Therapists in California

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 from 2011-2013, to working as a shelter counselor in Oakland for youth 13-21 from 2016-2018. I 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 from 2018-2022. I have been licensed with my LCSW since May 2025 and focused my prior professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. I’m a licensed therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, OCD, and healthcare worker stress/burnout. At this time, due to caseload, I am only accepting new patients who present with one of the aforementioned areas of concerns. I have extensive experience across many levels of care (from inpatient to residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient settings) so I’m comfortable supporting patients with different levels of severity and complexity. I’ve also spent years working in utilization management, which means I understand insurance systems well and can help you navigate them as part of treatment. I hold an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas State University and a B.S. in Economics & Management Science from MIT.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping couples strengthen their connection, improve communication, rebuild trust, and navigate relationship challenges with greater understanding and intimacy. Using a holistic, mindfulness-centered approach, I support partners in identifying negative relationship patterns, fostering emotional safety, and developing healthier ways of connecting with one another. In addition to my work with couples, I draw on my extensive background in family services to support individuals and families through emotional, relational, and life transitions. My experience as a therapist and entrepreneur, including multiple women’s empowerment ventures, allows me to bring both clinical expertise and real-world perspective to the therapeutic process. My goal is to help clients create meaningful, lasting change and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

Dr. Norman Quintero is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over seven years of clinical experience supporting individuals and couples through life’s emotional, relational, and personal challenges. He is licensed to practice in California, Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, and Florida, and provides compassionate care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, stress, anger management, and self-esteem concerns. Dr. Quintero’s approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. He integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic principles to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where they feel heard, respected, and validated. His goal is to help clients gain clarity, develop healthier coping skills, strengthen relationships, rebuild confidence, and move toward meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

I am a down-to-earth and collaborative therapist who believes that the foundation of effective healing is a genuine, honest connection. I prioritize creating a transparent environment where you feel heard and respected, allowing us to work as true partners in your mental health journey. My approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is most effective when it is practical, straightforward, and focused on your unique reality. In our sessions, I value honesty and the identification of healthy, realistic goals. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), where we work together to uncover the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By identifying irrational thinking patterns and challenging negative self-talk, we can begin to reframe your narrative in a way that serves your growth rather than hindering it. I understand that starting therapy can feel like a significant step, which is why I focus on providing a non-judgmental space where we can tackle challenges at your pace. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, daily stress, or life transitions, my goal is to provide you with a functional toolkit of strategies you can use long after our sessions end. Together, we will move toward a more balanced, resilient, and fulfilling life.

Hi, I’m Yalda, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, and life transitions. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a warm, collaborative style to help clients build practical coping skills, gain insight, and feel more confident in managing life’s challenges. I strive to create a supportive space where clients feel understood, empowered, and supported in their healing and growth.

I grew up in Europe, graduated from Pepperdine University in 2007 with MA in clinical Psychology, in practice since then. Married, father of 2. Life can be challenging and certainly has its ups and downs. I strive to assist clients in gaining awareness, understanding, and control over their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through exploration, self-reflection, and insight, I work with clients and provide the space that is necessary to process, gain insight, and achieve desired change.

I am currently providing psychotherapy services in both English and Spanish in person and via Telehealth in California. As a strength-based clinician, I have had the opportunity and privilege to assist people in bringing stability and healing to their lives by helping them find and recognize their inner strengths and apply them in their daily lives. I employ an in-depth therapeutic approach to provide short-term and effective symptom reduction. I also focus on Affirmative Therapy, advocating for the needs of sexual and gender minority patients. Additionally, for longer-term treatment, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

