Therapists in California

Welcome, and congratulations on starting your healing journey! Our sessions together will provide a warm, welcoming, and self-paced therapeutic environment to help you feel safe and supported while processing where you’ve been, and creating a clear vision for where you’re going. In our work together, we’ll utilize a variety of simple and accessible techniques catering to your needs for self-improvement, some of which may include changing problematic thoughts and behaviors, increasing acceptance and awareness toward self, building up your resiliency "tool box" to navigate complex emotions, and addressing any internal or relational roadblocks. I work with patients looking for support with stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, inattention, life transitions, and relationship issues. I have dedicated my clinical work to supporting people to believe that their have innate wisdom and internal resources to support themselves toward healing. I look forward to supporting you through this impactful endeavor!

Hi I am Dr. Teyhou Smyth and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor #11450 and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#115137) in California Originally from the United Kingdom, I earned an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy at the California School of Professional Psychology and hold a doctorate degree in Education. I place a high value on personal development and allowing for the achievement of one’s full potential so that they may become the best version of themselves. I focus on relationships and attachment issues using Emotion Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy working from an attachment-based model.

Hello and Welcome to Grow Therapy, my name is Sabrina Thurman. Do you ever find yourself struggling in relationships, at work, with family, peers or with your health and wellbeing? You are not alone, and change is possible. I have helped clients' just like you to make sustainable and permanent life changes, by increasing my client's ability to manage and cope with stress. I use a holistic approach to address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I am excited to begin our journey together. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. My job is to provide a space for you to process your feelings while assisting you to feel safe within our teletherapy environment. You are the expert on your life, your personal goals have value and will drive our treatment plan. My ideal patient is focused on personal growth and healing.

You might be navigating difficult life transitions and feeling overwhelmed by it. As a therapist deeply committed to your well-being, I understand that seeking help can be daunting. In my practice, you’ll find a heartfelt space where we can explore life's challenges together, from coping with depression and anxiety to healing from trauma or working towards self-acceptance. My passion for therapy stems from my personal and professional experiences and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to heal and grow. By cultivating a compassionate mindset, we can embark on a journey towards not just recovery, but profound self-discovery.

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.

I know what it’s like to face adversity, and I understand how overwhelming grief and loss can feel. Whether you're coping with the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or another significant life change, you're not meant to go through it alone. Grief can make it hard to see a way forward, but healing is possible. With support and guidance, you can begin to process your pain, reconnect with yourself, and rediscover joy and meaning in your life. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping many individuals navigate the complex emotions of grief. And I truly believe that no matter where you are right now, there is hope for a brighter future.

I'm Michelle Brown, a passionate advocate for mental wellness, deeply rooted in psychodynamic theory. With 10 years of experience, I specialize in unraveling the complexities of the human psyche and empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges with resilience and self-awareness. Grounded in empathy, collaboration, and insight, my therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic principles to facilitate profound healing and personal growth. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to deepen your self-understanding, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive space for exploration and transformation. As a bilingual therapist fluent in both Spanish and English, I can effectively communicate and connect with diverse communities to promote mental well-being. My areas of expertise include attachment theory, object relations, trauma-focused and cognitive behavioral theory. I tailor each therapy session to meet the unique needs and journey of every client, guiding them towards greater self-awareness and empowerment. I'm here to accompany you on your journey of self-discovery and healing, and I look forward to the opportunity to support you along the way.

Are you searching for meaning or clarity in your life? Feeling stuck in a transition, questioning your identity, or moving through an existential crisis? You’re not alone—and healing begins with awareness. I help people of all ages reconnect with their authentic selves by exploring the unconscious patterns that shape our thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Together, we uncover what no longer serves you and create space for new growth and purpose. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Doctoral Candidate at Pacifica Graduate Institute, where I specialize in Depth Psychology and Integrative Healing Practices. My holistic approach honors the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and I believe every person already holds the wisdom needed for healing. My role is to walk beside you as a compassionate guide, helping you integrate insight into everyday life.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes deeply in the healing power of connection. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences with compassion and curiosity. I know that reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, and I honor the courage it takes to begin this work. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues, or a major life transition, I’m here to walk alongside you as you gain clarity, build resilience, and reconnect with your sense of self.

