Therapists in California

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re going through a hard time or thinking about making some changes in your life. I love supporting people as they discover their passions, break through blocks, and step into the life they’ve always dreamed of. I’m a first-generation, cisgender Latinx woman, born and raised in the Bay Area. I’ve been a licensed therapist for four years, and I’m proud to have recently started my private practice where I get to bring my whole self into the work I do.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Licensed in California with 18+ years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I help adults who are struggling, become the best version of themselves at their own pace.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the states of Alabama, California, Virginia, Texas, Tennessee, Florida , Hawaii, New Mexico, Arkansas, and Georgia. She has over 10 years of experience working with adults, children and couples seeking help with depression, relationship issues, anxiety and major life stressors. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from The University of Alabama at Birmingham and received her Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Al. I utilizes relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution focused and emotionally focused approaches to therapy always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual and couple. I want to establish a caring relationships with clients to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

My clients tend to be people who want to feel more in control of their emotions, more effective at getting what they want, less stuck, more flexible, more connected and really just more at peace. They seek relief from patterns - sometimes chronic and severe, sometimes only subtly troublesome - of painful emotions, negative self-talk and thoughts, rumination, relationship instability and self sabotaging behaviors.

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

As a licensed therapist of more than thirty years, I have the experience and expertise to work with clients on a variety of issues. I provide a safe therapeutic environment that builds trust and openness. Clients who engage in the counseling process discover new energy for life and relationships. This results in positive change and increased self-awareness. I’m actively involved in the sessions, providing guidance, structuring interventions, and setting goals. Positive change happens one step at a time, trusting that life can get better. I also have expertise in anger management/domestic violence treatment.

“What one person has to offer to another, is their own being, nothing more, nothing less” – Ram Dass. My therapeutic approach is a strength-based perspective that focuses on a person’s innate potential rather than pathologies and shortfalls. Consistent with this approach, my role as a therapist lies not in solving problems but in helping clients examine inhibited issues and biases, identify practical solutions to their problems and progress toward deeper wisdom. I have worked with adults, children and families. This experience has included clients of various ethnicities and addressed a range of mental health issues, interpersonal relationship problems, and life transitions. I draw on my experience of 15 years in travel journalism and Corporate America and this understanding helps me support my clients as they navigate the stress and success in their place of work, endure layoffs, reevaluate priorities, and make renewed efforts towards new beginnings. My therapeutic style is adaptive to the individual needs of my clients. I believe the process of change is an ongoing dialogue. This process can be brief or longer term, depending upon the needs of the client. Sometimes I use mindfulness techniques to supplement therapy.

Welcome, I'm Andrea, Perhaps you've been considering reaching out for some time. Are you noticing the past affecting your current relationships, or that strategies that once worked for you no longer do? You might even find yourself dismissive of inspirational content on social media. I help people understand the origins of their communication patterns and learn how to communicate more effectively. This reduces unnecessary conflict and misunderstandings at work, home, and in relationships. Whether you're facing relationship challenges, workplace stress, the demands of parenthood, or struggling with past trauma—or a combination of these—you've found a place of support and optimism. Together, we will use your strengths, my expertise, and evidence-based techniques to help you achieve your treatment goals. Let's begin your new journey together!

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

I know that the decision to start therapy is a huge step and that actually going through with therapy can be a cause of fear or anxiety as therapy is not always easy as it takes time, money and ultimately effort to open up to someone who regardless of experience or training is just a stranger at first.

Hello. My name is Amilcar and I am a clinical social worker for the past 14 years. I received my BA in Sociology from UC Berkeley and my Masters in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I obtained my LCSW in 2015. I have spent my professional career providing outpatient mental health services to vulnerable populations in Los Angeles and Santa Clara County. I have extensive experience working with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. License No. LCSW 68949

The focus of my practice is centered on healing childhood wounds, and holding intention for my clients to be witnessed. I hold space to process through childhood abuse and other adverse childhood experiences, to explore on a deeper level how one's childhood impacts present day. What childhood wounds are manifesting in ways that no longer serve you? As an adult child-survivor, I hold a deep passion for those who have made the vulnerable choice to heal from the pains of their childhood. One life chapter at a time. Remember: The trauma that happened to you is not your fault, but what a gift to give yourself to lean into the responsibility of healing from it. Inner-Child Work framework includes: Narrative sharing, trauma and attachment work, CBT, ACT, experience validation, the practice of letting go, the practice of reclaiming, and accountability work.

