Therapists in California

Do you wonder if your life could feel better than it currently does? I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, including postpartum anxiety and depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, and other life challenges. In this therapeutic process, we work together to help bring you closer to what truly matters to you and help create change and healing in your life. I use evidence-based techniques, which includes EMDR along with a variety of other treatment modalities. I am EMDR Trained and currently working toward EMDR certification as well. Therapy can help you create a sense of safety and nurturing within, whether you’ve lost that feeling along the way or never had it to begin with. I strongly believe in the brain’s tendency towards resilience and its innate ability to heal itself with support. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, open-minded, and respectful environment, and I believe that a collaborative relationship is critical to therapeutic success. Let’s work together to help you find the healing you are needing. Here is my website if you want to read more about what I offer: www.SamanthaStermonTherapy.com

Hi, and thanks for taking the time to look at my profile. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing telehealth therapy in California and New York. I received my Masters from Rutgers University and my undergraduate degree from Bucknell University. I have been providing therapy for over 20 years. My job is to support individuals and couples in positive growth, as the client defines it.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), based in California. I received my MSSA in "Mental Health" from the Case Western Reserve University, and I have been practicing for the last eight years. I help clients who are struggling with stress, anxiety and/or depression, heal and become the best versions of themselves. I also have extensive experience in working with adults who are survivors of domestic violence (DV), intimate partner violence (IPT), and those who are suffering from symptoms of PTSD. I also enjoy working with families who may be experiencing triangulation and communication difficulties. My preferred clinical approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness meditation embedded in DBT, Narrative Therapy, and psycho-dynamic therapy. Finally, I view my clients from a holistic perspective so that we can understand what barriers may be restricting them from experiencing true happiness in life.

I welcome individuals who are interested in taking the first step towards positive change and fulfillment. Whether you are going through a difficult time in your life or dealing with long-standing issues, together we can find solutions. The process of therapy could be life changing and challenging. The goal of therapy is to help you build on your strengths and to empower you to face life’s challenges with more confidence. Through the course of therapy, you will gain new insights and greater self-awareness to achieve a richer understanding of your life. You will learn strategies that will help you master your thoughts, emotions and behavior in order to achieve personal growth. Please contact the office to make an appointment. +1 (786) 755-1863 reception+Mana12417@growtherapy.com

Maxine L. Kibble LMFT, MA, PsyD Candidate I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Connecticut, and Utah. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education and Dance Therapy from New York University. I have two master's degrees: one in marriage and family counseling from the University of Phoenix and a second master's in clinical psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. I am enrolled in the PsyD doctoral program at California Southern University and am scheduled to graduate in 05/2025. I have 23 years of experience as an educator, counselor, career counselor, and researcher in psychology. As a licensed MFT therapist, my expertise is in the areas of substance abuse, prison populations, AB109s (felons)/290s (sex offenders), anger management, domestic violence, career counseling, and parenting supervision. In addition to individual, couples, and family counseling, I have experience with specific populations, such as transgender and LGBTQ, with a particular cultural emphasis on identity formation. I have worked closely with psychiatrists regarding members who require medication management and assessments, diagnosing and creating for those individuals, couples, and family's treatment plans counseling services. My clientele ranges from 6 to 75 years of age, and my therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Narrative therapy, and Supportive therapy. My foundation and belief system are based on being culturally sensitive when working with all clients to understand how they see their presenting problem within the context of their culture.

I'm Elizabeth, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic self, develop compassion towards self and others, and live a meaningful life through transformation and healing.

Honesty, integrity, insight, awareness, knowledge, relief and resolutions are what you'll get with me. I believe the theraputic process is organic and our sessions will unfold overtime, focusing on getting you to a place where you can think clearly, understand yourself better and feel solid. I am an out of the box thinker and doer with full acceptance for all lifes wonders. Differences are appealing and I welcome them with open arms, encouraging you to be your absolute self %100 of the time. If you need a jump start, help figuring out what makes you tick, what makes you happy, what your authentic self needs to thrive, I'd love to work with you. Life throws curve balls that can be annoying, frustrating, shocking at times. I get it because I've been there. It's ok and healthy to ask for help. I fully believe in the connection between body and mind and weave differing modalities into therapy in order to address each component of healing and wellness. Often we don't realize that just one simple tweak can launch you into the lifetime you want. I believe your truth is in you, and my role of therapist is to provide emotional support, insight, and to help you navigate through past and present so you can have the future you deserve.

