Therapists in California

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.

My dream client is a high-functioning woman who appears to be managing it all—but inside, she’s carrying the weight of anxiety, pressure, and deep emotional overwhelm. She might be navigating a major life transition like divorce, a career pivot, role change ,motherhood, fertility challenges, menopause or beginning or ending a career.. She may be successful on paper yet struggling to maintain boundaries, meet others’ expectations, or feel truly connected to herself. She could be facing workplace discrimination, identity shifts, or silently asking, “When is it my turn to exhale?” Many women seem to have it all but underneath often the wheels are coming off in are ever changing world where everybody often wants it now. I hope to help you to make your cup runneth over rather than droplets remaining. MENOPAUSE COACH & PRECISION NUTRITION 1 COACH & LIFE COACH , LCSW certified in : cbt and dbt I work best with women who are insightful, motivated for change, and ready to explore the roots of their stress—not just cope, but understand. Using an integrative blend of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy, I offer a collaborative, empowering space where clients can slow down, reflect, and build tools for realignment—emotionally, mentally, and authentically. certified MENOPAUSE COACH PRECISION NUTRITION Certified Coach

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical social worker (LCSW) in California and a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW - Clinical) in Michigan. I received my master's in social work from the California State University, San Bernardino and have been practicing for 9 years. My focus has been on helping individuals that struggle with feeling like they are not enough, grief, anxiety, and depression reframe and reclaim their lives.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been carrying anxiety, trauma, or stress on your own for a long time. You may feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, unsure how to move forward, or simply exhausted from trying to hold everything together. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I work with adults and teens who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based care. Together, we’ll explore what’s been shaping your thoughts, emotions, and reactions, while building practical tools to help you feel more regulated, confident, and empowered in daily life.

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I have a doctorate degree (Ed.d) in Traumatology. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, or a variety of emotions due to life's challenges and circumstances. My goal is to provide clients with all of the tools necessary to navigate through future situations and to help build resilency.

If you’re feeling anxious, down, stuck in old patterns, or overwhelmed by racing thoughts, you’re not alone—and things can get better. Therapy can help you feel calmer, clearer, and more like yourself again. I’m a California-based LCSW supporting teens and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma responses, ADHD, OCD, and relationship challenges. My approach is warm, encouraging, and structured. We’ll identify what’s getting in the way, build a plan that fits you, and practice practical tools you can start using right away. We’ll also track your progress so you can see real momentum. You deserve support that feels steady, hopeful, and useful. When you’re ready, I’m here to help.

As a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles, I have 15 years of experience helping clients navigate complex emotions and enhance their relationships. I typically work with professionals seeking support in areas such as romantic partnerships, parenting, relationships with parents, or workplace dynamics. To reach these relationship goals, in addition to improving communication and conflict resolution, usually it is necessary to help clients with managing anger, reducing anxiety, and overcoming periods of low mood.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Psychologist based in California. I have received my Bachelors of Science in Cognitive Psychology and Psychology of Social behaviors from the University of California, Irvine. I have obtained my Masters in Clinical Psychology from California State University of Fullerton. I have received my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant University. I have been seeing clients for the pas 13 years in different settings from private practice to community mental health centers and recovery centers.

As your therapist, I strive to facilitate a connection with you built on trust, safety, and honesty. I utilize empathy and compassion to help my client reach their goals and support them. I have been a therapist for 5 years, working with people of all ages. I utilize all forms of therapy including individual and couples therapy to help you meet your needs as best as possible.

Deanna Jefferson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing therapeutic services for several years. She specializes in helping clients address life transitions, relationship issues, and parenting difficulties. She believes that clients are the true experts on their stories and have many strengths needed to address their current life situations.

I’m Briana Henry, LMFT (#104847) — a California-licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents and adults through life’s challenges and transitions. I offer individual therapy exclusively via telehealth, providing a flexible and accessible way to receive care from the comfort of your own space. My goal is to create a warm, grounding, and judgment-free environment where you can feel truly heard as you explore what’s getting in the way and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over three decades of experience in mental health and clinical experience. I draw from 63 years of my own life experience as a gay man, educational (MSW from the University of Connecticut) and practical knowledge. Thus I understand what it’s like to be marginalized, and feel different like you don’t belong. I use a compassionate, non- judgmental, understanding, strength based approach by acknowledging and welcoming your whole person, body, mind, and spirit. I can help one understand who they are? where they've been? and how they can move forward in their life.