Difficulty relaxing? Constantly overthinking? Overwhelmed by your emotions? Feeling stuck? My name is Danielle, and I specialize in supporting women who are struggling to manage anxiety, panic, low self-esteem, PTSD and/or a pattern of unhealthy relationships. Women who may be frustrated that their coping tools are no longer working, or those who feel ready to shift from managing their emotional pain to healing it. Although it can be therapeutic to talk about our problems, I believe that we need to feel our emotions to truly heal. I specialize in using Brainspotting and somatic techniques to support you in healing emotional stress/trauma and creating a stronger relationship with yourself. I approach therapy with an open mind and heart, providing a safe space to address your concerns without shame or judgment. I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and my role is to support and guide you toward healing whatever is keeping you stuck.

I am a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker with approximately 14 years of experience working with adults and youth. I am compassionate, and curious therapist and in my practice, I create a safe and trusting environment, providing my clients with the emotional support needed to overcome challenging issues and make positive adjustments to be and feel your best. My approach helps clients find their own way through reflection, self care and self compassion.

Hi, I’m Anthony Garcia, LMFT. I help adults and couples who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, trauma, or relational conflict find their way back to themselves. Whether you’re carrying childhood wounds, experiencing panic attacks, or struggling to connect with your partner, I provide trauma-informed care rooted in EMDR, CBT, and attachment theory. Healing happens when we tell our stories, and I’m here to help you tell yours.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered art therapist providing telehealth services to TN and CA residents. As a practicing visual artist for 22 years I understand the psychological, emotional, financial and lifestyle challenges that creatives face in a world that prioritizes capitalism over creativity. I will help you to use your unique gifts and talents in order to live your life in the fullest expression of yourself.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Clinical Supervisor. I have a depth of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in communities across Orange County and Los Angeles County. I completed my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a focus on Developmental Psychology and a Master's Degree in Counseling with specialized training working with Latinx populations from California State University, Fullerton. I support my clients in obtaining healing and growth from past trauma, exploring their identity to build acceptance and self-compassion, and helping clients to transform their lives with each small step towards holistic healing and growth.

Hi There! My name is Michael. I have my master's in clinical psychology, focusing on marriage and family therapy LMFT. I did my internship at Glendale Adventis Hospital, dual diagnosis program. Just because I'm an expert in my field, does not make me an expert about you. You have lived a life experience that no one can teach about in a grad course. You will teach me much more than the classes I took. I take many CE units (I joined an unlimited program), read work related books just for fun, and truly enjoy my work and private life. I'm grateful for everything! Outside the office I have two adult children, love to water ski, play drums, race cars, and fix things.

Are you a BIPOC, First Gen or Queer adult? Hi, I’m Ligia. I help adults in individual therapy heal from guilt and shame so they can feel more at peace with their sense of self. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling “not enough,” put everyone else’s needs before your own, or felt pressure to shrink yourself to fit in, you’re not alone. I specialize in helping clients untangle these experiences, understand their emotions, and heal from attachment wounds in a way that honors your cultural background and lived experiences. My goal is to support you in living in a way that feels honest, spacious, and aligned with who you truly are. Together, we’ll create a safe, affirming space to explore, unlearn, and grow—so you can move through the world more authentically, joyfully, and unapologetically.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Graduate School of Psychology and have been practicing for almost 12 years. I am passionate about supporting adults through various mental health symptoms and challenging life circumstances to discover hope, experience growth, and find healing. I believe in working together with my clients to identify treatment priorities and create a plan that is personalized to their needs to support them in feeling better and making progress towards their goals.

