*Currently not taking couples** I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master’s degree at Pacific Oaks College with a specialization in Trauma and I have been practicing for over 7 years. I help people by providing them with coping skills when they are overwhelmed, assist them with building a “life worth living”, and help them with working through every day life stressors including: work, relationships, family difficulties.

Hello, and thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. Are you having a hard time balancing family, work, and life? Are you struggling with avoidance and anxiety about the future? Are you just ready for a change and aren't sure how to make a plan of action? It's difficult to grow without support and even harder at times to find the tools to carve your own path. If you feel ready to explore how to reach your unique potential; let's figure out some goals, what's in the way, and how we can work through those challenges so you can reach your goals. My background in research, crisis care, inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, in-home therapy, group therapy and outpatient therapy has given me exposure to several forms of therapy. I am currently practicing CBT, DBT, ACT and some elements of other forms of therapy. If you are curious how we could approach your challenges and goals, please reach out and we can discuss options. Consultations are welcomed.

------------Cash Pay: Sliding Scale Available Upon Request --------- Hi, I’m Javier, a trauma-focused ecotherapist and founder of Eutierria Therapy. I help Black, Indigenous, and People of Color heal from deep-rooted trauma, especially the historical and intergenerational wounds that affect identity and belonging. My approach blends trauma-informed care, cultural sensitivity, nature-based practices, and ketamine-assisted therapy to guide you on a holistic journey of self-discovery, healing, and reconnection with both your cultural heritage and the natural world. At Eutierria Therapy, I focus on healing the individual and the collective by fostering a deeper connection to the Earth and ancestral wisdom. Together, we’ll explore your roots, build resilience, and strengthen your relationship with the land through mindfulness, land-based rituals, and somatic practices. Whether you're facing trauma, life transitions, or seeking spiritual connection, I’m here to support your journey toward wholeness. If you’re ready to reconnect with your heritage and the natural world, let’s work together to reclaim your sense of self and create a life of deep connection and empowerment.

Asking for help is one of the most courageous things you can do for yourself. Life can be stressful, and you can feel pulled in many different directions. Being an African American man growing up in Los Angeles, I have faced my share of challenges and obstacles and when stress sets in, I understand that even the smallest pebble can feel like a major Boulder. I come from a traditional family where men and oftentimes women are discouraged from seeking help to deal with life's struggles and stresses. I aim to fill that void and change that narrative. I empower Men, Women and Families to seek to understand their struggles, anxieties and life challenges and to overcome them.

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

I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in attachment, self-esteem, and relationships. I am trained in EMDR for trauma, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman method for Couples. I work with adolescents and adults. I enjoy helping you find your unique nature and expression. My aim is to help you live life with purpose, love, and compassion. I am a father of two small children, a husband, and lover of life and nature.

My practice is built on the belief that everyone possesses the capacity for meaningful change. I view therapy as a truly collaborative, reciprocal, and flexible alliance. My goal is to provide a steady, supportive space. Having navigated multiple career journeys, I experienced the challenges and rewards of professionally starting over. I help clients re-author their personal narratives to find lasting growth and purpose. I am grateful to be part of a healing profession that promotes self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal growth.

Hello. My name is Frank Garcia. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am an easy going, yet upfront and honest Clinician who advocates, educates, and empowers clients to make the best of their circumstances and overcome the impossibilities. I keep life simple! I am a family man, professional, and leader in my community. I give my best to the people I serve and put what's in front of me as priority.

Hi, my name is Brent Batter and I am a licensed marriage family therapist that has been practicing with many diverse groups of clients for 16 years now. I received my master's degree from Cal State Hayward and since been working with age ranges of teenagers through persons in their '80s, both male and female, clients with legal issues, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, career decisions/troubles, and I have a passion for working with and seeing clients exceed the goals that they have for themselves.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people grow, gain clarity, and break out of patterns that no longer serve them. I work with adults navigating anxiety, identity exploration, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I take a collaborative and practical approach to therapy, combining evidence based methods like CBT with creative and personalized strategies. My goal is to make therapy not only insightful, but also engaging and applicable to your real life. I strive to create a space where you feel supported, understood, and empowered to challenge yourself, build confidence, and move toward the version of yourself you want to become.

