Therapists in California

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

Hello, I’m a licensed marriage family therapist based in California. I received my master's in science in California and began practicing as a mental health therapist 10 years ago. I have experience helping adults and youth struggling with moderate to severe mental illness (i.e., anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and suicide prevention). I provide them with support and education on healthy coping strategies to overcome life challenges.

Welcome! ¡Bienvenid@s! I’m so glad you’re here, taking this step toward a happier, more resilient you. It’s a true privilege to walk alongside my clients as they navigate life. An experienced bilingual licensed therapist (licensed in TX and CA), I’m fluent in English and Spanish. Being a first-generation therapist, born in Venezuela, I bring a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and sensitivity to our sessions. My goal is to empower you to recognize your own resilience and embrace a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Therapy doesn’t have to be heavy all the time—I believe in bringing a touch of lightheartedness and humor to our sessions, creating a space where we can explore tough topics while also finding moments of joy and connection.

I am licensed in California . I have 20 years of professional work experience . I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work , from California State University Long Beach. I thrive in the opportunity to help clients move through the counseling process , with the goals of adaptive coping and wellness in the management of their issues and stressors. I enjoy educating clients on Wellness Practice and extending supportive psychotherapy to clients .

I love this quote, “Never look down on anyone unless you are helping them get up,” (Anonymous). Hi, and thanks for visiting my profile! As a therapist, I strive to help people achieve constructive changes in their lives while meeting people where they are in terms of their readiness to change and heal. I am genuinely interested in the well-being and uniqueness of those who seek my service, and I look forward to being of your service! I help people with trauma recovery, anxiety, and depression using my training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Brainstpotting, and EMDR interventions as well as in using an eclectic approach to therapy to help heal, explore, and discover the possibility of changes and growth within themselves. ¡Hola y gracias por visitar mi perfil! Como terapeuta, me enfoco en ayudar a personas a sanar de traumas, ansiedad, depresión, y construir una vida emocional más sana usando mi especialización en trauma y una combinación de otras terapias. Espero poder ayudarle.

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

Hi! I’m Felicia Williams, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I am grateful you’re here to see me. I am a highly compassionate, empathic social work professional dedicated to exceptional mental health services including effective treatment to diverse population including children, youth, and families struggling with persistent mental illness. I enjoy working with individuals who are also or was a part of the foster care system, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, and trauma.

Hi, I’m Jahvon (juh-von) Pierre or you can call me "Jae". I graduated from Cal State University, East Bay in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and in 2020, I earned my Master of Science in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from San Diego State University. I have an extensive history in psychology and human development and I have been practicing for a little over 6 years.

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

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with licensure in California, Oregon and Washington. I received my Masters in 2012 and have been practicing for 13 years across multiple settings. I help adults with a wide range of issues that include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship conflict, and low self-esteem. I work with people to reclaim the direction of their lives in the face of these problems, helping them take decisive action.

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

Hi, I’m Lainie Popp, LCSW. I work with adults who are healing from painful or confusing relationships — the kind that leave you second-guessing yourself, walking on eggshells, or wondering if your needs really matter. You might be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in self-doubt. Using EMDR, mindfulness, and parts work, I help clients rebuild self-trust and move beyond patterns and coping strategies that no longer serve them, so they can feel more grounded and confident in their lives.

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.

My name is Michael Brollini. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist, with 7 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health disorders and non-mental health disorders. It is my goal to help with learning alternative self-care activities, utilizing coping skills, and grounding techniques that could help us to function in the present moment. These are the basic fundamentals that are important through the healing process which could help improve your personal growth.