I have been in practice for 15 years. I do my best to meet new clients where they’re at and allow them to identify what they want to work on. I try my best to be kind, but direct. I value clients time and understand it’s often difficult to begin the therapy process. I allow clients to set the and honor the therapeutic process. Life is hard! And I’m here to help

Hi, my name is Alyssa, my cultural background is Italian and Hispanic. I am also married to an Iranian and have learned for decades about Iranian culture. I am familiar with first responders and have proudly been invited to do several ride-alongs with a local Police department. I began my work practices as a therapist in the Bay Area of California and have been serving for 8 years. I enjoy providing a non-judgmental environment to support you with providing skills and tools to improve life's challenges. I went to NDNU for my master's program, earning my Master of Science in clinical psychology. I did my undergraduate degree at Menlo College in Atherton California. Most of my time has been a significant amount of years working with children aged 0-5, in school settings, and with couples. I enjoy engaging in relationship building, providing tools you can apply daily, and also with women who have experienced trauma. I also am an animal lover and enjoy spending time with my Italian Greyhound "Rocco", with my husband and children, hiking, and engaging in meditation during my free time. I also love the color pink and have a love for collecting crystal beads and making jewelry.

Hi! I'm Dr. Carolynn Gray, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 15+ years of experience in mental health. People who work with me get a lot of clarity about the next steps in their mental health journey, confidence that they are doing what they can to reach their goals, and tools for navigating mental health needs in the complex and ever-changing world we live in.

Hi, I'm Rebecca, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. With over 20 years of experience, I’ve been working with children since 2001, both in educational settings and in clinical roles. Since 2009, I’ve also been supporting adults and families, helping them navigate challenges and improve their well-being. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help individuals and families thrive. I am a firm believer in the power of relationships as I believe they are incredibly healing. That being said, I come from an attachment and relationship-based perspective in which I value authenticity, compassion, and creating a safe space or container for you to come as you are.

Have you just ended or started a relationship, career path and feel unsure of the decision? Have you just had a baby and feel completely lost? Are you struggling to help your child with life's challenges? All of us have experienced one, if not all of these life transitions. These different life changes may be normal, necessary transitions, but at times can be very overwhelming and challenging to manage. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in maternal mental health, life transitions, relational conflicts, and parenting. I aim to build an empathic and understanding relationship with women and families struggling with postpartum depression, separation or divorce, and parenting. I am bilingual in English and Vietnamese.

Hi, I’m Danielle, a psychotherapist with over 8 years of experience. I hold a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a touch of humor—because healing doesn’t always have to feel so heavy. I blend evidence-based techniques with a personalized, down-to-earth style to ensure therapy feels like a collaborative and empowering journey.

I am an empathic listener who engages all clients in a caring way. I help individuals identify their problems, create a plan to address those problems, and work with them so that they make progress. I utilize many modalities with my favored modalities being attachment theory and solution focused therapy to best assist my clients. I have vast experience in the field and have worked in a numerous settings such as working with children and teenagers and in family crisis situations. I have also worked as a child custody mediator for the family court for years. I have experience assisting families in reunifying and create long term plans to better their family.

My name is Feji, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates Psychodynamic Theory, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and trauma informed modalities. My goal is to help clients uncover the root of their internal conflicts. I also guide clients in developing a deeper awareness of how trauma could manifest in their bodies. I often say that our bodies are wise, they consistently signal when unresolved emotions and inner conflicts are left unaddressed. Just as we tend to our physical health, it’s vital that we nurture our internal world with the same care and intention.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master’s degree from Alliant International University and have been practicing for three years. I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges find healthier ways to communicate, set boundaries, and build stronger connections. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can work through emotional struggles and create meaningful, lasting change. Fluent in both English and Farsi, I’m proud to offer bilingual services, ensuring accessibility for a diverse clientele.

Hello there! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). My approach is rooted in curiosity, kindness, and compassion, aiming to create a nurturing environment where you can openly express yourself. My ultimate aim is to equip clients with practical, yet powerful skills and tools that empower them to live life with confidence, peace and trust. I offer a holistic, personalized approach that embraces body, mind, and spirit. I am certified in Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy, working with ketamine (KAP). I offer preparation and integration sessions for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. I am not a traditional talk therapist. I believe sharing our story is an essential part of the healing journey. We long to be seen, heard, and witnessed in our stories and if we want long-lasting change and transformation, we must be willing, ready, and feel safe to transform our cognitive narratives through feeling in the body.

