Therapists in California

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and I value using a whole-person and empathic approach in every session. As an LCSW, my goal is to help individuals improve their mental health, address relationship difficulties, and adjust to challenging life changes. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and client-centered perspective, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused and Strength-Based interventions

Reaching out for help can be a very vulnerable experience, but also a great attribute of strength and resilience. I work with individuals who have experienced trauma in their life. Whether it's from childhood neglect, sexual assault, natural disaster, sudden death or other life circumstances. Trauma often creates patterns and loops that extend into many areas of a person's life, and can be challenging and painful to navigate. Sometimes the way people survive their trauma brings them more pain, adds to the chaos, and reinforces negative beliefs that perpetuate the cycle. I work to empower clients to understand and alter unhealthy cycles to strengthen and better their lives. I am fluent in ASL American Sign Language and have worked with Deaf clients leaving domestic violence in both a shelter and outpatient therapy services. I have spent 2 years in correctional settings working with severely mentally ill patients and supporting their family members navigating having children with mental illness. I have also spent 2 years working with foster youth and foster parents in providing support to their placements, promoting healing and preserving relationships. Note that online scheduling is limited. Broader scheduling options will be available to regularly scheduling clients. Please also note that I do not provide opinions about disability or fitness to return to work or other activities for clients who are not well-established at the time that the request for such opinion is made.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor licensed in the state of California. I received my Master's in Counseling at the University of Great Falls. I have been practicing for over 10 years and have worked in both a community health center setting and in an individual practice. I enjoy working with diverse populations to improve their overall well-being in their daily life.

I am a dedicated professional who works tirelessly to meet the needs of my clients. With a focus on relationships and exploring options, I strive to deliver exceptional service in all aspects of my work. My goal is to build strong, long-lasting relationships based on trust and mutual respect. I like to explore the history of an issue and its relationship to you.

I believe that we all deserve a safe space to process our experiences, and my primary goal is to provide you that space. I provide a person-centered approach that emphasizes helping my clients build self-compassion, as I believe that it is only from a place of self-compassion that we can feel grounded within ourselves enough to develop a compassionate relationship with others around us. My approach is warm, down-to-earth, trauma informed, and practical, and I believe that we are all on a healing journey and see myself as a fellow traveler. It is an honor to walk by your side

Raquel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing mental health services for the past 8 years. Overall, she has 15 years of experience in the social work field. Raquel has worked in several settings such as child welfare, mental health agencies, and in the public school setting as a school social worker. Raquel's experiences have provided her with skills and tools to understand the needs of her clients. On a personal note, she has been married for 15 years and is the mother of 4 children.

Benzion is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their mental health journey. He holds a Master of Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary, graduating in 2007. Benzion believes in a holistic approach to care, building a trusting and collaborative relationship with each client to foster hope and lasting change. "I am humbled by the courage and vulnerability my clients display every day. I am honored by the privilege of being with you in your most intimate places to develop trust and build hope for the future. Thank you for considering the journey of building a better future with me."

I am a licensed mental health therapist working with a holistic, depth-oriented approach to healing. I support clients who seek greater self-understanding and lasting emotional clarity and connection. My work is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and deep respect for each individual’s unique path. Together, we will explore patterns, uncover insights, and develop practical steps toward living with greater intention and wholeness.

Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."

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

I have extensive experience in working with a diverse population of individuals, including those struggling with substance abuse, dual diagnoses, codependency, trauma, and other mental health issues. I consider myself to be an assertive and direct psychologist who prioritizes effective communication, healthy boundaries, and self-care. My ultimate goal is to help people gain the insight and coping skills necessary to live meaningful lives filled with a positive sense of self and healthy relationships. I consider myself to be a culturally sensitive psychologist who treats each client as a unique individual. I am an action-oriented psychologist that listens with empathy while helping the client gain insight into patterns of thoughts and behaviors that can be used to make healthy and meaningful changes in their lives. If you are an individual who is motivated for positive change and self-growth, then I encourage you to reach out to me, as I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I believe that therapy is a collaborative approach in which the end goal is always in your best interest.

