Therapists in California

Welcome to therapy. It takes courage to seek therapy, and you should be proud of yourself for taking this step towards healing and growth. A little about me: my name is Nicole. I've been in private practice for more than 6 years. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from San Jose State University. During graduate school, I completed an internship with former foster youth and and worked as a social worker at Stanford Children's Hospital in the oncology and stem cell transplant center. I spent some time working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at a local hospital as well as hospice. I am now a Manager of a Behavioral Health Department. I continue to do therapy because I truly love connecting with people who are looking to grow and enrich their lives. During our sessions, I will listen attentively to what you have to say. I will ask thought-provoking questions and offer insights and feedback to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation. Most importantly, I will be here to support you, encourage you, and help you build the confidence and resilience needed to achieve your goals. Remember, therapy is a collaborative effort, and your active participation and honesty will be crucial to your success. You’ve come this far in finding a therapist, so you’re already taking the right steps in embracing change. I believe in your ability to make meaningful changes in your life and look forward to working with you. Let’s get started!

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

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 10 years experience providing therapy. I earned my Bachelors Degree in Psychology from California State University Sacramento in 2010. I earned my Masters in Counseling from The University of San Francisco's Sacramento satellite campus in 2012. I have worked with a wide variety of clients struggling with various mental health and other interpersonal challenges. My approach to therapy begins with establishing a genuine connection with each client and their challenges. . I establish this by providing a warm, open, safe, and non - judgmental environment.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Masters Degree in Social Work from UCLA. I have been serving the community for 28 years, serving individuals, children, couples, and families. It gives me great joy to work with clients of all ages and from all walks of life. I also find it meaningful to work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, as I have a multi-ethic back ground, and am multilingual in Cantonese, Mandarin, and Vietnamese. My specialties include: anxiety, trauma, depression, self esteem issues, relationship issues, family dynamics, multi-generational issues, adjustment to life situations, stress management, grief, anger management, etc. I value the client-therapist relationship. It is an honor I am being invited and included in this part of your journey! I regard the client-therapist relationship as a partnership. As a therapist, my goal is to empower you in overcoming barriers in order for you to pursue the life you deserve. It will require a commitment from both of us to participate and engage in our clinical alliance. It gives me a deep sense of gratification to work with clients who are motivated to move forward. I look forward to our meeting!

I'm Sheldon like the TV show! (Big Bang Theory). I help analytical high-achieving adults who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety and depression untangle their inner world and reconnect with their deeper self-using insight-driven therapy, dream exploration, and a creative lens that helps them uncover what's been buried beneath the surface. Do you often say, "I'm successful on the outside but exhausted and anxious inside," "overthinking everything, but still feeling stuck," or being in a "constant sense of restlessness or dissatisfaction," or being a person who "struggles to access or name emotions clearly." I help clients have greater awareness and emotional clarity and begin to feel grounded, self-trusting and more internally connected. I hope to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms through deeper insight and ability to recognize and break unconscious patterns. I help clients discover meaning through creative exploration, and dream work. I want clients to increase their confidence in navigating relationships and decisions and moving from analysis paralysis to self-acceptance and expression. My areas of expertise are in Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Mental Illness, Risk Assessment, Trauma, PTSD and Substance Abuse Disorders.

Hello! I am a child psychologist based in California. I received my doctorate from Pepperdine University and have completed training at Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Primary Children's Hospital. I have 8 years of experience working specifically with children and their families in various treatment settings. I am dedicated to supporting the emotional and behavioral growth of children and adolescents through evidence-based, compassionate care.

I am a psychotherapist with over 15 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings. I received my psychotherapy training at the San Francisco State University and graduated in 2012. After working at a private counseling center for 6 years, I opened my private practice in 2018 as a licensed marriage and family therapist. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults and Asian adults. My areas of interests include gay/lesbian and gender issues, sexuality, psychotherapy education, and psychotherapeutic technique.

Life’s twists—whether it’s anxiety, a breakup, or a big transition—can feel overwhelming and isolating. As a bilingual Latina therapist, I’m here to help children, teens, and young adults navigate those challenges with a mix of humor, heart, and real talk. With a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan and my Licensed Clinical Social Worker expertise, I’ve supported clients through depression, shame, anger, grief, and more. Together, we’ll tackle the crisis that brings you in, uncover the deeper layers, and chart a safe, non-threatening path to process tough emotions—finding strength and meaning along the way.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently eligible to see Telehealth clients in California and Florida. I have been practicing Holistic Psychotherapy in my private practice for 7 years specializing in Hypnotherapy and trauma resolution. I assist adults to navigate life transitions such as grief, heartbreak, career changes, healing from trauma or outdated versions of themselves, so they can feel more free and present in everyday life.

