Therapists in California

Do you feel stuck? Ever feel like your past is a ghost haunting your present? Struggling with relationships, battling self-hatred, or constant self-criticism? You want peace, self-acceptance, and healthier connections but trauma keeps pulling you back? When you go through something really tough, your mind can get stuck on negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself and the world. Therapy can help you identify and challenge these thoughts, so they don't control your life. Imagine breaking free, understanding yourself better, and finally moving forward with confidence. That’s what you truly deserve. I am a Stanford-trained and educated clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience. With a compassionate approach, I help people identify and challenge these thoughts, so they don't control your life. By working through these patterns, you can start to feel less overwhelmed and more in control, making it easier to move forward and heal. I understand how tough it can be. With all the confusing advice floating around, it's easy to feel like hope is slipping away. But it's not. Reach out to me today, and let's dive into a world of science-backed tools together. We'll craft a plan that's not just doable, but approachable, and most importantly, leads to tangible improvements in your life.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing service to those in need. I have been providing individual therapy since 2012. I am a California native and grew up in the Los Angeles area. I am genuine, patient and experienced with a wide range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, grief and loss, trauma. My goal in your work with me is to improve your quality life through psychoeducation, identifying healthy coping strategies as well as an emphasis on mindfulness skills to enable you to become more self-aware.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 8 years. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating the challenges of anxiety and depression. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I help individuals gain insight, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience. My practice also focuses on addressing male-specific issues, providing a safe space for men to explore and work through concerns related to identity, relationships, and emotional well-being. I am dedicated to empowering my clients to achieve their personal and mental health goals, fostering growth and lasting change.

Welcome, I'm Wilson Flanders, I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I am a licensed clinician in 4 states (CA, NY, FL & MA) and enjoy helping clients improve their mental health and their lives. I find joy in seeing clients achieving their goals, and feeling that I made a difference in their lives. I am a digital nomad, and meeting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California for 20 years and I hold a doctorate degree in the Philosophy of Counseling. I am in my second marriage for 29 years now, after my 24-year first marriage failed. We have seven children between the two of us, 31 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. I have had good success counseling couples who have given up on their relationship, especially those who have experienced infedelity. I don't counsel children until they are 18. I enjoy helping people understand how they became the way they are and therfore find ways to leave dysfunction behind.

I began working in mental health 23 years ago and have worked in community-based therapy, lockdown facilities, in-home therapy, and different schools. I have found over time that the most rewarding factor of doing this work is giving people comfort and support, not only solutions. No matter what type of therapy the client prefers, the environment is based individually on the client. I do not press the pace of the session. Normally, there's a check, but other than that, it depends on the pace the client feels comfortable with for that session.

I am a Hispanic Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California and Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from San Diego State University in Clinical Social Work, and have been practicing for four years. I provide bilingual (Spanish/English) and bicultural psychotherapy services to individuals 18+ struggling with mental health challenges and trauma-related disorders regain self-control and power. In my practice, I utilize a blend of holistic, multisystemic, and integrative evidence-based models tailored to your specific needs and concerns. I am gender and culturally affirming, incredibly compassionate and genuine, able to create an immediate warm and safe space that evokes clients to open up and share.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from the University Antioch Los Angeles and have been practicing for 9 years. I help adults at different stages of life and transitions who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and trauma to help nurture and restore a sense of balance. My approach to working with clients is centered around the individual as a whole - recognizing intrinsic uniqueness and reinforcing inner strength – supporting an individuals innate ability to grow and thrive.

Hello, my name is Ritika Kaur. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California (License #101199) providing psychotherapy services in English and Punjabi. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help individuals navigate life's challenges and find hope, healing, and well-being. I was drawn to the mental health field by a deep desire to help others overcome adversity and lead fulfilling lives. After earning my Master's in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2011, I gained diverse experience in community mental health, substance use treatment, and providing evidence-based services before becoming licensed in California in 2017.

