Therapists near me in Oakland, CA

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 40 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship challenges. I have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence, as well as individuals navigating complex life patterns shaped by past experiences. I specialize in working with adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up as they are. I also work with couples on occasion. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I bring both professional and lived understanding to this work. My approach is warm, compassionate, and direct. I believe therapy should be both supportive and effective—while you will always be heard and understood, I also actively engage in sessions to help you move forward. I won’t let you stay stuck. Together, we’ll break challenges down into manageable steps, build practical tools, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you. I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. I often incorporate structured exercises and between-session practices to help you apply what we discuss in real life, while remaining flexible and responsive to your individual needs. Clients often appreciate that I am clear, consistent, and gently persistent—I will meet you where you are, while continuing to support and encourage your growth, even when things feel difficult or overwhelming. My goal is to help you build insight, resilience, and confidence so you can create a more stable, fulfilling, and peaceful life. I am committed to practicing with empathy, respect, and without judgment, honoring each person’s dignity and lived experience. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. Option to insert (after paragraph 2):

Are you ready to take control of your life and make some changes? Are you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, stressed, stuck, and anxious and find it difficult to feel motivated? Or, maybe you’re recently experiencing a relationship issue and/or a recent loss and feeling sad and alone? I believe I can help you. My name is Monica Victoria Pulido. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California Riverside and a Master’s in Social Worker from California State University of San Bernardino. I am a Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing as a clinician since 2003. I have extensive experience working with young children, young adults, outpatient care treating adults and the elderly, mental health settings, and groups. I can discuss and treat a variety of behavioral health concerns. I am interested in working with individuals who are experiencing major life transitions, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression and stress. In my work, I hope to offer you a safe, warm, and empathetic space where you can share your feelings but also feel empowered to make the changes necessary to live a more meaningful life. I strongly believe in the importance of meeting individuals where they are. I will assist you with developing insight into yourself and your situation. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties and support you where you want to be. Whether that is: to gain confidence, communicate better, set boundaries, or start healing from your past traumas. I hope to be able to assist you in building a better version of yourself.

“Sometimes, you have to make a decision that will break your heart but heal your soul.” - Trent Shelton. Sometimes you just can’t. Can’t say no, can’t find motivation, can’t sit through another meeting, can’t stop worrying, can’t wear the mask and pretend to be okay, and/or can’t get out of bed. The list goes on, because at some point or another, we all feel like our struggle is too much to handle. But “trouble don’t last always” and you do not have to face your battles alone. Through a solutions-focused and person-centered approach, my goal is to help you nourish you. I help clients find solutions to issues involving boundaries, self-care, time management, trauma, and stress. Together we can visualize, explore, and define who you are and what you want out of life.

Naragsakak nga makita ka! As a first-generation Filipina American and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), I bring both professional expertise and a deep appreciation for the diverse experiences that shape each person's story. I believe that meaningful therapy begins with listening. I take the time to understand each client's current concerns while also exploring the experiences and history that have shaped their life. By gaining a deeper understanding of both the present and the past, I can better recognize patterns, strengths, and challenges that influence overall well-being. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and nonjudgmental. I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported as they share their experiences at their own pace. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, I work to understand the whole person, recognizing that each individual's story is unique. Through thoughtful listening and curiosity, I partner with clients to identify meaningful goals, build insight, and develop practical strategies that support lasting growth and positive change. My goal is to help clients feel empowered, understood, and equipped to navigate life's challenges with greater confidence and resilience.

Hello, I am Julie. We often are doing the best we can with what we are given, and I am here to help improve daily practices, routines, and maintain a life worth living. I help clients who struggle with Acute and Chronic Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depressive disorders. I am trained in utilizing Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) therapy. Although, I have training in specific therapy modalities I take time to incorporate client goals and address the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. I am excited to begin working with individuals in their journey to self-exploration and healing. "What we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human." -Brene Brown

Congratulations! You have successfully made the first step in your healing journey. Finding the right therapist can feel daunting, but you didn't let that deter you. I would be honored to guide you through this process, as I am passionate about supporting people through life stressors. I believe it is important to provide a safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings. My journey to becoming a therapist is deeply rooted in my own life experiences and challenges. Facing my own hardships has given me a profound understanding of the power of empathy and the healing potential of therapeutic support. Through my growth, I discovered a passion for helping others navigate their unique struggles, providing them with the support and guidance they deserve.

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.