Hello, thanks for visiting my page. I am Dr. Banigo, and I love to collaborate with patients and render needed assistance. I am a skilled clinician, and I provide clinical supervision to clinicians focused on sharpening their clinical skills. I am an adjunct professor. I encourage patients to actively participate in their care with me and other treatment providers such as primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and others. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc).

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering supportive, strength-based therapy to adults and families. I have a B.A. in Psychology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and an M.A. in Counseling with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Webster University in Irvine, California. Throughout my carrier, I have worked with clients with a variety of issues and from all socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. My experience in College Hospital, a mental health facility, trained me to understand how different mental health issues can be compounded by trauma and substance abuse, as well as preparing me for dealing with clients with variety of mental health problems. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced different traumas. Among my areas of experience are anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, women's issues, adolescents' issues and family problems. I utilize many different treatment modalities and treatment techniques depending on the client's needs.

Hello and welcome to the journey of becoming an even more incredible version of yourself! I'm Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am so looking forward to meeting with you. I am a strengths-based, client centered, and solutions focused therapist. Together we will work to develop skills based on your strengths to help you thrive in your life. Our time together will be a collaboration between us to make sure that you are working on the areas that you feel will most benefit you and even those that you may not consider needing change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in California with a doctorate in rehabilitation counselor education from Michigan State University. I have taught at three community colleges and four universities in the US. My book, Transgender Youth, was published in 2016 and I also co-authored a book, Trauma-Informed Care in 2021. I currently operate an online private practice providing therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma to individuals in the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. *If you would like a therapy session on a day and time that is not listed, send me a message to make an exception for you.

Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!

I’m a holistic, trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenges of mental health and substance use. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck—exhausted by cycles of relapse, emotional pain, or instability. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can explore your story, uncover patterns, and develop tools for lasting change. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a deep respect for your unique experiences, empowering you to heal, connect, and create a life aligned with your values.

As a therapist, I am committed to helping you have healthier, more balanced, harmonious lives and relationships. My therapy approach includes traditional and holistic healing techniques that involve mind, body, heart and spirit as well as things unseen. My years of experience in community mental health include individual, child, couples, co-parenting and family therapy. I am able to relate well to many different cultural, ethnic, socio-economic groups. With an M.A. in transpersonal psychology and an M.B.A. from University of Chicago plus 25 years of corporate experience, I use a broad range of skills to help my clients explore their needs and goals. As a certified yoga and meditation teacher, many of my clients have learned mindfulness techniques that enhance their recovery. All of us need confidential support for different things at times. My job is to compassionately support you in what you need, with your values, to have the life that you want.

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.

I am a licensed clinical social worker based in California with extensive experience providing mental health support to youth in the school system, foster adolescents, and young adults. In recent years, I’ve specialized in helping young adults navigate the emotional and psychological barriers to pursuing higher education and career goals. Through therapeutic interventions, I focus on building self-esteem, addressing anxiety, and fostering the motivation needed to achieve their aspirations.

Hey bestie!💛 I’m Saira Patino—your mental health cheerleader and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Since getting my MSW from Edinboro University in 2017, I’ve been helping mujeres like you handle life’s chaos with care, humor, and real talk. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, identity stuff, or just feeling stuck, you're not alone. I work with Latinas from all walks of life—college students, working moms, first-gen professionals—who are carrying a lot on their shoulders. And let’s be real, navigating life while dealing with mental health challenges and cultural expectations? That ish is hard. But I gotchu!

I am a Psychologist licensed in California and have provided psychotherapy to individuals for over 30 years. I am also a lifelong artist and I am interested in how the creative process functions in our lives. I help people connect with their true potential that may have been ignored or forgotten in their search for meaning and purpose in their lives.

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

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California, fluent in both English and Spanish. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in crisis intervention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and anxiety management. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of clinical settings, including urgent care environments, where I have provided care to individuals in acute crises. I am also experienced in both individual and group therapy. Reaching out for therapy can often be a difficult and vulnerable step, but by doing so, you have already made a positive commitment to improving your mental health and well-being. My goal is to assist you in regaining control of your mental health by offering a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic space. I believe that effective therapy is a partnership between clinician and client, and I am dedicated to working with you as part of your team, guiding and supporting you as you work toward your goals. Together, we can create a plan that empowers you to achieve lasting personal growth and well-being.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I bring a warm, steady presence and take a thoughtful, thorough interest in who you are—like a trusted and wise friend who’s here to listen without judgment and help you see things more clearly. I believe therapy should be a safe, affirming space for everyone, regardless of background, beliefs, or identity. Drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other evidence-based methods, I tailor each session to your unique needs. Together, we can explore meaning, shift unhelpful narratives, and build skills for a more grounded and fulfilling future.