My dream client is someone who is growth oriented and ready for healing. One gets from therapy what one puts into it, if you are commited to achieving the goals you have set for therapy, then you and I will become invincible as I feel pretty confident I have the tools to get you there. If you commit to doing the assigned homework, exercises and tools, I guarantee that you WILL feel better, you will experience a sense of empowerment, confidence, an increased ability to navigate life and relationship's challenges effectively

Greetings! I am Dr. Errie Bohanon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 21 years of combined expertise in Social Services and Forensic Mental Health. With a deep commitment to empowering individuals, I specialize in helping people navigate life’s challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve meaningful personal growth. Whether you're seeking support for mental health, personal development, or guidance through complex life transitions, I am here to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. My approach is rooted in understanding your story, fostering resilience, and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can thrive. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, healing, and lasting change

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

I am a licensed MFT who has been in practice for over 15 years. I have extensive experience treating a wide variety of issues and psychological disorders from the most mild to the most severe. I work with adults and adolescents. My approach is warm, positive and compassionate. I can help you to achieve your personal goals, more effectively manage your emotions and stressors and develop strategies that will promote positive self-growth and lead you to and a more satisfying life. I have worked in a wide variety of settings in addition to my private practice including schools, residential homes and outpatient treatment facilities. My specialties include anxiety and depressive disorders, stress management, crisis counseling, grief counseling, and relationships.

Welcome. You've already taken a brave first step toward support, and I'm here to make sure this journey feels meaningful and comfortable for you. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space where we'll focus on what matters most to you - whether it's easing anxiety or depression, improving your relationships, or gaining deeper self-understanding. We'll work together in a gentle yet purposeful way, using practical tools and heartfelt connection to help you find more peace, balance, and resilience in your life. When you're ready to begin, I'm here to walk with you.

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

Hello! I am Vanessa Ly and it's so great to meet you. Am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I specialize in treating younger adults and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, or relationship concerns. I have also worked closely with first generation individuals and families to be the cycle breaker. I believe that positive change and growth can happen and it’s the first step to your journey of healing.

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

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

Welcome to my practice. I am a seasoned therapist and have worked in many different settings over many years. All I ever wanted to do is help people have their best lives. I practiced social work with a Bachelors degree in prisons, community agencies for the disabled, a state hospital, a state facility for people with cognitive challenges, child and family welfare work and working with folks in community care homes. I also developed and led a community program for Guardians ad Litem in child abuse and neglect cases. Then I went back to school and earned my Masters in Social Work and then my therapy credentials after many hours of supervision. I truly enjoy listening and encouraging clients to embrace strategies for wellness and self-compassion using mindfulness and compassion and strength based materials. I am actively engaged in consult groups with other therapists focusing on trans and queer issues. For several years I taught at the graduate school level in South Carolina and then Utah, teaching social work students skills for working ethically and compassionately.

As a compassionate and affirming therapist, I strive to create a warm, accepting space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered in their unique identities. My practice is deeply rooted in trans-affirming and LGBT-inclusive care, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life are met with respect, validation, and understanding. Grounded in anti-oppressive principles and a strong commitment to social justice, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate life’s challenges while honoring their lived experiences. I believe that healing is not only personal but also deeply connected to the broader systems in which we live. My approach fosters self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, helping clients cultivate meaningful change in both their inner worlds and their communities. Whether you are exploring your identity, seeking support for life’s transitions, or working through personal struggles, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering support.

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

Hey! I'm Kylee (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I started my social work journey in 2013; however, my experience working with families started long before then. I have been working with kids and their families as a therapist since 2019. I have supported people from all walks of life with a wide range of challenges and needs due to anxiety, depression, trauma, SOGIE/LGBTQIA2S+, ADHD, Bipolar, Autism, self-harming behaviors, suicidal thoughts, anger, and many others. While I'm laid back, I’m also direct. My goal is to create a safe space for my clients to feel comfortable sharing.

Greetings! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm licensed to practice in Mississippi, Texas and California. I received my Masters in Social Work from Jackson State University and have been in practice for over 20 years. I help adults who struggle with burnout ,stress and poor boundaries. I love supporting adults in reclaiming balance, joy and peace in their lives.