Hey Everyone, I’m Jennel — a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I believe therapy should be a space where you feel seen, validated, and understood. I draw from a range of approaches including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, etc. to tailor each session to meet your unique needs. My goal is to make therapy feel accessible and collaborative. I aim to keep our conversations down-to-earth, supportive, and meaningful.

You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your thoughts, or exhausted from trying to hold everything together. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. Using talk therapy and CBT, I help clients better understand their patterns, manage difficult emotions, build confidence, and develop practical coping skills. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and more like yourself again!

Hi! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's in Counseling Psychology with a specialty in somatic, or body-oriented, psychology. I also have a Master's in Creative Writing, and lived as a lay monk in a Zen monastery in Japan. I help motivated young and middle-aged adults who tend to live "in their heads" become more composed, resilient, and effective in living according to their values. This is a problem common to folks with relationship challenges, PTSD, dissociation, anxiety, and mood disorders.

Hi, my name if Kim Gunderson, and I have worked as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 23 years. I have worked with middle school kids in a school setting, supervised incoming trainees at Cal State, University Fullerton, and have concurrently worked in private practice with a variety of individuals, couples, and families. You are the expert of you! I work collaboratively and aid in helping you identify underlying themes that may be adding to your distress.

Hello there, I'm Kimberly! Are you struggling with navigating the complexities of today's world? Or perhaps you just want to understand yourself better? Therapy is a safe and confidential space for you to explore. I'm a BIPoc therapist who specializes in working with Children/ Teens/ Young Adults/ Families, Neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, Giftedness, Learning Disorders), and LGBTQIA+ identified or questioning. I understand that it can be difficult to navigate marginalization and the impact of intergenerational experiences. Together, we can increase understanding and confidence in approaching the challenges of life. "Let go of who you think you're supposed to be; embrace who you are." Brene Brown

Sydelcis Mendez (Syd) is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in crisis, trauma, anxiety, and stress management as it relates to individuals, couples, and families during life transitions. Raised in the Bronx by her Dominican family, she witnessed the gaps in resources and opportunities for individuals of different backgrounds. Syd became a therapist after seeing the mental health strains in her community and noting the underrepresentation of qualified providers who provided culturally-sensitive treatment and systems-oriented support. Throughout her career, she has served individuals grappling with substance use challenges, homelessness/transient issues, health concerns, developmental needs, sexual assault, domestic violence, addiction, military service/veteran affairs issues, as well as family or marital challenges.

My name is La’Quesha Fonrose, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am also a Certified & Accredited Emotional Freedom Technique Practitioner. Through my B.A.L.A.N.C.E. framework, I help individuals develop a healthier, more harmonious relationship with their thoughts and feelings, guiding them toward a life with less chaos and more calm.

Throughout my many years as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been committed to providing the highest level of professional and compassionate care when serving individuals during their most difficult life challenges. I tailor my approach to therapy based on the unique needs of each person I get the privilege to help. My mission is to help you gain healthy balance so you may enjoy positive relationships, fulfill your life’s purpose and achieve your highest potential. I work with clients from a strength based focus while providing a safe, non-judgmental environment to learn and grow. It takes courage to seek help and to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take the first steps toward change, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you!

We all have the opportunity in our life to start fresh. During the journey, we change, grow, heal, destroy, and can improve our lives. You will experience difficulties, and you are not alone. We are not alone in this world, but we are compelled to isolate ourselves from the fear of experiencing too much pain. I have many years of clinical training with life experiences, including successes and failures, but we are not provided a how to manual at birth. I have a sense of humor, but good sound clinical judgment, so take a leap of faith.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Rutgers University. I have experience working with teens, and adult dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem, self -harm, ADHD, life changes and other challenges. I specialize in working with teens, women and men who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, negative self-image and trauma. I work with clients to help them discover their true self. I will meet you where you are in your journey, and will you facilitate the changes you need to reach your fullest potential. If your tired of your emotional rollercoaster consider coming to see me.

Hello , My name is Tom Hill. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working out of Sacramento California. I am working as a remote therapist with clients throughout the state of California. I attained my masters degree in 2002 and have been licensed as a therapist since 2012. I have worked with individuals, couples and families. My style of therapy is called cognitive behavioral therapy. Working with the client in understanding the connections between thoughts, feelings and behaviors/choices. I have a passion for sports and coaching. I look forward to working with you.