Hello, my name is Layla Hernandez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in the mental health field. I'm fluent in English and Spanish and take a client-focused approach to therapy. I utilize evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), to ensure the best outcomes for my clients.

Hello! My name is Diana Marquez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I have been extremely fortunate and have had the honor to work in the fields of mental health, substance addiction and social work for the last 17 years. I have a passion for helping others as well as a passion for collaborating, supporting and walking alongside the healing journey of those I serve, through the implementation of nurturing, compassionate, non-judgmental, respectful and supportive mental health treatment approaches.

I am a therapist with over 18 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults from diverse backgrounds. Throughout my career, I have worked in adolescent residential treatment centers, community mental health agencies, and in private practice. I specialize in working with clients struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, and attachment issues, as well as clients with ASD and ADHD. I am a skilled family therapist and have extensive experience working with the LBGTQAI+ community.

Hello, I'm Lesa Vander Bie, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25+ years experience and committed to providing a supportive and empowering space for us to create positive change in your life. I have extensive experience in addressing such issues as anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, etc. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Psychodynamic Therapy which is exploring and understanding the links of how your childhood experiences are internalized and repeated in adulthood. We identify which parts of those patterns are no longer effective and work together to change them into new, healthier ways of relating and reaching your aspirations. I value creating a collaborative relationship which helps me tailor our sessions to adapt to your specific needs. I have a background in the Performing and Visual Arts and have a successful practice in Southern California. I look forward to coming along side you to help you gain clarity, valuable new insight, and equipping you to reach your life goals so you can live a fulfilling and meaningful life. TELEHEALTH EXCEPTIONS: Unfortunately, I am NOT able to offer tele-health to individuals who are: Trauma work via telehealth (childhood abuse, adult assaults, etc.), nor EMDR treatment High risk (suicidal, domestic violence, child abuse, sex-trafficking victims, homicidal) Cases involved in a child custody case or lawsuit (suing another person or entity) Currently dealing with a crime Psychosis, Bi-Polar Children under 18 years old SPECIALTY: I DO provide Personal Therapy to psychology graduate students (MFT/SW) in California.

Hi there, I'm Mandy. Are you or your teenager feeling stuck or held back from the life you truly want to live? Life’s challenges—stress, pain, and unresolved experiences—often settle in our bodies, shaping how we move through the world. These experiences impact our nervous system, relationships, and sense of safety until we learn to work with them. By gently turning toward these parts of ourselves, we create space for healing and growth. My goal is to support you to feel heard, seen, and empowered to transform these challenges. Through mind-body-spirit integration, you'll reconnect, find balance, and discover what transformation means for you.

I truly believe each individual is the expert on their own life and trust that through treatment, they will learn more about themselves and gain confidence as they contribute in their healing process. My vision for therapy is to aid each client in gaining awareness about who they are and how they came to be with an empathic and client centered approach.

Hello, my name is Elliot Jones and I'm committed to helping others relieve distress and achieve their goals. My approach to therapy is collaborating with you to understand your values, goals, experiences, strengths and expectations for therapy. My intention for every session is to create a place of acceptance, compassion and safety that allows for exploration, connection and healing. It will not always be possible but as a rule it is the hope that a person leaves the session feeling better then when they arrived. As a trauma informed therapist compassion, empathy and acceptance will be at the core of treatment. I use action based interventions to sustain and achieve positive changes throughout the week. My overall goal as a therapist is for the client to be ending treatment with a clear direction of where they are headed in life that is rooted in their values and strengths as well as a strong sense of self and acceptance.

I am a compassionate and direct therapist who prioritizes building REAL CONNECTION. My approach is anti-diet and rooted in Health at Every Size (HAES) and LGBTQ+ affirmative care. I went through my own journey to heal my relationship with food and my body, and for the past 13 years, have centered my career around helping others do the same. I strive to offer therapy that is grounded in connection, knowledge, and authenticity in order to help my clients develop healthier relationships with food, their bodies, and themselves. I passionately believe my clients CAN experience FREER and FULLER lives.