My therapy style supports those struggling with symptoms of anxiety, grief and loss, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, parenting, communication, and low self-esteem. My practice is inclusive, non-judgmental, culturally responsive, and affirming of LGBTQ+ communities. I offer services in English and Spanish. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; I earned a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. I have worked with adults, children, families, and couples in different settings. I hope to join you in your current process and together increase self-awareness, unlearn unhelpful responses to triggers, and increase agency in your life. Whether it is a new stage in life, relationship issues, anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, self-doubt, or something else, we can work towards improving your mental and physical health. On a personal note, I enjoy hiking, spending time with my family, and exploring new cities. I also enjoy visiting coffee shops, propagating plants, and photography.

For the past decade, I have been diligently offering counseling services to individuals seeking transformative life changes or simply seeking solace in processing their emotions and thoughts. My focus has been on guiding clients toward personal growth and emotional well-being through compassionate and insightful support. I was drawn to a career as a therapist by a deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. Witnessing the immense potential for personal growth and healing that can be achieved through therapy, I felt a strong calling to be a facilitator of that transformative process. The opportunity to provide support, guidance, and empowerment to individuals facing challenges and seeking to improve their well-being is what truly drives me. Seeing clients overcome obstacles, gain insight, and experience positive change reinforces my passion and commitment to this meaningful work.

My name is Manuel Cruz and I have been practicing for almost 20 years. I have worked in a variety of settings from schools to hospitals treating various mental health conditions. Believing that every client is unique I utilize an integrative approach of cognitive, interpersonal, client-centered therapy to tailor interventions to the specific needs of my clients. With an extensive background and experience with relational therapy I am able to help couples, families, and individuals realize their potential and achieve their goals.

Hello there! My name is Justin Altman, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is simple; I'm here to provide non-judgmental and positive support to my clients while occasionally applying a little gentle pressure to encourage them to grow and ultimately thrive. While my primary area of focus is working with individuals in the LGBTQ+, Polyamory/Open relationship, and Kink/BDSM communities, throughout my career I have worked with individuals from all walks of life to help them overcome the barriers keeping them from achieving their goals. At this time, I am accepting only clients for individual therapy - not couples/families.

Hi there, I'm Joshua! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a master’s degree in social work, I specialize in providing compassionate, client-centered therapy using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). My approach integrates these evidence-based methodologies to offer a holistic and effective path toward healing. I am dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore and understand their internal experiences, develop practical skills for managing emotions, and foster personal growth. Together, we work towards lasting change and improved well-being, tailored to your unique needs and goals.

I have worked in private practice and the school systems providing Educationally Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS) for almost 25 years. During this time I founded a small business where my team and I provide these mental health services individually and in groups on-site to school districts all over Sonoma County, CA. I love working with children k-12 and their families. I have worked in non-public schools, public schools, and privately with at-risk youth and their families. This has been my passion my whole career. I have been married to my lovely wife for 20 years, together for 27 years and we have two beautiful children. Our son is 16 and our daughter is 13. I enjoy all things outdoors. I surfed competitively in my youth and I love mountain biking, snowboarding and anything that has to do with water, but my main love is spending time with my family.

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.

I am a compassionate and adaptable therapist who works with children, teens, young adults, , adults and older adults facing emotional, behavioral, academic and life challenges. My approach is client centered and eclectic, integrating attachment based therapy, culturally sensitive practices and family centered practices to meet each clients needs. I strive to create a safe supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel empowered to build insight, resilience and meaninful change.

I’m a laid-back, client-centered therapist who believes in creating a relaxed, nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions. My approach is collaborative, meaning I’ll meet you where you’re at and work together to create a path forward that fits your unique needs and goals. I value authenticity, and I’m here to listen, offer support, and help you tap into your own strengths to create positive change at your own pace.

I’m a licensed therapist based in Southern California, offering individual therapy and couples counseling. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have trained and worked in community mental health, private practice, and nonprofit settings. My approach is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented, drawing from psychodynamic therapy as well as CBT, DBT, attachment theory, and relational modalities. I’m especially passionate about helping couples strengthen their connection, supporting men in navigating life’s challenges, and working with women healing from male-oriented trauma.

Hi, I'm Jonathan. I'm so glad you stopped by to consider services with me. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy with a focus on understanding and helping you individually. Since 2010 I have provided therapy to address a wide range of issues from difficult recent adjustments to long-term, chronic issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relational distress, men's issues, substance use, and ADHD. I like to work collaboratively to find what works best for each person. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you really feel understood. I have a goal-oriented approach that offers tools, skills for coping, and clear, achievable objectives.