I am dedicated, compassionate professional committed to supporting individuals through life's challenges. My work centers on empowering individuals to navigate changes in relationships, and personal growth. I believe each person brings unique strengths and I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected and understood. My approach is strength based helping clients build insight, develop practical tools and move forward becoming the best version of themselves.

Hi, I’m Jenae Heitkamp, LMFT, with 20+ years of experience. I work with anxiety, neurodivergence/ADHD/autism, burnout, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I work with people who have been holding everything together for a long time but feel tired, overwhelmed, or stuck. People who are insightful and self-aware, but they’ve been managing stress, anxiety, or emotional overload. My approach is warm, direct, and practical. I focus on identifying patterns, building effective coping tools, and supporting meaningful, lasting change. I have additional certifications in ADHD treatment (ADHD-CCSP), trauma-informed care, and Myers-Briggs assessment. I tailor therapy to each client’s strengths, personality, patterns, and goals.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a safe, accepting, and mindful environment as well as culturally sensitive services for children, adults, and families who are experiencing difficulties with emotional stress such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioral issues such as ADHD, defiant, and oppositional behaviors, culture-related stress such as immigration and issues regarding identity including gender variant clients. I strive to help clients move beyond the point that prevents them from living fulfilling lives. In helping clients to realize their life goals, I'll assist them in identifying possible ineffective responses to life stressors and coping patterns in order to replace them with those that lead to a higher quality of living.

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.

Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, trauma, or a major life transition, it can be difficult to manage the emotional weight on your own. I specialize in working with adults, young adults, and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, women's mental health concerns, trauma, relationship issues, and the challenges that arise during life's many transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered. I believe that healing begins in a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where clients can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of criticism or shame. Together, we identify the concerns that are impacting your well-being and develop meaningful goals tailored to your unique needs and strengths.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I received my Masters degree from CSU Fresno and have been practicing for over 6 years in the public sector in both individual and group therapy settings. I have worked with different populations such as children and teens, adults, the unhoused, veterans and in an impatient substance abuse facility.

In the field since 1994, licensed since 2001, I spent the first 10 years working with seniors, even leading a bereavement group where we had a relationship and marriage bloom between two of the participants. Since then, I've worked with adults of all ages, many of whom are at a crossroads in some area of their life. My style is eclectic, primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people learn the skills that can help them function better on a day to day basis as they deal with the impact of life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief and communication issues.

Hi! I am a bilingual, first generation, Latina therapist. I have worked with a diverse group of adult clients from different social economic, ethic, immigration, and educational backgrounds. Primarily, I have assisted clients with managing their anxieties within relationships, school, work and legal stressors. I also help clients that struggle with issues such as trauma, immigration issues, family stressors, and domestic violence.

I specialize in helping motivated young adults and adults heal from childhood trauma, navigate attachment wounds, and find relief from anxiety and depression. Taking a collaborative and goal-oriented approach, my mission is to provide you with the tools and support you need to process the past and heal deeply. My approach to care is deeply collaborative, collaborative, and tailored to your unique story. I believe that while our past experiences—especially childhood and attachment history—shape how we view the world, they don’t have to dictate our future. In our sessions, we will work as a team to set clear, meaningful goals, combining gentle exploration.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California, and I help adults navigate burned out, anxiety, and life transitions. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. My approach combines evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness techniques, helping you build practical tools while also understanding the deeper patterns that keep you stuck. In our sessions, you can expect a space that is both compassionate and practical-no nodding silently for 50 minutes. I'm here to help you get back to feeling like yourself, only more grounded and resilient. I offer secure, convenient virtual therapy throughout California. Please, reach out to see if we are a good fit.

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

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!

Hi, I’m Tina. I understand that finding the right therapist can feel like a big decision, and it’s important to find someone you feel comfortable with. Starting therapy means allowing yourself to trust someone new and making room for your own growth in the midst of a busy life. Together, we’ll work to uncover your strengths, process difficult experiences, and develop tools to help you navigate life with greater confidence and self-compassion. No matter where you are in your journey, you don’t have to go through it alone—I’m here to support you every step of the way.

*I only work with individuals, no couples, no minors (under 18)* Trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, I am available to help clients navigate trauma, anxiety, relational issues, communication skills, depression, and stress management . As a first generation Eritrean American born and raised in the Bay Area, I struggled with a sense of belonging throughout my adolescence, often straddling the line between multiple identities and insecurities surrounding the idea of not being “American enough" and not being “African enough.” Early on in college, I took a psychology class that helped me further understand the human condition and its applications in my own life. I learned transformative concepts in terms of moods, relationships, and behaviors, prompting me to further pursue the field of psychology. Since then, I have taken it upon myself to get advanced training in various therapeutic approaches, which I believe help clients get the most out of their therapy experience.