A unique perspective on your life and life phase. You may want a better work/school/life balance. You may be struggling with a deeper loss or trauma. I give a clients the space to seek, find, and triumph, without getting lost. You may have goals you feel are out of reach. You may feel so swept up with others that you’re not even sure what your desires are. No matter what, as your therapist, I am here to help you find your goal and help you reach it with passion.

Hello! I'm Cassie Ueberrhein. I commend and honor your interest in therapy. I aim to provide support, guidance and clinical insights to uphold the ways in which you wish to grow. It is important to me to facilitate a therapeutic environment that is safe and free from judgement. Decreasing stigma around mental illness as well as suicide prevention and LGBTQ+ rights are important causes to me as an individual. I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I have in-depth training on LGBTQ+ treatment and I continue to humbly learn more.

I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist and I’ve been practicing for the past 14 years. I worked with the range of clients managing trauma related symptoms, such as dysregulation, dissociation and relational issues to emerging adults attempting to manage multiple responsibilities. I enjoy, supporting my clients using a trauma informed lens to help them develop self soothing techniques when they feel this regulated, identify attachment styles which impact their close relationships, and managing their visions for the future, using visualizations and somatic techniques.

As a therapist I am very down to earth and practical. I meet clients where they are and provide them the tools that can be useful in everyday struggles. I listen to what has worked and what has not worked and work with them to find a solution that fits their life and lifestyle. I am direct and work collaboratively with my clients.

Currently accepting new clients, my name is Esperanza Applestein, I am a License marriage and family therapist with 25+ years of experience in the mental health field in California. Working with adults, couples and families. My mission is to provide therapy to assist individuals in achieving emotional balance. My practice is focused on working on relationship issues, improving communication, parenting, depression and anxiety, trauma and complex trauma.

I have over a decade of experience working in the addiction field, as well as several years of experience working with survivors of domestic violence. Additionally, I love working with those who are going through the process of grief/loss whether its from the death of a loved one, a life transition, marriage/divorce or any other form of loss. I am eager to help others and have written about my own story in two recently published books.

If you’re looking for a therapist who will actually listen—who won’t dismiss your concerns or pathologize your pain—you’re in the right place. Maybe you're wondering if you have ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Maybe you've been masking for years and don’t know where to start. Maybe you're carrying trauma, grief, or a deep sense that something has always felt a little off. I work with people who’ve spent too long feeling misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or minimized—and are ready for something different. You don’t need a perfect narrative. You don’t need to show up polished. You don’t even need to be sure what you need yet. With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in working with neurodivergent and emotionally complex clients—including first responders, trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I have a Master’s in Clinical Counseling, a Master’s in Forensic Psychology, and I’m currently completing a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology. I combine clinical insight with curiosity, humor, and a belief in your capacity to grow—even if it’s messy.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore what's on your mind, process challenges, and move toward growth and healing. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience - guided by your needs, your voice, and your goals. Reaching out for support takes courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you in this process.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 16 years of experience. One of my main focus has been trauma and infant mental health, providing dyadic treatment to families. I am a trauma informed clinician with an attachment based lens. My formal schooling was Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Structural Family Therapy. However, throughout my early years I have found a deeper connection as a therapist to Attachment Therapy. I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Motivational Interviewing (MI), these are all evidence based treatments.

Hi I am Kao, I firmly believe that as humans we have an innate desire for growth and balance. Unfortunately, often we physically respond to ingrained negative cues and messages that get stuck in our body. Many times these old cues manifest themselves in our body as anxiety, depression, and other trauma responses. It can feel like we are living life just trying to cope with the loudness of these negative messages. What if instead of just gaining tools to “cope” with these trauma responses, we could eliminate them all together? How might your life look? My hope is that in our work together we will be able to address wounds and move towards healing so that you don’t have to “cope” anymore. Instead you can thrive and have a sense of self-awareness that brings constant peace and clarity.