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.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in helping those in need of healing and coping with life issues and struggles that may interfere with daily living. My therapy approach is to build a relationship with my clients and create a safe space to allow clients to feel comfortable enough and trust in when sharing difficult emotions.

Hi, I’m a licensed clinical social worker and therapist with a passion for supporting individuals navigating life transitions, identity shifts, and relationship challenges. I work with clients who are often juggling multiple roles—professionals, partners—and help them reconnect with their values, cultivate self-compassion, and build more sustainable ways of living and relating. My approach is collaborative, grounded, and strengths-based. Whether someone is managing stress, grief, or rediscovering their sense of self, I aim to create a space that feels safe, affirming, and forward-moving.

Hey there friend, I’m Dr. Ryan Terao. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in supporting those doing their best to navigate this experience we call life. I partner with my clients to discover, observe, and reconnect them with their values and find more effective ways to achieve their goals. In each session, I aim to provide my clients with new perspectives and tangible skills to adjust their mindsets to help them be more intentional in living out their values in their life.

Hi, I’m Beth. Life can feel overwhelming at times—stress, anxiety, depression, or big life changes can leave us feeling stuck. I work alongside individuals and couples in a supportive, nonjudgmental way, helping you navigate these challenges and find balance. I offer a space where you can share what’s on your mind, build coping skills, set healthy boundaries, and explore practical solutions at your own pace. Together, we’ll uncover insights and make meaningful changes so you can feel more peace, confidence, and joy in your everyday life.

Hello and Welcome! My name is David Gonzalez and I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I’ve been in the mental health field since 2013. In the last 12 years I've had the privilege to work with children, adolescents and adults across various professional settings. My modalities of choice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focus Brief Therapy. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety or adjusting to new life stressors, together we will develop a great treatment plan and get you to your desired goals. We will work from a holistic perspective (mind, body and spirit) and address your individualized needs. With my clinical training and your insight, I am sure we will do great work! So congrats on making it this far and for having the courage to take the first steps in your mental health journey. Let’s get to work!

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for 12 years. I am a diplomate of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy. As a licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I am committed to helping clients identify and transform negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their emotional difficulties. Through CBT, therapy focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you in understanding and overcoming the challenges you face, while equipping you with the tools and strategies needed for long-term success. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, we will work together to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.

Hello. I am a bilingual (English/ Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my MS in Counseling with and specialization in Latino Communities from California Lutheran University. I have been practicing for the past eight years. I utilize evidenced-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focus-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I offer support to teenagers and adults to address their concerns such as life stressors, life transitions, relationship issues, survivors find healing from past traumatic experiences, provide communications tools, among other skills, where together we explore their strengths to create a foundation that is tailored to their life. We collaborate to identify and develop tools that would help guide them to a greater sense of self and wellbeing.

Hello! My name is Stacey, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Santa Barbara, CA. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and have been working with clients for over six years. I specialize in supporting young adults as they navigate the challenges of early adulthood, with a focus on treating anxiety, depression, and emotional well-being. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where individuals can explore their experiences and work toward healing and growth.

Hey, I'm Klarissa. Sometimes life can get the best of us and make it difficult to handle even the smallest of tasks. Have you been feeling that way recently or possibly for a while now? Whether it be anxiety, depression, grief, or other circumstances that disrupt your life, I like to foster a safe and understanding environment to elicit positive change. We'll collaborate to identify measurable and attainable goals in an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to you. Through holistic treatment, you will achieve a more balanced, peaceful life while gaining an understanding of yourself as an individual. We will identify, develop and implement healthier ways of coping that will establish healthy habits that lead to lasting change. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and through my learned and personal experiences, I have observed utilizing a holistic approach, that combines several modalities, can be most beneficial in achieving a balanced and meaningful existence.

Hi, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the mental health field 15+ years, went back to graduate school in 2013. In the process of completing my hours for licensure, I worked with children, youth, adults, and families. I utilize a person-centered approach to help individuals identify their goals and help them navigate this journey. Starting therapy can be challenging. We start where you are and go from there.

I have extensive experience in working with a diverse population of individuals, including those struggling with substance abuse, dual diagnoses, codependency, trauma, and other mental health issues. I consider myself to be an assertive and direct psychologist who prioritizes effective communication, healthy boundaries, and self-care. My ultimate goal is to help people gain the insight and coping skills necessary to live meaningful lives filled with a positive sense of self and healthy relationships. I consider myself to be a culturally sensitive psychologist who treats each client as a unique individual. I am an action-oriented psychologist that listens with empathy while helping the client gain insight into patterns of thoughts and behaviors that can be used to make healthy and meaningful changes in their lives. If you are an individual who is motivated for positive change and self-growth, then I encourage you to reach out to me, as I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I believe that therapy is a collaborative approach in which the end goal is always in your best interest.

