you!

I believe that everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life’s challenges and create positive change in their lives. As a licensed LMFT therapist, I support clients towards their self-discovery process through the transformative power of psychotherapy to create meaningful changes in life, empower unique gifts and purpose, and enhance mental and emotional well-being. I believe that each of us possesses an internal source of insight and wisdom that can be cultivated through therapy. My approach is warm, relational, strengths-based and trauma-informed. I work from a place of compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Whether you are looking for guidance, improved relationships, insight, or to develop healthy coping strategies, you can make meaningful changes in your life one step at a time. So I encourage you to take time for yourself to nurture your mental and emotional well-being, activating your innate ability to cultivate a more fulfilling and balanced life.

I’m an LCSW with over 20 years experience in counseling individuals, couples, and groups. I specialize in issues of self esteem, relationships, and in helping clients find out exactly what they need in order to feel confident, calm, hopeful, and on-track. Often, new clients come in with some degree of anxiety, depression, or both. Don't worry if this is true for you. I'm highly experienced and my clients have told me they've benefited greatly in reduction of these symptoms. I don't believe that pain is useful in any way. I believe in insight, relief, and healing as quickly as possible. My style is inquisitive and interactive — I want to know what you need to tell me. I want to know what is causing your life to be anything less than pleasant, safe, and manageable. I want you to be okay, to feel okay, and to be confident in yourself and in your choices and relationships: I want you to feel certain that you are worthy, and that it is good to be you. And while most of my clients do present with some degree of past trauma, or injury to their sense of being worthy and needed, the fact is that life is not easy for anyone. But if we are carrying unhealed wounds, every setback or disappointment can bring back pain from the past. I find that once the major wound of how we see ourselves is healed, then the rest of life’s problems are much easier to resolve. So whether anxiety or depression, or conflict in a relationship has brought you here; I'm ready to help you find out what you want and need, and what's in the way. I don't believe in suffering. I do believe in relief, in hope, and learning how to undo pain.

Hello and thank you for taking the time to read about me. My name is Emily Cortez and I am an LMFT in CA. It is my hope to connect with you in a warm, supportive space to help process and tackle the many challenges that life throws at us. I have been practicing in the field going on 5 years now and have experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjustment/life transitions, trauma, and grief/loss.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from San Francisco State University with an M.S. in Counseling Psychology. I have recently been certified by the Cognitive Behavioral Institute to offer ERPT (Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for OCD). I have over 20 years of experience working with a very diverse range of folks (women, men, the LGBTQ community, those living with HIV,People of Color, those dealing with substance issues). I enjoy working with people who are seeking a caring, compassionate, understanding person who listens and offers a hand up while they battle back against depression and anxiety. I also enjoy supporting people who are struggling with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and employ a powerful tool (Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy) that is clinically shown to greatly reduce OCD symptoms.