* At this time, I am only offering sessions for individual clients. ** As of February 2026, I currently have a few open spots at 7:00 am on M-Thurs, and some afternoons/early evenings on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Please feel free to book an intake appointment to meet and see if working together will be a good fit. About Me: I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional work experience, primarily as a school social worker and school counselor working with teens and their families. I’m excited to also branch out and provide therapy to young adults and adults. I have experience working with a variety of issues; from grief & loss, PTSD, ADHD, depression and anxiety to family conflicts, blended families, separation/divorce and co-parenting, as well as with issues impacting self-esteem, and confidence. I’m excited to work with clients to create an open and safe environment toward better self-expression, understanding & growth!

I am a licensed counselor with experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults navigating life’s challenges, including trauma, grief, anxiety, and major transitions. I take an eclectic, trauma-informed approach, tailoring therapy to each client’s unique needs and strengths. My goal is to help clients move from surviving to thriving, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives. I provide a compassionate, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered on their journey toward healing and growth.

My journey to becoming a therapist started 29 years ago on a personal recovery journey, recovering from personal trauma and addiction in the entire system growing up including family, and coming from a low SES background, therapy became a way to reconcile the change I was going through in my life. Working with and helping others has always been a calling of mine, and becoming a therapist was a natural extension of that ongoing work on both myself and in my work with others. Beginning with a humanistic approach means meeting the client where they are at, and then conceptualizing the approach with a combination of humanistic and positive psychology, systems theory, and recovery-oriented systems of care.

Hi! I’m Lori. Do you miss feeling connected to others and enjoying the relationships in your life? Is it hard to share your struggles with others? Do you feel stuck, with too many tasks, too many decisions and not enough time? Is there always something else more important than taking time for self care? Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, guilt, past trauma, or feeling disconnected from others, we will work together to identify the goals you have in mind to make life more manageable and more fulfilling. I will provide a safe place to identify what is holding you back and promote healing. We will select the evidence-based technique that suits you best so you feel more connected and have a more satisfying life journey. I look forward to meeting you and working together for your best possible life!

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who values authenticity, connection, and creating a space where clients feel truly seen and supported. I believe therapy should be both practical and meaningful—helping you build tools for daily life while also gaining deeper insight into yourself and your experiences. I have experience providing in-person and telehealth therapy services to pregnant and parenting mothers as well as individuals with severe mental illness who needed follow-up after hospitalization or just an on-going therapeutic relationship.

“ Children have very deep feelings just the way parents do, just the way everybody does. I feel striving to understand those feelings, and to better respond to them, is an important task in our world” - Mr. Rogers This belief is at the heart of my work. Howdy! My name is Amanda Munoz and I have over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults across school settings, home environments, and community-based counseling programs. In my work, I strive to meet young people where they are, helping them feel seen, heard, and understood as they navigate their world and make sense of their experiences. I believe my role is to support folks with curiosity, warmth, and consistency as they learn about themselves, their emotions, and their relationships. It is an honor to walk alongside them as they grow in confidence, connection, and self-awareness.

I am glad you are taking time to get to know me. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have my M.S. in clinical psychology from San Francisco State University and my undergrad in psychology from Purdue University. I have worked in San Francisco for seventeen years with multicultural families and individuals that have been in crisis. I have worked with a multitude of differing diagnosis and problems over this extensive period of time. I take such pride in helping families and individuals live a better life and obtain their desired goals. I am glad to have been around in my job long enough to have observed the positive results my contributions have made. I am passionate in wanting to help alleviate suffering and I stay determined in doing so.

I am a therapist with a strong background in education, behavior analysis, and psychological research. I hold a doctorate in psychology, am a Licensed Clinical Counselor (LPCC), and am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). My work is highly data-informed and grounded in evidence-based treatment, with an emphasis on measurable outcomes and practical skill development. My clinical approach blends behavioral and cognitive strategies with mindfulness-based and somatic practices. I value the structure and effectiveness of behavioral interventions while also recognizing the importance of emotional awareness, nervous system regulation, and mind-body connection. This balanced approach allows me to support both observable behavior change and internal emotional processes. I place a strong emphasis on psychoeducation, helping clients understand the “why” behind their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so they can apply strategies more effectively in their daily lives. I aim to create a collaborative and supportive therapeutic environment that is both compassionate and goal-oriented, where clients feel understood while actively working toward meaningful and sustainable change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for adults ages 18 and up at Eucalyptus Hope and Wellness, A Licensed Clinical Social Worker Professional Corporation. I offer a supportive, respectful, and collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build on their strengths, and work toward meaningful personal goals. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions such as career changes, school transitions, retirement, and early parenthood, including postpartum adjustment. I also support clients who feel stuck and are seeking motivation and support to get back on track. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and strengths-based, person-centered therapy. I also incorporate mindfulness and culturally responsive care, with faith-informed counseling available for clients who wish to integrate their spiritual beliefs. Through our work together, clients often gain greater clarity, improved coping skills, and a stronger sense of direction as they move toward meaningful and lasting change.