This is YOUR JOURNEY and YOU DESERVE specialized support …Are you having trouble functioning in your environment while experiencing unproductive thoughts/feelings/actions? Are your emotions working against you; controlling you, keeping you from experiencing the relationships and the life that you want for yourself? Are you trapped inside your mental health diagnosis? So many mental health challenges are rooted in past events and in fears of the future. How would you feel if past events didn't have a hold on your thoughts/feelings/actions in a negative way? How would it feel to be in charge of your responses to thoughts and feelings? I work with folks experiencing mild to moderate mental health challenges. My approach to therapy is individualized to you, as I utilize interventions from multiple theoretical orientations to fit your desired outcomes. I provide an emotionally safe space for sharing your truth. Let me sit beside you as you journey to yourself. I graduated from CSU, Sacramento with my Master of Social Work and from UC, Davis with my Bachelor's in Psychology.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 40 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship challenges. I have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence, as well as individuals navigating complex life patterns shaped by past experiences. I specialize in working with adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up as they are. I also work with couples on occasion. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I bring both professional and lived understanding to this work. My approach is warm, compassionate, and direct. I believe therapy should be both supportive and effective—while you will always be heard and understood, I also actively engage in sessions to help you move forward. I won’t let you stay stuck. Together, we’ll break challenges down into manageable steps, build practical tools, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you. I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. I often incorporate structured exercises and between-session practices to help you apply what we discuss in real life, while remaining flexible and responsive to your individual needs. Clients often appreciate that I am clear, consistent, and gently persistent—I will meet you where you are, while continuing to support and encourage your growth, even when things feel difficult or overwhelming. My goal is to help you build insight, resilience, and confidence so you can create a more stable, fulfilling, and peaceful life. I am committed to practicing with empathy, respect, and without judgment, honoring each person’s dignity and lived experience. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. Option to insert (after paragraph 2):

Hello ~ My name is Georgia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work. My life experience, education and extensive professional training has brought me on a wonderful journey of helping others. I focus on creating an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared in a nonjudgemental space. As a therapist, it's an honor and privilege to be part of the lives of my clients and the ability to walk along with them in their most vulnerable times.

I chose this field because I see myself as a healer, I am passionate about seeing people create the shifts in their lives that changes it all for the better. I think this passion is easily observable and felt in our interaction in session. My client's stories inspire me, motivate me, keep me going. Their success, their progress, "fills my cup" (yes, I am just another human and your kindness, your sweetness, your beautiful soul makes it all worth it).

I’m a California-licensed therapist with over 16 years of experience working with high-achieving adults, neurodivergent individuals, and BIPOC women who are doing a lot on the outside and quietly struggling on the inside. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, executive dysfunction, chronic illness, and the complicated weight of navigating life when your brain and body don’t always cooperate. My approach is integrative and whole-person — meaning I don’t just treat symptoms, I work with the full picture of who you are. That includes your nervous system, your story, your cultural context, your relationships, and the survival strategies you built long before you ever walked into a therapy room. I draw from Person-Centered, Attachment, Psychodynamic, Existential-Humanistic, Multicultural, and Transpersonal frameworks, and I weave in somatic tools like breathwork, mindfulness, and mind-body practices because healing doesn’t just happen in the mind. I also bring lived experience to this work. I navigate my own ADHD, chronic illness, and the ongoing practice of regulating a nervous system that doesn’t always want to cooperate. I haven’t just studied these tools — I’ve needed them. That’s what I bring into the room with you. I accept you as you are, where you are. Always.

Hello! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.

Hello! My name is Jacqueline and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I currently live in Tennessee, but do most of my work via telehealth with California residents (where I use to live!). I have been in this field for over 13 years. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, empathetic, and goal-focused with touches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Focused.

Hi I am Ashli and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I prioritize guiding clients down the path to wholeness through the practice of creating balance, healing and integrating all parts. I include processing shadow work, healing parental and childhood attachment wounds, ego dissolution, releasing energetic trauma from the body, and reprogramming belief systems to become the highest version of your authentic self.

Hello, my name is Nicole Hervey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Northern California. I have been practicing the craft of therapy for the past 6 years serving a variety of people with different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences with moderate to severe mental health disorders in multiple community settings. I have experience working with children, adolescents, transitional-age youth, families, and adults. I have provided service to underserved populations with various life experiences, homelessness, substance use, and system involvement including criminal justice and child welfare. As a therapist it is my privilege to help support you in your journey and navigate this path together.

