Therapists in California

Are you searching for meaning or clarity in your life? Feeling stuck in a transition, questioning your identity, or moving through an existential crisis? You’re not alone—and healing begins with awareness. I help people of all ages reconnect with their authentic selves by exploring the unconscious patterns that shape our thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Together, we uncover what no longer serves you and create space for new growth and purpose. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Doctoral Candidate at Pacifica Graduate Institute, where I specialize in Depth Psychology and Integrative Healing Practices. My holistic approach honors the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and I believe every person already holds the wisdom needed for healing. My role is to walk beside you as a compassionate guide, helping you integrate insight into everyday life.

I've always had a genuine heart for helping people. Like many others, I have experienced and witnessed distressing events that have impacted my family and myself, and I learned to find meaning and purpose in life's struggles. To be able to have the experience of walking with another human being through the process of struggle, healing, and transformation is the greatest reward one can experience. I believe in collaborating with clients to gain insight into their current challenging situations and increase their understanding of general emotional management. Collaboration with clients is essential in goal development because they are the experts on what success looks like to them. As the therapist, my focus will always be on what my client identifies as a meaningful goal to them.

My name is Jacob Lapides and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and I have been in this field for over 10 years now. I am a Holistic therapist who likes to focus on healing an individual from all aspects including mind-body wellness. I bring an eclectic skill set of many different therapeutic approaches and orientations so that I can use different techniques to find the best tools and interventions to help and support whoever I am working with.

My name is Caitlinn Concepcion and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) degree from Chaminade University of Honolulu. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to empowering individuals on their journeys of self-discovery and healing. I create a safe, nurturing space for clients to explore their inner worlds, build resilience, and embrace personal growth. My therapeutic approach blends introspection with practical strategies, helping clients uncover insights, address challenges, and cultivate a deeper connection to their authentic selves.

Hello! I’m Gloria, a Filipina licensed clinical psychologist originally from Guam, now based in the Bay Area, CA. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, and multicultural concerns, areas that continue to guide my work today. My clinical experience includes working in a variety of settings, where I’ve supported clients through identity exploration, emotional challenges, and major life transitions. I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, and tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. Before becoming a psychologist, I spent eight years as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a memory care unit, supporting individuals with dementia and their families. That experience shaped my understanding of caregiver stress and inspired my doctoral dissertation, which focused on the emotional impact of caregiving. It also deepened my belief that self-care and balance aren’t luxuries, they’re essential to our well-being. At the core of my work is the belief that therapy should be a safe, inclusive, and empowering space, one where your full self is welcomed and affirmed. I bring a deep commitment to cultural sensitivity, authenticity, and compassion, drawing from both my professional training and lived experience. Therapy with me is not just about managing challenges, it’s about growth, healing, and creating a life that feels true to you. I look forward to walking alongside you on that journey.

Trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, I am available to help clients navigate trauma, anxiety, relational issues, communication skills, depression, and stress management . As a first generation Eritrean American born and raised in the Bay Area, I struggled with a sense of belonging throughout my adolescence, often straddling the line between multiple identities and insecurities surrounding the idea of not being “American enough" and not being “African enough.” Early on in college, I took a psychology class that helped me further understand the human condition and its applications in my own life. I learned transformative concepts in terms of moods, relationships, and behaviors, prompting me to further pursue the field of psychology. Since then, I have taken it upon myself to get advanced training in various therapeutic approaches, which I believe help clients get the most out of their therapy experience.

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, 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.

Hi I am Dr. Teyhou Smyth and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor #11450 and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#115137) in California Originally from the United Kingdom, I earned an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy at the California School of Professional Psychology and hold a doctorate degree in Education. I place a high value on personal development and allowing for the achievement of one’s full potential so that they may become the best version of themselves. I focus on relationships and attachment issues using Emotion Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy working from an attachment-based model.

Hi! This is Snow Lee, I have over 10+ years working with individuals and providing human service. My background consists of working in different settings such as inpatient, outpatient, and crisis. I have experience and understanding of working with individuals from a diverse background. I start my work by collaborating with my clients working through their current issues and helping them identify its root cause. We work together by becoming aware and conscious of their thoughts, behaviors, & emotions and it its influences and relation to their root issues.

My name is Jennifer Poole and I’m a licensed martial and family therapist. Not only do I specialize in families and couples, I also provide individual psychotherapy. I’ve been practicing since 2008 and worked in both private practice settings and hospital settings too. I believe growth and transformation is possible. I’m excited to be a part of your journey and work towards your goals. I believe good therapy is possible and together we can make good things happen. Transformation is possible with the right clinician by your side.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in anxiety and depression. It’s my passion to work with young adults and adults with the number of challenges they can face to help them learn how to manage their feelings and develop ways to better cope with life. I do see children as well if they're able to meet independently virtually. I also enjoy working with new parents to navigate managing their new identity and improve their parenting skills. My approach to therapy is personable and genuine. I find that my style is particularly beneficial to those looking for a safe space free of judgment while getting honest engagement. I’m expressive, use humor, and genuinely enjoy getting to be a therapist.

