Therapists in California

Hello, I'm Aleisha, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). With extensive experience working with high-acuity dual-diagnosed individuals in community settings, I've developed a unique expertise in tailoring therapeutic approaches to meet the complex needs of this population. My approach to therapy is centered around establishing a strong, supportive therapeutic alliance, creating a safe and protective space for individuals to explore their challenges and work towards their goals. Through this collaborative process, I've helped numerous individuals improve their overall mental health, address impairments in functioning, and develop effective symptom management strategies. My goal is to empower individuals with the tools and support they need to navigate life's challenges and achieve lasting growth and well-being.

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

Hey there! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California, and have been working and mental health for over 15 years. I received my Masters of Social work from California State University, Sacramento. I believe in employing strength-based philosophies that help clients identify and focus on their internal strengths, to empower them in overcoming challenges, build resiliency and heal. I am a trained EMDR therapist, and a trauma specialist. I have a passion for helping individuals move through painful events and move to a place of healing and resiliency. In addition to trauma, I also specialize in mood disorders and addiction.

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.

My name is Mark, and I have dedicated more than 15 years to working with families and youth in the foster care system. Before entering the field of foster care, I served as a combat medic in the military. This experience shaped my commitment to helping others and laid the foundation for my career. I have always been drawn to roles where I can make a positive impact on others’ lives. Helping people has become my true passion. In all my work, I strive to share joy and compassion, centering my approach on the unique needs of each individual I support.

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.

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

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.

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.

Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I grew up in the Central Valley area of California. I enjoy helping others find their strengths. I found my passion for social work while volunteering at the Poverello House. I enjoyed giving back to my community. I am client centered/client focused. I have a holistic approach to therapy utilizing Solution Focused and Motivational Interviewing skills.

Hi, I am Sandy Ortiz, LCSW, I specialize in helping adults navigate depression and anxiety challenges. My approach combines a warmth, compassion, empathetic, and evidenced-based therapy like CBT. Additionally, I also promote mindfulness to foster grounding. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where you can fully express yourself, gain insight, and empower yourself and gain personal growth. I acquired my Master's in Social Work from USC and have been practicing since 2014.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), licensed in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. I have a Master of Arts in psychology and have been practicing for 14 years. I help adults of all ages, who are struggling with symptoms relative to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other issues, to reduce their symptoms on their path towards mental wellness and the best version of themselves.

I have been in practice for 15 years. I do my best to meet new clients where they’re at and allow them to identify what they want to work on. I try my best to be kind, but direct. I value clients time and understand it’s often difficult to begin the therapy process. I allow clients to set the and honor the therapeutic process. Life is hard! And I’m here to help

Hi, I am Talin, a licensed psychotherapist since 2013. Providing a comfortable and supportive space to help you heal and empower yourself to reach your goal is extremely important to me as your therapist. I integrate several tools, techniques, and customized mindfulness interventions tailored to you to help you towards a journey of healing and empowering yourself. I provide a safe and calm space for your voice to be heard. I will help you towards a journey of healing and finding joy and peace. I utilize several different tools that are all unique and individualized for you in order to tackle stressors and anxiety to live a more peaceful day to day life.

I am a lantinx female, 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.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an integrative approach to my work. My specialties include Cognitive Behavioral therapy, anxiety, grief, art therapy, stress management, mindfulness and guided imagery. I have a collaborative client-centered approach, which is warm, safe, empathetic and non-judgmental. I help you discover your own insight, cultivate strengths and find meaning and purpose for a more balanced life.

I am licensed in California with 18+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and you already have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming any situations that challenge you. We are all experimenting on the best way to BE in this journey we call life. I do not follow a script or rigid psychiatric protocol. I will authentically meet you where you are at and we will together decide what you need for your next steps. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to getting to know the real you!

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

I am a licensed mental health professional (LMFT, LPCC) with an MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology (Mumbai University), a Master of Public Health in Public Health Practice (University of Arizona), and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on Professional Clinical Counseling from Touro University. With over 20 years of experience across clinical care, mental health, healthcare management, research, program development, education, and training, I bring a multidisciplinary perspective to advancing healthcare delivery.

Growing up I was challenged with depression and anxiety along with familial dysfunction. When I heard about psychology in sixth grade, I decided I wanted to be a psychologist. After starting a family and enduring an abusive marriage I went back to school to become a mental health therapist. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and challenging others to open their minds to a different way of thinking. Working with individuals as well as parents and couples is rewarding and fostering change for healthier relationships is truly beautiful.

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.

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.