My name is mike kessler (they/he), and I'm a genderqueer, transmasculine, pansexual therapist with over 30 years of experience. I specialize in serving LGBTQIA+ people around exploring gender & attractions, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, dating & sex, coming out, family & relationship issues, body image and neurodivergence, among other things. I believe you are the expert on you, not me! I take a collaborative, client-centered & humanistic approach to therapy. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you identify & change unhelpful thought patterns, develop skills to manage your emotions & somatic work to foster a mind-body approach and help you get comfortable in your body. So what are you waiting for? Let's get started!

My goal is creating a safe healing space for people to grow and connect to their true selves. I am a curious listener and it is my passion to empathetically and humbly guide you through your healing journey. I offer a space for people to explore the facets of their experiences as well as coping skills so you can connect with what matters most in your life. I have experience with the effects that generational trauma and difficult life adjustments can have on daily life when they are not processed. I have also seen the relief people gain when they are able to safely and collaboratively explore traumatic events.

You may be on the right path, but stumbled, fell, or got lost along the way. Or you may be struggling to find the path. I want to help. In therapy, I aim to create a calm, sturdy, emotionally open, and radically nonjudgmental space where you can be deeply curious about your own experience. A patient, open-ended space where you can take your time. A space where you can slow down, breathe, reflect, be quiet or silent. A space where you can be loud, angry, triggered, upset. A space where you don't have to make sense, but we can try to make sense of things together. A space where we both can be genuinely curious about who you are.

I work with individuals who grew up with a pervasive sense that they were “outside the box”. Perhaps this was due to neurodivergence, cultural differences or struggles with gender and/or sexuality. Many of my clients arrive with previous diagnoses of ADHD, autism, anxiety and/or depression. They often have a creative side that has been suppressed in order to focus more on developing a professional self. Many of my clients report feeling like they have to wear a mask in the workplace and in social situations. It is not uncommon for them to feel lost, numb or lacking direction in their life. As a therapist, my strengths are in my ability to follow creative lines and tie together seemingly complex thought and behavior systems to give you deeper awareness of the issues that present for you. My education and experience in community health and mental healthcare has prepared me as a therapist to provide therapeutic care that goes beyond asking deep questions. My approach to therapy is non-judgmental and is driven by the strengths of my clients. If this resonates with you, I invite you to reach out. Together we can find a path.

I’m a therapist who works with adults dealing with life transitions, relationship challenges, and big emotions. I help you notice patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and relationships, build skills to handle stress and emotions, and create healthier, more fulfilling connections. I blend psychodynamic, relational, and DBT approaches, so we focus both on understanding yourself more deeply and on practical ways to navigate daily life with more ease and confidence.

Hello and welcome! My name is Joel Bovey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here on Grow Therapy. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. I know it’s not easy and often times brings up a lot of anxiety and fears. I’m here to support you along the way. I offer a safe space to open up and unpack all those difficult life experiences and help you put them back together in a more complete perfect imperfection. Thanks again for stopping by along this journey called life and hope to hear from you soon! Warm regards, Joel Bovey, LCSW

Time to change! You don’t have to keep living this way. You can live the life that you want to live! You don’t have to do it on your own. I help leaders, athletes, and others develop self-confidence to improve their performance in life, relationships, sports, and leadership. I love assisting people to be better by overcoming their specific struggles. I combine over 20 years of military mental health experience with sport psychology. This unique combination helps me to understand the problem from multiple perspectives and implement effective strategies and solutions to help you make the most positive changes in your life. Please make your first one now by booking an appointment with me.