I have experience working with children, families, and individuals as a social worker since 2003, and as a licensed clinical social worker since 2017. Prior to training as a therapist I worked as an advocate for children, youth, and families in various community based non-profits. Witnessing families succeed as I helped ease their burdens led me to the path of clinical social work! I consider it a privilege to be invited and entrusted with the task of walking alongside you during a challenging moment in your life. Seeing you grow and succeed is one of the best rewards I could ask for.

I have been working as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the last 14 years and have both a master's degree and doctoral degree in applied clinical psychology. I have worked in the community with individuals, youth with high-risk behaviors, and military families. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety and/or depression, women's issues, substance abuse and recovery, trauma (PTSD or PTS) , military and veterans, first responders and those facing relationship or life transition concerns. While working with my clients I focus on the whole person, pulling forward your strengths and wisdom to solve life's challenges. I use solution-focused, cognitive behavioral and emotion-focused interventions. I also have seven years experience working with people outdoors in nature. I have a certificate in nutrition for mental health and believe in holistic treatment involving mind, body, and spirit. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you as an individual. If you want to work holistically, we will develop a plan to address all three aspects, and if you don't prefer to work holistically, I will tailor your treatment to your specific interests. I value the rapport I develop with my clients above all things. The nature of the therapeutic relationship is the catalyst and holding space that creates safety to do all future work together. Choosing the right therapist who has a personality you are comfortable with is of utmost importance. Please reach out to me for a free phone consultation and let's find out if we can do some great work together to solve life's many challenges.

I believe psychotherapy is a tool to understand oneself and grow as an individual, It can also be used to form a relationship where safety allows a person to share their innermost thoughts and feelings and then work towards symptom alleviation and improving self-concept, social and family relationships, and find personal contentment and fulfillment in their lives. I have been in the psychotherapy field for over 45 years and love working with people of all ages, sexual preferences, racial and ethnic groups, and mental health problems presented. My approach is kind, compassionate, and considerate of people's wishes, needs, and preferences.

Hi, and welcome. I’m a licensed psychologist who is passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence, self-understanding, and resilience. I believe that therapy works best when you feel truly seen, heard, and supported, so I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I work collaboratively with you to understand your experiences and identify practical tools for change. My goal is to help you build on your strengths, gain insight, and create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and authentic.

As a biracial, Black and Mexican, female clinician, I understand the obstacles and barriers to healing the mind, body and soul; and leading an overall physically and mentally healthy life. I take a collaborative approach in helping individuals create life goals that they want to work towards. I aim to create a safe and non- judgmental space for individuals. If you feel as though you can benefit from learning how to develop positive ways to cope with anxiety, sadness, anger, low- self esteem, isolation, racing thoughts and more, please contact me for further information and a consultation. I look forward to starting this journey of healing with you

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.

Hello! I’m Sandra V. Chávez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Psychological Assistant with the California Board of Psychology. I’m passionate about helping individuals grow both personally and emotionally through client-centered, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapies. As a first-generation Latina, I learned ambition, tenacity, and determination from my parents. My educational journey includes dual bachelor’s degrees in Liberal Arts and Sciences and Psychology, as well as a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I’m currently on the path to becoming a licensed psychologist. Before entering the mental health field, I worked as a nurse and briefly attended medical school in Southern California. That experience deepened my interest in understanding the brain, human development, and the impact of environmental factors on behavior. I specialize in supporting clients through mood disorders, life transitions, and self-empowerment challenges. My strengths lie in helping individuals develop emotional intelligence, identify, and understand their emotions. I believe therapy should be tailored to each person’s unique needs, which is why I use an integrative, eclectic approach that draws from evidence-based methods and holistic practices, including mindfulness and positive psychology. I also enjoy working with individuals who incorporate their faith into their mental health journey. For those open to incorporating their faith as a tool for healing, I create a safe, welcoming space where spirituality and therapy work hand in hand. Above all, I value building a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental environment where your thoughts and emotions are respected and where real progress can be made. Together, we’ll explore strategies, assignments, and tools that help you overcome life’s hurdles and achieve lasting personal growth and fulfillment. Let’s begin this journey together!

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.