Hello and welcome. First of all, I would like to congratulate you on your courage to take the first step in selecting a therapist. The thought of sharing intimate thoughts, struggles, and personal experiences can be overwhelming and frightening. I hope to assist you in feeling confident that you have come to the right place to express your needs and work on feeling better. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) from California. I have over 12 years experience in providing services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, trauma, and other challenges. I have had the pleasure of working in various settings. For almost seven years, I worked at a community mental health agency treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of needs especially those who have experienced trauma. I have found that each individual comes with their unique story and background. My first experience using telehealth was during the pandemic. With the increase of mental health needs, I discovered the importance of being able to provide services through the telehealth platform. It inspired me to continue to reach those clients who desire telehealth for various reasons. Life can be busy with schedules and finding time for therapy is not always easy. Telehealth can make therapy a little easier.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my master's in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University in California and have been practicing for the last 8 years. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts, and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.

I'm Elizabeth, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic self, develop compassion towards self and others, and live a meaningful life through transformation and healing.

As a dedicated Licensed Trauma-Focused Clinician, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive space where individuals and couples can explore emotions, process difficult feelings, and discover their underlying strengths to manage life stressors. My work in guiding people towards improving their lives is my passion. My therapeutic approach is very authentic, warm, with a touch of humor, ensuring that you feel comfortable and understood throughout our journey together. Many of my therapeutic techniques are backed by scientifically proven mental health theories or statistical research, and I am continuously learning new modalities through ongoing trainings. Imagine a therapy session that is not only effective but also feels like a genuine conversation with a trusted friend. My approach is direct, open-minded, and solution-focused, tailored to meet your unique needs as you reflect on your life. I believe in the power of concise communication, making each session impactful and focused on your progress. I am passionate about empowering my clients to face life’s challenges by tapping into their natural capabilities. In my practice, you'll find a non-judgmental and welcoming environment, where your concerns are met with compassion and understanding. My goal is to provide a safe and judgment-free space for you to explore life's unique challenges we all face. I'll walk alongside you to guide and assist in managing life stressors impacting your journey. With my support, we will develop solutions, coping skills, and an understanding of emotions to improve your quality of life. It is essential to me you leave each session with more insight, self-awareness, and self-acceptance than before. I am experienced in working with individuals, couples, children of all ages, diversity of ethnicities, genders, and different cultural frameworks, which I embrace with warm understanding and appreciation. Let's devote time to your personal growth and healing together.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California and Arizona. After more than 30 years as an educator, minister, counselor, and consultant; I realized that the one thing I am most passionate about is working one-on-one with others – watching them discover clarity, restoration, hope, and passion. Psychotherapy is the single endeavor where I get to bring all that I am to all that I do.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's degree from California State University, Fresno, and my Doctorate from Walden University in Minnesota. With 18 years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their emotional and relational challenges to lead more fulfilling lives. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on empowering my clients with the tools they need to achieve their personal and interpersonal goals.

Hello there, I'm Alma. I'm bilingual in English and Spanish. I have experience working with elementary-age children and young adults. I can help you manage anxiety to avoid burnout, and in children to avoid losing control of their emotions. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I integrate mindfulness to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with being overwhelmed, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety, I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to be heard, heal and grow.

Hi there! Nice to meet you. My name is Ryan and I am really glad you are here. I’m not your stereotypical “sit and nod” kind of therapist—I like to keep things real, down-to-earth, and maybe even a little fun when it feels right. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are, without fear of being judged or “too much.” I work with both teens and adults, using a person-centered approach that focuses on you—your story, your strengths, and your pace. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, or figuring out life as a neurodivergent person in a world that doesn’t always get it, we’ll work together to make sense of what’s been heavy and find ways to lighten the load. I’m here to help you understand yourself better, build self-trust, and move toward a life that feels more balanced and authentic. Therapy with me is a mix of empathy, honesty, and humor. Some days it’s deep reflection; other days it’s simply finding a moment of calm in the chaos. I believe growth doesn’t have to mean changing who you are—it’s about reconnecting with who you’ve always been. Outside of sessions, I’m usuall spending time at the gym, with my dog that I am training to be my service dog, my latest crochet project, thrifting, mindfulness exercises or in my own therapy. If you’re looking for a therapist who’s approachable, open-minded, and genuinely invested in helping you feel understood, I’d love to meet you.

I am authentic genuine, warm, direct and client centered. I have worked in Residential treatment centers, conducted risk assessments in hospital settings , worked in skilled nursing facilities , worked as a Program Director and have experience working with families, couples and individuals. I believe in the field and am excited for every interaction and opportunity when individuals show up for themselves. I am honored to join in the journey to aid with tools to assist with living life from a place of abundance and courage.

