Therapists in California

Tracy McClendon, LCSW is a therapist who believes we all have the capacity to grow and looks forward to helping you on your mental health journey. Is it possible you have come to a point in your life where you want change, need to get in control of you or your environment? With direction, support, serenity you can learn to master negative thought processes that bring about negative emotions and behaviors. She believes together, you will build upon your strengths, identify your concerns and you will overcome your challenges.

I am Wes Hardcastle-Orr a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the State of California. I have lived in many states and several countries overseas in my work with active-duty personnel and veterans. I practice a type of CBT called Rational Emotive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This therapy works well for a broad range of problems and difficulties. Common issues I work with include Depression, Anxiety, Alcohol and Cannabis Use Disorders and Work or Personal Stress and much more.

Hi! I’m Heidi! I know how hard it is to spill your guts to a stranger, and I don’t take that lightly. Feeling safe and comfortable is the most important part of therapy, and I strive to create a space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. You don’t have to do this alone—I’m here to help. I take a down-to-earth, real-world approach to therapy because I’ve survived my own struggles, and I know what it’s like to fight for healing. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies with holistic and mindfulness-based techniques to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, or relationship challenges, I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore your emotions and create lasting change. I have worked in inpatient facilities specializing in substance abuse, mental health, and trauma, providing intensive support to individuals in crisis. In my private practice, I have worked with both survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence, as well as high-profile individuals in Hollywood who require a high level of discretion and specialized care. My experience in these settings has deepened my understanding of complex trauma, addiction, and the unique stressors that come with high-pressure environments.

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 have been a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist since 2001. In 2005, I was trained by Postpartum Support International (PSI), and have specialized in the treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders since that time. I served as PSI’s Orange County Coordinator, offering support and connecting women to community resources, from 2005-2017. In addition to my work in private practice, I taught LMFT students at the undergraduate and graduate level for 10 years, and became certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy in 2015. In 2017 I helped develop Hoag Hospital’s Maternal Mental Health program, where I served as Lead Therapist. I was trained by the Beck Institute in 2018 in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders.

I feel each individual enters the therapeutic relationship in their own distinctive way. I strongly believe that every person is the author of their own story and unique in their narrative of what change looks like for them on a personal level. I am passionate about helping people make change both big and small that will enhance their sense of seIf and ability to create more meaning and authenticity in their lives and relationships.

Welcome! I am glad that you are here taking a step towards change. I appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself. I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than twenty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Southern California. I have worked in a wide range of areas supporting POC and the queer community. I have helped clients manage and cope with challenging emotional issues, life transitions, and relationship problems. I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Hello, I am April Jordan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from Cal State East Bay, Hayward, in 2005. I am a wife, mother of young children and understand the stressors linked with trying to balance life. I specialize in Women issues, Postpartum, anxiety,ADHD, depressive disorders, relationship stressors and career transitions. My Therapeutic approach is strength-based , solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. My Professional experience I have worked years in mental health, medical social work, family services and with the criminal justice system. I used to be a medical social worker in the ED. I am a therapist that likes to look at restoring you back to feeling better and providing you with real life therapeutic tools needed to get back to a sense of normalcy.

Schyna Pour is a licensed clinical social worker/psychotherapist with 10 years of experience specializing in children and adolescents. Schyna treats patients between the ages of 6 and 35 and depending on each client’s needs, she uses methods/therapeutic models including: play therapy, music, role play, and guided imagery, Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic/Person-centered/Holistic/Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Brief Solution-focused, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused, Family Systems, Gottman Couples. Schyna believes therapy is a healing conversation that provides clients with a safe, non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based and eclectic place to express their challenges, and help them to rediscover their strengths, talents and resources. Schyna uses a collaborative partnership to support clients in building a personalized strategy and finding solutions that are consistent with their values, beliefs, and unique needs. She collaborates with individuals, couples, and families to help them find the best solutions and resources to meet their specific needs and overcome barriers. She believes in creating a space where the client can challenge themselves in a compassionate way to create sustainable change.

