Therapists in California

Greetings! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm licensed to practice in Mississippi, Texas and California. I received my Masters in Social Work from Jackson State University and have been in practice for over 20 years. I help adults who struggle with burnout ,stress and poor boundaries. I love supporting adults in reclaiming balance, joy and peace in their lives.

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I help individuals to navigate the complexities of modern life, balancing responsibilities at work and home. I work with youth and adults, facing challenges related to intimacy, communication, or personal fulfillment. My ideal client can also be a parent, juggling the demands of raising children while maintaining their own well-being. Together we can explore a deeper understanding of self and emotions, desires to develop healthier coping mechanisms, build resilience, and enhance your self-esteem.

My name is Mariane Makkar, LCSW in California. I received my graduate degree from the University of Southern California, in Los Angeles. I have been practicing in psychiatric behavioral & mental health since 2017 in a variety of settings. My journey has been unique and authentic. I implement this in my work daily. I am looking forward to learning about your story!

Hello. Are you experiencing low energy, low motivation, trouble sleeping, irritability, poor concertation? or feeling sad, worried, anxious or stressed about your negative/intrusive thoughts? The truth is, that everyone experiences Anxiety or Depression at some point in their life, but these conditions are treatable and you do not have to go through them alone. I am here to help. My name is Tina. I am a Latina, a mother and a therapist with 20 years of experience treating children and adults with Anxiety and/or Depression. I also specialize in Maternal Mental Health and/or any other issue related to pregnancy and motherhood. I would love to help you find calmness, balance and a more positive approach to coping with life stressors that often create Anxiety and/or Depression.

I am a bilingual psychotherapist and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem issues. I approach therapy with empathy, compassion, and respect. I am passionate about utilizing evidence-based strategies to help clients successfully reach their treatment goals. I utilize a compassionate and client-centered approach, empowering and supporting clients toward healing and change. Let's talk about enhancing your emotional well-being and how I can support you in designing a life you love living!

Hello! I am a bilingual Latina Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in California. Se habla espanol. I received my Masters from Brandman university! I have been practicing for 5 years. I have experience working for children and adolescents as well with adults who have struggle with anxiety and/or depression. I am passionate about meeting my client where they are at and assisting them in their process of healing increasing ability to face life in a different way.

The most precious you can give to yourself is a little bit of your own attention. Life can get so busy and it's easy to become distracted by daily tasks. This makes it easy to loose sight of the most important person in your life....YOU! You are the most important project that you will ever work on and I am so glad that you are here. I have over 22 years of experience in the mental health industry and I am passionate about working with clients from all different backgrounds and life paths. I have experience working with a wide variety of ages from children to adolescents and adults. I also have experience working with with a variety of mental health diagnosis. It has been a blessing to work as a School Counselor for 22+ years, and know that it has provided me with a wealth of experience in so many areas with a large variety of clients with all different needs. I strive to meet my clients where they are and am passionate about helping them work on their goals. I have particularly enjoyed helping clients manage transition, trauma, depression, grief, adjustment, anxiety and parenting. I also am passionate about working with First Responders and their families. I have been part of a First Responder family for 27+ years, which has provided me with a wealth of information as well as compassion and commitment to serve this population.

I am a licensed psychotherapist and certified hypnotherapist in California with over 20 years of experience, specializing in empowering women to overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, infertility, and relationship ruptures, as well as navigating the emotional complexities of life transitions and self-doubt. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing space where healing and growth can thrive. Understanding the deep impact of sadness, isolation, and trauma, my mission is to help women build resilience, embrace empowerment, and prioritize their well-being to live their best lives. I am here to support you on your healing journey.

Hello, My name is Thalia Diaz, and I'm thrilled to have been connected with you! As a therapist, I strive to create a warm, caring, and non-judgmental space to work with clients. I am aware that the times in which talk-therapy is sought out are also the times in which life feels overwhelming. Whatever that struggle may be, I believe that the human spirit is strong and capable of healing. I am passionate about working alongside my clients to heal those wounds and setting them up to be able to reach the goals they've set for their futures. Though I have experience working with a wide range of people, my passion is to help young adults who struggle with trauma, depression, grief, and/or anxiety to process their life stories, strengthen their sense of identity, and develop the skills needed for the life they desire.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California with over a decade of experience. I approach each counseling session with a compassionate heart and a commitment to support you on your journey to healing. I have dedicated my career to helping people navigate life's challenges while providing a safe space for self-exploration and understanding. If you are looking to make some changes and want more clarity in your life, then make a difference and schedule a session with me today.

