Therapists in California

Hello, I'm Tara... I love working with clients who are struggling with career and life transitions, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management and sex, intimacy & relationship concerns. Prior to my work as a therapist, I worked for years in the entertainment industry with various film, TV and music artists. I love to work with creative types and understand the challenges many face working in that industry. I received my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University with an emphasis on trauma studies. I'm a member of AASECT with the goal of becoming an AASECT certified sex therapist in the near future. I'm also a 500-hour RYT certified yoga and meditation teacher. I like to incorporate somatic and mindfulness exercises into my work with individuals and groups. I also have a background working as a sexual assault advocate and bring a strong passion and skill set for working with individuals with sexual trauma histories. I'm based in Los Angeles. When I'm not working, I can be found with my Chihuahua (Homer), hiking, reading, watching film & TV and working on creative writing projects.

Hi, I’m Justin, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults with anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, and relationship stress. My approach is compassionate, structured, and grounded in evidence-based treatment, including EMDR, CBT, and DBT-informed skills. I believe therapy should feel both safe and effective—where you feel deeply understood while also gaining tools that lead to meaningful change. I strive to create a calm, supportive environment where healing feels possible.

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.

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.

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! My name is Fidelia Onyejekwe. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with six years of experience working with individuals living with anxiety disorders, cultural issues, women's issues, depression, and stress management. I am here to provide services that will help support a better you. I offer telehealth services throughout the State of California. I offer talk therapy, life coaching and motivation, and support with identifying short and long term goals. I am currently accepting new clients! I am here to services your needs and be in allyship with you as you discover new way to cope and manage everyday life stressors.

Hola, welcome to my profile! My name is Edna Salcido and I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I obtained my bachelor's degree from CSU Monterey Bay and my master's degree from USC. Through my years in practice, I have provided a safe space for healing as I support moving through anxiety, depression, grief, processing trauma, boundary setting and many diverse life challenges. I have experience working out in the field providing mental health services in homes and schools as well as experience in a medical setting as a lifespan therapist.

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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), licensed in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. I have a Master of Arts in psychology and have been practicing for 14 years. I help adults of all ages, who are struggling with symptoms relative to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other issues, to reduce their symptoms on their path towards mental wellness and the best version of themselves.

Veronica Villanueva, LMFT Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist #149992 | Currently Accepting New Clients If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, I'm here to help you write a new chapter in your story. I'm Veronica Villanueva, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling. I'm licensed to practice in California and offer teletherapy throughout the state.

Do you struggle with motivation and focus troubles that affects more than just your ability to get your homework done? Do you feel overwhelmed by basic tasks that you can’t seem to get started? Do you ever wonder that life could be better, your mind a little quieter? Now more than ever, young adults are feeling overwhelmed with the life presented to them. I believe you can find the motivation to get control of your life again. I work primarily with young adults with ADHD and Anxiety and use a person first approach to therapy. We will start with learning how your struggles manifest uniquely in your life. I then will help you by offering behavioral change tools while also working on the deeper ‘why’ that brings you to treatment. I strive to offer a safe, nonjudgmental, and open place, so you can get the help you need.

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.

I listen and find your strengths to help you become the person you want to be. I am direct and hold you accountable as well as help you find forgiveness to heal and find the joy to lead you to a better life. I believe we all have the opportunity to overcome life's challenges but we must have the courage to ask for help. Sometimes asking for help can be scary and I want to provide you with a safe and honest space to create the life you deserve.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. I have been providing direct therapy since 2012. I have experience in the mental health field in office based therapy, school-based therapy, non-profits, community mental health, enrichment classes, and group homes since 2009. I have specialized experience working with many types of mental health, emotional and behavioral issues. I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, impulse control disorders, ADHD, depression, life transitions, adjustment disorders, stress, young adult hood, perinatal mental health, postpartum, college life, parenting difficulties, emotional dysregulation and relationship concerns. I use a wide range of psychotherapy modalities based on the individuals need. The sessions are focused on you and I am there with you every step. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND. I CHARGE A $75 LATE CANCELLATION FEE FOR APPOINTMENTS CANCELED LESS THAN 24 HOURS. FULL PAYMENT $150 FOR NO SHOW APPOINTMENT

Hi, my name is Bjorn! In my practice I focus on helping my clients overcome obstacles to a healthier life by creating a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. Therapy can go in many directions, but I primarily focus on helping clients to identify specific needs that they have, process difficult feelings, psychoeducation, realizing important goals for growth and how to achieve them. In the therapeutic process I share many tools to help with healing including awareness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, personality work, psychoeducation, and somatic therapy.