I’m a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals who feel emotionally disconnected, culturally displaced, or quietly out of step with the world around them. I hold an MA in Psychology with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute in Los Angeles and am certified in psychoanalytic psychotherapy through the New Center for Psychoanalysis. This foundation in depth psychology informs my approach to work and the therapeutic relationship.

Do you feel held back by experiences you can't seem to move on from? Do you know your goals, but struggle to find the path to get there? Are you looking for a space to better understand yourself, your past, and the person you want to be in the future? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I am here to help you dive into understanding not only how to grow in the present, but also what pieces have come together to create the person you are today. We don't exist in a vacuum, therefore I take a holistic approach that works with the confluence of mental, social, and cultural factors surrounding each individual. One of the most difficult parts of therapy is choosing to begin. Congratulations for making it this far. I would be overjoyed to walk alongside you as you continue on this journey of growth and self-love.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from CSU Stanislaus and have been practicing for over 12 years. I work collaboratively with adults around a variety of life stressors to help them meet their individual goals. Some of my specific areas of expertise include working with anxiety disorders, life transitions, and women’s health.

Hello! I'm Norit Bercovicz (pronounced Nor-reet Berk-o-vitz), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#122569) and a Registered Art Therapist in California. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Rutgers University and a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University, I've dedicated over 7 years to working with with diverse populations, from children to military veterans. In my practice, informed by personal growth and training, I blend Art Therapy, mindfulness practices, and more to promote heightened awareness. Embracing a client-centered approach, I meet you where you are, whether or not that involves art-making. Specializing in day-to-day challenges like anxiety, depression, and adjustment difficulties, I also guide individuals in transforming uncertainty into opportunity. Beyond my therapeutic work, I find joy in nature—whether hiking, camping, or on a backpacking trip with loved ones. I recharge by spending time with family, friends, and my delightful fur baby, Shoko.

I know from experience that looking for a therapist could be stressful. If you are here then you are on the right path and I am here to walk it with you. My name is Marypaz Garrdea. I am a bilingual, Spanish and English, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I am also a clinical psychologist from Mexico City with more than 15 years of experience. My passion is to provide psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and families in a compassionate environment full of support and understanding. At the same time, giving you the tools to grow and achieve your goals in life. “Because life is not what it’s supposed to be. It is what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference” Virginia Satir.

Hi it's nice to meet you, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from Fuller Theological Seminary and have been practicing for 8 years. I help adults struggling with trauma, anxiety and stresses of life to regain their sense of agency, make sense of the past, and make progress towards their goals for the future.

I am a dedicated Licensed Professional in Private Practice in the Los Angeles area, with over 20 years of direct counseling experience. I provide high-quality services aimed at helping clients achieve a balanced perspective on their mental health. My goal is to assist clients in developing the skills needed to maintain emotional well-being through life's challenges. Ultimately, my primary aim is to enhance the overall well-being and mental health of my clients.

I hear you. You've been going through the motions, avoiding pain, sometimes barely hanging on, and trying to live a "normal," happy life. But, your past keeps creeping up and interrupts your hopes and goals, negatively impacts your day to day life, and creates relationship struggles. A childhood trauma might be coming up or a more recent traumatic event, or maybe something you might not describe as traumatic is inserting itself into your well being. Either way, your life isn't going the way you want it to. I can help you heal from the past and move beyond the experiences that are wreaking havoc on you, so that you can have the life and future that you want and deserve. Reaching out to a therapist can feel scary, embarrassing, even shameful, but you're tired of not living. You are ready to move forward, beyond the pain, sadness, fear, and difficulty that has been in your life so far. It's time to reach out.