Hello there! My name is Adriana Soriano a bilingual (Spanish-English) LCSW born and raised in Southern California. Contemplating therapy? Let’s take this journey together towards emotional and spiritual wellness, a commitment to positive change. I believe as the client increases self-awareness, they then can begin to see growth and experience self-actualization, the ability to become the best version of one self. This progression forward, can be transformative in mind, body and spirt. It is also my belief that someone’s present reality may be influenced by memories of past experience, including early adversities, in turn affecting a person’s current perceptions of the world and others, as well as expectations for the future and interpersonal interactions.

I specialize in panic disorders, depression, bipolar and disordered eating. Not only do I help treat these disorders, but I help clients completely be rid of them! Believe it or not, panic, anxiety and depression don’t have to be life-sentences, and you don’t just have to just learn “coping skills”. These disorders are symptoms of a root problem that can be undone in therapy! I have helped many people break free of their lifelong anxiety and depressive symptoms in just a few months. Therapy can really work if you have a competent therapist, who does more than just listen to your problems! I love supporting my clients to make mental and practical changes that allow them to finally have the peace they’ve been looking for. Be encouraged – it’s absolutely possible! You are not alone in your struggle, and you don’t have to stay where you are! Let this be the day you take that first step – to become the person you were made to be and fulfill the unique calling in your life. You can also visit my podcast, Angry at the Right Things: https://angryattherightthings.podbean.com/

I am a strength based therapist who seeks to normalize mental health to underserved and marginalized individuals and communities with the goal of creating a safe space to heal and grow. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief and loss and are seeking support and ways to manage their symptoms. I understand that the client is the expert of their own life and I am here to support them in achieving their goals.

Welcome! My name is Elana Rezmovitch. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am passionate about helping you achieve your best self through therapy and support. My approach is personalized and designed to help you build healthy tools to manage life's challenges. Within the therapeutic setting I provide a safe and supportive environment with a focus on helping each individual build on their strengths and feel empowered.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California. I have a Masters in Counseling/Marriage, Family, & Child Therapy and have been practicing for 10 years. I help individuals (adults, young adults, adolescents) struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and unresolved traumas. I also work with families and couples struggling with relational distress. I'm a warm, highly empathetic, personable, high energy, and conscious therapist. I will help you find your power, take charge, action, and create change.

Greetings! My name is Dr. Kate Dunn. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY32472) with nine years of experience treating many different mental health diagnoses, challenges, and symptoms. I have a background working with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, addictive behaviors, and psychosis. I have specific clinical training and experience treating trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I see clients of all ages 18+ utilizing a tailored, culturally-sensitive, empathic, and related approach. I blend humanistic, existential, and cognitive behavioral philosophies depending on the comfort and preferences of each client. I strongly believe that cultivating a safe and trusting therapeutic connection creates the foundation for meaningful growth and healing. My ultimate goal is that therapy is a positive and beneficial experience for each person that I work with. In my free time I enjoy yoga, meditation, good food, and walks with my dog Hazel.

Hi! My name is Sydney and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Newport Beach and Long Beach, California. I work with adults to help them cope with and reduce anxiety so they can live more peaceful and fulfilling lives. I help couples feel seen and heard and improve their communication. I believe building rapport and connecting with clients on their individualized needs is foundational. My approach is holistic and integrates CBT, humanistic, and mindfulness modalities. Something unique about me is that I am also a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and a Surf Therapy practitioner. If I meet with you in person, you always have the option of integrating art therapy or surf therapy into our work together. I'm passionate about getting outside, engaging body and mind and developing creativity as supportive tools for mental and physical health.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness and personal growth. I earned my Master’s degree from California State University East Bay and bring over six years of experience in community mental health, where I have built a strong foundation in various therapeutic modalities. I look forward to partnering with you on your path to healing and self-discovery.

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

With 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for you, as a client. I work with adults, children, and families. Within that framework I provide individual, couple or family counseling sessions, specializing in fostering growth and improved mental health by empowering clients to address their concerns in a way that aligns with their individual needs.

Hi, I strive to help you clarify and achieve your goals. I am trained and experienced in a variety of evidence-based practices, allowing me to tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. In my practice, I use CBT, ACT, CPT, DBT, mindfulness, mind-body connection modalities, and more. My goal is to support you in elevating, healing, and integrating different aspects of your life into a harmonious whole.

Hello, my name is Layla Hernandez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in the mental health field. I'm fluent in English and Spanish and take a client-focused approach to therapy. I utilize evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), to ensure the best outcomes for my clients.