I am an LCSW and a military veteran specializing in trauma and addiction. I believe that effective therapy must be a safe foundation, built on unwavering commitment and ethical practice. My practice is a collaborative space where rapport is established through trust while a custom plan of treatment is mutually established specifically for resolving resistance to your wellness and achieving long-term stability.

I'm a graduate of Smith School of Social Work, and a licensed psychotherapist. Over the past 15 years I've worked in clinical and educational settings. I am flexible in my approach. I trust clients’ innate capacity to heal and emphasize their ability to notice, regulate, and build on their own bodily wisdom. At the same time, I take an active, attuned role—offering moment-to-moment guidance to help organize experience and support nervous system regulation.

My name is Geno Creese, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Drama Therapist (#942) accepting virtual clients in California. Regardless of presenting issues, I like to meet my clients where they are at; whether you are new to mental health support or are a seasoned veteran there is space for you here. We will work to identify what is getting in the way of you meeting your goals and address these challenges together. That said, we will work together each session with whatever you bring to the room. As a therapist I work from an attachment based lens and use elements of psychodynamic theory, solution focused therapy, CBT, Narrative Style Interventions, and a host of Drama Therapy Interventions to support my clients.

Are you looking to create a new life narrative-story rooted in your strengths? My life and work experiences working with adults and children experiencing emotional disorders, trauma, anxiety, and life barriers hopefully can help us collaborate on building that new resilient story together. Outside of work, I enjoy various forms of exercise: HIIT workouts, yoga, nutrition topics, science, music , gardening, and traveling. I have an avid interest in learning about other cultures and have lived and studied abroad in Ecuador, South America.

Hi, I’m Charles Yin, I work with men and women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and self-sabotaging patterns. This prevents them from feeling connected to themselves and others and from reaching their full potential. I firmly believe everyone can live a meaningful and fulfilling life. After working with clients for over 16 years, I understand the difficulties of finding your path in life and use my expertise to help you overcome these challenges. How do I help you? There are 3 key ingredients: I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which helps you become friends with your difficult thoughts and feelings and make wise choices even when it's hard. I help you connect deeply with the real you and develop a sense of belonging with others. I help you get out of your mind and into your life and develop skills to unhook from difficult thoughts and feelings, stay present and do what matters.

I am a licensed psychotherapist and hold bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology. I have over 30 years experience and have performed thousands of hours of counseling. I have worked across a broad spectrum of mental health settings including private practice, CPS, Residential Treatment Centers, substance abuse facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and conducted psychiatric evaluations in a hospital ER. I've seen it all and dealt with it all. My life’s work has been dedicated to assisting people overcoming problems, and living happier, more rewarding and fulfilling lives.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who provides individual therapy, couples, and family therapy. I work with people from all cultural backgrounds. My job is to make you feel safe and comfortable in the therapy process and I always welcome feedback. Some of my specialties include working with people who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, ADHD, marital issues, transgenerational trauma, grief, and more. I identify as a Latino transgender man who takes pride in working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I grew up in Venice and Santa Monica for most of my life and dedicated it to playing sports, cooking, and connecting with people. I received a master’s degree in clinical psychology with a Marriage and Family Therapy emphasis and a B.A. in Psychology at UC Merced. I have worked with children, adolescent individuals, and older adults for the last 8 years. In addition to working for Grow, I currently work in community mental health to help the Latino community destigmatize mental health and heal from their traumas.

I am a dedicated psychotherapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, improve emotional well-being, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, or life transitions, I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights to create lasting change and live a more fulfilling life.

My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over eight years of clinical experience working with teens and adults. I specialize in OCD, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, and I use evidence-based approaches including ERP, EMDR, and Flash Technique. My style is direct, structured, and collaborative, with a focus on helping clients reduce distress, build practical coping skills, and create lasting change.

Are you someone who seems thoughtful, capable, and self-aware on the outside, but inside feels overwhelmed, lonely, stuck, or exhausted from carrying more than most people can see? Do you find yourself caught in the same painful relationship dynamics, shame, anxiety, or self-doubt despite all your efforts to understand and improve things? Many LGBTQIA+ clients know what it is like to carry pain quietly after years of adapting to environments where they could not fully relax into themselves. I work primarily with gay men and couples to help them make sense of these experiences, deepen self-understanding, and reclaim their power. If you’re ready to move beyond simply getting by and want support that feels affirming, thoughtful, and engaged, I invite you to reach out and schedule a first session.