I enjoy working with individuals, children and couples that are hoping to gain confidence in healthier communication skills. Getting to understand you and getting to know one another will help improve our relationships. This will help recognize where you are hoping to improve your qualities in daily functioning. Building an alliance with me can create a safe place to practice and process your thoughts and feelings. Being able to process your past experience will allow you to identify and process ongoing needs within your daily lifestyle. Therapeutic alliance helps individuals grow within and become aware of their own needs

I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Sierra, and I am a California-based licensed Psychologist with over 10 years of clinical experience supporting adults as they navigate life's challenges. My passion is helping people not only understand themselves more deeply, but also make lasting positive changes. I take a holistic approach to therapy that supports the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This often includes mind-body strategies such as nervous system education, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), somatic healing, and when helpful, collaboration with integrative providers like nutritionists. I also draw from additional evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while paying close attention to how stress or trauma may show up in the body. In our work together, we’ll create a personalized plan that blends insight, practical tools, and meaningful action. My goal is to provide a space where you feel truly seen and supported, and where therapy becomes not just about coping with challenges, but about moving toward the life you most want to live.

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

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

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

Hello, I’m Nizhu—a licensed therapist with over 8 years of clinical experience, specializing in men’s mental health, trauma recovery, and motivational interventions. My approach is grounded in strength-based and evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Multisystemic Therapy (MST), where I’m honored to rank in the top 1% of therapists globally. I work with individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, often supporting clients in breaking generational patterns, rebuilding confidence, and developing healthier coping strategies. My style is warm, collaborative, and direct—because healing doesn’t have to be stiff, and growth rarely happens in silence. Expect real conversations, grounded techniques, and the occasional well-timed joke (because, yes, therapy can be both effective and human). Outside the therapy room, I’m a committed gym enthusiast, fueled by black coffee and protein-packed meals. Tattooed and purpose-driven, I believe in showing up authentically—for my clients and myself. Whether you’re here to build resilience, process trauma, or just get unstuck, I’m here to help—one honest conversation at a time.

I’m Baharak, LCSW, specializing in OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative, emphasizing strategies practiced between sessions. I provide telehealth across California and in person therapy at PsychiatryOC in Newport Beach. All appointments, virtual or in-person, are scheduled through Grow Therapy’s official contact line. Please call (646) 687-9932 to schedule an appointment conveniently and securely. Book in person by calling the office: https://share.google/PzlPB9XRGP9UAlUo9

Hello! I’m a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to recognizing the inherent worth of every individual, even in challenging times. Residing in a cozy cabin in the San Diego mountains, I often incorporate nature into the healing journey. I provide in-person therapy for individuals and couples around a campfire, as well as virtual sessions or a combination of both. As your clinician, I will meet you where you are, offering support without blame or judgment. While I may not have all the answers, I'm here to listen to your goals and accompany you on your path to achieving them. If you're feeling unsure about your direction, that is completely okay—we can navigate that together.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping you learn how to cultivate the life you deserve and want. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, thinking patterns, and self-limiting beliefs that create daily barriers to life fulfillment. I believe in taking a collaborative approach towards helping clients reach their goals. I hold space for you to narrate your journey without fear or judgment. I welcome your invitation to walk beside you in letting go of the things and ideas that no longer serve you. You deserve the opportunity to cultivate a better you.

I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters oof Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University.

I am a licensed mental health professional (LMFT, LPCC) with an MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology (Mumbai University), a Master of Public Health in Public Health Practice (University of Arizona), and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on Professional Clinical Counseling from Touro University. With over 20 years of experience across clinical care, mental health, healthcare management, research, program development, education, and training, I bring a multidisciplinary perspective to advancing healthcare delivery.

Hello, my name is Christina and I am passionate about serving those who have been suffering and are looking for real solutions to their problems. I look forward to helping you meet your long and short term goals through our collaborative and therapeutic work together. I have 7+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I work with clients navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and complex family dynamics, always honoring their cultural background and personal story. Through a compassionate, client-centered approach, I help individuals build resilience, gain insight, and develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and lead more empowered lives.

Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence to working in Oakland shelters for youth 13-21. I have worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments. I have focused my professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

I’m Herschel O’Brien, a clinical counselor with extensive experience in trauma-informed, client-centered care. I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and collaborative, drawing from modalities like mindfulness, narrative therapy, and systems thinking. Whether you're facing trauma, mood instability, or life transitions, I offer a safe space where healing is possible and meaningful growth can take root. I believe in empowering clients to become the authors of their own lives, with clarity, confidence, and emotional insight.

Hi, I’m Brenda Montgomery-Telfor, LMFT. I’m a compassionate, culturally responsive therapist with a deep heart for helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s transitions, losses, and emotional challenges. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space for healing, clarity, and growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, or self-worth, I’m here to walk beside you with grace, empathy, and empowerment.

Hi, my name is Cindy Pérez, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience supporting individuals and communities through life’s challenges. I specialize in trauma-informed care, stress management, and wellness education, integrating approaches like mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered in your healing journey. I offer services in both English and Spanish.

My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.

I knew when I was eleven years old that I wanted to be a therapist, and I'm grateful to do what I love. I’ve worked in the mental health field since 1999, with a break to raise my two children. For the past six years, I worked with individuals, couples and families as a provider with a group practice, and before that, I worked in non-profit mental health organizations across San Diego. My experience includes supporting individuals and couples experiencing and adjusting to a variety of life issues such as the aftermath of trauma, birth of a child, marriage, divorce, teen issues, college students, career planning, dating, parenting, co-parenting, mid-life, grief, neurodiversity, chronic mental health issues, and BIPOC community issues.

Hi, my name is Wisdom and I am a LCSW. I have 7+s years as a therapist and became licensed in 2023. I received my undergraduate degree in 2013 from UCSB and my MSW in 2018 from CSUSM. I am certified in (C-DBT) , Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I believe that trauma, that is unprocessed and/or not fully integrated, can become stored in our bodies and lead to somatic, body, and/or emotional "tor-mentors" (Schwartz, 2023). As such, I utilize Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM), such as massage therapy, acupuncture, meditation, and yoga, in therapy sessions and/or bridge outside connections to these resources. I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed clinician and apply parts work in sessions that helps illuminate segments of ourself that holds onto certain burdens. Navigating through life can be quite complicated, though whether you choose to Accept this or not can allow room for Change or continued suffering.

My inspiration to become a therapist came from my parents, who immigrated to the United States with resilience, compassion, and determination to create a better life. Watching them navigate barriers while raising 7 children and running a small business taught me perseverance, growth, and kindness. From their example, I learned that even in hardship, barriers can be broken down with humility, care, and compassion. I carry those lessons into my work, integrating my expertise in the field and real-life wisdom into my work walking alongside with clients. For over a decade, I’ve worked in advocacy and mental health, serving underprivileged and underserved communities primarily the Latinx community. I support individuals from many walks of life, including those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum challenges, PTSD, multigenerational trauma, and relationship difficulties.

Greetings! I have relished working in this field for over 30 years and my practice has only gotten better over time--as I grow. Starting off my career in the field of Addiction Medicine assisting with patients embracing their own recovery over time. Through that lens my areas of expertise expanded: finding many people had other addictive/compulsive behaviors, mental health issues, childhood trauma, (including the impact of racism, sexism and homophobia). My patients have found psychoeducation incredibly useful. There is no question in my mind regarding the power of therapy can be an extraordinary avenue for healing, self-identity development and living more intentionally versus living by default. Together we will carve out the style that works for you. Many of the people I work with work a recovery program in AA (Alcholics Anonymous/NA etc.), ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional Families)--which has accelerated their healing and assisted immeasurably in our work together. Spirituality can be a wellspring of hope and vitality in our work together. Learning to treat oneself with gentleness, humor love and respect is the practice I hope to instill within my people over time. I learned for myself when starting my journey that all I needed to be was honest, openminded and willing (HOW) and it's working!