Therapists in California

Hi, I'm Dr. Holly Siegrist, and I am a psychologist licensed in California with 16 years of experience. I take a strength-based approach, and I work with clients on spirituality and meaning making, creativity, dream analysis, relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress related to disability and other discrimination, grief, chronic illness, losses, and life change. My interests are in social justice, coping with discrimination, health and wellness, and resilience. My therapy style is warm and welcoming. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion, and providing a safe space to listen to clients. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology with Specialization in Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology from Saybrook University. I also hold a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, an M.S. in Rehabilitation Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, an M.A. in Disability, Health and Illness from the University of Leeds, and bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Comparative History of Ideas from the University of Washington, Seattle. I specialize in dream analysis and lucid dreaming therapy. What drew me to therapy was my interest in social justice work while I was attending the University of Washington, and did peer counseling with students. I have always been interested in helping people, I enjoy hearing people’s stories, and I also find that in the therapeutic process I learn more about myself. Through my therapy journey I have gained much experience in working with diverse people. In addition, during my time at Saybrook University, I received training in spiritual approaches in therapy, and dream analysis and lucid dreaming therapy. I'm glad you are moving towards living a more fulfilling and happier life. I am here to support you so you can empower yourself on your journey of transformation.

Hi, my name is Kati Hoover and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Long Beach, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I received my degree from California State University, Long Beach. I have been a Social Worker for 20 years and an LCSW for 13 years. I enjoy working with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, self esteem, and relationship issues.

Do you feel like something inside is broken? Do you feel less-than-whole emotionally, physically or in relationships and want to learn to put the pieces together to create your optimal life? Do you feel like your own worst enemy, tearing yourself down with negative self-talk? This is where I come in. Working together as your guide, I help you learn the skills, insights and strategies so that when future situations arrive, you will learn to trust yourself to confront challenges mindfully and compassionately. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California and have worked with a range of clients from those with acute crises to those who want a mental health accountability partner to check in with. I’m a holistic psychotherapist who takes the time to make sure you are on the best path to healing. I approach the practice of therapy as a mutual relationship, one that is based on integrity and trust. I conduct each session with a calm, empathetic and attuned presence. My goal is to provide a safe container for you to fully experience all parts of yourself and to foster your personal growth.

Hello – Welcome to Insight Care Counseling! The beauty of this -our shared life’s journey- is that we can aspire to embody its greatest gifts: love, fulfillment, clarity and peace. And yet, at times, we encounter challenges and changes that bring forth feelings of stress, depression, anxiety -or numbness and disorientation. And it is often at these junctures that psychotherapy can help; for in essence, the therapeutic journey is about finding richness even while in the land of disenchantment … and healing even while walking through pain. I’m Jonathan, a California-based psychotherapist with broad experience in the field. My therapeutic style is warm and compassionate, active and engaged. Helping you navigate your wellness-growth journey in an effective and authentic way, is my calling and my passion! If you have any questions and/or need assistance in making an appointment, please contact our dedicated Grow Therapy intake team at: +1 (786) 755-1863 And/or via email: reception+Jonathan14167@growtherapy.com

I work towards building trust with clients. My practice focuses on helping those who struggle with managing stress, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and women's issues. People tell me often that i have a calm presence. I do enjoy providing realistic skills, people enjoy practicality and need immediate relief from distress at times. Why wouldn't i teach my clients to find relief from the overwhelming stress.

I am supportive, understanding, validating, open-minded, flexible, non-judgemental, kind, empowering, compassionate, hopeful, encouraging, (sometimes) humorous, and LGBTQ+ affirming. I look to you as the expert of your situation and will collaborate with you in developing goals that work so that you can overcome roadblocks and achieve better mental health! I have a deep devotion to the field of mental health, and due to my own life story decided to become a mental health therapist at a very young age. I hope to be able to help you break-through any blockages and achieve your goals.

Struggling to manage your emotions, stress or relationships? It’s time to address those negative thoughts. We can work together in an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am a California Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2014 and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor since 2009. My approach is to listen and attentively be there for you during your challenging and unpleasant situations.