I am a licensed mental health therapist with experience across private practice, community, academic, governmental, nonprofit, and corporate settings. As a Vietnamese refugee who has faced profound hardship, I bring a deep understanding of resilience, trauma, and healing to my work. I support individuals, couples, families, and communities navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex cultural, relational transitions. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client, blending evidence-based practices with cultural awareness, trauma-informed care, and spiritual flexibility. I meet clients where they are, honoring their experiences and challenges. Through a collaborative and compassionate process, I help clients develop insight, strengthen resilience, and create lasting change—so they heal and thrive. Tôi là một nhà trị liệu sức khỏe tâm thần được cấp phép tại California, với kinh nghiệm trong nhiều môi trường như thực hành tư nhân, cộng đồng, học thuật, chính phủ, tổ chức phi lợi nhuận và doanh nghiệp. Là người tị nạn Việt Nam từng trải qua khó khăn, tôi có sự thấu hiểu sâu sắc về khả năng phục hồi, sang chấn và chữa lành. Tôi làm việc với cá nhân, cặp đôi, gia đình và cộng đồng đối mặt với sang chấn, lo âu, trầm cảm và chuyển đổi phức tạp trong văn hóa, mối quan hệ và cuộc sống. Phương pháp của tôi mang tính tích hợp, điều chỉnh theo từng thân chủ, kết hợp các thực hành dựa trên bằng chứng cùng sự nhạy cảm văn hóa và linh hoạt về tinh thần. Tôi tôn trọng trải nghiệm và bản sắc riêng của mỗi người. Thông qua hợp tác và thấu cảm, tôi hỗ trợ thân chủ phát triển nhận thức, củng cố khả năng phục hồi và tạo ra thay đổi ý nghĩa, bền vững—để họ có thể chữa lành và phát triển.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who supports adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Los Angeles, and my Master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on Adult Mental Health and Wellness from the University of Southern California. I have experience working with clients ages 5 to 65 from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, with specialties in domestic violence, grief, and trauma. I provide a warm, empowering, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel safe to explore their experiences. Using a blend of CBT, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused therapy, I help clients build practical coping skills, heal from past experiences, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

It truly is nice to see you. I am Dr. Tinai James, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the founder and Clinical Director of Rooted & Relevant Psychological Services, a group therapy practice dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across every season of life. Our approach is built on the RCB Framework™: Rooted, Culture-First, and Brave. We believe successful therapy takes place in a Brave Space where you don’t have to code-switch to be heard. Whether you are a student facing the "identity shift" of campus life or a parent seeking a therapist who understands your family’s cultural background, our goal is to provide clinical expertise that feels relevant to your real life. In our sessions, we combine PhD-level clinical science with practical, goal-oriented strategies. We will work together to tackle anxiety and social pressure while building the cultural confidence you need to thrive. Our practice is currently licensed to see clients in Georgia and California, in addition to 40+ states via PSYPACT, offering high-energy, modern care that honors exactly who you are. Let’s build your brave!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and for over 25 years I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people on their healing journeys. My work has included supporting adults, children ages 3–18, transitional age youth, families, and young people facing behavioral health challenges. Over the years, I’ve worked with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post‑traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and personality disorders. What I love most about this work is helping people discover their own capacity to heal and grow. I draw from approaches like CBT, DBT, supportive therapy, trauma‑informed care, and strength‑based therapy. At the same time, I believe therapy is never one‑size‑fits‑all. Each person is unique, and together we’ll find the approach that feels right for you. Above all, I believe you are the expert of your own life. My role is to provide a safe, affirming space and a supportive relationship where you can explore, grow, and move toward the life you want

Hello, I'm David. Do you have a change you are facing and are unsure about which direction to go? Are you questioning your identity or aspects of who you are? Are you facing struggles that feel too large to conquer? Are stressors weighing you down? I help clients navigate these tough questions and work together to understand how to face these challenges. Exploring the choices together and discovering a path that resonates with you. I use a whole-person approach to unlock who you want to be and I will walk alongside as your journey unfolds. The challenges of today can become the strengths of tomorrow! Let’s work together to find that peace of mind you are looking for.

My name is Deenne Houston.  I have been a License Clinical Social Worker for over 14years, in Los Angeles, California.  I have extensive experience as a Director, Trainer, Administrator and Clinical Supervisor in Intensive Services within Los Angeles County Mental Health Services.  My work is strongly grounded in wellness, resiliency, the promotion of self sufficiency, and support. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, self-esteem, depression and relational issues. I have also assisted many people who have experienced trauma or emotional, physical abuse, PTSD, anger, communication issues, and family members impacted by addiction.  My goal is to assist in the  process of establishing coping skills to help individuals achieve, their therapeutic goals, overall fulfillment and wellness.

