Optum Therapists in California

Welcome! My name is Craig Harris. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) currently providing telehealth services. I currently work with adult individuals (all age ranges). I do not currently work with anyone under the age of 18, do not offer family or couples counseling. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental and supportive environment for you to find a path to a healthier, more fulfilling life. I am passionate about working with people to improve their lives. I am a huge believer that a good connection is the foundation of good therapy. I currently work at a Level 1 Trauma Center as an Emergency Department Crisis Social Worker. I am inspired every day to help patients and their families cope with traumatic injuries and mental health crises. I do have extensive experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, work stress, addiction & chronic pain. I have also worked in a variety of mental health settings (outpatient, community based, in-home services and residential treatment programs). I have worked with children, adults and families in a variety of settings for over 20 years. I combine understanding and empathy with a straight forward, strength-based and solution-focused approach. I am here to help you reach your goals and improve your relationships with your family, friends, co-workers, loved ones and most importantly yourself. I look forward to speaking with you.

Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence to working in Oakland shelters for youth 13-21. I have worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments. I have focused my professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

Hi, I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 13 years. I graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies in expressive arts therapy. I also have lived in a Zen Buddhist temple to do residential practice for five years. My goal is to help people feel better as soon as possible. Usually by the time a person enters therapy they have been under stress that has been building for a while. I help people identify and clarify what their goals are and present interventions that I have supported people using that help them feel better.

I’m Baharak, LCSW, specializing in OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative, emphasizing strategies practiced between sessions. I provide telehealth across California and in person therapy at PsychiatryOC in Newport Beach. All appointments, virtual or in-person, are scheduled through Grow Therapy’s official contact line. Please call (646) 687-9932 to schedule an appointment conveniently and securely. Book in person by calling the office: https://share.google/PzlPB9XRGP9UAlUo9

I’m a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals who feel emotionally disconnected, culturally displaced, or quietly out of step with the world around them. I hold an MA in Psychology with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute in Los Angeles and am certified in psychoanalytic psychotherapy through the New Center for Psychoanalysis. This foundation in depth psychology informs my approach to work and the therapeutic relationship.

Welcome – I'm glad you're here. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Iowa with an emphasis in mental health. This background allows me to approach your concerns with a holistic and informed perspective. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or just not like yourself lately, you're not broken — and you’re not too much. Life can hit hard, and therapy can offer the space to slow down, be real, and reconnect with your strength.

Hi there, I'm Leanne. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, 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 the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I earned a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology from JFK University. I have 15 years of experience helping individuals cope with the challenges they face in their lives. I have a specialty in treating individuals struggling with alcohol and substance use. I also have been trained in Brainspotting techniques that reduce the effect traumas and other upsetting life events have on a person's ability to find the happiness they want from life.

Hi, possible client! You may be going through a stressful moment in your life. You may have had some complex trauma occur in your past. Or you may have a teen who is experiencing some mental health difficulties. Maybe you're looking for someone who may have more in common with you to help you through your challenges. Whether you are looking for a space to feel supported and discuss your trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship, life goals, or to simply feel seen, I may be the therapist for you.

I am licensed in California . I have 20 years of professional work experience . I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work , from California State University Long Beach. I thrive in the opportunity to help clients move through the counseling process , with the goals of adaptive coping and wellness in the management of their issues and stressors. I enjoy educating clients on Wellness Practice and extending supportive psychotherapy to clients .

My focus is to provide support and guidance. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy (ages 5+) using a client-centered approach. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), etc. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I provide a client-centered approach with motivational interviewing. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches.

Hi I'm Kristal Bayer, I attended the University of California, Santa Barbara for undergrad where I majored in Psychology and minored in education and went on to complete my Masters degree in Social Work at Cal State Long Beach in 2011. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in California. I have worked with a wide range of clients in my practice, including Toddlers to the elderly. My therapy style is warm and client-oriented. I walk alongside my clients, helping them learn to cope with life stressors and bring insight into harmful coping mechanisms. To assist clients in developing positive problem-solving skills and positive social interactions to increase self-esteem and develop self-awareness. My approach is tailored to each client upon initial assessment. I applaud you for coming this far and seeking therapy, a decision that sometimes may not be the easiest. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in your journey.