Hi there, I'm Loc. Do you find yourself struggling with life's challenges and in need of support to move forward? I help clients manage anxiety and depression while also preventing burnout. Together, we can identify what isn't working in your life and get you back to a state of balance and on track. Whether you're facing overwhelming relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel daunting, but it's a positive step to take. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll provide a trusting environment and focus on practical solutions to help you overcome the obstacles and habits that are holding you back. Let's work together!

Hello! My name is Jay and I've been a licensed therapist in California since 2010. I have helped clients who are dealing with stress and anxiety, past and recent trauma, problems in their relationships, grief and loss, life transitions, and are struggling with self esteem and confidence. At this time, I work with adult individual clients via teletherapy. Before working as a counselor, I had another, very different career, as an engineer. Although I switched out of that profession, I greatly value the critical thinking and problem solving skills that I learned while studying and working as an engineer. I think that those skills make me a better therapist.

Life can be difficult and, at times, feel overwhelming. When navigating depression, anxiety, or trauma, our perspective can become blurred, making it hard to see a way forward. During these moments, having someone who is nonjudgmental and understanding can make a meaningful difference. I believe we are all capable of growth and everyone deserves a life filled with hope, purpose, and a sense of belonging. It will be a privilege to walk with you through this journey of examining your inner self, breaking generational trauma, overcoming anxiety/depression, and improving your relationships. Please note, I currently only see individuals no couples or families.

My name is Emilie Crist and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from Fresno State with a Bachelor of Science in Special Studies Pre-Public Health and attained my Master’s of Art in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide. I have worked in community health and private practice and have a broad range of knowledge and experience that I am able to apply to my work as a clinician. I look forward to helping you on your healing journey to find deeper meaning and a better understanding of yourself to reach your full potential.

I have over 20 years of counseling experience working with diverse individuals from young children to seniors. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, transitions, self destructive behaviors, codependency among others, so that you can overcome the blocks that keep you from living the life you deserve. I use an integrated and collaborative approach created to meet the unique needs of each individual while establishing a safe environment conducive to achieving goals, and moving forward. I believe that true change happens when people are given the support they need in order to draw upon their own strengths to realize their full potential. I am very passionate about the work I do, compassionate, and believe that with dedication and commitment, you can live the fulfilling life you know is awaiting you. A few comments former clients have said about me and our work together include; “I’ve worked with a number of therapists before, but you are the only one that I felt truly cared.” “I can't believe that after 8 years of depression and PTSD, I actually feel great after only 6 months! If you would have asked me if this were possible a couple years ago, I would have said absolutely not!” I have worked with both short-term and long-term interventions and in diverse settings. My goal is your goal and together, you can achieve what you may have thought, or think, is unachievable. It is possible to not only overcome obstacles, but thrive and live a happy life.

Hi, I am Yeny! I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist, Latina (ablo espanol). I have worked in the communities of Los Angeles for 20 years, with different socio-economic status and age groups from as young as 3 years to end of life. I am a passionate, compassionate psychotherapist, counselor and life coach who wants to empower people in their journey of becoming a better version of themselves. In a safe space that will navigate with clients the areas of depression, self-esteem, culture, family, and relationships.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience helping adults and couples work through anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and life transitions. My style is warm, real, and supportive, the kind of space where you can take a breath, be yourself, and not feel judged. I work collaboratively, pulling from CBT, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and person-centered approaches to support your goals. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need someone steady to talk things through, we’ll move at your pace and figure it out together. Therapy can feel like a big step, I’m here to make it feel less intimidating and more like a real, healing connection.

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.

I am a bilingual, bicultural licensed therapist based in California (#27110). I understand the importance of culture and identity and how they each play a part in how we see the world. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping clients through their healing journey. I am committed to helping my clients understand how their past experiences impact their current lives.

Therapy can be a unique opportunity to work through and resolve obstacles that are preventing you from leading the life you truly deserve. I provide a safe and supportive space to facilitate emotional well-being, healing and growth. I utilize an interactive approach and will challenge you when needed. Therapy can be short-term or long-term depending on your specific needs. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of speciality include anxiety, complex traumas and chronic pain.

I have been a licensed therapist for 19 years. I believe the most important part of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic relationship is formed in a collaboration between myself and my clients in an environment of mutual acceptance and respect. In addition to my education, training and experience as a therapist I rely on my innate skills as an active listener, my good memory and genuine caring to guide me in my approach to therapy.

I am Licensed MFT and I help my client to explore their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in a safe and confidential space. The goal is personal growth and improve mental wellbeing and navigate the client through anxiety, depression, addiction and relationship issues, through collaborative work my client able to gain the tools and insight to deal with the at hand problems and future issues. Developing rapport with my clients is a primary focus and understanding their struggles in their own words, by providing them with safe and nonjudgmental environment.