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

I am a Christian Clinical, Forensic and Sports Neuropsychologist. Like many folks who get into the mental health field, I had certain mental health challenges. My family of origin was burdened with addiction and mental health. I currently have 40 years of sobriety and am intimately familiar with 12 Step, Christ-centered and Mindfulness aspects of recovery. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma and Addiction with family systems and attachment orientation. As a trained child psychologist I also place particular emphasis on developmental aspects of trauma. As a former Navy psychologist with many years working with veterans and first responders, I am very familiar with those cultures. I played college soccer, run 20 marathons, taught scuba as well as being an award winning underwater photographer and competed at the CrossFit World Games for 3 years. I am married, have a son (retired Navy) and a daughter in heaven.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who supports adults and older adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC) and my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from California State University, San Bernardino, which together shaped my strong foundation in both clinical practice and understanding the broader social factors that impact mental health. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you feel truly heard, supported, and empowered to be yourself. Using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), grief-informed care, and a strengths-based approach, I help you better understand your thoughts, build practical coping tools, and create a meaningful change. Together, we will work toward helping you feel more grounded, confident, and connected so you can move through life with greater clarity, balance, and a renewed sense of purpose

If you're dealing with depression or anxiety, or situations in your life that you're not happy with, first of all, you're not alone. Lots of people are dealing with hard times now, and it's affecting how lots of us feel, work, and engage with our relationships. But you should know that most problems can be dealt with effectively -- sometimes all we need is a little help. I'm good at providing that kind of help. I usually work with clients on core issues, foundations of well-being, like self esteem, codependency, self assertion, and also, how do they do with relationships? What's going on with work? Are there family issues? Is there solid self esteem there? Most of my clients come in feeling very uncertain about what their next steps are, and most often, they tell me that feelings of sadness, or worry, are definitely in their way. I've been helping people heal and grow for over 20 years, and what I hear back from clients is that I'm honest, smart, kind, and that I don't waste their time. The work we do together is not just about soothing and comforting, but also, and more directly about problem solving: if you're unhappy, what do you need in order for that to change? And what are all your needs, anyway? Are you even sure of how you need your life to be? I'd like to help you find the answers to those questions. And if you're in a relationship, getting over one, or hoping to find a new one, I do a lot of work with people who are dealing with that, too. I hope I can help you feel better, and get your needs met in life. Because there's nothing that matters more.

Hi and thank you for your time to read about my background. 📘 Introduction I have been providing mental health services as a psychotherapist and disaster mental health specialist for my entire adult life. Relationships with professors led to my first becoming a therapist as a twenty-one-year-old undergraduate student majoring in Community Service at University of Oregon. The majority of my career was working 23 years for the National Center for PTSD. Over the course of these years, I responded to a dozen Presidentially declared catastrophic events. Additionally, I created a therapy integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and meditation endorsed by a leading 20th century cognitive therapy psychologist who assisted the work being published in an international clinical journal dedicated to CBT. Retired from the federal government in 2013. Worked in Ukraine in 2014 and 2018 providing services to veterans and civilians in addition to teaching at universities in Kyiv, Lviv, and Rivine, and training Ukrainian mental health professionals throughout the country Provided pro bono remote clinical supervision for six years to Ukrainian psychologists. To directly book an appointment click the htpps address that follows. https://growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=12920&utm_source=provider-sourced&utm_medium=booking-link&utm_campaign=provider-dashboard 📘Overview: • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) helping clients cope with anxiety, depression and traumatic events to achieve behavioral change. • In 2022, I began offering telemental health therapy. • Former Health Science Specialist and Editor-in Chief of clinical journal at National Center for PTSD. • Provided direct services, training, and consultation in the aftermath of terrorist attacks, plane crashes, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, & civil unrest. International Work • Assembled and led Disaster Mental Health Team, Ukraine (2014) Post-Maidan Revolution • Fulbright Grant: Ukraine (2018)

I was born in NJ where I completed my education at Rutger's University and now live with my family in DE. I have my LCSW in DE, NJ, and CA and currently practice in these 3 states. I am an animal lover of all kinds and enjoy being outdoors as much as I can. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, hiking, exercising, and reading.