Hello! My name is Melissa (she/her pronouns) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in the profession for 12 years. In Monterey County, I have historically served children and their families. I have treated individuals from various backgrounds and specialize in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, identity/gender exploration, trauma, and adversity. I believe that therapy can serve you in a multitude of ways and it's your choice on how you would like to navigate this journey. In your sessions, I would support you with mental health tools and a safe and non-judgmental space to explore, process, and learn from your experiences.

Hello my name is Belinda Valdivia and I am a bilingual therapist licensed in California and have been working in different settings with diverse populations. Are you constantly worried about your problems and having difficulties controlling your anxious thoughts? Do you feel sad and low motivation to do the activities you once enjoyed? Have you experienced recent or past trauma that you have tried to avoid thinking about but keeps replaying in your mind? Is your child having issues managing his emotions and not sure how to help them? Having difficulties sharing how you feel with others? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help guide and empower you to meet your therapeutic goals. I have been providing for the last ten years individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults as well as family therapy. As your therapist my goal is for you to have a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings and feel that someone is listening to you without judgment. You can check out my website for more information at https://guzmanbelinda.wixsite.com/therapy-with-belinda

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California and a proud first-generation Mexican American. I earned my degree from the University of Houston and bring both professional knowledge and personal perspective to the work I do. I am passionate about walking alongside others in their healing and growth journey. I understand that therapy is not “one size fits all,” and I strive to create a space that feels safe, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. My hope is to be the right match for you as we explore challenges, build resilience, and work toward the changes you seek.

Hello, I’m Maria Fernanda Perez, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked in a helping capacity for over 19 years. I specialize in working with violence and trauma survivors, teens, adults who have experienced challenges in their lives. I support couples and families who desire to develop a deeper connection to their body. For many of my clients this looks like symptoms of high sensitivity, anxiety, depression, and trauma interfering with their ability to connect with themselves. My traditional mental health background has given me a solid foundation in helping others to better finding their inner self.

Welcome/Bienvenido/a! I'm Israel. I know it takes courage to reach out and ask for help and I praise you for that. Sometimes in life we all need someone to listen and accept us for who we are and where we are at this moment. Emotionally evolving after hard times is a gradual process but can be accomplished to allow you to meet your goals. I thank you for showing up for yourself. I am a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters in Social Work from Azusa Pacific University and have been in the mental health field for approximately 15 years. I have assisted and guided populations varying from children to older adults in their multiple environmental settings to accomplish their goals by allowing them to emotionally evolving after every challenge and to remind that evolving is a normal part of life and most importantly, it is possible, si se puede!

Congratulations for taking the step to seek counseling. The world we live in is increasingly complex, and we can find ourselves feeling disconnected, stressed, and uncertain about what direction to take. How do we identify solutions for our life’s challenges? How do we let go of stress and sleep at night? As a therapist, I have counseled with individuals and families for over ten years and have found that problem-solving does not have to be stressful, and that we can work through our toughest issues. It is common to believe that people in our relationships, or circumstances in our lives cause us to feel the way we do. But it is our thinking, and the way we relate to people and circumstances, that create our feelings and emotions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps us observe what we are feeling and identify the thoughts that create our feelings. With increased self-awareness, we determine which of our thoughts and perceptions are distorted and unhelpful. As our thinking becomes more realistic, we feel better. There are several therapy methods that are effective in creating positive change, including Narrative Therapy, Goal Setting, Visioning for Personal Growth, and Mindfulness to promote focus and attention. Let’s engage in a conversation to explore your individual needs, and how best to meet them.

Hello and welcome! My name is Cristina. I specialize in treating trauma and have used evidenced based modalities, such as EMDR to treat trauma related symptoms. I am in the process of obtaining my perinatal mental health certification through PSI (Postpartum Support International). I approach mental health as holistically as possible, exploring components of the mind, body and spirit to address healing. I like to work with you collaboratively to create goals and explore which areas of healing are necessary for you. I take a client-based approach and aim to make the space feel safe and a place where you feel comfortable to open up and share. We all deserve to feel seen and heard, and I hope that is your experience with me! I look forward to meeting you!