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from DeVry University. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and crisis-related issues. My background includes working with children in foster care, individuals in juvenile hall and correctional facilities, crisis stabilization units, and survivors and perpetrators of sexual abuse. I’ve also led mental health outreach and education efforts in Santa Clara County to increase community awareness and access to support. Currently, I offer couples counseling and faith-based counseling, helping clients navigate relational and spiritual challenges with compassion and care. I am passionate about supporting clients through difficult life experiences, offering light, perspective, and healing.

I am a provider with over 20 years of experience working in a variety of settings. I have worked with people from all walks of life, in varying ages and stages of life. I consider myself to be a generalist practitioner; however, I have specialized training in the treatment of disordered eating and body image disturbance. I am also an artist who believes in healing through creative expression. I am a registered art therapist (ATR) which means I have education, training and experience in the field of art therapy. I provide talk therapy, art therapy or a combination of both.

Hi there! I'm Ann. I'm so glad you're considering making space for therapy. It's not easy to reach out for help, and I give you so much credit for taking this step. My name is Ann LeFevre, and I’m a PhD, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Denver, CO. I work with adults in CA, CO, and PA, and I have over 20 years of experience treating depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I welcome clients of all races, abilities, genders, beliefs, and sexual orientations. I encourage you to take your time selecting a provider who seems to be a good fit for your treatment needs as well as your personality and communication style. If you would like to chat with me briefly prior to scheduling, please feel free to schedule a free phone consultation.

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I speak Spanish/English and I have been in practice since 2014, helping individuals and families cope with significant changes, losses and experiences. I believe we all have internal resources to heal with and with professional help one can alleviate from emotional distress and fulfill meaningful lives.

You deserve a life filled with ease, peace, passion, and joy. Please let me accompany you on a journey of personal growth where we harness your unique abilities to overcome challenges, enhance your personal and professional relationships, cultivate happily grounded self-assurance, and embrace your innate strengths. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety, depression, or addiction, I'm here to help. Will be your spirited, upbeat, and encouraging companion.

Being able to create an environment where you feel heard, supported and understood is an essential goal in my practice. I enjoy working on identifying personal strengths that may help transform difficulties and challenges into new possibilities and a more satisfying life. I believe that it is important to recognize and celebrate a person’s uniqueness and background by applying various counseling styles. As an interactive, creative solution-focused therapist, my approach is based on providing support, clarity and feedback while facilitating an active dialogue. I have worked in various settings and industries such as clinical, corporate, and educational. My 20+ years of expertise and professional interests include working with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, stress management, workplace-related issues, caregiving challenges, parenting, grief, loss and life transitions.

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

I can help every individual, couple, and family in diverse cultural backgrounds by supporting them to get a better understanding of their life, relationships and expectations in order to develop self-awareness, self confidence and creating a balance between mind, body and spirit. I work with individuals who are often facing a variety of mental health concerns including , domestic violence , relationship problems, anger, grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma.

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.

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

I have been in the counseling field for over 10 years, working with teens and adults, using evidence-based treatments to address a wide range of issues. I work using a multicultural and trauma-informed lens that allows me to understand your individual needs and meet you where you are in your journey. I am committed to providing an inclusive environment for all regardless of age, gender identity, race, health status, national origin, relationship status, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and religion. Whether you're dealing with stress, grief, sadness, loneliness, overwhelm, trauma, or negative relational patterns, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you've already made it this far. I will provide you with a safe place to heal and grow. Throughout therapy, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome whatever is holding you back. Let's work together! SCHEDULING NOTE: If scheduling yourself, I only see clients on the half hour (ex: 9:30am - not 9:15am or 9:45am).

I am very pleased to meet you. Before coming here and seeing my profile, you may have struggled alone for a long time, unable to easily share your personal issues with anyone, or perhaps you did share, but felt misunderstood or not fully supported. In a safe and trustworthy environment, I am ready to listen to your concerns or issues with empathy, without any bias or judgment. With my expertise, I am confident in working together with you to resolve your worries or challenges. I will listen to your unique history and problems with curiosity and respect, and I will do my utmost as a counselor in collaboration with you.