I have extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy, applied behavioral analysis, neuropsychology, and psychoanalysis. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from one or a combination of these methodologies based on what will be most beneficial for each individual. Additionally, humanistic and Adlerian psychology have significantly influenced my perspective, shaping my practice into an eclectic framework. I believe that there is no single ‘best’ therapeutic approach—only what is best suited for the individual seeking support. My diverse training allows me to tailor interventions to meet the unique and specific needs of each client, ensuring a personalized and effective therapeutic experience.

It has been a privilege to provide psychotherapy to a variety of patients for over 20 years. I have advanced clinical training in trauma, addictions, burnout, sexual abuse, depression and anxiety, and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and respectful. I provide support and encouragement as you examine core issues and change entrenched patterns of behavior or simply gain clarity concerning a recent issue.

I take a strength based approach to therapy, focusing on the strengths, values, and resilience you already have rather than only on problems. Together, we build on what is working to help you navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful, lasting change. This approach supports growth that feels both practical and personally aligned with who you are and your goals.

If you are on the path toward healing or overcoming your past yet still struggle, my practice can help. Through time spent serving in community mental health and substance abuse treatment settings, I have obtained over 15 years of experience in guiding children and adults toward answers for their life issues and conflicts. Specifically, I engage wounded individuals who feel ready to confront the traumas and problems that get in the way of living their best lives. Through a non-judgmental, client-centered approach, I help find answers about your functioning and relationships. Specifically, I utilize body-based interventions to link your past experiences to present-day struggles to treat severe mood disorders, substance abuse and PTSD/trauma in children and adults. In seeking help, you need someone who not only understands your issues but also understands you as a person.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences openly. I believe that emotional distress is a natural response to life’s challenges and that, with appropriate support, individuals can develop insight, resilience, and effective coping strategies. I am committed to working collaboratively with clients from diverse backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse individuals, and I prioritize creating an affirming and inclusive therapeutic space.

As a seasoned therapist with nearly 20 years of consecutive licensing across multiple states, I specialize in a diverse array of client issues, including men's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, aging and chronic illness challenges, sexual addiction, trauma and PTSD, anger management, clinical depression, and anxiety. My approach is built on an affirming and caring nature, allowing clients to feel safe and understood in our collaborative work. I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including person-centered therapy, CBT, and ACT, alongside group therapy, to tailor my interventions to each individual’s unique needs. My strong listening and speaking skills facilitate deep connections with clients, empowering them to explore their struggles, find meaning, and ultimately create positive changes in their lives. The impact of my work is reflected in the growth and resilience of my clients, as they navigate their personal journeys toward healing and fulfillment.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practiced for ten years in a nationally recognized outpatient healthcare clinic before beginning my solo practice. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in psychology at Chapman University, I decided to change careers and pursue a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Working for the clinic provided an extraordinary learning environment and allowed me to benefit from collaboration with amazing clinicians who share my passion to help others. I now continue to utilize the skills and experience I've accumulated to share these benefits with my clients.

Hey I'm Sam, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that therapy should feel like a collaborative process rather than something that's done to you. My approach is warm, practical, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change is possible, even when life feels overwhelming or uncertain. I work with adults and couples navigating anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, life transitions, grief, and questions about identity and purpose. I have a particular passion for working with men of all ages especially those who have spent much of their lives carrying responsibilities, taking care of others, or feeling like they have to figure everything out on their own. My goal is to provide a space where you can be honest, feel understood, and develop practical tools that help you build a life that aligns with your values and what matters most to you.

Chang "Raphael" Liu possesses over six years of dedicated experience supporting individuals navigating complex mental health challenges. He employs a holistic, trauma-informed approach, recognizing the profound impact past experiences have on present well-being. Raphael specializes in helping clients effectively manage symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma. Furthermore, he has extensive expertise in addressing the unique developmental struggles faced by adolescents, offering targeted strategies for identity formation, peer pressure, and navigating familial transitions. His practice is focused on empowering clients toward sustainable healing and self-discovery.

Hey everyone, my name is Thomas! I am an LCSW with over 5 years experience working with clients. I work with adults and couples navigating self-worth issues and relationship patterns rooted in past or present wounds. My approach is depth-oriented, relational, and focused on real change—not just insight. Clients often come seeking relief, clarity, and a more secure sense of self and connection.