Hello, I'm so glad you are here. My name is Lesa Vander Bie and I am a licensed MFT with 27 years experience in helping individuals. I obtained my degree in Social Ecology from UCI with honors, a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University and a Certificate in Dynamic Psychotherapy from the Newport Psychoanalytic Institute. It's my sincere pleasure to provide a supportive and empowering space for you to create positive change in your life. I have extensive experience in helping you addressing such issues as anxiety, perfectionism, shame, low self-worth, attachment issues, coping skills, life transitions, relationship issues, women's issues, men's issues, singleness, dating, 20's/30's getting established in life, etc. My main therapeutic approach is Psychodynamic Therapy which is helping you explore and understand how your childhood experiences are internalized and repeated in adulthood. I also utilize Solution Focused, Grief Therapy and other therapeutic tools. Together we identify your goals and work towards healing, growth and healthier ways of relating and reaching your aspirations. I value creating a collaborative relationship which helps me tailor our sessions to adapt to your specific needs. I have a background in the Performing and Visual Arts and have a successful practice in Southern California. I look forward to coming along side you to help you gain valuable insight and equipping you to reach your life goals so you can live a fulfilling and meaningful life. Another specialty I offer is providing Personal Therapy to psychology MFT graduate students in California. TELEHEALTH EXCEPTIONS: Unfortunately, I am not able to offer tele-health to individuals who are: High risk (suicidal, domestic violence, child abuse, sex-trafficking victims) Legal cases / currently dealing with a crime

Hello, I am a neurodivergent human who enjoys reading, gardening, drinking coffee, binge-watching TV, listening to music, and drinking coffee/tea. One of my favorite hobbies is collecting hobbies! I love cats and dogs but am allergic to both--feel free to let your pets interrupt sessions! Early mornings are my least favorite part of the day so I avoid scheduling responsibilities before 10AM.

I'm Jaclyn, an individual and parenting support therapist in Southern California. I love working with parents trying their best to do it all. I have 18 years experience working with neurodivergent populations (primarily Autism and ADHD), not in behavior training but in gaining self-understanding and in helping them to determine and work toward their own goals for themselves (not simply society's goals for them). As a therapist, infertility/donor IVF warrior, and adoptive mom I also bring personal and professional experience into supporting people as they figure out their path to parenthood and later process the journey they've made.

I am a trauma-informed clinician who specializes in supporting individuals, couples, and families through healing, growth, and stronger connection. My work is rooted in culturally sensitive, attachment-based, and mindfulness-informed approaches, with a focus on helping clients navigate trauma, relationship challenges, identity, and emotional regulation in a safe and supportive space. I also work closely with high performers and high achievers who are managing stress, burnout, and the pressure to excel while trying to maintain balance and meaningful relationships. My goal is to create a space where all clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to build healthier patterns and more fulfilling lives.

Greetings! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I have worked in a wide variety of settings including community mental health, school-based mental health, non-profit agencies, the corporate sector and private practice. I have over a decade of experience serving individuals, families, couples and children and spent my early career working exclusively with individuals who have experienced complex trauma. My approach is always client-centered and is informed by a variety of therapeutic modalities including narrative, experiential, emotionally focused and solution-focused therapies (just to name a few). I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment/life transitions, depression, women's issues and grief and loss.

I'm Brandon! Nice to meet you. I am happy you have found me here on your journey of health and recovery. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Military Veteran. I was an Intelligence Analyst for the Navy for 6 years before becoming a Licensed Social Worker, which has had me in the field for over 10 years. I can help by developing a trusting relationship to guide and navigate your reasons for therapy.

Are you looking for a relatable therapist that will meet you exactly where you're at? As a licensed marriage and family therapist, my passion is to go alongside of my client's walking through hard times with them. I am certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and find great satisfaction assisting others in their trauma journey. My focus is to help individuals heal from the inside out by helping them discover their inner strengths. I believe we are better together. I assist my clients by providing a neutral safe space, listening to their concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience providing therapy in both outpatient and hospital based settings. I work with individuals, couples and families facing anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and complex medical or emotional stressors. My background includes crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and collaboration with medical, hospice and community providers. I believe in meeting clients where they are and creating a safe, respectful space where they feel heard, validated, supported and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.