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.

Welcome, my name is Kiran and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #28451) with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in and provide mental health support to people dealing with fertility issues, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, postpartum depression, and postpartum anxiety. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California in 2002. In 2005, I started working on the maternal-child health floor in a hospital setting where I was able to help patients experiencing grief, loss, postpartum depression, and medical trauma. My passion truly lies in working with individuals going through their journeys and challenges in pregnancy, childbirth, any type of loss, adoptions, or surrogacies. In 2019, I struggled with my own loss of losing my father and felt it was the right time to move on from the medical field in the hospital setting to a smaller medical setting. Working as a preceptor in this new smaller medical setting, I quickly realized that this was not my calling as I began to miss working with the perinatal population. Soon after, I was given an opportunity to provide mental health therapy to the perinatal population and I believe this remains my calling. I am of Asian descent and love learning about everyone's family histories, cultures, foods, etc.

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.

Hi there, I’m Dr. O. Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed by worry, or caught in patterns of overthinking—about yourself or your relationships? Do you find it difficult to extend patience and compassion toward yourself? I provide therapy for adults (18 and older) navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected, or uncertain about how to move forward—especially after experiencing significant loss or major life changes. With over 10 years of clinical experience, I specialize in helping individuals rebuild, heal, and reconnect with themselves after difficult experiences, including relationship distress, grief, and family conflict. I believe that you are the expert of your own story. My role is to support you in uncovering your strengths, deepening emotional resilience, and creating meaningful, sustainable change. I use a collaborative, evidence-based approach tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work toward helping you feel more grounded, empowered, and aligned in your life. Let’s begin.

Hi, I'm Dr. Holly Siegrist, and I am a psychologist licensed in California with 17 years of experience. I take a strength-based approach, and I work with clients on spirituality and meaning making, creativity, dream analysis, relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress related to disability and other discrimination, grief, chronic illness, losses, and life change. My interests are in social justice, coping with discrimination, health and wellness, and resilience. My therapy style is warm and welcoming. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion, and providing a safe space to listen to clients. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology with Specialization in Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology from Saybrook University. I also hold a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, an M.S. in Rehabilitation Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, an M.A. in Disability, Health and Illness from the University of Leeds, and bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Comparative History of Ideas from the University of Washington, Seattle. I specialize in dream analysis and lucid dreaming therapy. What drew me to therapy was my interest in social justice work while I was attending the University of Washington, and did peer counseling with students. I have always been interested in helping people, I enjoy hearing people’s stories, and I also find that in the therapeutic process I learn more about myself. Through my therapy journey I have gained much experience in working with diverse people. In addition, during my time at Saybrook University, I received training in spiritual approaches in therapy, and dream analysis and lucid dreaming therapy. I'm glad you are moving towards living a more fulfilling and happier life. I am here to support you so you can empower yourself on your journey of transformation.

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.

I worked at Oak Grove Center for Education Treatment and the Arts, a level 12 treatment facility, for children and adolescents in Murrieta, California for 10 years before entering into private practice with a large group practice for two years located in Temecula, California. I have operated a solo private practice in Murrieta, California since March of 2013 called Edmond Child & Family Counseling.

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.

I am a dedicated therapist and strong advocate for growth, healing, and wellness. I support my patients journey to wellness by looking deeply into the whole person and the impacts of social demands/expectations, stress, lived experience, circumstance, relationship, shame, and trauma on those I work with. I have immense passion for supporting people with self discovery, centering the selves and healing.

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!

I understand the apprehension in seeking therapy and counseling. I also understand the importance of obtaining therapy in a safe and non-judgmental environment. There are times when we all face a need to seek counsel and professional therapy with someone who is able to relate to your struggles. My clients are provided a safe and understanding environment; an environment where we are able to focus on "solutions".