Hello, I am Kathleen. Do you feel overwhelmed, burnt out or pulled in a million different directions? Are you struggling with your relationships, work or health? Is it difficult for you to find time for yourself, let alone, be kind to yourself? Do you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward? Many of us are experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety and social isolation, so it is important to make caring for yourself a priority. Therapy can help you feel more connected, balanced and peaceful. Together, we can help identify what is not working and regain a sense of balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your body, mind and spirit. We will develop a "toolbox" of coping skills and create new insights and awarenesses to help you become a happier and healthier version of yourself. Seeking therapy can feel threatening but it's one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and by doing so also give to others. In our sessions, I will meet you with kindness, compassion, humor and evidence-based modalities, so you can overcome obstacles and habits that may be holding you back. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and empathic environment in which to work through current issues, conflicting relationships and/or past pain. I look forward to meeting you and working together.

**ACCEPTING ADULTS (18+) ONLY** Hi, I'm Yang. And I'm here to help you heal from self-abandonment and emotional dysregulation. Self-abandonment occurs when we struggle to stand up for our needs and live by our authentic values; often, we don't even know what they are. Those who struggle with self-abandonment don't feel like they know who they really are, and what they want, and often feel directionless and ungrounded. We feel small, afraid, anxious, aggressive and dependent on others. Emotional dysregulation occurs when we don't understand our emotions and how to manage them. They control us, instead of the other way around. We behave in ways we wish we didn't, and we build up shame around those behaviors as if they are who we are. We cannot separate our emotions from who we are. These issues often lie at the heart of different mental health struggles, such as depression, anxiety, as well as many relationship challenges. The good news is that resolving these, therefore, can potentially lead to ripple effects of change in your life.

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.

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.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, where I specialized in the Psychology of Trauma. I support individuals of all ages in processing a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, substance use disorder and various patterns of addiction, intimate partner issues, trauma, both current and past involving families and work environments, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.

Hi, I’m Jami Kulkin. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 31 years of experience helping people heal, grow, and feel more at home in their lives. I offer a warm, collaborative, and holistic approach to therapy—one that honors your whole self: mind, body, heart, and spirit. Clients often come to me when they’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck—whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or simply the sense that something isn’t working anymore. I believe therapy should feel like a safe, grounding space where you can explore what’s holding you back, reconnect with your inner wisdom, and discover new ways of showing up for yourself and your life. My work draws from a wide range of tools, including cognitive and behavioral strategies, mindfulness, EMDR, hypnotherapy, somatic practices, and spiritual insight. I also bring a Doctorate in Naturopathy and training in fitness, meditation, and sexuality—which gives me a broader lens to support healing from the inside out. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. Every client is different, and I meet you wherever you are—with compassion, curiosity, and care. Whether you want structure and goals, meaningful exploration, mind-body practices, or simply a space to be heard without judgment, we’ll work together to find what truly supports your growth. If you’re ready to make meaningful changes and approach life with more clarity and confidence, I’m here to support that process with deep experience and a grounded sense of intuition.

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

I have been providing mental health services since 2003. Throughout my career I have worked communities large and small and have provided services to client of all ages and clinical presentations. I have worked with Foster Youth struggling with attachment all the way to helping Older Adults find purpose and meaning. I specialize in trauma, particularly that which occurs in the context of the relationship. I enjoy working with couples and individuals struggling in relationships. I like to focus on promoting healthy connections with others and how to ensure this creates a lasting structure to manage life's challenges. In addition to this I encourage areas of strength to ensure our life has purpose.

Hi, I’m Stephanie Doran, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPC17781). I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from Loyola Marymount University and have been practicing for 6 years. I specialize in helping clients, ages 10 to 65, with issues such as anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and substance abuse. I create customized treatment plans that are tailored to each client’s unique needs.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with teens, young adults and new parents who are struggling with anxiety, depression and adjustment issues. I use evidence-based treatments to help you or your loved one manage symptoms. I help my younger clients work through the many trials and adjustments that come with growing up, and I work with young adults who are experiencing periods of transition and who often describe themselves as stressed out and overwhelmed. I help new and expecting mothers & fathers who are struggling with a perinatal mood disorder, or simply need support while adjusting to parenthood. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, or for your loved one, I’m here to help you through these difficult times and empower you with therapeutic tools that will last you a lifetime. I work with clients experiencing a variety of issues including: Anxiety Depression & suicidal ideation Adjustment issues Family conflict Low self-esteem Relationship issues Grief & Loss Self-harm behaviors Drug use/abuse Bullying Trauma Together we’ll explore what brought you to therapy in the first place, but we’ll also go beyond that. You’ll learn new ways to understand and solve your problems and develop healthy coping mechanisms so that you’ll be equipped to care for your mental well-being in the long term.