Hi my name is Hilary Matthews and I am a therapist specializing in mood disorders, substance use treatment and trauma. People often report fears and sadness as life changes affect them. I beleive that change is something to embrace and I will show you how. In my client centered practice I use Cognitive behavior, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, trauma informed care to assist clients with their challenges.

Hello and welcome to my page! While I'd like to say that I'm here to solve all of your problems, I am not. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe space for you to express your thoughts/feelings, gain insight and bravery so you can create the life you deserve by mitigating the intrusive thoughts and feeling of overwhelmness.

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.

Hi i am Aimee a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in the San Diego area. I enjoy working with 16 and up and specialize in LGBTQ+, prenatal and postpartum, women’s issues and grief issues. I like to help see pregnant and new mom’s achieving the most out this time and find ways to feel less anxiety and depressed and more fulfilled. For people in the LGBTQ+ community i have specialized in gender health issues since 2014 and have always been an ally. During Covid I decided to increase my skill and knowledge with assisting people moving through grief and took a few seminars focusing on grief work with David Kessler.

Hello, my name is Mario and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2021 but have been working in the mental health field since 2011 in various roles (e.g., Child Specialist, Intensive Care Coordinator) for different programs including Wraparound, IFCCS, Outreach Triage Team and others. Since 2021, I have worked with children and teenagers struggling with PTSD, anxiety and depression. I have also worked with adults all ages starting from 2024 for workers compensation cases, marital problems, men's issues, PTSD, anxiety and depression. I am bi-lingual speaking (English and Spanish) and was raised in Los Angeles.

I have worked in the social service field for over 15 years as a social worker, clinician and in administration. I enjoy giving, sharing, working in the community, and connecting individuals to essential resources and empowering them towards growth, progress and self-sufficiency. My hope and objectives are to inspire others to keep going despite life’s challenges and difficult experiences. Considering personal experiences with setbacks and health challenges, obtaining an education and becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker was not destined for me, however, it became obtainable and has been a great achievement. My all-time driven mottos are: "If I can, you can” and "carpe diem" seize the day as tomorrow is not promised. Therefore, I strive to reach back and help others thrive and live life full out. I am inspired by the teachings of Brene Brown who states …” we can have courage or we can have comfort, but we cannot have both…courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” And I remain motivated by the late great Maya Angelou as she declares, “Still I Rise” …. “What you’re supposed to do when you don’t like a thing is change it. If you can’t change it, change the way you think about it” [and] “nothing will work unless you do.”

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

Hello. My name is Dr. Alandrea Martin. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I received my Masters from Argosy University in Alameda, California and my doctorate from Walden University. I have been practicing 15+ years. I am passionate about helping clients achieve success while going through struggles and life challenges. I also have extensive experience working with couples and families to help increase communication and to resolve conflicts.

I have been in private practice since 2012. I mostly see clients suffering from depression and anxiety, but I am open to other disorders. My goal from the start is to EMPOWER my clients. I only work with ages 15 to 65 years old. I work from a very practical base and help clients either change their circumstances or adjust to it. My background is in forensics as I have worked with inmates and people with criminal cases, judges, attorneys and probation officers for over 14 years. My style is nondirective in therapy. I let the client lead me as they are experts on themselves.

My objective is to empower individuals and couples to better understand themselves, strengthen their resilience, and create more peaceful, fulfilling lives. I believe people already carry the capacity for growth and healing, and my work focuses on helping clients recognize, access, and trust their own strengths. I offer a therapeutic space that is warm, honest, and down-to-earth. I am direct and transparent while remaining supportive and compassionate, and I show up authentically rather than relying on overly clinical language or rigid approaches. My work is collaborative and eclectic, drawing from a range of therapeutic tools based on each client’s needs, including EMDR. I work with individuals and couples to build insight, improve communication, and create meaningful, lasting change within the broader systems of family and society.

I'm credentialed by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and California. I'm a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), through the Pennsylvania Certification Board and Florida Certification Board. I work purposefully with those experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use, and trauma. "If you have come across my profile, chances are you may be at a crossroads in life. We've all been in this place at one time or another, and I can help you grow as you navigate through the process. The power lies in the process itself! Change requires a decision, coupled with the willingness to take action. As a seasoned therapist, I understand that counseling is a contact sport, requiring participation and teamwork. Therefore, I implore you to invest in yourself!