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps adults ages 18 to 65+ navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship stress, and emotional overwhelm. I provide a warm, supportive, culturally sensitive space where you can feel understood and empowered. My goal is to help you build insight, strengthen coping skills, heal past wounds, and create a more balanced and fulfilling life.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I bring experience working with individuals across the lifespan, children to adults. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in a variety of social work settings, which has given me a broad perspective on the many ways people grow, heal, and overcome challenges. While I’ve valued each of these roles, my greatest passion lies in the therapeutic setting—supporting clients in discovering their strengths and fostering meaningful change. My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and attachment-based interventions—all delivered through a trauma-informed lens. As a social worker, I am deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that honors diversity, inclusion, and the unique experiences each client brings to the process.

Hi, I’m Brian Mitchell. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but more importantly, I’m a dedicated partner in your healing. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma and PTSD through a lens of safety and genuine support. Whether we use EMDR, CBT, Somatic, or mindfulness, my approach is never "one size fits all"—it’s tailored entirely to your unique story. I entered this field to help marginalized voices find their strength and advocacy. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, empowered, and equipped with the tools to build a better path forward.

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.

Hello! I am a License Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master of Social Work from California State University Long Beach. I received my BA in Psychology degree from California Stated University Fullerton. I have been practicing mental health counseling for 17 years. I help adolescents, adults and older adults struggling with careers, stress and burnout, traumatic life events, experiencing depression and anxiety to be able to function as normal as they can be.

I am Dr. Audrey Levy. I live on a boat, and my private practice hours are available 24/7 by appointment only. I also make house calls. I am experienced in helping my clients deal with issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Stress Reduction, Loss and Grief Recovery, Substance Abuse, Anger Management and Crisis Counseling. I provide a calm, empathetic, and nurturing environment where you will feel heard, and most importantly, understood. Together we will work on ways to help you understand your feelings and compulsions. My grieving clients experience closure through writing letters to their loved ones who have died. This letter writing is effective for all forms of loss. Reading the letters aloud is very healing as it encourages acceptance, and permits moving on to build a life filled with love and laughter. As a Doctor of Psychology and psychotherapist for 45+ years, I've dealt with my own grief and loss by writing the nonfiction book, "Doggie Wisdom for Humans: Advice from Dogs for Humans of All Ages," and an autobiographical fiction series, "The Adventures of the Angel Oleo." I hope you have an opportunity to read my books and that I get to help you.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in California and Utah. I speak English and Japanese. I have been working with adult individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and interpersonal issues. I use different modalities such as Interpersonal Psychotherapy, TF-CBT, DBT to assist individual identifying presenting issues, improving symptoms, managing their daily life by utilizing coping skills. I am here to assist you. Individual adult clients only.

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’m a licensed therapist with a focus on helping adults navigate stress, anxiety, and life transitions. I integrate evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT to help clients build practical skills for managing emotions, improving relationships, and creating meaningful change. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and centered on helping clients gain clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of balance in their 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.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker in California with extensive experience supporting youth in schools, foster adolescents, and young adults. In recent years, I’ve focused on helping young adults navigate the emotional and psychological barriers that hinder educational and career goals. My work is grounded in evidence-based practice and individualized, client-centered care. I aim to create a supportive, compassionate space where clients feel understood and empowered as they navigate life’s challenges. My clinical approach emphasizes strengthening self-esteem, reducing anxiety, and building the motivation needed to pursue personal goals. I use a nonjudgmental, down-to-earth style that helps clients feel safe enough to do honest work. Much of our focus includes identifying and unpacking past trauma and the unhelpful beliefs or patterns that contribute to emotional, psychological, and physical distress. Ultimately, my goal is to help clients move toward a healthier, more grounded, and more fulfilling life.

Congratulations on taking this important step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life! Starting therapy is a brave choice, and I am here to offer a safe, supportive space where healing can begin. I specialize in working with individuals and families navigating the weight of past trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. Together, we can uncover your strengths, build resilience, and work toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. If you're ready to start your healing journey, I’d be honored to walk alongside you every step of the way. I chose to become a mental health provider because I have always been deeply passionate about helping others navigate life's challenges and find a sense of healing and balance. Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed how powerful support, understanding, and a safe space can be in fostering growth and resilience. I’m committed to empowering individuals to better understand themselves, overcome obstacles, and create meaningful change. Becoming a mental health provider allows me to combine my desire to make a positive impact with my belief in the transformative power of therapy. My goal is to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives, and to offer them the tools and support they need to thrive.

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.