I am a bilingual-Spanish-speaking, Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in the mental health field. My specialty is focused on individuals over the age of 21 dealing with anxiety, depression, postpartum, grief and loss, life transitions, and women's issues. My training consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, Interpersonal Therapy, Crisis Therapy, Motivational Therapy, etc.; however, when providing services to clients, I prefer to utilize a Solution-Focused approach to help clients achieve their mental health goals. I believe that there is not a “one size fits all” approach to therapy and that collaboration and trust with my clients is key to success in therapy. My goal is to help and empower others who are struggling to heal so that they can have a better future and not continue to live in the pain of the past. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching a movie/show, or reading a book.

I believe in the value of building a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship to tap into your internal strength, self-expertise, and self-expression to promote growth and support healing. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, #126521, in California, and I graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Expressive Arts Therapy from California Institute of Integral Studies in 2015.

I’m someone who believes that real healing begins with understanding — of yourself, your struggles, and your strengths. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience, I’m here to help you uncover the deeper causes of your challenges and guide you toward meaningful, lasting change. Life brings many stressors that can affect your ability to cope — mentally, emotionally, and even physically. In our work together, whether individually or in a group setting, I take a holistic approach that supports your well-being in mind, body, and spirit. My practice is client-centered and rooted in mindfulness. Together, we’ll gently explore what may be keeping you stuck — whether it’s unresolved trauma, painful memories, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or addiction. With compassionate support and practical tools, we’ll work to restore your sense of balance, build resilience, and help you reconnect with your full potential.

If you’re reading this, it means you exist. Based on your religion, culture, or general belief, you may have a meaning for existence. However, no matter your meaning, one thing is clear - existence can be very challenging for us. There are many ways to cope with the challenges of existing, resulting in different experiences. Therapy is just one way to manage the challenges. Therapy There are many ways to approach therapy. One way I like to approach it is to view an individual as a system. In therapy then, we check the system to see what’s working well, what’s neutral, and what’s not going well. In doing this, the goal is to get an individual to admit the reality of things, not what the individual wants or hopes but the present true reality. It's important to identify and understand the reality of an individual because often there are significant fears and or unstable belief in the individual’s ability to manage challenges and get desired results. Lack of control – one of the foundational fears for us is the lack of control we seem to have over ourselves and others. How does one cope with seemingly so little control - from how one comes into existence to how will my friend react if I said no. Whether you’re a veteran in going to therapy or trying it for the first time, we will work as a team to see if we can get you to be how you want to be given the infinite things that are not in your control.

Im a kind and caring person fundamentally. I studied social work, which feels like a natural extension of who I am, at Barry University. I have served a variety of populations since my MSW in my roles as an inpatient/ER case manager in acute care and psychiatric hospitals. I am clinically licensed and work independently serving clients through Telehealth. My goal is to provide my clients support and guidance and provide a safe space for them to express themselves. I enjoy treating each client individually and collaborating with them to address their concerns and implement changes to improve their quality of life.

My name is Suzanne and I have been working in the field of mental health since 2009. I have a passion to support others with personal growth and healing through a variety of mental health interventions. I prefer to evaluate the whole person and their history in order to best create a treatment plan that addresses each client's unique needs. The hope is to create a lasting positive change in their overall well-being and connections with others.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I’ve worked in hospice, school settings, and private practice over the past several years. I help individuals who are feeling anxious, stuck, or overwhelmed reconnect with themselves and build confidence from the inside out. Clients appreciate my grounded yet flexible approach—I guide each session while creating space for them to lead, which helps them feel truly seen and supported.

I feel deeply honored to do this work and consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients on their journeys. As a mother of two young children, I have a special appreciation for the complexities of parenting and the ways our own childhood attachments can shape our relationships today. I especially enjoy helping people uncover those patterns and nurture deeper, more intentional, and authentic connections. My practice is an affirming space for clients across the full spectrum of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and relationship structures. All are welcome here.