Hello my name is Virginia Myricks, LMFT and my goal is to encourage, challenge and empower you to uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I understand that every individual struggles with life challenges in their own unique way and it would be my pleasure to work with you on identifying your goals, offering treatment interventions that are best suited to your individual needs and to assist you in experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Hello, my name is David Fallon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been licensed for about 20 years. I've worked with all kinds of individuals. I started by working with kids with behavior issues. Mostly I have worked with serious mental illness on the streets serving unhoused individuals. And I have worked with people seeking help in a one on one therapy situation. The first session will be for us to get to know each other and see if this is a good fit. I will be asking a lot of questions. Feel free to ask me any questions that come up as well. I will tell you a little bit about how I work. In the early stages, I basically follow your lead. You tell me what you want to work on, and I ask questions to understand the problem. Together we figure out ways of dealing with these problems. Sometimes it takes more than one or two or even a dozen tries to find the right things that work for you. This process is a journey, and I am here to help guide you through it. I can make recommendations, but it is up to you what you want to do and what works for you. Sometimes difficult thoughts are feelings will come up. Do not be afraid to express them when they do as the more genuine and honest you are, the more I will understand what you are dealing with. That being said, always take things at your own pace. Never feel rushed or forced to say anything you are not ready to say.

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

I am a Licensed Clinical social worker who is very passionate about destigmatizing mental illnesses and providing excellent psychotherapy to my clients. I earned my Bachelors in psychology from UCLA, and my Masters in social work from USC. I started counseling at UCLA during my sophomore year, so I have 6 years of counseling experience, and I have 5 years of experience for providing therapy. When I am not working, I love to travel, go hiking, roller-skate, cook and eat.

I am a dedicated professional who works tirelessly to meet the needs of my clients. With a focus on relationships and exploring options, I strive to deliver exceptional service in all aspects of my work. My goal is to build strong, long-lasting relationships based on trust and mutual respect. I like to explore the history of an issue and its relationship to you.

Angelica has a passion for helping young children and adolescents, as well as couples and families. She works with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, adjustment, grief, family conflicts and sever medical diagnosis. Angelica has specialized experience working with those who have suffered extreme trauma or have unresolved feelings about past experiences. Angelica also specializes in support for children and adolescents with serious behavioral difficulties (including: cutting or other self-harming behaviors, anger outbursts, defiance, dis-respectfulness, etc) Angelica believes that understanding, respect, and honesty are at the heart of the therapeutic relationship. She works with clients to explore past experiences and practice real life challenges, providing clients with the tools to better manage themselves towards their goals.

Welcome! My name is Norberto Carlos. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Master's Degree from the California State University of Long Beach (CSULB) in 1999 and have been practicing for 20+ years. I help clients struggling in various ares of their lives become better versions of themselves by developing the awareness and coping skills necessary to live a value-based life.

My name is Angelique Celestine, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, working with individuals and families in child welfare and the school system. My focus is helping individuals and families manage stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, family conflicts, grief, self-esteem, and a severe diagnosis of a loved one. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, working collaboratively to help you build new coping strategies and achieve lasting positive change.

Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy that you reached out for help. I am Robert Nwanganga, a licensed therapist. I have been a Social Worker since 2003. I also need to let you know that I am more interested in finding out why a certain behavior is occurring than I am in demonizing you for exhibiting the behavior. I have worked with a diverse populations and I have learned that therapy has to be personal if it is to be effective. I am committed to working with you in finding what modality works with your personality and focus on your strength in dealing with the situation that brought you to us.

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience specializing in trauma-informed care, substance use disorders, and mindfulness-based therapies. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic approaches to help clients gain deeper emotional understanding, develop practical coping skills, and navigate life’s challenges effectively. My focus areas include managing anxiety, depression, perfectionism, identity, and unresolved trauma.

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.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California specializing in individual therapy for adults. I received my Master's from the University of Phoenix and have practiced for over seven years in various capacities with young adults, adults, and seniors. I am a Christian counselor and clinical therapist, and therefore, I combine spirituality and psychotherapy in our treatment. I help adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, stress, life transitions, and grief and loss.

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist dedicated to helping motivated adults break free from stress, anxiety, and relationship struggles so they can live with clarity and peace of mind. With a direct yet compassionate style, I combine therapy and coaching methods to create fast, lasting results. My focus is on empowering high-functioning men and women to reset, heal, and thrive.