As a certified ADHD therapist, I specialize in improving your focus, organization, and time management, and support you in building healthier routines. Also as an RLT trained therapist, I can provide support in resolving difficulties in relationships, emotional distress, and feelings of disconnect and isolation. I understand the importance of connecting with you. Your thoughts, emotions, and experiences are essential to the therapeutic process. I will help you identify and bring insight into core issues in your life and relationships. We will work together to foster personal growth and empowerment.

I am a licensed professional in California with extensive experience in the mental health industry. With 5 years of dedicated work and an additional 9 years of complementary experience, I have worked in various settings including the criminal justice system, high-acuity psychiatric units, applied behavioral analysis, geriatrics, substance abuse facilities, and PHP/IOP/RTC levels of care. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.

Hi there, I'm Jonathan, a licensed marriage and family therapist. Congratulations on taking your first step toward wellness and recovery! I specialize in helping people with issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, marital/pre-marital issues, and more. It is my personal and professional commitment to assist and support you in any way possible on this journey of change. I have been practicing therapy since 2005 and completed my Bachelor's degree at Appalchian State University in Boone NC (class of 2003). I completed my Master's in MFT Psychology at Phillips Graduate Institute of Psychology in Chatsworth, CA (class of 2005).

Hi! I’m Allyson and I’m looking forward to hopefully meeting with you. Have you been struggling or just wanting some extra support and a place you can turn to in order to let it all out? Have you found yourself stressed out or feeling overwhelmed easily? Are you struggling to understand your emotions or what is happening in your relationships? I hope I can help you with those issues and so much more! I work with you to understand how you are feeling and thinking about situations and help you practice a focus on your long-term goals to get through life’s ups and downs. I’ve worked with all ages and use a holistic approach to therapy to address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I take an integrative approach and work to meet you where you are and personalize treatment to meet your strengths and needs. I bring in evidence-based interventions and techniques as well as creative and artistic elements. I’ve received training in several modalities including DBT, CBT, EMDR and ABFT. I’ve found that using both sides of your brain can strengthen the positive changes and success rates for reaching your goals. Taking steps to heal yourself and that time for yourself can be scary. It can be challenging to work with someone new and/or to give it a try again. You’re making the right choice, and you deserve this opportunity. You deserve a safe space, you deserve to heal, you deserve to reach your fullest potential in life. Let’s work together to help you reach the best version of yourself!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with clients California wide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults while specializing in stress, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, while tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. I welcome you to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin. I’m here to provide a safe and supportive environment, where you can thrive and be yourself.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) committed to supporting adults of all ages and backgrounds. I've served in the United States Army, worked in child protective services, dialysis, hospital and PACE settings. I have 12+ years' experience as an LCSW. I've worked with veterans, LGBTQ+, diverse religious/spiritual backgrounds, various age groups, individuals with health conditions and just about every other walk of life. I'm committed to providing a safe space where we can have a conversation to work towards achieving your goals and feel empowered to face life's challenges.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I’ve worked in hospice, school settings, and private practice over the past several years. I help individuals who are feeling anxious, stuck, or overwhelmed reconnect with themselves and build confidence from the inside out. Clients appreciate my grounded yet flexible approach—I guide each session while creating space for them to lead, which helps them feel truly seen and supported.

Hi my name is Abby and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over five years of experience. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, caregiving responsibilities, or navigating a major health diagnosis, you don’t have to go through it alone. I help adults process complex emotions and life transitions by creating a supportive space grounded in compassion, cultural awareness, and practical tools. Tambien hablo Espanol! With over five years of experience as a medical social worker—I bring a deep understanding of how mental health intersects with chronic illness, family dynamics, and life-changing events. In our sessions, we’ll work together to explore your unique story, identify what’s holding you back, and help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and strive to meet clients exactly where they are—with warmth, patience, and genuine respect for their lived experience. If you’re looking for a therapist who can help you cope with stress, set boundaries, or make sense of difficult life changes, I’d be honored to support you.

Welcome—I’m Sam Moglen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing therapy for individuals and couples in Berkeley, CA, and throughout California via online sessions. Whether you’re struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, therapy can help you find clarity and feel more connected to yourself and those around you. I am trained in a range of modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), the Rest and Restore Protocol, the Safe and Sound Protocol, Polyvagal Theory, and somatic therapy approaches in a way that feels safe and comfortable for you.

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have experience working with adults and geriatrics.