Are you looking for nonjudgmental listening, do you struggle with anxiety and worry over daily living, do you need support in a phase of life struggle? Through an initial assessment we will work together on developing your goals to support growth to better living. You will receive compassionate listening that provides a nonjudgmental space to work through challenges that you may be going through. I specialize in children, youth, and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. I have been providing therapeutic services to youth and families since 2009 when I started working in the school system providing therapy to students through their IEP. Currently, I have been in private practice since 2018 providing therapy to adults and youth utilizing Solution Focused, CBT, and DBT therapy styles in my practice supporting patients with mood disorders, depression, anxiety and life transitions. In my tele therapy practice, I have moved away from working with patients under 16 as I find that in-person therapy is more effective for younger children. I received my Master's Degree from California State Long Beach and earned my licensure hours through the Los Angeles Unified School District. My hope for patients is for them to be able to learn skills that will help them move forward from current challenges on their own. I do not provide assessments or complete paperwork for work disability or emotional support animals. Additionally, I do not participate in court proceedings or custody-related matters.

I have worked in private practice and the school systems providing Educationally Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS) for almost 25 years. During this time I founded a small business where my team and I provide these mental health services individually and in groups on-site to school districts all over Sonoma County, CA. I love working with children k-12 and their families. I have worked in non-public schools, public schools, and privately with at-risk youth and their families. This has been my passion my whole career. I have been married to my lovely wife for 18 years, together for 24 years and we have two beautiful children. Our son is 13 and our daughter is 10. I enjoy all things outdoors. I surfed competitively in my youth and I love mountain biking, snowboarding and anything that has to do with water, but my main love is spending time with my family.

Hello, my name is Serina Palomino. I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor), and NCC (nationally certified counselor), and I like to meet my clients where they are utilizing an integrative approach. I provide therapeutic services to children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation, primarily utilizing CBT, EMDR, art therapy, and mindfulness. My approach to therapeutic services is holistic and integrative. I provide in-depth assessments to determine therapeutic needs and identify core underlying issues contributing to client symptoms and behaviors. I integrate the qualities of a humanistic approach to establish and maintain the therapeutic alliance to support the client's successful discharge from services.

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

"I'm so overwhelmed- I don't even know where to begin." "I don't know who to turn to, but I know I can't keep going like this." "The stress in my life is exhausting, and I just need some peace." If any of this feels familiar, you're not alone- and you don't have to figure it out alone either. Welcome, and congratulations on taking this courageous step toward your growth and healing. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and life coach in California with over 20 years of experience helping people move through life's hardest moments with greater clarity, strength, and self-trust. Before becoming a therapist, I spent more than a decade as an international AMI-trained Montessori teacher, completing my training in Bergamo, Italy. Originally from Austria, I've called California home for the past 30 years. My approach is rooted in attachment theory and shaped by an existential-humanistic lens. I'll meet you with practical support for what's happening now, while also helping you explore the deeper patterns that may be holding you back. I also draw from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), grounding techniques, and mindfulness based practices to help you stay centered and resilient. Nature plays a key role in my work. I integrate elements of ecopsychology, sound healing, guided imagery, and animal assisted work to support nervous system regulation and emotional balance. While listed here as virtual only, I offer a hybrid model: a mix of virtual and in-person sessions in both Santa Rosa and Santa Barbara, CA. If therapy doesn't feel like the right fit, I invite you to explore my coaching website www.cycredentialed.com for nature-based life coaching services. I offer support for personal growth, clarity, and meaningful change outside of a clinical setting. You're welcome to schedule a free discovery call to learn more.

I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Strength-based approach to empower clients and build resilience with life difficulties. I value clients on a human level and facilitate growth towards a more fulfilling life.

As a clinician, I am dedicated to achieving results for my clients. I believe my clients can find their best solutions, and my job is to help them navigate towards these goals. I take a collaborative approach, working together with my clients to explore and distinguish difficult emotions and their underlying story. Once my client has a good understanding of where they’ve been and where they are, we can work together to plot a course towards where they want to me.