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to keep it all together? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Matthew C. Volzer, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in mental health and 12 years helping individuals, couples, and families create lasting change through evidence-based therapy. I specialize in working with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, or the emotional weight of past trauma. My approach is practical, compassionate, and results-oriented. Drawing from CBT, trauma-focused therapy, and family systems work, I’ll help you understand the patterns that keep you stuck and give you tools to move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re looking to quiet your inner critic, build stronger relationships, or simply feel more like yourself again—I’m here to support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to start feeling better and make meaningful changes in your life, I’d be honored to work with you.

Hello! My name is Miaisha. Are you looking for a space where you can keep it real and get support? Good, because I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported. I am a compassionate and culturally sensitive Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use multiple treatment approaches when working with clients, one of which is client-centered, this allows you to be the driver of your journey, while I am riding in the passenger seat. Whether you're adjusting to new life roles or seeking deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support you. You deserve a therapist who sees and affirms you, helping you embrace change with confidence and resilience. Let’s work together to create meaningful, lasting change. I invite you to reach out and take the first step and know that you are not alone. Together, we’ll create a path forward that honors your unique journey.

Rachel Howard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, Nationally Board- Certified Art Therapist, Registered Yoga Teacher, Clinical Supervisor & Consultant, as well as a Certified Focusing-Oriented Expressive Arts (FOAT®) Practitioner. She has almost a decade of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families in a therapeutic capacity. She specializes in trauma and family work. She is an integrative psychotherapist – integrating art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, astrology, spirituality, and more into therapy. She describes her approach as holistic, compassionate, mindful, playful, creative, grounded, and prioritizes compassionate listening. While working with her clients, Rachel holds the deep knowing and belief that each of our minds, body, and spirit are naturally moving toward health and healing. That we are all born with an innate and inherent wholeness that can often get lost in our culture as we grow or due to traumas where help was not available at that time. Rachel holds a heartfelt and safe space for the natural healing of her clients.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with six years of experience in the mental health field. My journey as a therapist is fueled by a deep passion for personal growth, empathy, and professional dedication. I am committed to supporting individuals from all walks of life, helping them navigate challenges—big or small—and empowering them to become the best version of themselves.

Hello I’m Kim and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work and I provide telehealth therapy in California. I am passionate about working with women 25+ and have experience working with every ethnic group. I would love the opportunity to help you gain insight into your situation and hope for your future.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for helping individuals heal and grow. I have a Master's in Counseling and over 6 years of experience supporting clients through life’s challenges. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and relationship issues, using approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and DBT to help clients build self-awareness, resilience, and emotional well-being. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can process your thoughts and emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and live a more meaningful life.

I am a husband, father, and twin brother (I have and identical twin sister). I am also a reiki master and hypnotherapist. When I am not conducting psychotherapy (talk therapy), I enjoy conducting past life regressions to help people resolve past life trauma. I also use hypnotherapy to heal trauma. Hypnotherapy is not covered by most insurances and may result in cash pay. I enjoy helping people identify their wants and needs so they can then identify their goals and dreams. I believe we all have had experiences that have stifled our self-confidence which then causes us to doubt our ability. I enjoy helping people discover that part of themselves that is hidden as a result. I believe the world is a collective of people. We need to take care of ourselves, each other, and the animals we share this planet with.

Hello! I am an LCSW who has been practicing in the field for over a decade. I primarily work with children, adolescents and young adults but my space is open for anyone! I specialize in bringing an empowered and person- centered approach to my work because I believe true healing comes from us working together. Some of my passions include empowerment of minority communities, trauma-informed care, self-advocacy and connecting my clients to other resources and information to serve them in all areas of life. I absolutely love what I do and aim to be transparent, honest, and to make therapy feel like a comfortable and welcoming experience (not a doctor's appointment!) I believe in humanizing the challenges we all go through, and I'm honored to be part of other's healing journey.