My name is Felicia Burnett-Lopez, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I earned my Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology and earned my Masters’ Degree in Social Work. My education and experience include human behavior; environmental and biological psychology, substance abuse and addiction; understanding and working in mental health, with people with mental illnesses, within all populations.

 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. 

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

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

Hello My name is Katie Are you stressed out and anxious? Does it feel like no one understands what you are going through? Are you struggling with healing after a traumatic event? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know this is hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months if not years. But I’m so glad you found me and have taken the courageous step of being here. I would love the opportunity to get to know you and work with you on your journey to the life you dream of living! Therapy can be difficult to start and I encourage feedback for open communication for your best therapeutic experience! I’m confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges. Whether you’re struggling with relationships, communication, or stress, it is important that you know you don’t have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Hi there, I'm Shobha. Do you feel stressed out, anxious in a social circle, feel blue? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help people manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole person and CBT approaches, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. Whether you're dealing with feeling down, overwhelmed, or stressed out, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome mental health concerns that are holding you back. Let's work together!

Hello, my name is Krista Edwards I’m a licensed in the state of California and Arizona. I have 20 + year of experience in the field of helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and bipolar clients. I have been working with children and families. With such vast of knowledge, I believe I am qualified to assist you move on to the next phase of your journey. My specialty is in the area of child abuse, parenting, trauma domestic violence and substance abuse, child abuse issues. I know how to navigate in this area . My experience working in the area of mental health disorders such as bipolar, depression, anxiety and as a facilitator and at a mental health hospital. I have a caring and friendly nature. I will help you learn to put tools in your tool box to make changes in life. I am ready to help and assist you. Let's work together to help you make changes and experience life in a more positive way. You can talk openly and honestly with me and share whatever is on your mind.

Hi there, I'm Belinda! A gently contained, consistently safe and respectful space to explore your thoughts and emotions that you have never dared to think of twice, nor have ever spoken about-- This is my offering for you. The conversations that happen in this space, and the effort spent on exploring your thoughts and feelings in a kind and curious approach is your offering to yourself. Expectations for you: Simply show up as you are. That's all. Just show up. Expectations for me: I will guide the conversation to places where it may be beneficial for you to explore. Then I will offer my feedback and observations in hopes of you getting a better understanding of yourself (how you think/feel the way you do, where it may have started, and what all this might mean for you in the future). 'Why is this important?'-- Because understanding yourself is the first step to a possible and SUSTAINABLE change. YOU are the common denominator in all your relationships and human connections that you have sole and ABSOLUTE control over. So, if you could see about making small changes in yourself, then you might see positive outcomes in your connections in the world around you. Shall we get started?

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.

As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, including relationship issues, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help clients develop coping strategies, improve communication. As well as Jungian Psychology in order to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. My goal is to support clients in finding healing, purpose, and inner peace in their lives.

Life is a journey not a parking lot. I have been a licensed therapist for over 20 years. I specialize in therapy with adolescents and adults. My focus is on brief therapy, family systems, attachment disorders, and couple's therapy. Self-discovery is a gift to yourself and others to uncover the barriers that are keeping you from your full potential. Exploring your relationship patterns and how they correlate to early childhood attachments.

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

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

I am a mental health therapist who is based in Orange County, CA. I received my B.A in psychology and social behavior at the University of California, Irvine. My area of study there centered on psychological and neurological functions of a person and how this contributes to each person's unique life experiences. I went on to receive my M.A for social welfare from the University of California, Los Angeles. My area of concentration there were health and mental health across the lifespan. My previous research centered around looking at rates of burnout and compassion fatigue in different work settings. I have also been involved in research centering around how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can affect an individual's stress response and how individuals with higher ACEs are more likely to have more negative physical health outcomes later in life. My specialty areas involve working with clients who have gone through different traumas and helping clients adapt, cope and grow. I believe that every client is uniquely different so I tailor my therapeutic modalities to the client's presenting needs. I enjoy my role in helping individuals achieve the best version of themselves. In my free time, I love keeping my mind and body active with physical fitness, reading, being out in nature, traveling and spending time with my dog.

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

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