Hello! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in California. I have almost three decades of working with families, adolescents, and young adults who have experienced a wide range of challenges. Mood issues, anxiety, various traumas or general disappointments are experiences that we all often experience. Life transitions happen. Therapy can be useful as you learn how to navigate through various experiences.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I received my bachelor's degree from Cornell University, a master's degree from the State University of New York (SUNY) system, another master's from the University of New Mexico, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of New Mexico. I've trained at three Veteran's Affairs hospitals (most recently VA Puget Sound) and completed my residency at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. I've co-authored more the 25 scholarly articles, chapters for medical textbooks, and symposia at national conferences, worked on a number of research grants funded by the National Institutes of Health, and have been providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups since 2014.

Hello and welcome to my practice. Trauma and shame keep you feeling like you should be on the sidelines instead of starring in the game. You might not know exactly how, but you know it’s because of your painful past. So many women never mention sexual abuse or other trauma because they’re ashamed of it… or they believe they should “be over it.” So, they try to “file it away” so it has minimal impact on their lives. But it never works. The pain festers, and keeping your story hidden away prevents you from living fully and authentically – with others AND yourself. Through our work together, the women I work with move from merely coping to thriving- reclaiming their power, speaking their truth with clarity, and taking up space in the world with calm, unapologetic confidence. The result is a life that feels grounded, whole, and one you are deeply connected with. It will be my profound honor to go on this healing journey with you.

Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for six years. I work with adults that struggle with depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have problems with substance use. I believe that you are the expert in your life. My role is to help you recognize your strengths and learn how to build on those strengths to help you become the best version of yourself.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I have been servicing patients and families in a hospital setting for the last nine years and have the desire to extend my services to therapy. My goal is to help people grow and develop a strong sense of self in the journey to becoming the best version of oneself.

Hello! I’m Ignacio. I am a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) based in Monterey, California that truly enjoys helping clients overcome life struggles. While English is my primary language, I also speak Spanish fluently. I have worked with clients that have different life experiences including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, recovery from break-ups, identity issues, and other challenges. I am also welcoming to LGBTQIQ folx as an ally and I am gender-affirming. I am bicultural (Mexican-American) and bilingual (Spanish). The clients I have served in the past have benefited from the way in which I do therapy and help them overcome the difficulties in their lives to help them live and enjoy life more. I use science-backed (EBT) methods to help my clients including CBT, MI, and Mindfulness.

Hi my name is Anoushey Khan and I'm a Licensed Psychotherapist in California with over 10 years experience providing mental health support to children, teens and families. I love working with teens, young adults, parents and families struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, stress and relationships issues. I have past experience working with a school district, in a group practice, working with outpatient programs as well as with a domestic violence crisis shelter. I think the experience in all these diverse settings helped me grow as a therapist and as a human-being therefore in my counseling approach with my clients, I not only adapt my professional expertise to fit their unique needs and situation but also bring my own life experiences as a mom, as a partner, friend and fellow human who has grappled with similar issues. I live in San Diego with my husband and two sons, I love the ocean, traveling, trying foods from all over the world and getting to know and help people from all walks of life.

Hi, I’m Fabiola Serrano, a first-generation Latina and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I help people who are navigating anxiety, depression, low self-worth, and relationship struggles—especially those who often feel overwhelmed by strong emotions. My approach blends evidence-based tools like CBT and DBT with compassion and cultural sensitivity. Together, we’ll work on building emotional balance, confidence, and more meaningful connections in your life.

Hi. I am the daughter of immigrants which motivated me to study Multicultural community based psychology. I have worked in many different settings from community mental health to private practice. Currently I am the director of a consultation unit for youth and young adults in the foster care system. I really enjoy working with people on how to maximize their potential to create happier lives; sometimes this is achieved through more traditional therapy while other times this may require life coaching. I do not believe that therapy needs to be a continuous life long process, but rather a process individuals move in and out of at different stages of their lives.

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!