My dream client is a high-achieving individual seeking support in navigating the complexities of their personal and professional life. I thrive in working with executives and professionals who experience workplace stress, challenges with work-life balance, career transitions, imposter syndrome, and relational struggles. These individuals are driven, ambitious, and often carry a high level of responsibility, yet they may struggle with self-doubt, burnout, or difficulty maintaining fulfilling personal relationships. I also find great fulfillment in working with early career adults who are entering the workforce, starting their careers, transitioning to living independently, experiencing relationship issues, or making important life decisions. Many of these clients face uncertainty, stress, and difficulty coping with transitions as they establish their personal and professional identity and navigate new responsibilities. I help them build confidence, develop resilience, and cultivate a sense of purpose as they move forward in their careers and personal lives. My ideal client is motivated for change and open to self-exploration. Whether they are an executive striving for balance or a young professional seeking direction, I provide a tailored, integrative approach to help them develop clarity, confidence, and emotional well-being.

Hello, I am Chung Pham, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California with over 20 years of experience in mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief & loss, PTSD, anger & stress management, relationship issues, substance abuse, parenting problems, individual with special needs, career challenges, OCD & ADHD, bi-polar, BPD, schizophrenia, etc. However, I don't accept couple/family at this time. Whoever needs service in other than English language, please request Grow for interpreter when booking an appointment with me. I also don't provide any verification letter. I believe in working in partnership with clients, utilizing their strengths to help them sort out their challenges and achieve their goals. I also realize how important it is to identify all aspects of an individual’s life that impact their well-being including their physical health, support systems (family, friends), work or school environment, faith & spirituality in this process. I think when people have hope and can learn to challenge and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, people are free to experience change. Everyone needs courage to take the first step to change. If you are ready and willing to take this step, please don't hesitant to book a virtual appointment with me by calling +1 (786) 755-1863, or emailing reception+LCSW13768@growtherapy.com I'm looking forward to working with you!

Hi, I’m Zahra Adloo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to helping individuals navigate trauma, addiction, PTSD, and major life transitions. My approach is eclectic and client-centered, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs using solution-focused, narrative, existential, and psychodynamic therapies. Whether you're working through past wounds, seeking clarity in your relationships, or striving for personal growth, I provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore, heal, and reclaim your authentic self.

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience specializing in trauma-informed care, substance use disorders, and mindfulness-based therapies. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic approaches to help clients gain deeper emotional understanding, develop practical coping skills, and navigate life’s challenges effectively. My focus areas include managing anxiety, depression, perfectionism, identity, and unresolved trauma.

When life's challenges - work, relationships, money troubles, illness or injury become too much to manage, or when the pain of the past pops up when you least expect it to disrupt sleep, or when daily stressors build up and make it hard to cope, that's when more than a friendly ear is needed. That's when a professional can help you heal the compounding effects of life experiences. If you are seeking long-term relief from anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief or loss, I will help you heal those emotional injuries that compound over a lifetime and make life lose its meaning. And I will empower you to heal the emotional pain that is preventing you from living your best life.

Life is not going as you planned. You are feeling stuck, overwhelmed and confused. Need someone to talk it over with and find solutions in a safe space. I'm here for that and so much more. My approach is practical and personal. You won't be overwhelmed because the way I work is to make the difficult, easy. It's not simple, there is a lot of work to be done, but we break it down into manageable steps. What can seem impossible is achieved in a step by step process. You will have my support and encouragement to succeed. Therapy is your work to be done; I will be your guide.

Hello! I am a bilingual Latina Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in California. I received my Masters from Brandman university! I have been practicing for 5 years. I have experience working for children and adolescents as well with adults who have struggle with anxiety and/or depression. I am passionate about meeting my client where they are at and assisting them in their process of healing

Counseling service is like having a personal trainer in the gym for our mind muscle; individually tailored guidance doesn’t hurt. We all have ups and downs in our life, work, family, relationships, and I'm here to support you through the things that are messy, challenging, and confusing with a safe space for you to just be yourself with no judgements. Let me join your journey of figuring-out, growing, healing, shining and thriving, and make the full access to life experiences with joy of living come true. I offer a free 15 minute consultation call. Feel free to contact me. I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you.

Hi, I'm Hazel. I'm a bilingual Asian mental health therapist fluent in both Vietnamese and English, dedicated to supporting adults with ADHD and co-occurring conditions. With a deep understanding of cultural nuances and a holistic approach to treatment, I strive to create a safe and empathetic space for my clients. My goal is to empower individuals to manage their unique challenges, fostering resilience and well-being. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I'm committed to breaking down barriers to mental health care within the Asian community.

Hello, I'm Melanie. Do you feel like your life is out of control due to your circumstances, your anxiety, or other factors? We can work together to determine what's not working and how to make life run more smoothly for you so that you feel more at peace. I have 17 years of experience as a therapist in varied settings as well as lots of life experience with loss, mental health issues and parenting. I promise to provide you with a safe space to express yourself as well as plenty of evidence-based techniques. I hope we get the opportunity to work together to help you start to feel more in control of your life and your current situation.

My clinical approach is aligned with "Radical Healing Theory," which encompasses a holistic approach to healing beyond physical health and addresses the underlying causes of suffering and inequality. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of various social, economic, political, and environmental systems and their impact on individual and collective well-being. Radical healing is rooted in critical theory and social justice frameworks. It challenges traditional notions of health and healing by centering marginalized voices and experiences. It seeks to dismantle oppressive structures and promote equity, justice, and liberation.

It takes courage and resiliency to embark on the journey of finding your “best self.” Life is full of unique challenges and lessons including traumatic events, grief, relationships and family all can take their toll on our psyche. I use an eclectic, integrative, approach that includes Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Clinical Hypnosis for pain management, performance enhancement and memory retention among other treatments to find what restores joy and peace to you! My goal is to provide a supportive, caring space to work on your symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, post-partem depression, grief or any other diagnosis that is impacting your daily life. I am a Christian having attended all Christian Universities but embrace all spiritual practices. I respect all faiths, beliefs and cultures and consider myself an ally to the LGBTQ community. I very much believe in a holistic whole body wellness plan. Lets work on living your best life ever with Mind, Body and Spirit working together!

Im a Bilingual English/Spanish-speaking therapist with a Marriage and Family License, with 18 years of clinical experience, 12 years licensed and in private practice. I consider myself to be bi-cultural. Having been raised as a first-generation American in a Latin family, I can identify with the mentality of someone living within two "worlds". Transitioning from one culture to another with seemingly different values, beliefs and language. I can easily understand the struggle that maintaining, and existing in both, can sometimes be. I've come to perceive and appreciate it as the gift of having a "bridge" that allows connection to, and understanding of, different aspects of people and life. My education has a foundation in Clinical Psychology, woven with holistic transpersonal themes, the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and just plain down-to-earth common sense. Always keeping in mind the client's personal beliefs and values.

If you found your way here, it's likely that you are struggling to form healthy relationships in your adult life. Maybe you feel trapped by your past experiences and can't seem to move beyond them. You may have experienced a loss and are having difficulty navigating your grief. Or you might be unsure of what you are looking for but know that you want to live a more satisfying adult life. Whatever the case may be, we can work through it together. I'd like to help you improve the relationship you have with yourself and others and overcome painful past experiences. I provide individual therapy virtually and in person to California residents from my offices in West Lake and Los Angeles. I'm trained in the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trauma therapy to address the identity distortions and relational patterns created as a result of childhood trauma. My approach is heartfelt, connected, and life-affirming. It aims to open your deepest intentions and desires to a life you've always dreamed about and is now possible through your own lived experience. https://jmtreatment.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTGDpXwbkDA

Through connection, empathy and a non-judgmental approach, I offer ways to help you discover what may be blocking you from finding your true path in life. By not seeing an individual for what symptoms they have or what is affecting them, I am more interested in helping you find what is the cause of symptoms and how to process them. I work with adults, adolescents and couples from all backgrounds. I am also open to any culture, belief, identification or orientation. All are welcome. I base all individual therapy on a client-focused approach and adapt sessions to the needs of each person.

My career as a classroom teacher, assistant principal and university professor served me well in my current practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Doctorate in Education/Ed.D. from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. As a university professor, I became the Multiple Subject Program Director, Graduate Reading Director, and Supervisor of Student Teachers with both national and international publications.

Hello, I am Dr. Andy Davis. I have been involved in the mental health field for more than 18 years, 13 years of which I've practiced as a licensed psychologist both in the U.S. Air Force and in private practice. I have a varied experience helping those with depression, PTSD, anxiety and stress, grief, personality disorders, and LGBTQ+ issues. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can discuss and work through any issues they feel are important.

I provide psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs, using evidence-based interventions to address your mental health challenges. Whether you’re seeking traditional talk therapy or a more integrated approach, my customizable services empower you to decide the focus while I guide you every step of the way. My psychotherapy style is designed around your goals, addressing factors that may impact your mental health, such as stress, relationships, and sleep. With options like nutrition guidance, cognitive behavioral therapy for sleep, stress management tools, and collaboration with your healthcare providers, I take an integrated approach to help you achieve meaningful and lasting change.

Hi! I am a licensed therapist in the state of CA and ID. I received my Masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 5 years. I have experience helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. I have a strong background in providing effective therapeutic interventions, and I am committed to facilitating positive change and promoting mental well-being. My approach to therapy is client-centered, meaning that I prioritize building a trusting and collaborative relationship with you. I believe in meeting you where you are in your journey and tailoring treatment plans to best support your unique needs and goals. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I empower you to explore your emotions, gain insight, and develop the skills necessary to navigate life's complexities.

I am a dedicated psychotherapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, improve emotional well-being, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, or life transitions, I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights to create lasting change and live a more fulfilling life.

Many people walk around for years needing help for their anxiety and depression but avoid therapy because they think they "should" be able to manage it on their own. No one should have to suffer alone. The fact is, we are human and we all need help from time to time. With compassion, warmth and support, I will walk with you through your struggles and help you untangle the mess that is sometimes life. You are not broken and you are capable of change. If you struggle with anxiety or depression including social anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, excessive worrying, irritability related to parenting, employment or relationships - I'm here to help you achieve a sense of steady calm to manage all that life throws at you. My clients often struggle with crippling self-defeating thoughts that create a vicious cycle of isolation, loneliness, stress and feeling overwhelmed. I can help break that cycle and empower you to develop a new path forward to achieve what you have not wanted to face alone. When you schedule with me, I may reach out by phone to complete a brief screening to make sure I can meet your needs and send you the needed paperwork. Please know I currently work weekdays and do not have evening or weekend availability. I do not specialize or work with couples or children. I look forward to talking to you!

I’m John Tzanos, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist passionate about helping people make meaningful changes in their lives. I offer a practical and straightforward approach to therapy, where you can feel comfortable being yourself. My goal is to create a space where we can talk openly about what’s going on in your life and work together to find solutions that fit you as an individual. I focus on helping clients develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while also providing tools and strategies that can be applied in daily life. I work well with people who are motivated to change and who enjoy learning new ways to view and approach the challenges they face. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to support you through the process of finding clarity and direction. In our sessions, I strive to create a genuine connection, offering both guidance and flexibility as we explore what’s most important to you. My approach is collaborative, I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward at your own pace. Therapy is a partnership, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s ups and downs in a way that aligns with your values and goals.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with about 15 years of experience helping people navigate life’s challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings including mobile crisis, inpatient care, corrections, and community mental health, so I understand how complex and overwhelming things can get. My approach is down to earth, practical, and tailored to what works best for you. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I am here to help you build the tools to move forward.

Hi there, I’m Manny. Are you currently searching for a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Do you find yourself in an existential/spiritual emergency? Are you exploring your personal identity, expression, or sexuality? I help people of all ages increase self-awareness and decrease symptomology by bringing unconscious material into conscious awareness. Trauma combined with an emotional core (experiences of intense fear/guilt/shame) commonly splinters parts of our personality and represses such into the shadow/unconscious realms of our psyche. In response, many of us have adapted and survived by putting on masks in hopes of fitting in and being accepted by the people around us. Mental health concerns eventually arise because deep in our mind/body/soul we yearn for authenticity/individuation. Clients may also experience suicide ideation and/or self-harm because there are parts of themselves that no longer serve them. Together we can explore which aspects of ourselves to let go, in order to make space for something new to enter. I am a Doctoral Candidate from Pacifica Graduate Institute, my studies focused on Depth Psychology with a specialization in Integrative Therapy and Healing Practices. As a Holistic practitioner, I believe that each individual already possesses what is needed for their healing and it is my duty, as a guiding witness, to help the client navigate, process, and integrate such.

I am currently licensed to provide telehealth therapy to clients residing in California, Washington, and Oregon. As a second-generation Asian American immigrant, I have experiential understanding of the complex intersections of culture, family expectations, and identity that many individuals—especially from Asian and other immigrant cultural backgrounds—navigate daily. I specialize in helping adult clients and parents (ages 18–85) untangle painful family dynamics, work through cultural and intergenerational conflicts, and heal from relational wounds and past trauma. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space where we can explore and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, break cycles of emotional pain, and move toward healthier ways of relating—with yourself and others. I also work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, academic or career stress, spiritual conflict, grief, and behavioral struggles such as substance use, compulsive behaviors, and lifestyle challenges rooted in unresolved trauma. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with cultural sensitivity and a strong belief in your ability to grow, heal, and reconnect with your sense of purpose. If you're feeling stuck in painful patterns or difficult relationships, I invite you to reach out and begin your journey toward greater clarity, connection, and emotional freedom.

I am very pleased to meet you. Before coming here and seeing my profile, you may have struggled alone for a long time, unable to easily share your personal issues with anyone, or perhaps you did share, but felt misunderstood or not fully supported. In a safe and trustworthy environment, I am ready to listen to your concerns or issues with empathy, without any bias or judgment. With my expertise, I am confident in working together with you to resolve your worries or challenges. I will listen to your unique history and problems with curiosity and respect, and I will do my utmost as a counselor in collaboration with you.

For those who struggle with decision-regret and anxiety around making the perfect choice, picking a therapist is three steps into the therapy already - if you're here reading this and that's you, I commend you as your therapy has already begun. Anxious and seemingly uncontrollable thoughts, "imposter syndrome", endless struggles to be perfect, only to be met with guilt and regret; all uncomfortable things that we humans try to avoid and control, yet all of that avoiding and controlling just doesn't seem to do any good. You're here to learn better ways to manage these experiences, and that's where I can help. I leverage 14 years of clinical experience as an adjunct professor in clinical social work and as a therapist in the public and private sectors in Canada, the US and Australia to assist my clients. I am a well traveled surfer, climber, author, entrepenuer, and musician and I enjoy spending time in my backyard that is the central coast of California, exploring all that it has to offer.

Elyse is a Licensed Marriage, Family, and Child Therapist. She attended Pepperdine University and earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy. Elyse has been licensed since 2000 and provides cognitive behavioral therapy, to young children, teens, adults and families suffering from anxiety and depression. She has a special interest in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), with a focus on Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to address symptoms, as she witnessed its effectiveness with her own daughter. Elyse's experience includes working with children and adolescents and their families/caregivers in school-based settings, out-of-home care. and private practice settings. Additionally, Elyse has training as a Child Development Specialist from Thalians Clinic at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, focusing on supporting families with young children struggling with social-emotional regulation. Mindfulness strategies are utilized to help all clients, including her youngest clients, feel empowered by increasing their self-awareness. Change is not an easy process, as it is often more comfortable to accept what is familiar. The desire to change, (whether it is feeling stuck, relationship issues, life transitions, unexpected circumstances, old habits, or patterns of behaviors), occurs when the pain to remain the same is greater than the discomfort associated with the uncertainty of change. Here you will find a warm, welcoming, collaborative, safe space to embrace the courage to change, heal and become the best version of yourself.

Hello, my name is Salomon Garcia, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in southern California. I have been practicing for over 6 years. I have worked with a broad range of individuals ranging from teen to older adults. I have helped clients struggling with anxiety, depression, work-stress, low self-esteem and life transitions. My aim is to provide a relaxing and safe space to help people to be the best version of themselves.

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my master's in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University in California and have been practicing for the last 8 years. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts, and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.

Here's a hard truth about mental health: Even with all the different approaches to psychotherapy out there, it rarely results in lasting positive change for those that seek it. Ouch. That's why I specialize in intensive short-term psychotherapy. It has been shown to help people find the roots of their emotional difficulties, and work through them in briefer time frames. Session-to-session, each appointment is structured to get the most out of it. Why wait years for greater peace of mind if you don't have to?

Hey there, I'm Mersedeh, but feel free to call me Mary! Are you currently feeling a bit stuck, like life's lost its sparkle? Do you sometimes wonder if change is just a myth? Are you missing the thrill of those early relationship days when everything felt like an adventure? Or maybe you're on a quest to cultivate healthier connections, both with yourself and the people around you. And if you've got some not-so-great habits you'd like to change, we've all been there. Guess what? I'm here to lend a friendly ear and a warm heart. Let's chat and work on bringing some sunshine with a warm smile and a can-do attitude, back into your life! I'm here to help you tap into the wisdom of your own experiences, and together, we'll create a nurturing space for healing and growth. My goal is to empower you, helping you understand what might be holding you back and guiding you through it. We'll embark on this journey using an evidence-based approach tailored to the unique needs of your mind, body, and spirit, ultimately restoring balance in your life. I'm passionate about incorporating Psychoanalysis, mindfulness, and art techniques to foster a deeper and more loving connection with yourself. Taking the step to seek therapy is a courageous move, one that demonstrates your commitment to healing your emotional wounds. Be proud of yourself for prioritizing your well-being, and let's work together to achieve the positive changes you're seeking! 🌱😊

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.

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and the elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments. She teaches at five local universities, including UCLA’s medical school. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising. She also works with family and criminal law courts as an expert witness.