I’m Maria Arellano, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I’m bilingual in English/Spanish. I have 10 years of experience helping individuals and families improve their mental health and well-being by developing coping skills to overcome life challenges. I have experience assisting adult individuals presenting issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, anger management, PTSD, and stress due to life transitions. In collaboration with clients, I assist them in setting measurable and achievable goals according to each client’s needs and presenting problem as well as identifying the steps to accomplish the desired outcomes.

I truly believe each individual is the expert on their own life and trust that through treatment, they will learn more about themselves and gain confidence as they contribute in their healing process. My vision for therapy is to aid each client in gaining awareness about who they are and how they came to be with an empathic and client centered approach.

Providing psychotherapeutic services to those seeking emotional sustenance and healthy psychological support during these very stressful times. I have been working in this field for approximately 20 years now. My experience is with all school grade levels, as well as adults from all walks of life. I find that the ideal patient is open-minded (willing to look at things from different perspectives), consistent (with attendance/self-care/psychoeducation), and humble to learn. My patients have described me as kind, trustworthy, accepting, an excellent mentor, dependable, and down-to-earth. Short-term and long-term assistance provided for: Adults (18+) Individual Therapy Anxiety Depression Coping Skills ADHD Asperger’s Syndrome Autism Spectrum Disorder Codependency Developmental Disorders Intellectual Disability Life Transitions Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Spirituality Stress Women’s Issues Mood Disorders Thinking Disorders Trauma Certified

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the state of California and Arizona. I received my masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing therapy in California for about 13 years in various settings. I recently obtained my license to work with clients residing in Arizona. I have experience working in a healthcare setting, school campuses, domestic violence shelters, and with substance abuse.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the State of California. I have been a practicing social worker for 25 years. I primarily work with individuals in their mid-life years, particularly those experiencing major life transitions. I have special training in working with couples navigating new parenthood. I support new mothers navigating postpartum depression, baby blues as well as the Perinatal mood season. I support clients working toward decreasing the external stressors in their lives.

Hello, my name is Max, and I am an LCSW practicing in California. My practice is frequently full, but I currently have two openings: -Bimonthly: Every other Monday from 6:00-7:00pm. -Weekly: Every Thursday from 6:00-7:00pm (except for the 3rd Thursday of every month). For many people, the hardest part of the therapy process is getting started. Asking someone to go to all the work of finding not just a therapist, but the right therapist for them, all while in the middle of a mental health crisis? It can be a daunting task. My practice centers around making that process as painless as possible, so that we can get right to the core of what made you decide to seek therapy in the first place, and get to work on working on you.

I am a licensed clinical social worker, and I meet my clients where they are. I use a strength-based eclectic approach and am empathetic to my clients. I work with individual clients who are dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, and stress etc. I use a nonjudgmental approach and work with clients to build rapport. I have over ten years of experience and I have worked with, teens, adults and the elderly, and neurodivergent clients. I provide support to my client in every step of their journey.

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.

Congratulations on taking steps to better yourself. My name is Vincent, and I'm a licensed therapist based in California with over 20 years of experience. If you are ready for positive change, then let’s begin the journey. I've helped everyone from high school teens to older adults overcome life challenges and gain a better understanding of their situation. I bring a wealth of experience and I'm here to support you.

I am a licensed counselor, with 20 years of experience. I have a warm and interactive style. I believe that real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. My approach is to combine cognitive-behavioral, developmental and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Hello I am Gregory, Have you found yourself struggling with your day to day and personal relationships. I believe in empowering clients to take control of their life. In the therapeutic relationship I believe my job is to give you the skills to get where you would like to go. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 7 years experience. My specialties are in anxiety, depression and substance use disorders. Seeking therapy can feel daunting. I am here to help and will always allow you to drive your treatment. everyone has the ability to grow. during our sessions together I will provide you with a safe space nonjudgmental place to hone your coping skills to tackle life's challenges.

I believe healing can be found in a variety of ways that are unique to each of us. Our identities, experiences, and stories shape who we are. I believe it is monumental to learn how all of our pieces intersect to create our authentic self. By understanding these, healing can be transformative. I believe social justice work is a requirement for therapists. I believe you have a right to know about who you work with morally, ethically, and politically. I am progressive leaning and do what I can to support human rights and the social justice movements. As a white therapist, I believe it is a requirement for me to be engaged in social justice work along with consistent learning experiences. By providing guidance, support, safety, and empowerment my main goals are to enhance the healing process and promote thriving. I want to create the safest space I can to support connection with your whole, authentic self. In my sessions, I promote self-discovery, transformation, and self-compassion. I use techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems). I believe using trauma centered, intersectional feminist, social justice, CRT, and Queer Theory perspectives are fundamental in therapy.