Hi there, I’m Manny. Are you currently searching for a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Do you find yourself in an existential/spiritual emergency? Are you exploring your personal identity, expression, or sexuality? I help people of all ages increase self-awareness and decrease symptomology by bringing unconscious material into conscious awareness. Trauma combined with an emotional core (experiences of intense fear/guilt/shame) commonly splinters parts of our personality and represses such into the shadow/unconscious realms of our psyche. In response, many of us have adapted and survived by putting on masks in hopes of fitting in and being accepted by the people around us. Mental health concerns eventually arise because deep in our mind/body/soul we yearn for authenticity/individuation. Clients may also experience suicide ideation and/or self-harm because there are parts of themselves that no longer serve them. Together we can explore which aspects of ourselves to let go, in order to make space for something new to enter. I am a Doctoral Candidate from Pacifica Graduate Institute, my studies focused on Depth Psychology with a specialization in Integrative Therapy and Healing Practices. As a Holistic practitioner, I believe that each individual already possesses what is needed for their healing and it is my duty, as a guiding witness, to help the client navigate, process, and integrate such.

Hi, I'm Hazel. I'm a bilingual Asian mental health therapist fluent in both Vietnamese and English, dedicated to supporting neurodiverse adults, including those with ASD, ADHD, and co-occurring conditions. I am deeply passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and understanding the unique challenges they face, such as low self-esteem, mood regulation difficulties, relationship struggles, loneliness, stress, executive dysfunction, and rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD). I strive to provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore these challenges and develop strategies for growth and healing. In addition, I have extensive experience working in hospice care, which has given me valuable insight into the complex emotions surrounding grief, loss, and mourning. I am increasingly focusing on helping clients process these profound experiences, providing comfort and guidance through their journeys of healing and acceptance. Having endured my own share of trauma throughout my life—including experiences with sudden death, betrayal, and resentment—I bring a deep sense of empathy and understanding to my work. With a holistic approach to treatment and an awareness of cultural nuances, I aim to create a safe, compassionate environment where my clients feel seen and supported. My overarching goal is to empower individuals to navigate their challenges, foster resilience, and promote overall well-being. I am committed to breaking down barriers to mental health care and walking alongside my clients through life’s many transitions with sensitivity and care.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I received my Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from the California Professional School of Psychology (CSPP) at Alliant International University in 2017. I have been practicing in settings like the California Department of Corrections and the Department of Veterans Affairs, Central California Health Care System for seven years. My experience is primarily with adults who have a severe mental illness, or merely symptoms that are disrupting their sense of wellness and are a barrier to their happiness.

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

As a dedicated licensed mental health therapist, I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, across a wide spectrum of socioeconomic statuses, and addressing an array of mental health concerns. My experience spans different populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and families, with an emphasis on creating a safe, inclusive, and empathetic space for healing and growth.

Life is not going as you planned. You are feeling stuck, overwhelmed and confused. Need someone to talk it over with and find solutions in a safe space. I'm here for that and so much more. My approach is practical and personal. You won't be overwhelmed because the way I work is to make the difficult, easy. It's not simple, there is a lot of work to be done, but we break it down into manageable steps. What can seem impossible is achieved in a step by step process. You will have my support and encouragement to succeed. Therapy is your work to be done; I will be your guide.

If you're looking for a holistic, decolonized and evidence based approach at managing your mental health symptoms: you've come to the right place. My approach in therapy is centered around the transformative power of creativity and connectivity. I believe that healing and growth are best achieved through breaking generational patterns, self reflection, and strengthening the skills to navigate the systems in which we live. I take a relational and evidence based approach to treatment, center your voice, and guide a process of co-creating your healing journey. I encourage clients to explore their inner worlds and express themselves authentically; while also establishing solid supports, and grounding awareness within the context of their lives.

I'm credentialed by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and California. I'm a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), through the Pennsylvania Certification Board and Florida Certification Board. I work purposefully with those experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use, and trauma. "If you have come across my profile, chances are you may be at a crossroads in life. We've all been in this place at one time or another, and I can help you grow as you navigate through the process. The power lies in the process itself! Change requires a decision, coupled with the willingness to take action. As a seasoned therapist, I understand that counseling is a contact sport, requiring participation and teamwork. Therefore, I implore you to invest in yourself!

Hello, my name is Vanessa Estrada Baron, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's degree in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton. I identify as a first-generation Latina, cisgender woman. I'm passionate about working with BIPOC families, and individuals. Additionally, I am an ally to the LGBTQIA+ and undocumented/DACAmented communities. I hope we can work together in finding meaning and feeling satisfied with where your life is heading. I utilize a range of evidence-based therapies, including person-centered therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy with an anti-racist and anti-oppressive approach. These approaches allow us to build a therapeutic connection and give us a roadmap in this therapy journey. As we work together, there may be some wounds that are uncovered brought on by childhood trauma, intergeneration trauma, societal injustices, or any other significant events that you’d be willing to explore. I hope to provide a safe space to process your feelings and would be honored to be a tool for you. Aside from being a therapist, I am a wife, I am a mother to a three-year-old daughter, I am a daughter of two immigrant parents, I am a sister to a brother and sister. Some of my self-care includes hiking, playing video games, reading, taking baths, and spending time with my parents. I am looking forward to meeting you! Asking for help is not easy, so if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, a recent loss, anger, internal or external conflict, or you’re looking to find meaning, I can already tell your resilience!

