Therapists in California

If you are feeling stressed, self-critical, down or worried, I would like to help you feel more confident, calm, present, and steady in your life. My approach to counseling is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore and overcome obstacles in order to grow, heal and become the best version of yourself. With patience and understanding, I’ll assist you in uncovering new strengths, perspectives and solutions. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and together we will set meaningful goals based on what you want to change or improve about yourself, your life, or your relationships. Reaching out for help shows courage. As your therapist, I will work with you to develop a deeper sense of self-understanding and help you learn strategies and skills to successfully navigate life’s challenges. LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.

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.

Sometimes difficult moments leave us feeling stressed, depressed, anxious, angry, and at times, all of those emotions at once. But you do not have to face these challenge alone. Through therapeutic support and guidance, these same challenges can be approached as opportunities for growth and positive change. As a therapist, my job is to be a collaborative partner with you, and provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. My practice offers evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, behavior modification, adjustment/life transitions, and bereavement. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years of experience working in California, fluent in both English and Spanish.

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.

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.

Whether you are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a life transition, I am here to offer support and help you make meaningful change. Using cognitive behavioral techniques, as well as strength-based and solution-focused models, my goal is to help my clients develop coping skills to manage day-to-day stress, strengthen their relationships and gain an improved quality of life. I am a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience working with adults, couples, families, and children. I utilize my professional and personal experience, humor, and warmth to create a strong, collaborative relationship with my clients.

Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, bouts of low mood, chronic anxiety, constantly doubting yourself, feeling insecure? Do your core beliefs limit you from living authentically? Do you constantly think about past experiences and self-defeating messages you learned as a child? This is the space for you. My name is Monica Reza, LCSW. I am a strength base- intersectional therapist. I am Mexican, who was born and raised in Southern California. My life experiences on every level has motivated me to becoming a therapist. I have been in the mental health field for 8 years. My experience has been working with patients who suffer from a chronic illness and mood disorder, Veterans with severe mental illness and dual diagnosis, and marginalized groups coping with symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, Depression and Anxiety. My clinical approach leans towards CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focus, and Somatic Therapy. Our sessions will focus on distress tolerance, emotional regulation, improving relationships with self and others, and building a sense of self-worth. What we will be doing in our sessions: Identify goals, learn and incorporate healthy coping skills, practice mindfulness and acceptance, process and reflect, find solutions, behavior activation, create new core beliefs, and most importantly, healing. I look forward to meeting with 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.

Hi, I’m Victoria Elena Lane, an LCSW in California. I provide inclusive, affirming care for Queer, Trans, BIPOC, and Women’s rights communities. Specializing in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity-based stressors, I use a client-centered, solution-focused approach to support individuals at every stage of their mental health journey. Together, we’ll uncover clarity, foster balance, and empower growth in a safe, supportive space.

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.

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.

Life can be a lot sometimes. Whether you're going through a big change, feeling stuck, or just need a space to vent—I’m here to listen, support, and help you sort through it all. I bring warmth, straightforwardness, and a sense of humor into the sessions. Healing can still be intentional without being heavy all of the time. I have over 12 years of experience and a special focus on working with: People in the middle of big life transitions—new chapters/endings, Clients working through generational trauma, especially those wanting to break cycles and reclaim their voice, and BIPOC individuals navigating cultural dynamics, and the weight of systemic stress.

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.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PhD) in northern California. I received my doctorate degree from the University of Florida. I have 40+ years of experience as a therapist treating adults. I will only see patients in-person in my office. Phone calls and texting/emails are used for communication as necessary between visits. I initially address what prompted an individual to seek help at this particular time, ie why now? I help people clarify issues--concerns, thoughts, feelings, situations--and explore/develop effective coping strategies and behaviors.

It takes courage to accept and seek help and set out on your recovery journey. My focus in our work will be on meeting you where you are at and in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can collaborate and explore what can be helpful in addressing your needs, wants, and barriers to getting them met. Together, we will challenge ourselves to show up authentically in relationship so we can examine the areas of your life that you would like support in. These areas can often include examining how systemic and cultural factors influence our perception of ourselves, others, and the world. My hope in our work together is that you'll come away with a renewed sense of self and identity that not only addresses the hardships and challenges you have endured, but also empowers you to affirm your sense of agency, and make your mark on the world.

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.

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.

Thirty years of experience as a clinical social worker in health and mental health settings have developed my compassion, knowledge, and skills to help people find a path toward growth and a more satisfying life. My approach is pragmatic and empathetic, using treatment knowledge and skills to help you discover a new way of relating to yourself, to others, and to your experiences. I can support you in the process of change, which most humans find uncomfortable and challenging even when we know it is necessary for growth.

Hi, I am Talin, a licensed psychotherapist since 2013. Providing a comfortable and supportive space to help you heal and empower yourself to reach your goal is extremely important to me as your therapist. I integrate several tools, techniques, and customized mindfulness interventions tailored to you to help you towards a journey of healing and empowering yourself. I provide a safe and calm space for your voice to be heard. I will help you towards a journey of healing and finding joy and peace. I utilize several different tools that are all unique and individualized for you in order to tackle stressors and anxiety to live a more peaceful day to day life.

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!

If you are feeling stuck, and unable to make changes in your life, you're not alone. Whether it's in your professional life, your personal life, or both, feeling unsuccessful at doing life may affect your mood, your outlook, and your health. Repeated frustration and disappointment can lead to depression, anxiety, problems sleeping, etc. For 20 years, I have worked with people to help them unlearn negative behaviors and thinking patterns, replacing them with new habits and ideas that support the changes they want to make. Through experiencing success, most people find a new sense of accomplishment that improves their mood, enabling them to take better care of themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally, Deciding to enter into therapy is an important decision. I believe that it can be a major turning point in your life, and by working through a modality that considers your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, you are very likely to achieve the quality of life that you are seeking.

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.

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor from California. My Master's degree is from California State University, Fresno. I have worked as a therapist for over 31 years and my career has focused on working with adults who have past trauma, anger management issues, family conflicts, and grief issues. I also have 30 years of experience working with clients who are living with HIV/AIDS. I enjoy helping clients to reach their therapeutic goals and to help improve their relationships.

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.

Hi! I'm Maggie. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, and a Registered Expressive Arts Therapist (REAT). I have a Masters from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA. I have been working as a therapist for the past six years. I have worked with many different populations in the past including Alzheimers patients, Children in the hospital and their families, neurotypical school aged kids as well as special ed. I have also worked with couples and adults. When clients are interested, I like to use art and music as a tool in the therapeutic process.