Hello there : ) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I have been practicing for 12 years. I create confidential, non-judgmental, and safe space for you to unpack your thoughts and process your feelings about whatever is causing you to feel sad, stuck, angry, or confused. It is a privilege to be a part of your journey of healing.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California. I also have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Cal State University Northridge. I have a extensive history with over 15 years of experience working with adults 18 and over with various mental health diagnoses. I like to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients to have a place to express their thoughts and feelings.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's from California State Dominquez Hills and have been practicing for 15 years. I help adults and adolescents who are experiencing life challenges become more productive in their personal lives and in their community. My specialties are in the areas of relationship challenges and clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, mood, anger, impulsivity, and self-esteem. Moreover, I have experience with families dealing with child abuse, family custody challenges, substance abuse counseling (men/women), psychotherapy (men/women/adolescents), and group services. My clinical training and therapeutic skills have helped individuals navigate life's experiences through their ups and downs. I am confident in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Coping Skills Development with a client-centered and solution-focused approach. I focus closely on what I can offer to help, taking one step at a time, keeping the communication active, and empowering individuals to concentrate on self-care. Most of all, to build individuals' motivation to enhance their everyday living.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters from the California State University of Los Angeles and have been practicing for 8 years. I have experience treating a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relational problems, and career and/or academic stress and burnout. Together we can discover and find meaning in your unique life experiences.

Hi, I’m Zahra Adloo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to helping individuals navigate trauma, addiction, PTSD, and major life transitions. My approach is eclectic and client-centered, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs using solution-focused, narrative, existential, and psychodynamic therapies. Whether you're working through past wounds, seeking clarity in your relationships, or striving for personal growth, I provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore, heal, and reclaim your authentic self.

Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in East Bay, California. I have 15 years experience working with clients, providing therapeutic counseling services. I have worked with a diverse population of clients ranging from children, teens, adults, and elders. I provide services for individuals and families assisting with issues such as depression, isolation, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds and I value genuineness and collaboration with my clients. I provide a safe and supportive holding environment that is authentic and nonjudgmental in nature. I tailor my specific approach depending on client situation, needs, and goals for therapy. As well as draw from theories such as CBT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Client Centered modalities. Growth and change are encouraged through self reflection and finding practical solutions to problems. Making a change can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you are ready to take the first step and begin the road to a new way of life, I am here to help uplift and support you! I appreciate your courage and I look forward to hearing from you!

For the past 16 years, I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am certified in three evidence-based treatments which is useful in reducing and managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and traumatic memories. I'd like to offer you the most up-to-date, appropriate, and effective interventions possible but also create a safe and supportive environment just for you. During our time together, you will learn workable skills, tools, and strategies that can significantly improve the quality of your life.

As an LMFT, I focus on seeing men and women with anxiety and depression by helping them feel more independent, develop their self confidence, set new boundaries with family, and bring new joy and peace back into their daily lives. I am licensed in both Texas and California, and love to see clients remotely for virtual sessions. In addition to my clinical experience, I also have a background in religious studies and am passionate about seeing clients from various cultural backgrounds. Whether you are starting therapy for the first time, returning, or looking for a better fit, all clients are welcome.

Hi! I'm Darla, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with clients throughout the state of California providing both in person and telehealth services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years. I currently work with clients age 18 years and older with a focus on those struggling with anxiety, depression, and other areas causing stress.

As an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, young adults, couples and Families. Throughout my experience, I have successfully worked with individuals, couples and families to gain insight and understanding regarding unhealthy/dysfunctional behavioral life patterns, processing trauma, navigating depression, anxiety and OCD behaviors and helping clients to overcome their struggles and better manage their responses to life stressors. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, addressing mind & body. As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in a variety of evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, strengths-based therapy & psychotherapy, to help clients overcome negative thought patterns and behaviors. I want to provide clients with the tools they need for growth, as well as educating them on important concepts like trauma and emotional regulation and long-term healing. I am here to provide a safe, empathetic space where healing and growth can begin. To ensure we’re a good fit, I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor licensed in the state of California. I received my Master's in Counseling at the University of Great Falls. I have been practicing for over 10 years and have worked in both a community health center setting and in an individual practice. I enjoy working with diverse populations to improve their overall well-being in their daily life.