Hello, I’m Kamron Poosti, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles. I specialize in addressing issues like anxiety, depression, dating, communication, relationships, burnout, and work-related stress. My client-centered approach offers tailored support to help you navigate your unique challenges and develop effective coping strategies. I’m dedicated to helping individuals from all walks of life achieve greater mental well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

My name is Arakel Aristakessian and I am a first generation American of Armenian immigrants. There is never a lack of drama in my family and I think it is important to be mindful of cultural expectations and norms when navigating conflict. In this fashion, I use an individualized approach to meet my clients' needs. My style of therapy is grounded in the person-centered approach. I practice listening with empathy to my client’s lived experiences. I remind myself that it is not my place to judge anyone for their past choices. It is my responsibility to respond honestly and respectfully. My hope is to mediate shame, so that people feel comfortable and safe in opening up about what is troubling them. Once the therapeutic space feels safe, only then can various treatment methods truly be effective.

Hi and welcome! I’m Anna, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here to support you through the ups, downs, and everything in between. For the past four years, I’ve helped clients navigate anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and big life transitions in a space that’s completely safe and judgment-free. My approach? Real conversations, practical coping skills, and building healthy boundaries—with yourself and others—so you can show up as the best version of you. Together, we’ll tackle challenges like overthinking, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or feeling stuck, and create a plan that feels authentic and doable. Therapy doesn’t have to feel scary or stiff—it can be a space where you get to explore, heal, and grow. If you’re ready to make moves toward a life that feels balanced and meaningful, I’m here for you.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I work with clients navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and complex family dynamics, always honoring their cultural background and personal story. Through a compassionate, client-centered approach, I help individuals build resilience, gain insight, and develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and lead more empowered lives.

Hello. My name is Amilcar and I am a clinical social worker for the past 14 years. I received my BA in Sociology from UC Berkeley and my Masters in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I obtained my LCSW in 2015. I have spent my professional career providing outpatient mental health services to vulnerable populations in Los Angeles and Santa Clara County. I have extensive experience working with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. License No. LCSW 68949

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and dual diagnoses. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and focused on treating the whole person—I utilize evidence-based and self-empowering modalities to help clients gain insight, heal from within, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

Hello, my name is Patricia Bevan. I have always found human behavior interesting. I love getting to know people and listening to their life stories. I find it very rewarding to empower people to achieve their best, support them through their challenges in life, as well as help ease their emotional burdens. My focus is all about "connection." My work is about connecting with clients on a genuine, compassionate and human level.

My name is Carol Kosta. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I hold a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch Los Angeles and I am a certified EMDR practitioner. Over the last 20 years I have have worked as a therapist with diverse populations in private practice, community based programs and facilities that treat mental health, eating disorders and substance use disorders. I primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients recover from trauma and other life distressing experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression and panic disorders. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Mindfulness, Art Therapy, Solution focused and other strength based approaches. Through the use of compassion, empathy and humor, I have helped clients gain insight, identify coping strategies, increase self esteem, use healthy communication, improve relationships and work through the stages of life. I understand that it takes strength and courage to participate in therapy and I make intentional efforts to support and understand clients by checking in with them and being open to feedback.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from Azusa Pacific University and have been practicing for 8 years. I have worked with all age groups, and specifically provided my focus working with adults and older adults. Assisting in providing guidance in current or past life stressors, and finding the strength to work through those challenges.

I offer strength-based, trauma-informed care, grounded in the belief that you are the expert of your own life. With 15+ years of experience in this field, I draw from a range of approaches—including CBT, DBT, and EMDR—to help you achieve your goals. Reach out for a free phone consultation to discuss your unique needs and begin creating a personalized plan for healing.

I am licensed by the State of California Board of Behavioral Services. I received my Masters in Social Work at California State University, Los Angeles in 2008. I have provided therapeutic services in a variety of settings, including Victims of Crime, Specialized Foster Care, Juvenile Justice, Private Practice and Emergency Outreach Services with the Department of Mental Health. I am bilingual English/Spanish. My approach is non-judgmental and accepting allowing the client to process their thoughts in a safe and caring environment. With each client’s personal goals in mind, I strive to work with clients in exploring and identifying the best positive solutions to challenges. Clients are empowered with new skills and gain a renewed sense of confidence that can open doors. I am a Certified Anger Management Specialist II-National Anger Management Association. I provide court-order Anger Management sessions. I provide In-Person and Virtual sessions.