Hello there, I’m Lus. Do you miss feeling like yourself? Does it feel like you are going around in circles with the same problems yet can’t seem to find a permanent solution? I guide adults from a person-centered approach to find solutions to their problems when experiencing difficulty managing emotions such as those that come with depression and anxiety. I can help you work through major life transitions (newly married, becoming a parent, empty nester, starting school, grief, becoming ill, divorce, etc.) getting to the root of the problem and developing cognitive behavioral techniques that will get you back to stability. Obtaining therapy services can be intimidating but I can guarantee you that you are making the right decision. I possess bilingual abilities (Spanish), if it's your preference. You deserve your own space to heal and evolve. During our sessions, you will have a safe space where I will meet you with empathy and evidence-based practice. Let me help you.

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you and walk alongside with you in that process.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker fluent in English and Spanish. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Welfare from the University of Puerto Rico and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Nebraska in Omaha. I have dedicated my career empowering individuals, families, and communities. I believe in people's inherent ability to lead healthier lives and see it as the driving force behind every relationship.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

I am a licensed professional counselor (PhD, LPC, NCC) with years of experience supporting individuals across a wide range of mental health challenges. I am deeply committed to helping people explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a safe, supportive environment. My approach integrates evidence-based strategies with compassion and understanding, so clients can gain clarity, build resilience, and achieve meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

Hey! I'm Kylee (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have supported people from all walks of life with a wide range of challenges and needs due to anxiety, depression, trauma, SOGIE/LGBTQ+, ADHD, Autism, self-harming behaviors, suicidal thoughts, 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.

Hi there! I'm Cindy Nguman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I’m so glad you’re here. I work with clients all across the state through the convenience of Telehealth, creating a safe and supportive space, wherever you are. I specialize in supporting young adults and adults who are navigating life’s many ups and downs, whether that’s anxiety, stress, depression, dating, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. You're not alone in what you're going through, and together, we’ll work to help you feel more grounded, confident, and understood. My style is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I use a person-centered approach, which means I deeply value who you are and what you bring to the table. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy to help us make meaningful progress toward your goals. Reaching out is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. 💛

Hi my name is Jehalin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with 16 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families from various walks of life. I have experience with helping people who are experiencing various hardships in life and difficulty adjusting, as well as people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, mood disorders, etc. I am known for being a good listener, caring, accepting, and compassionate, regardless of the challenges one might be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches I use is cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, client centered, play therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness, and more. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may assist.

Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.

My name is Shawna Reynolds, and I have been in the social work field for 20 years, and the clinical field for over 15 years now. I was drawn to social work to specifically to help provide a sense of safety, security and stability for youth and families. I bring that same sense of safety, security and stability to my Therapy Practice where using a variety of CBT and TFCBT different modalities I now help adult clients identify areas of self-improvement so that they can make positive behavioral changes in their lives to experience more positive pleasurable emotions such as excitement, happiness and a healthy self-concept.

Hi I’m a licensed professional counselor licensed in many states. I have been in the counseling field helping children and adults for more than 20 years. I help adults of all ages struggling with everyday stressors, my goal is to help you figure out and work through challenges to live life on your terms and create a healthy balance. ****Please note if you are currently or recently feeling suicidal, you will be referred to an in office provider, psychiatrist and/ likely a higher level of care, as I would only treat in severe depression and suicidality in office.******Please call 988 which is the free 24 hour crisis line, if you feel like you want to harm yourself or are feeling very overwhelmed.

I was born in Managua, Nicaragua but moved to the United States at a young age. I can say that I’ve learned to appreciate, value, and grow from every experience given in life. Good or bad experiences can potentially shape who we are. They can impact our view and perspective about life, and make us stronger to overcome challenges we face throughout our journey or disable us temporarily, making the journey less enjoyable and pleasing. I always had a strong desire to help others. I found in Psychology and Therapy a good option to provide others the needed tools to move forward, so they can find within them the strength to push toward a better and more productive lifestyle. I view therapy as a safe place to explore relationships, whether those relationships are with people (family, co-workers, partner) or things (food, money, alcohol). I also feel an important part of therapy is addressing the social, economic, and cultural influences on a person.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

With 15 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping create lasting, positive change through integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution Focused Brief Treatment (SFBT) to offer a comprehensive, evidence-based approach tailored to each client's unique needs. My work with clients emphasizes building emotional resilience, improving communication, and fostering deep connections. I am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals and develop the tools they need for meaningful, fulfilling lives.