I am a psychotherapist and a theologian. I understand that people are imperfect, but there is always room for improvement. Oftentimes, when we expand our knowledge and skills in managing interpersonal relationships, we can experience more joy in life. As a therapist, I help clients overcome psychological issues preventing them from thriving in and maintaining healthy and meaningful relationships. Empowering individuals and couples and obtaining skills to help them live harmonious, confident, happier lives is satisfying.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to supporting adults as they navigate life’s challenges and work toward lasting emotional well-being. In my practice, I help clients reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress by helping you get unstuck. I do this by focusing on practical strategies tailored to your unique needs. I specialize in helping you identify and set healthy boundaries, improve your communication skills, and reconnect with your sense of personal empowerment. Whether you are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or the effects of past experiences, I provide a compassionate and collaborative space where you can safely explore your concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based techniques designed to address the root causes of distress and promote meaningful, long-term change. Together, we will work to help you build resilience, enhance your self-understanding, and create healthier patterns so you can experience greater fulfillment and balance in your daily life.

Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Registered Art Therapist based in California. I have been practicing for 18 years with an array of populations and in different settings. I help individuals of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and relational issues, or personal struggles that may be causing distress and preventing them from becoming their best self, or preventing them to meet their goals in life.

I am a psychotherapist, a meditation teacher, and an amateur naturalist. In my home country, I am licensed to conduct learning disability evaluations. My growing up was first-hand impacted by 3 very different languages and cultures. These cultures informed the style of my relationships and my esthetic preferences. For as long as I can remember, I have been mystified by human memory functioning, first as a scientist, then as a meditator. Having gone a long way from trying to remember everything I deemed worth remembering to a more effortless and drama-free attitude toward memory-creating moments, I am still making sense of what it means to integrate each moment of life as it comes. Approaching this subject experientially and relationally informs who I am as a practitioner and as a person. If topics like cognitive functioning, memory styles and focus make your curiosity antennas hum, this is a place for you. My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational and somewhat didactic. I love to explain everything I see and say at every step of the process. With me, you will never experience a blank screen characteristic of traditional psychoanalytic approaches (from which I draw inspiration in the realm of dream interpretation and theory).

My therapy framework is inspired by Black feminist sci-fi writer Octavia E. Butler who inspired my belief that healing helps us imagine and build worlds beyond the forces that dominate, dehumanize, and disconnect. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal, and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body. I draw from a number of therapeutic approaches that gently uncover without judgment deeply embedded coping strategies that were once necessary for survival but may no longer align with your current sense of self, desire for connection, and movements towards what makes you feel seen and heard. These practices also nurture emotional regulation and self-acceptance, deepen awareness of relational patterns and help you find meaning through creative expression and personal grounding practices such as art, music, time in nature, being with animal children and more that feel truly attuned to who you're becoming. Together, they help us tend to both the immediate and deeper layers of your experience—supporting clarity, connection, and a more compassionate relationship with yourself and others.

Hey there! I'm a young clinician that enjoys aiding clients through major and minor life transitions. I prefer a interactive, conversational style that allows for free flowing rapport building and client comfort through the treatment process. I know that counseling/therapy is not an easy situation to put oneself in, but if I can ease it in any way possible, that is the goal, so that we can focus on what most matters to you.

Hello! I'm Melissa. I love what I do! Counseling people is my life's work. Been doing it 20 years. Whatever you are going through, I can assure you, I've worked with someone who's dealt with something similar. I specialize in treating addiction, worked in 5 in-patient drug & alcohol treatment centers/rehabs in my career (mostly w/men). I have years of professional experience working with an array of issues and populations. I enjoy working with individuals and families. I have several years experience working w/teens, including those who grew up in the system, been abused, at high-risk, or with behavioral or learning problems. Clients feedback is reported as: I'm "easy to talk to," "friendly," "down to earth." I've been told I'm helpful & a "good listener;" that's important to me. I'm mostly solution-focused, meaning...I want to understand the problem, but get into the tough work of finding solutions as soon as possible. As a therapist, I have empathy, am caring, and invested in improving your life circumstances. I'm non-judgmental. I believe no matter how similar or different we may be, we can work together and develop rapport. We can start right away, opening lines of communication so I can understand where you're coming from and help anyway I can. My hope is to develop a warm, trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable, and heard. One of my favorite things to hear as a therapist from a client is, "exactly," because I know we're on the same page, and smile when a client says after session, " I feel much better." That's my aspiration, to help, get to know you. Please understand this is not just a job for me. I'm genuinely here for you! Thanks for taking the time to read this & learn more about me as a professional.