I was born in the US, but I was raised in Mexico. I lived in Tijuana for 10 years when my parents decided to move us across the border to Chula Vista, California. As a first-generation Mexican-American, I experienced a duality of cultures. I was often judged for either being “not Mexican enough” OR “not American enough.” I also faced enormous pressure to be successful – to justify my parents’ having left their beloved country so my sibling and I could have a better life. This is one of many reasons I decided to follow this path: to help those who feel alone in their journey. That’s how I felt when acculturating to this country. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at San Diego State University (SDSU). I was going to go directly into the workforce and eventually go back for my master’s, but an awesome professor challenged me to apply right away so I wouldn’t lose momentum. So, that’s what I did. I ended up getting my Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Southern California. It took some time and courage to finish all my licensing requirements, but it was worth it! I’ve been licensed as a clinical social worker in California since 2019. I am certified in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT.

Change is hard, not having the tools, direction and support make the process even harder. I can help you identify areas that may be keeping you stuck. I also provide wellness and behavioral health coaching in addition to traditional therapy. The atmosphere that is created in the therapy session is one of warmth, safety, and acceptance. I have a straightforward, interactive approach to treatment. I am passionate about my work and strongly believe in the healing benefits of therapy. Reach out to me, I’d love to help you help heal, connect, & thrive. Together we can create the life you want.

My name is Brooke Barker and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. My path to becoming a therapist was shaped by my own mental health journey and by how much therapy helped me better understand myself, my relationships, and my place in the world. I know how powerful it is to feel seen, supported, and understood, and I’m deeply committed to creating that experience for the people I work with. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, and creative. I tailor what we do to your unique experiences, culture, and background. I draw from CBT, solution-focused work, mindfulness, EMDR, and insight-driven communication to help build self-awareness, practical skills, and lasting growth. I work with a variety of people, populations, and presenting concerns including: anxiety, depression, panic disorder, daily stress, life transitions,/adjustments, body image and self-esteem concerns, and trauma (PTSD), as well as identity-affirming care for neurodivergent clients (ADHD/Autism) and the LGBTQIA+ community.

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 and welcome. If you are reading this, it means you are experiencing thoughts or feelings that have compelled you to take action toward healing—and I want to acknowledge your courage in taking this first step. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the heavy weights of anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and substance use or addiction. Together, we will also work through challenges surrounding self-confidence, relationship or family dynamics, and the emotional toll of chronic medical problems. My practice is deeply dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and fiercely affirming space for the LGBTQI+ community, offering compassionate support for those exploring gender identity and sexual orientation. Operating entirely via telehealth across the state of California, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are. I don't just want to help you manage your pain; I want to help you discover through the therapueitc process that brings clarity and understanding of that ah ha moment that brings you the clarity, courage, and confidence that you can that you have the power to build a life of true purpose and meaning.

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 ten 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 I can understand what barriers may be restricting you from experiencing true happiness in life.

Do you feel stuck in some part of your life and want to feel more confident, at ease, and connected? I am here to help you to break through anxiety, symptoms of depression, personal and generational trauma, and other challenges you might be encountering that make it hard to be true to yourself or cause relationship issues. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help you reach your goals. Sometimes this can look like developing coping skills to handle stress more easily so you can move forward, learning your limits and setting priorities to maintain strong boundaries, or becoming a great communicator so you can actively practice how to speak, listen, and be heard. Whatever you are struggling with, I will provide a safe, judgment-free space in which you can comfortably be yourself. I will guide you in finding harmony and fulfillment so that you can feel understood, find a sense of belonging, and have healthy relationships.

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.

Greetings. I am an experienced, enthusiastic therapist who truly believes in our ability to heal. We can increase and build upon your capacity for joy and meaningful relationships with self and others by creating a safe space together in which to work. I am here to serve you by learning about your individual needs, experiences, beliefs and goals as the basis of our work together. I am eager to help you to discover what works for you and assist you in letting go of what has not worked in the past. I think we oftentimes listen more to what we say to ourselves than what others say to us yet many times that voice within us are old tapes from the past. Let's take a compassionate view together to create the changes you seek in your life.

My preference is speaking in terms that are comfortable for everyone including myself. I can be direct with a sprinkling of humor and an abundance of empathy. Attachment injuries in childhood lead to adult attachment styles, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma and all of their close friends. Working with these issues is my passion. I love working with children and foster children. Second career leads itself to years of life experience and knowledge. The relationship and trust is what is important to me for your (and my) journey. I learn from you and your experiences and welcome all thoughts and ideas.