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

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.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA. I received my Masters in Social Work from Columbia University and have been practicing for over 14 years, both as a therapist and in community mental health settings. I help adults who are feeling stuck with depression, relationship issues, and challenging childhood issues become the best versions of themselves. I help clients come to terms with their past, heal, grow, and move forward.

Hello! I am a License Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master of Social Work from California State University Long Beach. I received my BA in Psychology degree from California Stated University Fullerton. I have been practicing mental health counseling for 17 years. I help adolescents, adults and older adults struggling with careers, stress and burnout, traumatic life events, experiencing depression and anxiety to be able to function as normal as they can be.

Mo Kim is a licensed therapist based in Los Angeles County, California. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, job stress, life transitions, men’s issues, and supporting Asian clients. Through active listening and personalized guidance, Mo utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy, to help clients overcome personal challenges and achieve meaningful growth. Mo is passionate about supporting individuals in reaching emotional well-being. He provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore emotions, fostering an environment of compassion, warmth, and humor where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Mo offers online therapy sessions with availability most weekdays from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Hello there.....My name is Maria Paola Cortes Elser, I was born in Colombia and have been living in the USA for 23 years now, and as an immigrant, I confronted different situations that helped me to grow personally, and spiritually and understand how special it is to be from somewhere else and become part of this extraordinary country. I understand the challenges that come from this transition from different land to America and all the life experiences that those changes include, mentally culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Santo Tomas De Aquino University in Bogota Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University in the USA. I have been working in this field for 10 years, and I have experience with DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to help and support individuals and families who struggle with relationships, and Mental illnesses through faith and professional clinical counseling.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Psychologist based in California. I have received my Bachelors of Science in Cognitive Psychology and Psychology of Social behaviors from the University of California, Irvine. I have obtained my Masters in Clinical Psychology from California State University of Fullerton. I have received my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant University. I have been seeing clients for the pas 13 years in different settings from private practice to community mental health centers and recovery centers.

I've been providing therapy for 7 years. I use a down-to-earth, straight-forward approach to address attachment trauma, and how it manifests in adults. I create space to explore all aspects of oneself without judgement. I have a background in medical research, case management, and psychotherapy. I've worked in various healthcare environments that include the ER, PICU, psychiatric floors, crisis stabilization, residential, and outpatient private practice. I'm a proud USC graduate.

Hello, I am Stephanie Moreno-Carvajal and I have over 10 years of experience providing therapy for adults and adolescents from various multicultural backgrounds with a trauma-informed approach. I specialize in working with women from various ethnic backgrounds, particularly first-generation children of immigrant parents.I provide a warm and friendly environment open to discuss the treatment style that you would like as well as therapy goals. Sliding Scale fees are available.

Hi, My name is Rhonda David and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have over 30 years of experience and knowledge. My goal is to really listen to my client's needs and offer a safe non-judgmental supportive environment to help them find solutions to their inner struggles and in their relationships. I have a high satisfaction rate. My common approaches to therapy are self-understanding, understanding of others, self-acceptance and empowerment to help clients develop and initiate solutions for their lives and relationships that bring them satisfaction and deep happiness.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has worked with individuals that are experiencing a variation of difficulties. I specialize in helping patients with anxiety, depression, and stress. I also have experience helping individuals with ADHD, brain injury, relationships, self-esteem, school/career and other life difficulties. We all want to be heard when something is bothering us. Having someone hear us when we are upset can mean a lot. It can also feel good to have someone to vent to when a day has been long. I am interested in helping you through life's struggles and setting goals for the future. I'm also here to guide and support you through difficult experiences. I am here to listen because sometimes you may need to share when life changes or need help processing what has happened. I want to be there for you even when the day is neither good or bad. I am here.

I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my approach is rooted in warmth, empathy, and respect for each client’s unique experience. I aim to create a supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. I use an integrative approach, blending CBT, ACT, CPT, and Exposure Therapy. These evidence-based methods help address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, fostering resilience and personal growth.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

Hello. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I am a graduate of California Baptist University and I have 25 years experience and licensed 18 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. However for approximately the past seven (8) years I am working with adults only; ages 18-65. I assist them with acknowledging challenges they are facing and learning new ways of coping.

I have enjoyed practicing therapy to help individuals navigate challenging times and achieve meaningful life improvements since 2013. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor licensed in California, Texas, Colorado and Nebraska. I attended the University of Texas at San Antonio and received a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling. Throughout my career, I’ve supported adults, from college-age through the span of professional working life, and across diverse environments, including universities, hospitals, the military community (active duty and dependents), and Veterans. My approach is compassionate and empathetic, and tailored to meet each client’s unique needs, with an emphasis on resilience, growth, and lasting change.