I am Brandy Stewart, a licensed clinical social worker in California with 19 years of clinical experience serving children, adolescents, transition age youth, adults and families. I help individuals who struggle with managing relationship issues resolve interpersonal conflicts to promote healthy overall functioning. I also help people manage emotional distress and conflict, as they heal from the past, in order to achieve a greater wellbeing.

Congratulations on taking this major step towards seeking a higher quality of life, whether for yourself or a loved one! Though your situation is unique and will require targeted goals, these past several years have left many people feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, hopeless, helpless and/or “mentally foggy.” Sometimes, entire families are scrambling to figure out how to manage the ripple effect of one member’s mental illness, and how to help maintain a quality of life for everyone involved. As an LMFT, I help clients with topics such as recovery from trauma, adjustment to major life changes, managing mood dysregulation, stabilizing activities of daily living, and implementing healthy coping skills. Even events generally considered to be “good” (such as buying a house, getting a promotion, or getting married) rate high on the stress index. Your list of concerns will be unique to you and will require a targeted approach to building goals. I am especially interested in coping with grief/loss/trauma, reconstructing lives according to choices rather than reactions, blended and bi/multi-cultural families, our LGBTQ communities, the multi-generational ripple effect of mental illness on families, and the dual diagnosis of developmental disability and mental illness. While talk therapy and EMDR are my primary modalities, I believe strongly in the healing effects of creativity, visualization and somatic work.

I’m an LCSW with over 20 years experience in counseling individuals, couples, and groups. I specialize in issues of self esteem, relationships, and in helping clients find out exactly what they need in order to feel confident, calm, hopeful, and on-track. Often, new clients come in with some degree of anxiety, depression, or both. Don't worry if this is true for you. I'm highly experienced and my clients have told me they've benefited greatly in reduction of these symptoms. I don't believe that pain is useful in any way. I believe in insight, relief, and healing as quickly as possible. My style is inquisitive and interactive — I want to know what you need to tell me. I want to know what is causing your life to be anything less than pleasant, safe, and manageable. I want you to be okay, to feel okay, and to be confident in yourself and in your choices and relationships: I want you to feel certain that you are worthy, and that it is good to be you. And while most of my clients do present with some degree of past trauma, or injury to their sense of being worthy and needed, the fact is that life is not easy for anyone. But if we are carrying unhealed wounds, every setback or disappointment can bring back pain from the past. I find that once the major wound of how we see ourselves is healed, then the rest of life’s problems are much easier to resolve. So whether anxiety or depression, or conflict in a relationship has brought you here; I'm ready to help you find out what you want and need, and what's in the way. I don't believe in suffering. I do believe in relief, in hope, and learning how to undo pain.

My practice is focused on a client-centered, humanistic approach that encompasses the treatment of individuals as a whole person. My approach offers a calming and non-judgemental environment to allow the space to explore different pathways to healing. I integrate interventions from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral therapy, mindfulness and person-centered therapy as well as solution-focused therapy. I try to empower clients to draw on natural strengths for motivation and to develop resilience towards change so that they can continue to grow and heal. I focus on replacing negative coping skills with healthy stress management so that my clients can feel empowered, embrace change and lead fulfilling lives.

Welcome! ¡Bienvenid@s! I’m so glad you’re here, taking this step toward a happier, more resilient you. I’m a bilingual licensed therapist (TX and CA), fluent in English and Spanish, and as a first-generation therapist born in Venezuela, I bring a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and sensitivity into our sessions. My goal is to empower you to recognize your resilience and embrace a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Therapy doesn’t have to feel heavy—I believe in weaving in lightheartedness and humor while creating a safe space to explore tough topics. It’s a true privilege to walk alongside my clients as they navigate life.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, currently residing in Central California. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from University of Phoenix. I have over 12 years of experience working with individuals of all ages. I help individuals make improvements in their overall functioning and live a more productive and full life.

**ACCEPTING ADULTS (18+) ONLY** Hi, I'm Yang. And I'm here to help you heal from self-abandonment and emotional dysregulation. Self-abandonment occurs when we struggle to stand up for our needs and live by our authentic values; often, we don't even know what they are. Those who struggle with self-abandonment don't feel like they know who they really are, and what they want, and often feel directionless and ungrounded. We feel small, afraid, anxious, aggressive and dependent on others. Emotional dysregulation occurs when we don't understand our emotions and how to manage them. They control us, instead of the other way around. We behave in ways we wish we didn't, and we build up shame around those behaviors as if they are who we are. We cannot separate our emotions from who we are. These issues often lie at the heart of different mental health struggles, such as depression, anxiety, as well as many relationship challenges. The good news is that resolving these, therefore, can potentially lead to ripple effects of change in your life.

My approach to psychotherapy is centered on creating a safe, supportive, and accepting relationship. With over a decade of experience as a mental health provider, I have learned that building a strong therapeutic connection is the foundation for healing and growth. My style is warm, creative, and respectful. I will honor where you are at in your life. In our time together, you will find a safe space to share your story, develop new skills, and move toward the life that feels right for you.

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.

My name is Caitlinn Concepcion and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) degree from Chaminade University of Honolulu. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to empowering individuals on their journeys of self-discovery and healing. I create a safe, nurturing space for clients to explore their inner worlds, build resilience, and embrace personal growth. My therapeutic approach blends introspection with practical strategies, helping clients uncover insights, address challenges, and cultivate a deeper connection to their authentic selves.

Hi There! My name is Karen Hernandez, a first generation Latinx Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I earned my Masters Degree at California State University, Long Beach in 2019 (Go Beach!) I have been in the profession of Social Work for the past 5 years. I had my start in the field of Palliative Care as a medical social worker for children, teens and young adults with life limiting illnesses providing supportive therapy. I then moved into the field of school social work supporting teens and their mental health at a comprehensive high school providing group & individual therapy as well as crisis support. My ultimate goals for my clients is to create a safe, empathic, non-judgmental supportive space and presence. In order to work towards this I offer a person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), supportive approach with some humor sprinkled throughout.

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.

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

I help adults manage stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges so they can feel more grounded, confident, and connected in daily life. I welcome clients of all backgrounds, and I also create dedicated space for men who want to explore questions of masculinity, culture, and identity in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment. My style is warm, structured, and down-to-earth. You don’t need to come in with the perfect words or a clear plan—just showing up is enough. Together, we’ll figure out what’s most important right now and build practical tools that bring steadiness and momentum into your daily life. I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)—approaches that are practical and action-oriented. For clients interested in going deeper, I also integrate evidence-based methods that support long-term self-exploration and healing.

Hi! I am Anne Gimbel, licensed marriage and family therapist, and I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or need for healing. My goal with individuals, couples, or families is to explore and identify the thoughts that have a direct impact on your emotions and behaviors. Whether dealing with life-cycle issues, trauma, abuse, grief, recovery, or other changes that are occurring, I am active in the process to help you overcome these challenges. We will build a life you deserve by learning better communication and setting boundaries for your future.

Hi!! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Southern California with 10 years of clinical experience in various mental health settings. The focus of my work is on children, adolescents, adults, and families. I believe the therapeutic process should be an integrative and collaborative approach toward healing, recognizing that every person has a unique history. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support and empower you if you are ready to take that step. Thank you for trusting me in your journey to healing. I look forward to working with you.

Hello, my name is Enrique Botello. Glad you are seeking support. Life is not all about sunshine and rainbows but a good thing that they do exist right. Often, life will confront us with emotional obstacles that will make us feel stuck or that there is no hope. I help people to reach their best version of themselves even when life throws rocks at them. Whether you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or other serious mental health symptoms, there is always hope. The use of evidence-based therapeutic modalities will be a process that will help people at different recovery times. No matter how long the road to the best version of yourself might take you, I will be alongside you. Finally, although not a requirement, I specialize in working with athletes of all ages. Sports create a lot of pressure in and out of the sport. Whether it is keeping grades up during school to continue to play a sport or a professional athlete having personal problems. I am here for you. *To ensure enough time for your appointment, please make the appointment on Saturdays at the start of the hour. For example 9:00 am or 11:00 am. For Thursday evening, it is only scheduled for 6:30 pm.

Life can be overwhelming, especially for women trying to juggle everything and keep it all together. Maybe you're stuck in a cycle of anxiety, battling negative thoughts, carrying the weight of past trauma, or just feeling like you're not measuring up. If that sounds familiar, I want you to know you're not alone and you're not without hope. Hi there! I’m Claudia Johnson, a licensed therapist who works with women navigating anxiety, trauma, self-esteem struggles, and the highs and lows of motherhood. As a Christian therapist, I believe healing happens when we combine practical tools with the truth of God’s Word.

My name is Nikki, I’m a therapist with seven years of experience, specializing in helping clients address anxiety, depression, and trauma. Using EMDR and a personalized approach, I guide clients in overcoming limiting beliefs and building resilience for a more empowered, fulfilling life. Together, we can navigate life's obstacles, build resilience, and rediscover your inner strength. Taking that first step toward healing is an act of courage, and I’m here to provide the empathy and support you need along the way.

Hello, my name is Megan. I appreciate you taking the leap to want to do something different in your life. I know how hard talking about some of these big life issues can be like the death of our person, living through the struggle of infertility and acknowledging the weight of our anxiety is too much. Sometimes, we are stuck in our loop and yet, we do not have the perspective how to shift the big feelings to make you start to feel better. In the beginning of working together, I want you to feel comfortable sharing your story. Everyone arrives wanting a witness to their grieving at different stages of their process. Your relationship is to different each person had a different relationship to their person. I believe the importance of listening to what is said in the room or what is not said. Many times we are not able to verbalize our pain of trying to live without our person. I think a very necessary part to our healing is to be witnessed by another. My goal is to always create safety in the room. I am a fairly transparent therapist sharing sometimes my personal journey to connect and help clients realize they are not alone in their pain. I look forward to joining you in your healing journey.

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 have 15 years of experience working with adults, children, and adolescents. I have extensive experience with diverse populations in medical, group and community settings. I work with my clients collaboratively by providing a non-judgmental, compassionate, and supportive setting. I believe in working in a partnership with my clients to help them identify their challenges and utilize their strengths to help them achieve their goals.

Hi there! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I show up with authenticity, compassion, a bit of humor and yes, always with a cup of coffee or tea in hand. I work with adults navigating the following challenges: depression, anxiety, complex ADHD/ADD, generational trauma, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and family or relationship conflict. If life has started to feel overwhelming or you have being feeling lost, I’m here to support you in making meaningful changes to live a life you truly want to live. As an Integrative Therapist I tailor my approach to fit you, your story, your needs, and your goals.

Hello there, I'm Heather, it's so nice to connect! I've been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2012 and love the work that I do! I offer remote sessions to people in California, Arizona, Oregon and Washington. Originally from California myself, I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of CA at Santa Barbara, and my Masters Degree from San Francisco State University. I especially love helping adults live with more intention, awareness and self-compassion. I can't wait to meet you!

I am a mom, bonus mom and wife with 15 years experience providing therapy as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I am a dedicated therapist passionate about providing access to quality mental health care. I specialize in working with diverse individuals and family dynamics, fostering a compassionate and accepting environment. My approach is rooted in authenticity, as I believe in the power of genuine connection to promote healing and growth. I am committed to supporting each client on their unique journey towards mental wellness.

Hi, I am Kristy. As a psychotherapist my approach to therapy for over the last 20 years with individuals, couples and families is rooted in some key elements including building a therapeutic relationship, uncovering unconscious processes, promoting self-reflection and insight, and facilitating emotional processing. As a psychotherapist while working with you, I am dedicated to helping you develop self-awareness, gain insight into your inner world, make lasting changes in your life and create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. By creating a safe and supportive environment I allow you to heal and help overcome challenges, develop healthier coping strategies and achieve therapeutic goals.

Hi! My name is Crystal Villanueva and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have 11 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and children experiencing the challenges of anxiety, depression, grief, family conflict, relationship challenges, and intimate partner violence. My approach to therapy is grounded in the spirit of Humanistic therapy. Humanistic Therapy is based on the core belief that people are good at heart and capable of making the right choices for themselves. In therapy, this belief leads me to focus on each individual’s unique point of view and how this view can impact their choices. It further emphasizes the importance of being our authentic selves to live the most fulfilling life. I strive to create a safe environment to help clients feel comfortable to express their thoughts/emotions. I am genuine, friendly, nonjudgmental, empathetic, and interactive. I believe I am easy to talk to as I am casual in my style, but direct and focused when it comes to our work together. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own therapy that I received as a youth and young adult; it was life-changing. I worked with a therapist that was completely accepting and non-judgmental of my faults/shortcomings and helped me work past and accept them. Because of this experience, I wanted to give back and provide the same nonjudgment safe space, and acceptance to others.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. Many of my clients have commented they like my insight and non-judgmental approach when discussing their issues. In my experience, I have observed many are struggling to make changes in their lives because they received the message they are not good enough. However, I am determined to provide a safe environment for all therapeutic participants by ensuring they can embrace themselves and recognize they are good enough. I am a U.S. Navy Veteran who has personal experience with some of the hardships faced when families are separated due to long deployments. In addition, I have worked with men and women who have recently been released from incarceration. I have experience and training with domestic violence and other traumas as well. Clients tell me that I have a calm demeanor and approachable character which help them connect with me.

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 Desiree Trinidad, a passionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California. My journey began at USC Medical Center, where I gained invaluable experience working in the ER and Psychiatric Unit. My career has since encompassed roles in hospice care, counseling for the severe mental illnesses, and facilitating support groups for women in recovery. Each step has reinforced my love for working with diverse populations and the fulfillment I find in this work.

Hi. I am the daughter of immigrants which motivated me to study Multicultural community based psychology. I have worked in many different settings from community mental health to private practice. Currently I am the director of a consultation unit for youth and young adults in the foster care system. I really enjoy working with people on how to maximize their potential to create happier lives; sometimes this is achieved through more traditional therapy while other times this may require life coaching. I do not believe that therapy needs to be a continuous life long process, but rather a process individuals move in and out of at different stages of their lives.

Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here! My name is Ester Raha, and I’m a licensed therapist with 12 years of experience in the mental health field, including the past 7 years as a practicing therapist. My journey in this profession has been shaped by both my personal experiences as a female veteran and mother, a trauma survivor, and my passion for supporting others through life’s challenges.

Do you find it difficult to offer yourself the same kindness, compassion, and grace you would a friend or loved one? Do you have a hard time regulating your emotions and embodying challenging emotions? I am a digital nomad with a telehealth practice. I believe therapy is a sacred space and I'm honored to share it with you. I practice from a place of authenticity and curiosity. My style is empowering, warm, and humorous. My vibe is casual and light hearted. It's a heavy and difficult time in the world. I see a lot of hopelessness, helplessness, and burnout. We are collectively having a difficult time thriving in our current environment. I want to support you in actively choosing hope, even on the days when it feels impossible. You've got this!

Have you been struggling with anxiety and/or lack of direction? Are you critical of yourself and feeling negative and sad? Do you have issues in your past you feel are impacting your present? Are you challenged by a life transition? Change is hard and not always smooth. Sometimes we get in our own way toward the life we want to live. I can help gain perspective and look at whether your thoughts and behaviors are helping you along your path or hindering your way. We can look at how patterns, thoughts and behaviors that might have been adaptive from a less than perfect past might be getting in your way now. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral approach to look at thoughts and behaviors and what would serve you best. Incorporating positive psychology, support and compassion you will have assistance on life’s sometimes/occasionally meandering path.