Hello and welcome! I have been a licensed psychologist in California since 2016. My goal is to help individuals enhance their sense of well being and experience a greater sense of meaning in their lives. This can be done by acquiring coping skills to identify, and refute unhelpful habits of thinking, increase self-compassion and self-care. My approach to counseling is strengths based and empowerment focused. I use a collaborative and egalitarian style with people who I works with in counseling. When meeting with me for the first time, clients can expect an opportunity to explore presenting concerns and potential goals for treatment. I received my Bachelors degree Psychology from the George Washington University, my first Masters degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University and my second Masters degree and Doctorate in Clinical-Community Psychology from the University of La Verne. When I’m not working with clients, you can find me in the garden!

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

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

I’m Cory Sullivan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained at the University of Southern California. I’m passionate about helping people find their “new normal” after traumatic injury or chronic illness, and I bring both clinical and lived insight into the grief and identity shifts that can follow. I take an eclectic, integrative approach to anxiety and depression, blending practical tools, psychoeducation, and collaborative support. My clients know they don’t have to face this alone — we work through it together.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides counseling to adults and couples using a trauma-informed approach. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and I help clients process and heal from complex life experiences. I bring a unique depth of experience to my work, having served 25 years as a police officer and over 13 years supporting first responders through peer support programs. I am also a certified domestic violence counselor with experience working with both adults and children impacted by trauma, and a U.S. Army veteran with four years of active-duty service.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step—especially if you’re not totally sure what to say or where to begin. My job is to make that part easier. I’m a licensed therapist who works with people dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, burnout, low motivation, and feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Some clients come in with something specific going on, while others just know something feels off and want to figure it out. Both are completely welcome here. In our work together, we focus on what’s actually happening in your day-to-day life and how to create real, noticeable changes—not just talk in circles. I aim to keep sessions practical, collaborative, and grounded so you leave with clarity and a better sense of direction. Clients often tell me they appreciate having a space where they can be honest without feeling judged or analyzed. You don’t need to have the “right words” or a clear plan before starting—we’ll figure that out together. If you’re looking for therapy that feels straightforward, supportive, and focused on helping you move forward, I’d be glad to work with you.

Hi! I’m a licensed psychotherapist (LPCC) based in Berkeley CA and serving clients statewide via Telehealth. I have over 20 years of experience working and volunteering in community mental health, and have been practicing as a psychotherapist since January 2018. I received my MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) in 2019, and my BA in Psychology from Reed College in 2010. I have been licensed since February 2023. I am trained as an integrative psychotherapist and work relationally and holistically. I believe all facets of life are (naturally) interrelated--relational, physical/physiological, emotional, cognitive, cultural, societal/political, spiritual, existential... I incorporate orientations, frameworks and insights from across the field: attachment-based (psychodynamic), somatic (Polyvagal, Somatic Experiencing, neuroscience), humanistic, mindfulness, gestalt, self-psychology, ACT, DBT, CBT, systems, existential, holistic/spiritual perspectives and wisdom like Buddhism, narrative, human needs perspectives like self-determination theory, communication frameworks like NVC and insights from the Gottmans, and paradigms and perspectives on social justice like feminism, analysis of power and privilege, intersectionality, intergenerational and societal trauma, psychological/emotional/verbal abuse, narcissism/scapegoating/othering etc. I am guided by a trauma-informed approach that aims to foster empowering client-centered, collaborative, transparent and intersubjective relational conditions that I believe support people’s natural ability to experience safety, connection, and authentic actualization. My work is informed by a lifetime of deep inquiry into human needs and the complex ways familial, social, cultural, economic and biological contexts inform how they may be nurtured, supported, neglected or actively or insidiously contravened. I believe that human attachments and early life experiences, as well as structural power dynamics in social/societal systems, are typically foundationally informative to the bridge or gap between trauma/suffering and thriving in safety and connection. I think humanness and understanding of / respect for these facts, alone, can be a healing provision of therapy relationship.

My name is Jay Ruan, a licensed clinical social worker in State of California. Beyond my education, trainings, and working experiences, I am also have lived experience of struggling with mental health. This give me not only the knowledges, but also empathy and different perspective that are support and guide you in your journey toward restoring your true potential and overall wellness. I seek not to tell you where to go, but walk with you on your side. I believe that "unable to change" is trauma and live through experience that are not yet given the needed care and untangling. My approach is using the method that best address your need and situation. I often help client restore and build needed support in their life during time of change, interpersonal conflict, and grief & lost. After I work on addressing urgent issues, I want to help you build insight and deal with root of the issue that aim to produce long lasting recovery long after treatment ended. I am not here to solve your problem, but to guide and empower you to conquered them. (PLEASE NOTE APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE 4PM TO 11PM FROM SUNDAY TO THURSDAY ONLY)