Welcome! I'm Hector Madril, LMFT, Are you feeling worried all the time? Feeling down or depressed? Dealing with negative thinking that wont go away? Are you struggling to maintain a balance between responsibilities and everyday challenges? Let me help you! I will guide you to effectively manage anxiety, depression or elevated stress that may arise when dealing with past or present relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, separation, parenting difficulties, trauma, illness, loss, transitions or other life stressors. We will work with a humanistic approach, integrating evidence-based and mindfulness techniques that will bring a healthy balance and restore wholeness. I'm here for you! You don't need to tackle this alone. Let me assist you to bring about the changes and harmony you desire. I'll treat you with empathy and compassion while sharing the knowledge, skills, and strategies to help you conquer the obstacles on your life journey. Let's team up and work together!

Hello, my name is Megan. I appreciate you taking the leap to want to do something different in your life. I know how hard talking about some of these big life issues can be like the death of our person, living through the struggle of infertility and acknowledging the weight of our anxiety is too much. Sometimes, we are stuck in our loop and yet, we do not have the perspective how to shift the big feelings to make you start to feel better. In the beginning of working together, I want you to feel comfortable sharing your story. Everyone arrives wanting a witness to their grieving at different stages of their process. Your relationship is to different each person had a different relationship to their person. I believe the importance of listening to what is said in the room or what is not said. Many times we are not able to verbalize our pain of trying to live without our person. I think a very necessary part to our healing is to be witnessed by another. My goal is to always create safety in the room. I am a fairly transparent therapist sharing sometimes my personal journey to connect and help clients realize they are not alone in their pain. I look forward to joining you in your healing journey.

Nicole Widman is the founder of Eden Therapy Group, a private practice based out of Southern California that functions to heal, restore and equip God’s sons and daughters. Nicole operates from a deep conviction to raise up men and women who are led by the Spirit by creating a space for her clients to discern God's voice and encounter God’s transformative love.

Hi! I am Anne Gimbel, licensed marriage and family therapist, and I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or need for healing. My goal with individuals, couples, or families is to explore and identify the thoughts that have a direct impact on your emotions and behaviors. Whether dealing with life-cycle issues, trauma, abuse, grief, recovery, or other changes that are occurring, I am active in the process to help you overcome these challenges. We will build a life you deserve by learning better communication and setting boundaries for your future.

My career as a classroom teacher, assistant principal and university professor served me well in my current practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Doctorate in Education/Ed.D. from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. As a university professor, I became the Multiple Subject Program Director, Graduate Reading Director, and Supervisor of Student Teachers with both national and international publications.

I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, trauma, and relationship dynamics, providing a safe and supportive space for growth. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed care, I guide clients in building resilience, improving communication, and gaining confidence in themselves. My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to create meaningful change and lead more fulfilling lives.

I’m a mental health provider who believes healing happens when we feel seen, supported, and connected to our own inner wisdom. My work blends evidence‑based approaches with a gentle, holistic lens, helping you better understand your patterns, reconnect with your body, and build a life that feels steadier and more aligned. I show up with warmth, clarity, and respect for your lived experience, and I’m committed to creating a space where you can move at your own pace and feel supported in meaningful, sustainable change.

If you are feeling stressed, self-critical, down or worried, I would like to help you feel more confident, calm, present, and steady in your life. My approach to counseling is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore and overcome obstacles in order to grow, heal and become the best version of yourself. With patience and understanding, I’ll assist you in uncovering new strengths, perspectives and solutions. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and together we will set meaningful goals based on what you want to change or improve about yourself, your life, or your relationships. Reaching out for help shows courage. As your therapist, I will work with you to develop a deeper sense of self-understanding and help you learn strategies and skills to successfully navigate life’s challenges. LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.

Brannon La Force, a Mobile, Alabama native, is a mental health professional with 35 years in the field. He holds licenses in Alabama, California, Florida, Kansas, Oregon, Virginia, and Texas as professional counselor. He completed a BA in History from Asbury University, and a MS in Counseling from the University of South Alabama. He is a PhD doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology with Walden University. He is the Owner and Senior Clinician with Brannon La Force, LPC-S & Associates, PLLC and currently lives and works abroad as a digital nomad. Mr. La Force is also an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University where he teaches forensic psychology. In addition to owning a private practice, he has worked in community mental health, a forensic hospital, hospital emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric units. While the bulk of his work has been in the US, Mr. La Force has also written behavior plans for intellectually disadvantaged adults in Australia, treated genocide survivors in Rwanda, and supported sailors in the US Navy with their mental health needs on the island kingdom of Bahrain. His areas of expertise include trauma, relationships, and borderline personality disorder. He is an avid proponent of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and runs a DBT group. He also supervises associate counselors in Texas and Kansas and precepts psychiatric nurse practitioners nationwide for their psychotherapy rotation. Mr. La Force has three adult children, two of which are also counselors. He is an avid Crimson Tide fan, loves seafood and provides support to Village Health Team in western Uganda.