There is always room for growth no matter what age or where you are in life. It is my mission to help people in their personal growth and reach their full potential. I genuinely care for others and provide a safe and non-judgmental space for healing. Life can get overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Through the Rogerian approach, I meet people where they’re at, being compassionate and warm, yet honest and straightforward. As a therapist I love utilizing a combination of therapeutic techniques from person-centered, CBT, TF-CBT, mindfulness, REBT, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, Gestalt and other modalities that have research proven results. Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you want to live.

Counseling service is like having a personal trainer in the gym for our mind muscle; individually tailored guidance doesn’t hurt. We all have ups and downs in our life, work, family, relationships, and I'm here to support you through the things that are messy, challenging, and confusing with a safe space for you to just be yourself with no judgements. Let me join your journey of figuring-out, growing, healing, shining and thriving, and make the full access to life experiences with joy of living come true. I offer a free 15 minute consultation call. Feel free to contact me. I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you.

Hello and welcome — I’m glad you’re here. I’m an integrative psychotherapist, which means I see you as a whole person — body, mind, heart, spirit, relationships, and community. True healing and growth happen when all parts of your life are acknowledged and supported. In our work together, we’ll use a holistic approach that blends mind-body tools, neuroscience, and practical action plans designed to create lasting change. My goal is to help you move from where you are now to where you truly want to be — building greater clarity, balance, and resilience along the way. Whether you’re seeking relief from stress and anxiety, navigating a life transition, or wanting deeper connection to yourself and others, therapy can be the bridge. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back and create a path forward that feels authentic and empowering. You don’t have to do this alone. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward healing and growth, I invite you to reach out — let’s take the next step together.

 Love and work are essential to a meaningful life. Relationships with others define experience and work gives a sense of purpose. Disturbance in these affect well being and contribute to an overwhelmed response leading to collapse. As trauma is relational so is recovery and healing. Having the right therapeutic alliance is a key element and requires, attunement and constistency.  James has over 17 years of clinical experience treating diverse individuals in a variety of settings. As a Mind-Body-Awareness trained therapist, he works with adults having problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. In addition to having a graduate degree in Social Work from San Jose State University; he also attended years of practicum training from the following: Certification in Somatic Experiencing from SE Trauma Institute; Sierra Institute for Contemporary Gestalt Training; Professional Training in Hakomi Mindfulness-Based Experiential Psychotherapy Santa Cruz; iRest Integrative Restoration, an evidence informed meditation practice for trauma; Certification in Satyananda Yoga Nidra; and Completion of 500 hours of Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training. 

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you and walk alongside with you in that process.

My name is Denise Dugan your Whyscounselor. We often question "why" when life hits us hard. We try to make sense of of what doesn't make sense but don't know how to find the answers. What if I told you the answers to the "whys" may not ever be answered but you can manage how those unanswered questions have affected you. Have you ever thought that if only this person would change or if I could stop feeling so anxious, frustrated, and sad things would be better? Life can be hard and challenges can steal our hope for changes to take place. What if I told you that there is one thing you can change that will affect everything else in your life and that is the way you see yourself? I want to help people dealing with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues and are motivated to do the work it will take. I want to help people find the tools to manage symptoms to cope with everyday life challenges and make the necessary changes in their behaviors and lives that reflect how they want to show up. I can help you develop a healthy relationship with the most neglected relationship you have and that is with yourself. Our work together will be discovering and developing pathways to a healthier relationship with yourself first in order to have healthier relationships with others and to make the necessary changes you need to make. Allow me to help you to manage the "whys" in your life. My educational background includes a M.S. in Counseling Psychology and a B.A. in Psychology from California Baptist University in Riverside, CA. I am trained in Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT or Tapping), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).

My role is to assist you in your path to change by improving your sense of self. This includes developing an awareness of your ideas, feelings, and actions, which serves as the foundation for forming new habits and encouraging healthy self-talk about change. The key to lasting change is building these practices into your routine. Practice them regularly, tweak them as you go, and gradually, they'll become second nature.