Sydelcis Mendez (Syd) is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in crisis, trauma, anxiety, and stress management as it relates to individuals, couples, and families during life transitions. Raised in the Bronx by her Dominican family, she witnessed the gaps in resources and opportunities for individuals of different backgrounds. Syd became a therapist after seeing the mental health strains in her community and noting the underrepresentation of qualified providers who provided culturally-sensitive treatment and systems-oriented support. Throughout her career, she has served individuals grappling with substance use challenges, homelessness/transient issues, health concerns, developmental needs, sexual assault, domestic violence, addiction, military service/veteran affairs issues, as well as family or marital challenges.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with adults, older adults, children and families. My approach to therapy is to meet client’s where they’re at, creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment to work through life’s challenges. I work together with my clients to establish and support their goals so that they will ultimately discover and develop their inner strengths. My goal is for clients to explore, develop and gain healthy coping skills to thrive. I provide support and guidance to individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety and depression, as well as the stresses that can arise from relationships, career, aging and other life changes. My clinical approach is strength-based, and trauma informed. I also incorporate modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused brief therapy and mindfulness.

Hi, I’m Cylest, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with children, teens, and adults who are facing anxiety, depression, and life stressors. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. Together, we explore thoughts and emotions, develop practical coping skills, and create strategies for lasting change and personal growth, empowering you to feel more confident and balanced in everyday life.

Hello, I am Sanayah Marriott, a licensed clinical social worker in CA, AZ and HI. I am fluent in English and Haitian Creole. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor-II with 9 years of extensive experience in addiction treatment settings and 19 years of military experience. I am thrilled that you have chosen to embark on a journey towards personal growth and self-care. Are you ready to let go of your worries, discover your purpose, embrace emotional wellness, adapt to change, and lead a balanced life? While the journey may be challenging, I aim to support you as you gain awareness and understanding.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Northern California who graduated from Humboldt State University. I have been practicing for the past 10 years after switching career from Engineering. Throughout my career as a therapist, I have been working as a children's therapist and clinical director for a program that serves older adults. During the last 3 years I have been focusing full time on adults with mild to severe mental health challenges. In addition to using evidenced based practice, I believe that clients are best served by empowerment. I approach therapy from a solutions based perspective to help clients work towards living fulfilled lives and reaching their goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping people feel more grounded, confident, and supported. I have extensive experience working with adults and older adults from various backgrounds facing emotional issues and complicated medical conditions. I specialize in supporting individuals managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and caregiver stress, as well as those seeking guidance in building healthier relationships and improving self-esteem. My work is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration-creating a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.

Keisha Owens received her bachelor's in psychology from Morgan State University and her master's in counseling psychology at National University. She has over 20 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, Dual Diagnosed Substance Abuse outpatient programs, structured intensive outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric, large nonprofits, and private practice. Keisha uses several therapeutic modalities and is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Crisis Intervention. She continues to seek ongoing updates to her skills and knowledge base. Keisha is invested in an approach emphasizing a more integrative, dynamic, and holistic approach to mental health. She is particularly concerned with the impact of loss and trauma and improving intervention to support trauma recovery for better emotional, physical and relationship health.

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I am licensed in Arizona and California. I've been working in the counseling field for about 20 years. I have counseling expertise in the following areas: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, family conflict and relationships which include estrangement, divorce and or separation issues. I also have treated Individuals and families of loved ones with addiction and alcohol use disorder. Other populations I have experience in is military veterans, life phase transitions (college, new relationship, retirement) which can be major life adjustments needing support.

Welcome to my professional practice focused on providing emotional support. Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, and seeking assistance is a testament to personal strength. As a licensed therapist, I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals, addressing psychological issues such as emotional distress and relational dynamics. I offer both Christian counseling and secular therapeutic modalities, creating a secure environment for clients to express their emotions and foster healthier interpersonal connections. My methodology is rooted in evidence-based practices aimed at managing anxiety, facilitating life transitions, and processing past traumas. Together, we will work on enhancing self-awareness and implementing strategies for positive behavioral change, ultimately paving the way for a more satisfying and enriched life experience. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!

Hola! My name is Brianna and I’m so glad you’re here. The decision to begin therapy is a big one, and I feel honored that you are considering doing that with me. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. On our therapeutic journey, I welcome you just the way you are so that we can work to create an authentic life balance that will support your success, wellness and happiness. Whatever it is, telling your story to someone who cares and accepts the most authentic version of you, is the first step toward healing. I want to work with you to help you figure out how to solve challenges and find the most authentic version of yourself so that you can live the life you’ve always envisioned. I received my Masters from CSU San Jose State and have been supporting clients for 8 years.