Sometimes we all need a little extra support during tough times. Let me be that support for you. Therapy can be a very scary process for many people. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for you and to provide you with the tools and resources needed to get through your day to day struggles. I strive to facilitate a space where clients can process shame, guilt, isolation, self-forgiveness and hopelessness. I am passionate about what I do. When you are ready to begin your journey and start your healing process, I would love the opportunity to walk along with you.

My goal as a therapist is to provide support and encouragement to you during challenging times. I believe my role is to use my education and experience to help you achieve your desired outcome and help you find ways to learn to live with your present life circumstances. I specialize in evidence-based treatments for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, career issues, difficult life transitions, adverse childhood experiences, grief & loss, relationship issues, anger management & domestic violence, and athletic performance. I grew up in a small coastal town in Northern California, and graduated from Humboldt State University. From there I moved to Redding California and started my career as a Marriage and Family Therapist.

Hi I'm Luis, a therapist who has been in the field for 15yrs. I've worked in various clinical setting in helping children, adults, and older adult clients develop healthy coping skills to manage emotional distress and to improve or return to their typical function. I'm looking forward to walking with you in finding your set of healthy coping skills and to reduce the impact of symptoms on your function.

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

As a therapist for over 20 years, I have been privileged to walk alongside so many adults: young, old and young at heart - through so many phases and transitions, facing an endless variety of life's challenges. I am fond of saying I carry the flashlight to point out paths and possibilities for consideration, always from a positive perspective. My life as a therapist has evolved as an imperfect human through life's complicated choices, twists and turns and different career opportunities. All are additive, expanding my experience, understanding and acceptance of possibilities - meaning I have more to share with you. My past clinical focus has been in: anxiety, PTSD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, hospice, palliative care, chronic and severe mental illness, and LIFE. Life is a long series of transitions, and we can absolutely be our own best navigators.

My name is Aarti and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am of South Asian (Indian, Desi) descent and a first-generation college graduate. A little bit about my journey to becoming a therapist started with my own mental health journey and finding a therapist who understood the South Asian culture and how it contradicted the American culture. I was always described as a “helper” and always felt a sense of fulfillment when helping others. Becoming a therapist for me was a way to make a positive impact on individuals and communities as well as empower them to know it is OKAY to be NOT OKAY.

Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. Prior to scheduling our initial intake appointment, I suggest we have brief discussion over the phone, at no cost, regarding your past experiences in therapy and current goals for therapy. My Clinical experience includes Private Practice, Elk Grove, CA from April 1992 to June 2013 as a Marriage Family Therapist, and Licensed Clinical Psychologist from July 2013 to present. In 1996 I received my master's degree in Art Therapy. In 1998 & 1999 I studied and was certified by the founder of EMDR. I specialize in working with adults with trauma, Anxiety, and Depression. I am only seeing individuals at this time.

Your life is changing and you’re not sure why you’re not handling it better. In my work with clients, I’ve seen that even good changes can make usually well-adjusted people struggle with day-to-day stress that didn’t seem to be a challenge in the past. I’ve worked with people who struggle with communicating emotions, prioritizing themselves, or feeling like their best is not good enough. If you feel like you can identify with those experiences and are not sure how to change things, I’d love to work with you.

As a Doctor of Psychology and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 45+ years, I am experienced in helping my clients deal with issues such as Loss and Grief Recovery, Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Crisis Counseling, Stress Reduction, Depression and Anxiety. 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. I've dealt with my own grief, loss and growth by writing a book series, "The Adventures of the Angel Oleo," as well as "Doggie Wisdom for Humans - Advice from Dogs to Humans of All Ages." I hope you have an opportunity to read one of my books and that I get to help you, and someone you know.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of California, where I was born, raised and educated. I have numerous years of experience working with children, teens and adults who are struggling with challenges in their lives. I excel at helping client's recognize their self worth and strengths by providing a supportive and strength based practice with a bit of humor. I have worked with clients navigating divorce, child welfare system, adoptions, divorce/child custody, educational issues, anxiety, mild depression and relationship issues.