I am a License marriage and family therapist I provides services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have been helping individuals with anxiety, social difficulties, Anger management, Depression, trauma and grief. I have experience in facilitating violence prevention programs and anger management groups. I utilizes a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, DBT, Psychoeducation, Play Therapy, behavior modification, mindfulness and relaxation.

Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

My name is Sue Fry Van Rheenen, a licensed Psychologist in Nevada City, California. I have 30 plus years of experience working with adults, couples and youth. I have experience in working with a wide range of concerns that include depression, anxiety and self-esteem. My focus is exploring and identifying those patterns of behavior that interfere with one's ability to find balance and productivity. I work with my clients to change these patterns and to establish a new way of being where happiness can be better realized. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment where my client can meet those challenges that require courage and patience. I am here to support you in this process.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides individual therapy using an eclectic framework. I know that therapy can be intimidating, especially when first seeking services. This process places you front and center in your own journey to healing and I am privileged to be able to walk alongside you as you take that step. I use various tools to assist you in reaching goals and help identify what works for you.

Life can bring us challenges that feel overwhelming. As a result, you may find yourself feeling anxious, irritable, or maybe even struggling in managing your day to day life activities. If you're looking to make some changes in your life, then therapy is the perfect place to start. As an integrative client-centered therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the needs of my client. You are unique and so is your journey toward healing. My job is to be flexible to your needs as we work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.

Pleased to meet you! I provide individual telehealth therapy to adult clients within the state of California. If you are experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, grief and loss, family or relationship issues, or enduring a difficult life transition, I would love the opportunity to hear your story and support you. Carrying our pain without addressing it may not only make life less satisfying, but it can take a toll on other aspects of our health. Mental health IS health, and therapy can be medicinal for untangling the mind and heart. I applaud you with taking the first step in exploring seeking therapy! Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

As a child I was always very sensitive and curious about the world that surrounded me. It came natural to help people and I knew that I wanted to give back to the world at large. Just like you I suffered from some childhood wounds. My parents did the best they could with the tools they had. But due to their struggles I became a very codependent child wanting to save and fix my parents to simply gain the love I desired. Later on I would be able to understand this cycle and name some of the patterns I lived out. People pleasing, losing myself in toxic relationships and not fully loving that little girl inside of me. Once I became a LMFT and gained the knowledge and tools necessary I was not only able to break my own patterns, I was also able to help others find joy and deep meaning in their lives. Ultimately I specialize in helping people understand their patterns and be more effective communicators in their world. My role has been a guide and coach for my clients, providing innovative approaches based on Gestalt Method, Ancient Forgiveness Techniques, Psychodynamic Therapy, NLP and Hypnosis. I use these techniques to help my clients break patterns, many of which are fear based as a result of early childhood trauma that causes emotional issues in the present. This is deep and powerful work, and is necessary to enable a positive path to desired future. I look forward to working with you and guiding you on the path to healing and freedom.

Hi there, I'm Shobha. Do you feel stressed out, anxious in a social circle, feel blue? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help people manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole person and CBT approaches, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. Whether you're dealing with feeling down, overwhelmed, or stressed out, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome mental health concerns that are holding you back. Let's work together! Please note; that I do not offer couple' therapy but only individual therapy.

Hi! First, I want to thank you for visiting my page and giving me an opportunity to see how my therapeutic style can assist you with reducing your distress and increasing your life satisfaction. I am so honored that you have decided to review my profile and see if I am a good fit for your journey. I have been working as a therapist with a variety of mental health disorders and systemic family dynamics since 2015. I initially pursued a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and decided that was an unfulfilling career direction for me. Upon deciding to pursue a master’s degree, I decided to pursue the MFT field. Becoming and MFT was the career goal I had as a teenager, so you could say that pursuing the field is a lifelong dream come true. My methods of therapy are person led. I like to provide space, and safety to assist you with addressing the reasons you made the brave choice to pursue therapy. I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). It is a gentle, evidenced based method that uses mindfulness and increases coping skills to assist with achieving therapeutic goals. Additionally, I utilize the technique of Brainspotting that assists with deeper, difficult to resolve trauma. I am LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I work with clients who are questioning, in their transition process, as well as those who are working on their mental health unrelated to their sexual and gender orientation. If necessary, I can consult with you if you need me to provide gender affirming letters when required for insurance and surgical and hormonal procedures. I really appreciate the time that you took to read through all this information, and I hope that it helps you make an informed decision.

I am a dedicated Licensed Professional in Private Practice in the Los Angeles area, with over 20 years of direct counseling experience. I provide high-quality services aimed at helping clients achieve a balanced perspective on their mental health. My goal is to assist clients in developing the skills needed to maintain emotional well-being through life's challenges. Ultimately, my primary aim is to enhance the overall well-being and mental health of my clients.

Hello and welcome. Psychotherapy is a transformative tool to assist you in centering your mind, body, and spirit. There is no need to limit your life or extend your suffering, I can help you find the relief you’ve been searching for. I’m trained, licensed, and competent in various evidence based practices. In honor of the diverse and multicultural world we live in; along with my own life experiences. As of result of this, I have evolved into an experienced Integrative Therapist. Truly believing and knowing, our minds, our bodies and our spirits are designed to heal themselves. Honoring life, as a whole and healing from the inside out. I'd like to thank you in advance for caring for yourself. Whether you are looking for self-healing or for enhancement. I look forward to meeting and joining you on your healing journey.

My ideal client is someone who needs help reaching their highest potential and decrease emotional suffering. They should be ready and willing to begin receiving guidance on how to reach their peak. I believe in self-determination and that individuals can find solutions with the right support. I offer a person centered approach that relies on the client's self-determination. I am experienced working those with dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and anxiety compassionately to help them manage symptoms. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have more questions. I am always willing to answer questions to make sure my services are a good fit.

I have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years, providing various services to adults and families. My approach is psychodynamic, relational, and insight-oriented with a holistic focus on the mind-body continuum. My style, while rooted in empathy, is also very direct. I will act as your mirror in order to help you see yourself more clearly. I also utilize positive psychology and strength-based approaches to help clients identify ways to increase their quality of life. Clients often walk away from therapy feeling heard, hopeful, and willing to attempt homework to improve their lives.

California State University Stanislaus of Social Work, Master's in Social Work License LCSW# 76744 23 Years of experience Hello! My name is Robert Garza, LCSW Bi-lingual. I have over 18 years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood, adolescence, children/families, adults, and end-of-life care. I have always viewed my professional career to learn as much as possible and be able to impact the largest number of people in need of support, counseling, therapy, and a safe space. I have worked in educational settings, healthcare settings, and clinical settings. I was born in Corcoran and raised in Central California. I currently reside in Rocklin CA, and enjoy horseshoe pitching, long walks, the ocean, and family and friends. My historical area of focus ranges from challenges in school to overcoming childhood traumas, depression, anxiety, social isolation, and conflict within family units. These are common things that we all face as we grow and evolve into our adult selves.

Hello! I am Dr. Efrain Zepeda. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Social Worker. In the past 23 years of working as a mental health professional, one important lesson I have learned is that the most powerful therapeutic intervention is found in the interpersonal experience that occurs in the client-therapist relationship. Together we can analyze the past to co-create a new meaning to achieve healing. I strongly believe that therapy is not about labeling or judging, but rather about personal discovery.

Hello, I am licensed in California, Illinois, and Missouri. I have experience in helping teens, adults, couples, families, veterans, and military personnel with stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of shame, blame, or judgment. You are encouraged to take the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, it takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Professional experience and additional areas of focus: Adoption and Foster Care, Cancer, Caregiver Issues and Stress, Communication Problems, Control Issues, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Family Problems, Forgiveness, Hospice and End of Life Counseling, Impulsivity, Men's Issues, Military and Veterans Issues, Mood Disorders, Multicultural Concerns, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks, Post-traumatic Stress, Self-Harm, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Sexuality, Young Adult Issues Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy

Let me start by saying self-care is the one thing that we can do for ourselves, but is usually the last thing we do for ourselves. So, congratulations for taking the first steps in caring for yourself. The journey of therapy is not easy. There will be times when it gets exhausting but as you continue through your path the answers will be revealed through the work you complete with your therapist. It is a privilege and honor to walk the journey. As a therapist, I have worked with a plethora of clients from couples counseling, to adolescent, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.

Congratulations on taking steps toward healing and thriving! I am a trauma-focused therapist who is trained in EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and a list of other evidence-based interventions. I have extensive experience working with several demographics, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and clinicians. I provide nonjudgmental and accepting therapy that is a safe space to feel and explore all emotions with the goal of healing.

I have been licensed as Marriage Family Therapist since April 3,2003. My area of clinical practice has focused on addressing the underlining causes of anxiety, addiction and depressive disorders. In addition, I have acquired a fundamental understanding of crisis that affects the struggle involving martial relationships. As a Marriage Therapist, I have expertise in the utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It my clinical experience that if you can effectively change your thoughts process your life will radically change for the better.

Hello, My name is Steven Nelson. I'm a licensed Marital and Family Therapist for 8 years. I always find it to be an honor to help others find their solutions and journey. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. "If you seek, you will find solutions." At times we just need that support to help see it. In addition to my Psychological Therapy license, I hold specialties certifications in Drug and Alcohol addiction, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Sex Addiction, Trauma and Domestic Violence prevention.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for 8 years. I have experience assisting clients from many different backgrounds from eating disorders to anxiety/depression to trauma. Through my education and my experience, I have been able to implement different therapeutic modalities that have assisted my clients on their treatment journeys.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters from California State University, Fullerton, and have been practicing for 7 years. I help couples and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms navigate these different challenges. I will accept you, validate you, challenge you, but most importantly, give you a space to be all that you are.

Hi...I am a Marriage and Family Therapist working out of San Diego with 16 years experience in severe mental health, private practice, and working with Military dealing with everything from Couples Counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction/Recovery, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Trauma, Family Therapy, and working with Adolescents. I'm a former College football player with a 13 year old son who is my everything. I love football and sports and enjoy exercise and being outdoors as my hobbies. More importantly, I'm a Christian believer who does not like religion, if that makes any sense. I believe that love conquers a lot, and my therapy style is a very laid back and relaxed approach with absolutely no judgment, but with great love and understanding.

Hi My name is Heidi De Leon, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked in addiction treatment for a little more then 18 years. My journey started at community college where I got inspiration to become an addiction counselor and later went on to obtain a Master in Social work from USC. I specialize in Addictions and Complex Trauma. I use EMDR (Eye Movement desensitization and reprocessing) as well as DBT (Dialectical behavior therapy) and trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.

I was born and raised in California, the daughter of immigrants from Mexico, they came to the United States hoping for a better future and opportunities. I am a first-generation college graduate and understand the sacrifices many parents make to give their children a better future. I attended California State University Dominguez Hills and have a background in Child Development and Human Services. I recognize that it takes courage and vulnerability to embark on a journey of self-discovery through therapy. I have a strong background in Critical Race Theory, which offered me a lens to analyze critically how systems of oppression affect people in underserved communities. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach. I have worked in community mental health for six years, helping individuals recognize their potential and greatness. My values and beliefs embody my Mexican culture and spirituality. They align with the core values of the social work profession of service, respect, justice, dignity, the worth of a person, self-determination, integrity, importance of human relationships, and competence (National Association of Social Workers [NASW], 2017). I believe individuals can rebuild their lives, change, and recover. Effective helping constitutes the ability to believe that people can change by showing empathy, showing them that you care, respecting their culture, and by showing people that what you do is consistent with what you say.

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.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, practicing in Florida and California. I have a PhD in Family Therapy. I have been working with clients in social and mental health settings for more than 20 years. I have experience working with diverse populations (different cultural backgrounds). I work with individuals, couples, and families facing grief, depression, anxiety, anger, life transitions, stress, problems in their relationships with relatives, co-worker/classmates, and trauma, among others.