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.

Hello! My name is Robin Aquino, a licensed LCSW in California. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and confidence. Whether you are facing anxiety, struggling with depression, or simply feeling stuck, I am here to support you in moving toward meaningful change. I believe in authenticity, and I am real with my clients. Together we can create a safe space where you can bring in vulnerability without feeling judged.

Welcome to my practice! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with more than 20 years of experience providing individual, couples, and family therapy. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, anger issues, and self-harm behaviors. I want to get to know you and what might be happening with you that you are seeking counseling for. Most people come to therapy when they are in some type of distress. Sometimes this is conscious and sometimes not. If you are feeling powerless or distressed for some reason or grieving a loss in life, I would like to see how we can work in therapy. The way we work will depend on the issues you bring to therapy. I have experience with different approaches to therapy including but not limited to HUMANISTIC THERAPY (includes the importance of personal responsibility, and a positive, non-judgmental approach), STRUCTURAL FAMILY SYSTEMS (includes the importance of family structure and healthy boundaries), GOTTMAN (includes helping couples communicate better, resolve conflicts constructively, and create a shared sense of meaning), CBT (generally includes a short-term approach that helps you identify and change negative or unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior to improve your mood and overall well-being). All the above types of counseling styles point towards change or growth. Many times, there is a creative element to counseling and many times the counseling can give you more of a sense of purpose for yourself in life. Please see my calendar with Grow to sign up for an appointment today.

Que bien que te has dado el tiempo de estar aqui :) Me llamo Laura. I am a first generation daughter of Mexican immigrants and understand how tough it can be to navigate life's challenges and reach out for help. I strive to bring warmth, mindfulness, kindness, humor and care into the therapy space to create a supportive space where you can reconnect with yourself and feel empowered. Y si hablas Spanish, podemos hablar in both languages!

As a compassionate and affirming therapist, I strive to create a warm, accepting space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered in their unique identities. My practice is deeply rooted in trans-affirming and LGBT-inclusive care, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life are met with respect, validation, and understanding. Grounded in anti-oppressive principles and a strong commitment to social justice, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate life’s challenges while honoring their lived experiences. I believe that healing is not only personal but also deeply connected to the broader systems in which we live. My approach fosters self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, helping clients cultivate meaningful change in both their inner worlds and their communities. Whether you are exploring your identity, seeking support for life’s transitions, or working through personal struggles, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering support.

Welcome to a supportive space for personal growth. It's a natural part of life to experience tough times, and finding the right support can make all the difference. My practice offers a warm and non-judgmental environment to explore what's holding individuals back. Years of experience have provided opportunities to witness clients make profound positive changes. I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges such as relationship issues, work stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. The approach focuses on helping individuals build effective coping mechanisms so they can move forward with greater confidence and well-being. With the right support, individuals can improve their lives.

"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you – all of the expectations, all of the beliefs – and becoming who you are." - Rachel Naomi Remen Are you having challenges with finding the courage to seek healing that may keep you from becoming the best version of yourself? Hello! I am Lauresha Zinatae Hawkins, LCSW, MSW, MPH. I am independently contracted with Grow Therapy, while operating my private practice, Mental Wellness University, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc., in California. I am licensed in the state of California and Alaska. I recently received my Master of Public Health degree in 2025. With an acquired passion for serving and inspiring people from all walks of life, I assist with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma. I also serve the perinatal population, addressing perinatal mental health diagnoses, such as postpartum depression. Utilizing trust and rapport as the foundation of our therapeutic alliance, my approach to therapy comes with an eclectic style based on meeting the unique needs of who it is that I serve. I have 14 years of experience as a mental health professional in residential therapeutic treatment facilities, behavioral health outpatient clinic, as well as in psychiatric inpatient hospital setting, where trauma-informed care and advocacy is utilized to exemplify my passionate commitment to serving disadvantaged youth, adults, and elderly, including other vulnerable and at-risk populations such as dual-diagnoses.

I have been a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist since 2001. In 2005, I was trained by Postpartum Support International (PSI), and have specialized in the treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders since that time. I served as PSI’s Orange County Coordinator, offering support and connecting women to community resources, from 2005-2017. In addition to my work in private practice, I taught LMFT students at the undergraduate and graduate level for 10 years, and became certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy in 2015. In 2017 I helped develop Hoag Hospital’s Maternal Mental Health program, where I served as Lead Therapist. I was trained by the Beck Institute in 2018 in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders.