Therapists in California

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 40 years of experience in the fields of addiction, domestic violence, and medical social work. In my years of experience, I've worked almost exclusively with adults individually and in groups who had difficulties managing their lives due to substance abuse and the concomitant mental health issues of depression and anxiety. I also facilitated groups of male and female substance abusers and perpetrators of domestic violence. In our groups, we focused on CBT lessons and exercises involving role play, modeling, and demonstrations. Clients were given homework to continue their learning and practice on their own between sessions. As a social worker working in public and private agencies, I worked with clients experiencing relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, and day to day life problems. I strongly uphold the Social Workers Code of Ethics that includes, respecting the dignity and worth of a person and exercising compassion and a non-judgmental approach with each individual. I endorse and utilize multiple therapeutic techniques that include the following: psychodynamic techniques, cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, person-centered techniques, and solution focused techniques. I am sensitive and respectful in using techniques that are agreed upon by the client and suitable to meet each individual's needs. I look forward to the opportunity to assist you in working through challenges that will help promote and maintain a better, happier and more peaceful life. My style is loving, compassionate and direct. If you just want someone to listen and not give you suggestions on how to improve your life, then I am not the right therapist for you! I actively participate in each and every session.

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

I work with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and all types of relationship issues (romantic, family, peer, and occupational). I believe that clients are experts in their own lives, and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for clients to explore and meet their goals. The therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist sets the foundation for authentic collaboration that allows for trust and meaningful work together.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations in different community settings. I have adapted different approaches in my clinical work to fit with the populations that I serve. As a therapist, I work to help make clients feel grounded and supported in our session appointments. I strive for authenticity when working with others. I try to help clients value honesty within themselves and in others. I hope to be able to facilitate growth and change in our time together.

Hi! My name is Jose Rodriguez, I have been working in behavioral health since 2008, and it has been a very rewarding experience. I have an energetic and enthusiastic approach. Please note that I am licensed in both California and New York. I stay up to date with the latest studies to provide the best care possible. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I am originally from New York, so I have had the opportunity to gain experience at reputable institutions such as New York Presbyterian Hospital and Montefiore Health System. I have also served as Director of the Behavior Health Department at Salinas Valley Health in Salinas, California. I earned my BA in Psychology from Boston College and my Master of Social Work from Fordham University. I also earned my MBA in Healthcare Administration in 2019. Outside of work, I enjoy boxing, playing golf, yoga, lifting weights, and going to the beach! The goal in psychotherapy is for you to become your own therapist. We would achieve this in a collaborative and strategic manner. There has always been a need to address our emotional well being but until recent times, this topic is more accepted than ever to discuss. Not only do I help people address their problems, but I also aim to help people be self-actualizing.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from New York University and have been practicing for 13 years. I have also have 7 years of experience as a educator and supervisor for pre-licensed therapists. I love helping my supervisees and clients overcome their challenges, learn great lessons in the process, and achieve their highest potentials.

Hi! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Gallaudet University. I am fluent in American Sign Language. I would describe my own as warm, caring, non-judgmental, compassionate, sensitive, respectful, knowledgeable, experienced and committed. I’ve been using CBT in my practice. It’s helped dozens of clients challenge reoccurring thoughts and manage their anxiety. We’ll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and stressed life

Hi there! My name is Marlene. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had the pleasure of working in mental health for over 7 years. I specialize in working with adults navigating major life transitions—such as starting college or becoming a parent—while also exploring how these experiences intersect with aspects of identity, including being first-generation students, parenting in ways that break cycles of trauma, and identifying as people of color. I provide trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive care. It is always my goal to create a space where you feel safe and understood during our time together.

At a young age, I came to the United States from Pakistan through an arranged marriage. My experience as a young woman fresh to this country inspired my journey to making a difference in the community through activism and therapy. I went through my own therapeutic journey and now am excited to help my clients empower themselves in their narrative paths.

Hi and thank you for your consideration. Please note, I currently only see clients who are insured by Kaiser. Relationships with professors led to my providing therapy as an undergraduate student majoring in Community Service at University of Oregon. After receiving a Masters Degree in Social Work, the majority of my career was working 23 years for the National Center for PTSD. I had the extraordinary experience of creating my own job description as a Health Scientist in the emerging field of Disaster Mental Health. Over the course of these years, I responded to more than a dozen Presidentially-declared catastrophic events. At first, I worked with survivors or next-of-kin. As a first responder, I learned what every first responder learns when working with people in need. Without intention, we receive more than we give. It is, if you will, sacred work. It has long been important to me to conceptualize what I am trying to achieve professionally. Toward that end, I published research, published guidelines to practice, etc. Eventually, I became a national, and then international consultant regarding emergency response policies, be they federal, state, county, or institutional. In 2018, I received a Fulbright grant to continue the work I began in Ukraine, following the revolution in 2014. In 2022, I began offering telemental health therapy and have been enjoying the work and the progress with my clients.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed or find yourself stuck in the same relationship patterns? Life can throw us emotional and mental challenges that leave us feeling lost, disconnected, or unsure of what to do next. My goal is to help you make sense of what’s happening, understand yourself more deeply, and find healthier ways to move through difficult moments. Since 2002, I’ve worked with men and women who are tired of always putting others first. Together, we’ll explore what’s keeping you stuck and build clarity, confidence, and direction—so you can create relationships (and a life) that feel more authentic and fulfilling.

Building self-awareness is often a hard place to start. I meet my patients where they are in their journey and support the process. Sometimes taking the first step to explore psychotherapy is confusing. Ask questions so you can find a therapist who is the right fit for you. My approach meets people where they are presently, to determine where they want to be in the future. I like to get to know my new patients to determine their needs in treatment.

Hi, I'm Audrey! I’m a therapist dedicated to helping individuals break free from cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and past trauma so they can reconnect with their authentic selves. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can explore challenges at your own pace and develop the tools to create a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based techniques to help you heal and grow.

Dr. Sterling focuses on specifically "women issues," grief, life transitions, cultural issues, anxiety, depressed moods, and will support other various challenges. Dr. Sterling practices a humanistic and person-centered approach when providing counseling and life coaching support. She is very compassionate while helping people with overcoming adversities and reaching their resilience. Also, she is genuine, real, and present during each conversation. Dr. Sterling displays a real authentic persona that is comfortable, relaxed, and filled with good energy! The objective she focuses on is to bring ease into a persons life no matter the situation or where they come from! Dr. Sterling will uplift your spirits and is someone to look forward to speaking with! "I have a PhD. in Philosophy/Advanced Human Studies. I have over 17 years of experience educating higher learners & helping others through various lived experiences. I take nothing for granted, all I have is a blessing including working with people from this perspective within my life!" Dr. Sterling has accomplished a lot, but she is truly genuine and humble. She will not only build you up, she will lift you up, and teach you how to get up no matter how many times you fall down! "I'm here, lets talk!" ~Dr. Sterling

I am a licensed therapist providing compassionate, collaborate results oriented therapy for clients seeking to change their lives for the better. I am devoted to acceptance and commitment therapy with the understanding that people have the capacity to grow and resolve. I believe that clients have the answers within themselves to remove barriers and challenges in their lives and it is a privilege to assist them in recognizing it and bringing it out.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in San Francisco, specializing in psychotherapy for adult/elder individuals and couples. I’ve had the privilege of working within various multidisciplinary teams providing psychotherapy for over a decade. This work has enabled me to develop my therapeutic skills and expand on personal attributes vital to the therapeutic processes. I’m passionate, committed to work with people toward their goals, to heal emotional wounds, to achieve more clarity while allowing for growth and improving lives.

Hi, I’m Lainie Popp. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in EMDR, parts work, and mindfulness-based approaches. I help adults who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism learn how to feel more calm, present, and less overwhelmed in their daily lives. My style is warm, collaborative, and supportive, focused on helping you understand yourself with compassion and feel more comfortable in your own mind and body.

Hello, my name is Salomon Garcia, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in southern California. I have been practicing for over 6 years. I have worked with a broad range of individuals ranging from teen to older adults. I have helped clients struggling with anxiety, depression, work-stress, low self-esteem and life transitions. My aim is to provide a relaxing and safe space to help people to be the best version of themselves.

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

The most precious you can give to yourself is a little bit of your own attention. Life can get so busy and it's easy to become distracted by daily tasks. This makes it easy to loose sight of the most important person in your life....YOU! You are the most important project that you will ever work on and I am so glad that you are here. I have over 24 years of experience in the mental health industry and I am passionate about working with clients from all different backgrounds and life paths. I have experience working with a wide variety of ages from children to adolescents and adults. I also have experience working with with a variety of mental health diagnosis. It has been a blessing to have worked as a School Counselor for 22+ years, and know that it has provided me with a wealth of experience in so many areas with a large variety of clients with all different needs. I strive to meet my clients where they are and am passionate about helping them work on their goals. I have particularly enjoyed helping clients manage transition, trauma, depression, grief, adjustment, anxiety and parenting. I also am passionate about working with First Responders and their families. I have been part of a First Responder family for 27+ years, which has provided me with a wealth of information as well as compassion and commitment to serve this population.

Hello and Welcome. I commend you for taking the time to identify the right therapist for you, and I would be delighted to have the opportunity to serve you through your journey to either heal, grow, or build. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist; I aim to help individuals strengthen their sense of self and relationships. I have over ten years of experience working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds who have experienced various mental health challenges.

I'm so glad you're taking this step to prioritize your mental health—it's the foundation of everything else in life. As a mother of three young adults, including boy-girl twins and a neurodivergent daughter, and with experience as a psychologist, coach, and leader in both tech and education, I bring a wide range of lived experience to my work. I work with individuals and families at all stages of life, helping them release outdated mindsets and adopt empowering new ones by uncovering the root causes, patterns, and obstacles that hold them back. My approach integrates neuroscience, cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and depth psychology, always focusing on creating meaningful connections that unlock new possibilities. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I hold an unwavering belief in each person’s boundless potential. By focusing on what truly matters, we can always transform challenges into opportunities.

About Are you feeling unfulfilled in your relationships, choices, and just life? Those who feel detached from those around them often believe they're a burden and bring no value to those around them. If any of that resonated with you, you may feel disconnected from different areas of your life, such as work, relationships, family, and interests. Many individuals go through life never feeling like they belong and lack fulfillment, joy, and a sense of identity. You're here looking to finally put yourself first, to find a sense of satisfaction in your life, and I'd love to be part of that journey so you no longer feel alone. I take great pride in helping individuals find their sense of belonging and overcoming deep negative schemas that they aren't worthy of love. I do this by helping you work through those fears of abandonment, criticism, and rejection. Forming healthy relationships and attachments are instrumental in my approach, and you'll never feel alone. Life is challenging, and it's an even bigger struggle when we are our worst enemies. You may feel like a burden to those around you, but you won't have to feel that way in our therapeutic relationship. I invite you to have a free 15-minute consultation with me to ask any questions or concerns you may have. I look forward to being part of your journey.

My name is Krystal Johnson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Children, Youth and Families, from California State University, Hayward, in 2011 and received my Licensure in 2015. A little bit about me- wife and mother of 4, Licensed Zumba Instructor, Musician, & love to scrapbook! I enjoy working with individuals and couples in meeting their goals!

I’ve studied and practiced many methods. I like to be eclectic and work with you with what’s needed to get you back on track and feeling your best. I was a teacher for many years, then went for my masters in social work. Life has many twists and turns. Sometimes we can feel off balance or are suffering from depression or anxiety. We’ve all had our ups and downs and getting back on track and feeling our best is a goal I enjoy helping people achieve to live the life they want.

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and the elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments. She teaches at five local universities, including UCLA’s medical school. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising. She also works with family and criminal law courts as an expert witness.

I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. I bring a unique, spiritual, Latino/Hispanic perspective to mental health counseling that focuses on the needs of our community. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. Aporto una perspectiva única, espiritual, latina/hispana al asesoramiento de salud mental que se centra en las necesidades de nuestra comunidad.

As a black female school-based therapist, my dream client is one who approaches therapy with openness, honesty, and a willingness to engage in the process of self-discovery and growth. My dream client understands the importance of mental health and values the support that therapy can provide in navigating the challenges of adolescence. Ideally, my dream client is someone who is eager to explore their identity, including aspects of race, culture, and gender, in a safe and affirming space. They are open to discussing sensitive topics and are willing to challenge societal norms and expectations that may be impacting their well-being. My dream client is proactive in their approach to therapy, actively participating in sessions, completing assigned tasks or homework, and practicing coping skills outside of our sessions. They understand that therapy is a collaborative effort and are committed to working together to achieve their goals. Additionally, my dream client is respectful, compassionate, and empathetic towards others, fostering a sense of community and support within the therapeutic environment. They are open to learning from different perspectives and are willing to engage in discussions around social justice, equity, and inclusion. Overall, my dream client is someone who is committed to their personal growth and development, embraces their uniqueness, and values the power of therapy in fostering resilience and well-being.

My goal is to increase self compassion and compassion for others as individual women and navigate their personal, academic and professional lives. I am taking individual female clients over the age of 18 for virtual sessions throughout the state of California. I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, comedy, theatre, filmmaking, creative writing, improvisation, nature, traveling, film and television, documentaries, dancing and making art of all kinds. I graduated from the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. In college, I studied theatre, documentary film and creative writing. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago. While in Chicago, I was on the faculty at the Second City Training Center where I directed and co-wrote original sketch comedy revues and taught acting and improvisation to children, teens and adults. I received my master's in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles. I am currently based in the East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area.

You don’t have to struggle alone! I look forward to the opportunity to work collaboratively with you in your journey in discovering how to make positive changes, decrease negative behaviors and thoughts, and help improve your mood and engagement with life! In our hectic world we often find ourselves afraid to take risks that could jeopardize the stable lives we have created for ourselves. We remain in jobs, relationships and old patterns that no longer work, while symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger and self-defeating patterns keep us from making real changes to our lives. If that sounds like you, you are stuck. We can feel lost and alone when we are unable to move forward, whether in work or a personal relationship. Therapy can help you break free of that and thrive. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on teens, adults, and couples. I have worked with clients on concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and family reunification. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I also minored in sociology.

My name is Ana Del Rosario Murray. I am a Latina Indigenous woman, mother, and wife proudly rooted in the vibrant SF Bay Area. I earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco and have spent the past seven years working throughout San Francisco in service of community wellness. With a deep passion for community-based work, I bring an intimate understanding of the complexities faced by diverse populations. Growing up in the tightly knit community of South San Francisco, I witnessed firsthand the socioeconomic, cultural, and systemic challenges that shape people’s lives. This lived experience fuels my unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact and uplifting those around me. I believe deeply in the power of collective action and healing. By embracing my cultural heritage and drawing from personal and professional experience, I strive to foster authentic connections, empower individuals and families, and promote social justice within the communities I serve.

Hi there! I'm Cindy Nguman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I’m so glad you’re here. I work with clients all across the state through the convenience of Telehealth, creating a safe and supportive space, wherever you are. I specialize in supporting young adults and adults who are navigating life’s many ups and downs, whether that’s anxiety, stress, depression, dating, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. You're not alone in what you're going through, and together, we’ll work to help you feel more grounded, confident, and understood. My style is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I use a person-centered approach, which means I deeply value who you are and what you bring to the table. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy to help us make meaningful progress toward your goals. Reaching out is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. 💛

Hi! I’m Felicia Williams, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I am grateful you’re here to see me. I am a highly compassionate, empathic social work professional dedicated to exceptional mental health services including effective treatment to diverse population including children, youth, and families struggling with persistent mental illness. I enjoy working with individuals who are also or was a part of the foster care system, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, and trauma.

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida who works with young adults navigating their transitions into adulthood, adults struggling to balance her work and family life, and older adults helping them find meaning in their lives. I think therapy works best when it feels like you're talking to someone who's on your team—someone who gets where you're coming from, isn't afraid to ask the tough questions, and helps you figure out what actually works for you in real life. My approach is personalized- I meet you where you are and tailor our work to support your unique goals. For young adults, we work on finding ways to manage stress and work on improving relationships. In working with adults, treatment can be focused on managing anxiety, navigating difficult transitions in life, and improving relationships. For elderly adults, we can focus on finding meaning in life, working through family issues, and building a stronger support network. My goal is to create a strong foundation for our work together and help you feel comfortable and ready to begin your journey toward greater well-being.

My name is Kay Wright. I am a licensed Clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and families. I hold a Master's in Social Work from Savannah State University. I am currently licensed in the States of Illinois, Georgia, New Mexico, California, Alabama, Arizona, North Carolina, Florida, Kentucky, Oregon, Tennessee, and Texas. I support individuals/families in identifying challenges, regulating emotions, and developing solutions. Related Challenges: Anxiety, Postpartum, Depression, Life transitions, Grief, Relationships, ADHD, Peer Relationships, Trauma, etc.

In my role as a mindfulness-based therapist, I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that is nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to delve into their inner workings with a sense of compassion and empathy. I emphasize the importance of being fully present in the current moment and embracing a mindset of acceptance without criticism in my therapeutic approach. Furthermore, I prioritize guiding clients toward cultivating a deep sense of self-compassion and understanding, recognizing these as fundamental elements for personal advancement and emotional reconciliation. By integrating mindfulness techniques and meditation practices, I actively assist clients in developing an enhanced self-awareness and fostering a compassionate outlook on their experiences.