I have been a practicing therapist for over 5 years now. I have worked with a diverse group of populations dealing with depression/anxiety all the way to psychosis diagnoses. I implement a lot of Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing into my practice. My clients have often told me that I bring a genuine and compassionate atmosphere to sessions which helps them feel more at ease. I take a very nonjudgmental "at your own pace" type of approach. I want to ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way through your journey with mental health.

My name is J.P. De Oliveira Estevão, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (L.P.C.C.). I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful change. I use proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic approaches, and Adlerian ideas to customize treatment just for you. My goal is to help you understand yourself better, find ways to cope with challenges and build a happier life.

Hi, I am Estee, Do you want to improve the way you feel? We can work to create that! In a safe, nurturing space we actively engage in a process of self discovery that facilitates growth. We undertake the task together by uncovering old patterns that do not serve us anymore and replacing them with new ones that are in alignment with our higher potential. This is done with a technique called Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy or EFIT. EFIT is an evidence based technique that has been proven time and time again to help individuals, couples and families.

My name is Amanda Gonyer and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I identify as she/her, third generation Mexican American, bicultural, spiritual, and LGBTQ allied. I graduated with my Masters in Marital Family Therapy from CSU Dominguez Hills and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Sonoma State University. I am very artsy and love to paint in my free time. I can usually be found trying a new restaurant, doing yoga in the park, or reading a good book with a good cup of coffee in a coffee shop.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and first-generation Filipino American, I bring a culturally sensitive approach to guiding individuals toward healing, resilience, and personal growth. I specialize in trauma-informed care, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), EMDR, and Brainspotting—advanced, evidence-based interventions designed to address the root causes of trauma, addiction, anxiety, and depression. With experience working with individuals from various backgrounds, I’m passionate about helping clients process life-altering events, break free from past trauma, challenge unhelpful core beliefs, and manage ongoing stress. My mission is to empower clients to build meaningful lives and strengthen their relationships. Are you feeling stuck under the weight of addiction, anxiety, or depression? Are past traumas keeping you from living the life you want? You do not need to go through each day merely trying to survive —you can thrive in life! Therapy is a compassionate, non-judgmental space where healing can flourish, and you can learn to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and self-awareness. Healing is possible, with just a little persistence, and hope. I am here to support you every step of the way!

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

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), in Southern California. I have 7 years experience in working with adults and families. My therapeutic style includes an unwavering commitment to working together in pursuit of your mental well-being. My communication style is personable, relaxed and encouraging. My goal is to create a safe space to process your thoughts without judgement.

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.

Feeling down, unmotivated or flat? Are you disengaging in previously pleasurable activities leaving you feeling unmotivated and anxious? Through a collaborative partnership, I can help you lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life, helping to reduce anxiety and boost problem solving all from the comfort of your living room! I utilize a client centered, solution focused approach, through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help reduce anxiety and depression and promote wellbeing. I have had success working with crisis intervention and trauma informed care to help a variety of clients’ ranging from minor disturbances to significant impairment. Through my eclectic approach, I can treat a wide range of client needs. My experience stems from working with individuals, young adults and couples who struggle to overcome anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. Whatever the issue, I can be of service to offer an empathetic, patient centered level of care that will meet your needs. Please call or email for a free 15 min phone consultation to see how I can best support your needs. All sessions are conducted via telehealth, through a safe and secure platform. Don’t settle for your new normal, contact me to help you make changes today!

Do you ever feel alone, overwhelmed, or stressed? You are not alone. All individuals experience life, and with life comes pain. It can be hard to talk to friends or family about painful emotions, and I want to help. I use an integrated approach with all clients. I believe in using an eclectic approach to help clients meet their goals for therapy. I am an Advanced Trauma Certified Practitioner and use EMDR and a trauma-focused approach to process past trauma that is impacting their lives today.