I am Anita M King, licensed marriage and family therapist. I work collaboratively with clients to help you get where you want to go. I received my degree from Chapman University and have been working with clients since 2018. I know what it is like to work harder not smarter and feel like for every step forward there are many steps back. I am fully passionate about getting you unstuck and where you aspire to be. I am passionate about helping people define and live your values to achieve a more authentic life and to help create stronger relationships.

WELOME! So glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the state of California. I received my Master of Social Work from California State University Bakersfield in 2020 and have been practicing for over 3 years. I have dedicated over a decade to Community Mental Health and helping individuals with severe mental health disorders/illness obtain a better quality of life. My unique style, life experiences, and approach provide a genuine connection.

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

I work towards building trust with clients. My practice focuses on helping those who struggle with managing stress, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and women's issues. People tell me often that i have a calm presence. I do enjoy providing realistic skills, people enjoy practicality and need immediate relief from distress at times. Why wouldn't i teach my clients to find relief from the overwhelming stress.

Hello there.....My name is Maria Paola Cortes Elser, I was born in Colombia and have been living in the USA for 23 years now, and as an immigrant, I confronted different situations that helped me to grow personally, and spiritually and understand how special it is to be from somewhere else and become part of this extraordinary country. I understand the challenges that come from this transition from different land to America and all the life experiences that those changes include, mentally culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Santo Tomas De Aquino University in Bogota Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University in the USA. I have been working in this field for 10 years, and I have experience with DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to help and support individuals and families who struggle with relationships, and Mental illnesses through faith and professional clinical counseling.

Hello, I'm Dr. Michael Murray, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing virtual counseling in California and Washington. My approach to therapy is warm, conversational, and collaborative, creating a space for genuine connection and nonjudgmental support. Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), existential therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI), I help clients develop psychological flexibility, explore identity and purpose, and tap into their own motivation for change. Rather than focusing on eliminating discomfort, I guide clients in accepting difficult emotions, unhooking from unhelpful thought patterns, and taking meaningful action aligned with their values. Together, we cultivate self-compassion, new perspectives, and practical steps toward a fulfilling, authentic life.

Hello, I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California, I live in the Palm Springs area of Southern Cal. My goal in life is to assist others with their mental health challenges and provide them with tools and education that will help them successfully manage these challenges. I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions.

Hello and welcome - I'm so glad you're here My name is Liliana Ponce, and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California and I bring a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach to my practice. With over fifteen years of experience, I specialize in supporting children, teens, young adults, and families through life's transitions and challenges. For the past seven years, I have provided direct mental health services using evidence-based practices that empower folks to grow, heal, and become the best versions of themselves.

Hi, I am Millie Montgomery, licensed therapist. Are you undergoing life changes where it is getting in the way of your happiness and daily functioning? Let us work together. I have a client-centered, trauma-informed, strength-based therapeutic style. I engage with client who are experiencing different issues or want a safe place to share their feelings and speak their mind. I believe in each individuals inner strength and resiliency to overcome any challenge that may arise in their lives. If you are ready to make changes in your life, reach out. Engaging in therapy is the first step in asking for help. You got this ! I am non-judgemental in manner and respect other's values and morals. I am currently offering virtual therapy at this time. only. Thank you for taking the time and I look forward to hearing from you.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has worked with individuals that are experiencing a variation of difficulties. I specialize in helping patients with anxiety, depression, and stress. I also have experience helping individuals with ADHD, brain injury, relationships, self-esteem, school/career and other life difficulties. We all want to be heard when something is bothering us. Having someone hear us when we are upset can mean a lot. It can also feel good to have someone to vent to when a day has been long. I am interested in helping you through life's struggles and setting goals for the future. I'm also here to guide and support you through difficult experiences. I am here to listen because sometimes you may need to share when life changes or need help processing what has happened. I want to be there for you even when the day is neither good or bad. I am here.

“First time" seeking help? Feeling sad, shaky, irritable, stressed out? Constantly worrying? Do you feel the need to "work" on yourself? My name is Shawn Hackett. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 plus years of providing mental health services. I specialize in working with women as they struggle with anxiety, depression, life stress, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.

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

Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!

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

Hi! My name is Yomaira Suazo and I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. I identify as a Latina and am bilingual. My experiences include young adults and adults. My main focus is proving a client-centered approach along with other approaches that help to create a non-judgment space for clients to feel safe and unpack, learn, and begin the healing process.