Do you feel unseen or unheard? Do you struggle with feeling like you don’t quite belong—or maybe feel disconnected from yourself entirely? Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, juggling societal pressures and cultural and familial expectations. Others carry the weight of childhood or intergenerational trauma. Some struggle with imposter syndrome in their workplaces or post-grad programs, while others long for healthier, more fulfilling relationships—with themselves and those around them. As a professional therapist, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, humor, and empathy. I aim to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. If you value honest, direct feedback and compassionate encouragement, I am ready to help you navigate life’s challenges confidently and clearly. Are you ready to embrace self-acceptance? To unlock your full potential? To experience more profound healing and fulfillment? I’m ready when you are. Together, we will identify your stressors, develop practical coping skills, and build the resilience to move forward with strength and purpose. I offer therapy in English and Spanish. Let’s connect! Schedule a FREE 15-minute phone consultation or book your first session today to begin your healing journey. I offer a sliding scale for therapy sessions. Contact me to check eligibility. For Kaiser members, Complete a mental health intake with Kaiser and request an external referral to Grow Therapy. Once approved, call Grow Therapy and provide my name. Feel free to reach out with any questions!

I run Unscripted Therapy, a practice focused on helping people break out of stuck patters. I work with individuals who are tired of having the same conversations and somehow ending up right back where they started. Whether it’s anxiety, stress, or relationship patterns that keep repeating, something isn’t working—and at this point, that’s pretty clear. My approach is direct, collaborative, and focused on actually changing what’s not working. I’m not going to just sit there nodding while you vent and then ask how that made you feel for the tenth time. We’ll figure out what’s keeping you stuck and start doing something different about it. Therapy with me is honest, practical, and yes—sometimes a little blunt. But it’s also real. If you’re looking for something that actually helps you move forward (not just talk about why you’re stuck), we’ll probably be a good fit.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, Virginia, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from San Francisco State University with an M.S. in Counseling Psychology. I am certified by the Cognitive Behavioral Institute to offer ERPT (Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for OCD). I have over 25 years of experience working with a very diverse range of folks (women, men, the LGBTQ community, those living with HIV,People of Color, those dealing with substance use issues). I enjoy working with people who are seeking a caring, compassionate, understanding person who listens and offers a hand up while they battle back against depression and anxiety. I also enjoy supporting people who are struggling with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and employ a powerful tool (Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy) that is clinically shown to greatly reduce OCD symptoms.

I am a Doctor of Psychology and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 37 years of experience in the field. During that time, I worked on issues of domestic violence, community violence, and child abuse while on staff at several community, not-for-profit, and governmental agencies in the San Francisco Bay Area (CA). I have been in private practice for over 29 years.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to help adults navigate life's complexities. With expertise in mental health and a commitment to fostering positive change, I specialize in addressing issues such as stress, relationships, and self-discovery. My therapeutic toolkit includes evidence-based modalities tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I incorporate animal-assisted therapy as a unique and supportive element of the healing process. Whether it’s the calming presence of a therapy dog during sessions or structured therapeutic activities involving animals, I’ve found that the bond between humans and animals can open up powerful pathways for trust, regulation, and emotional connection. Animals can offer a grounding presence for clients of all ages and backgrounds, and I love seeing the ways they help people feel more comfortable, understood, and at ease.

I’m a laid-back, client-centered therapist who believes therapy should feel like a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space where you can be your authentic self and explore what’s on your mind. My approach is collaborative and grounded in meeting you where you are. Together, we’ll work toward a path forward that feels meaningful and aligned with your unique needs and goals. I’m here to listen, offer support and perspective, and help you recognize and build on the strengths you already have. I believe meaningful change happens at your own pace, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

I am a California licensed psychotherapist, with a degree and license in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT). I have been licensed for 20+ years and I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, trauma, addiction and relationship issues while helping them to become the best version of themselves. I love to see my clients grow into their true/authentic selves where they can begin to thrive in life (not just survive).