Hello, My name is Debbie! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I am passionate about helping others on their mental health journey to wellbeing. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and obtained my Master's in Counseling at the University of San Diego. My interest in helping others started in early childhood. Supporting others was something I always found very rewarding, and continue to feel that way to this day. For the past 10 years, I have had the opportunity to help others in a variety of mental health settings. I have worked in residential group homes, provided one on one mental health skills coaching, been a school counselor, and recently have been a therapist for the last 6 years.

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California, providing individual therapy to adults of all ages facing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship concerns, cultural and identity issues, and life transitions. I especially love working with young adults and folks who may be new to therapy. Some of my areas of interest include adult parent-child relationships, relational trauma, loneliness, spirituality, career development, identity development, friendship, dating, and relationship satisfaction. I welcome and affirm clients from all racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations and gender identities, religions, and nationalities. Practicing cultural sensitivity and humility, and working through an anti-racist and social justice lens are cornerstones of my work. I’ve been in practice for 8 years, earning my Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley, California, and my Bachelors in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California at Berkeley. I love working with young adults in particular and have focused on this population for the past 6 years, working in the university and community college settings, serving primarily first-generation college students. I am passionate about and experienced in serving people from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, especially Latinx, AAPI, Black/African-American, and multi-ethnic individuals. *Please note that I may have additional appointment times available in addition to those listed here on the Grow site. If you would like to request a different appointment time outside of what is displayed here, please schedule an appointment at one of the times listed, and then send me a direct message through the Grow portal. Thank you!

Welcome! I am Reina Michelle, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with younger adults 18- 40 years old who have depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Together, we will identify your challenges and goals - where you want your life to be a month, six months, a year from now. Then, we'll identify options and strategies you can use to get there. You'll leave the session with a better understanding of what you're facing feeling more positive and on-track with your life. Mental health problems can hurt many young adults and get in the way of living happier and healthier lives. I have helped people with Bipolar, OCD, and Panic Disorders using CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Narrative, and DBT among others. These disorders can cause disruptions with partners, family, and friends. Additionally, I teach communication skills to "individuals" to bring better understanding to their relationships. I come to my sessions with the ability to speak freely, honestly, and from the heart in order to develop strong, meaningful connections with my clients. I am licensed with a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from JFK University in San Jose, CA, in 2010. Life is too precious to put off your happiness and well-being any longer. Helping you to succeed in overcoming mental health challenges and developing healthy communication skills is my goal and I look forward to meeting you.

If you’re a client who works with me, you can trust that you have a therapist with the highest level of education and training (B.A from Princeton; Ph.D. from UCLA), extensive experience working with individuals and couples, and a record of professional accomplishment (University Professor, Director of a Graduate Program in Counseling, author of multiple books and articles in the areas of Clinical Psychology and Human Development.) In addition to my work in psychology, I have a background in the creative arts as a Grammy award-winning songwriter and a published novelist. Because of this added dimension, some of my clients have welcomed suggestions for excellent stories, novels, movies, or television shows that depict characters who face similar challenges to their own and our discussions of these works and characters have provided these clients with another valuable source of understanding and growth. On a personal note, I grew up on the East Coast before relocating to California and I’m the father of two daughters.

I believe that everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life’s challenges and create positive change in their lives. As a licensed LMFT therapist, I support clients towards their self-discovery process through the transformative power of psychotherapy to create meaningful changes in life, empower unique gifts and purpose, and enhance mental and emotional well-being. I believe that each of us possesses an internal source of insight and wisdom that can be cultivated through therapy. My approach is warm, relational, strengths-based and trauma-informed. I work from a place of compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Whether you are looking for guidance, improved relationships, insight, or to develop healthy coping strategies, you can make meaningful changes in your life one step at a time. So I encourage you to take time for yourself to nurture your mental and emotional well-being, activating your innate ability to cultivate a more fulfilling and balanced life.