In my practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) within a trauma-informed care framework to support clients struggling with self-esteem, body image, and relationship issues. Recognizing the impact of trauma on these areas, I create a safe and empathetic environment where clients feel validated and understood. My structured approach helps clients develop practical skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. For self-esteem and body image concerns, I focus on helping clients cultivate self-compassion and challenge negative self-talk through mindfulness and acceptance strategies, always being mindful of their trauma history. In addressing relationship issues, I guide clients in building healthier communication patterns and setting appropriate boundaries using interpersonal effectiveness skills, while ensuring a trauma-sensitive approach. By integrating these techniques, I empower clients to navigate their emotions more effectively, improve their self-perception, and foster more fulfilling relationships, all within a context that prioritizes their safety and well-being. **Please note I do not see couples

Hello! I'm Michael and if you are reading this, you are likely considering therapy as an avenue to make a change in your life. This is the first step in building the life you deserve. Are you overwhelmed by your emotions? Stuck in your past? Worried about the future? Do you just feel...blah...like you can't quite put your finger on what's wrong? You are in the right place! These are questions I can help you answer. I help men and women improve emotional skills, reduce symptoms, and develop coping skills to deal with life's challenges. Together, we will create a plan that works for you. This is your life and only you know the answer. You just need a little help uncovering it. Change is scary and uncomfortable, but if you can choose to show up anyway, amazing things can happen. I realize coming to therapy can be tough and so I like to make your experience with me as safe and comfortable as possible. I hope to hear from you soon.

Hello! I’m Cynthia Valenzuela, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I specialize in supporting young adults as they navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, major life transitions, career stress, and complex family dynamics. My goal is to create a space in which you feel safe, seen, and heard to start your journey towards healing and self-discovery. My approach blends evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based strategies, all while honoring your lived experiences and cultural identity. Therapy with me is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in trust. Together, we’ll explore your story, uncover the patterns that may be holding you back, and develop practical tools to help you move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and connection to yourself.

Welcome to my practice. I am a seasoned therapist and have worked in many different settings over many years. All I ever wanted to do is help people have their best lives. I practiced social work with a Bachelors degree in prisons, community agencies for the disabled, a state hospital, a state facility for people with cognitive challenges, child and family welfare work and working with folks in community care homes. I also developed and led a community program for Guardians ad Litem in child abuse and neglect cases. Then I went back to school and earned my Masters in Social Work and then my therapy credentials after many hours of supervision. I truly enjoy listening and encouraging clients to embrace strategies for wellness and self-compassion using mindfulness and compassion and strength based materials. I am actively engaged in consult groups with other therapists focusing on trans and queer issues. For several years I taught at the graduate school level in South Carolina and then Utah, teaching social work students skills for working ethically and compassionately.

My name is Laurissa Miller. I am an LCSW that lives in Ventura County, California. I have 13 years of experience with kids, trauma, PTSD, and foster care. I have also worked with children with Autism and ADHD. My goal is always to meet my clients where they are at and work as a team to help them accomplish their goals. I look forward to working with you.

Welcome. You've already taken a brave first step toward support, and I'm here to make sure this journey feels meaningful and comfortable for you. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space where we'll focus on what matters most to you - whether it's easing anxiety or depression, improving your relationships, or gaining deeper self-understanding. We'll work together in a gentle yet purposeful way, using practical tools and heartfelt connection to help you find more peace, balance, and resilience in your life. When you're ready to begin, I'm here to walk with you.

I understand what it's like to be anxious, to be depressed, or to just feel lost. So I'd like to help you, if I can, to find your way towards wellness, happiness, and a fulfilling life. But I know you need the right help at the right time, and that is my first goal -- to make sure I'm the right therapist for you now. I don't work with all issues, so let's go over that now. And if I'm not the right person, I'll give you referrals for other qualified therapists. I want you to have what you need, and a therapist that is great for you, whether it's me, or someone else. So here's some info on my work: I do work with individuals, and with couples. I don't work with issues of Domestic Violence, Suicidal Ideation, Self Harm, Harm to Others, Addictions, Eating Disorders, Anger Management or any legal issues. What I do work with is self-doubt, anxiety, sadness or depression, and relationship issues. I'm good with helping people heal wounds about themselves. And I love doing relationship work: I believe that love and belonging are most people's priority in life, and if you are on the journey to find that, or need to repair a love you already have, I'm glad to help if I can. I'm familiar with most modalities of therapy. I focus mostly on Strengths-Based work, Narrative Therapy, and Compassion-Based CBT. And I'll be paying close attention to you and engaging in ongoing assessments: how you feel, think and believe are crucial to helping us find what's right for you. So communication is key. We'll talk, we'll listen, we'll collaborate, and we'll work as a team towards getting you to feel better and make choices that honor your needs, and your chosen path.