Hi, glad you're here! I'm Maty, a California LMFT, and I work with adults who want deeper self-understanding, real change, and a greater sense of trust and safety within themselves. Many of my clients are navigating anxiety, trauma, attachment patterns, life transitions, identity exploration, or the feeling of being stuck in the same loops even when they “know better” intellectually. My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I integrate relational, attachment-oriented, psychodynamic, existential, and mindfulness-based approaches, with attention to the nervous system and what your body is communicating. Together, we’ll slow things down, get curious about patterns, and make space for the parts of you that have been working hard to protect you. I aim to create a therapy space that feels warm, human, and safe enough for your nervous system to exhale. Over time, clients often report feeling more grounded, less reactive, more connected to themselves, and more able to show up authentically in relationships and daily life.

I'm Essy, a licensed therapist and coach who works best with folks who feel like outsiders in a world built for sameness. I support neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ adults navigating identity, trauma, burnout, and the pressure to mask or overperform. With equal parts warmth and real talk, I help clients make sense of their story, rewrite the rules they’ve been handed, and build a life that actually fits.

I'm Marisa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (115264) who received my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth, and families. I have expertise in working with individual adults specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Transitions, Relationship Issues, and Self Esteem. I utilize collaborative treatment approaches based on your individual needs because I feel that every person is unique with a different story. I strive to help you feel empowered and to develop a stronger relationship with yourself. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, and anything related to the arts.

I am an integrative therapist who specializes in working with adults and couples, focusing on empathy, connection, and communication to help restore bids for connection. I provide client-centered care to those navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, crises, and other hardships. My approach emphasizes strong therapeutic relationships, creative problem-solving, and compassionate support to help clients clarify their goals, work through challenges, and create meaningful change.

I focus on understanding your history, its impact and how to help you make adjustments that ease your path forward. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, relationship and work/career concerns among others. I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral, humanistic and psychodynamic approaches. Handouts and worksheets are often particularly helpful to clients. I truly care about the well-being of others and helping people navigate life’s challenges so that they feel better and can live a more fulfilling life. If I don't have an appointment available that works for you, feel free to reach out to me to ask if I may have any other times available soon.

My name is Nate (he/him) and I'm a transgender Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I provide individual therapy to adults and older adults navigating a range of challenges, from symptoms to life transitions. I aim to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel truly seen and accepted. My understanding of stigma and systemic barriers comes firsthand, informing my commitment to social justice and empowerment. I offer evidence-based therapeutic tools while honoring each person's inherent wisdom and autonomy in their healing process.

Are you looking to create a new life narrative-story rooted in your strengths? My life and work experiences working with adults and children experiencing emotional disorders, trauma, anxiety, and life barriers hopefully can help us collaborate on building that new resilient story together. Outside of work, I enjoy various forms of exercise: HIIT workouts, yoga, nutrition topics, science, music , gardening, and traveling. I have an avid interest in learning about other cultures and have lived and studied abroad in Ecuador, South America.

Maxine L. Kibble LMFT, MA, PsyD Candidate I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Connecticut, and Utah. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education and Dance Therapy from New York University. I have two master's degrees: one in marriage and family counseling from the University of Phoenix and a second master's in clinical psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. I am enrolled in the PsyD doctoral program at California Southern University and am scheduled to graduate in 05/2025. I have 23 years of experience as an educator, counselor, career counselor, and researcher in psychology. As a licensed MFT therapist, my expertise is in the areas of substance abuse, prison populations, AB109s (felons)/290s (sex offenders), anger management, domestic violence, career counseling, and parenting supervision. In addition to individual, couples, and family counseling, I have experience with specific populations, such as transgender and LGBTQ, with a particular cultural emphasis on identity formation. I have worked closely with psychiatrists regarding members who require medication management and assessments, diagnosing and creating for those individuals, couples, and family's treatment plans counseling services. My clientele ranges from 6 to 75 years of age, and my therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Narrative therapy, and Supportive therapy. My foundation and belief system are based on being culturally sensitive when working with all clients to understand how they see their presenting problem within the context of their culture.

My name is Gina and I specialized in Therapy for Adults with ADHD I help professionals with ADHD who are struggling with managing day-to-day life learn to gain more stability and power over their lives and have a healthier view of themselves. I can help you develop new behaviors and implement strategies that will help you feel more secure and confident in your daily activities and relationships with others. Check out my website for more detailed information: https://www.therapyforadulting.com/

Hey there—I'm Mika, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who's here for real talk and real support for adults and teens right here in Southern California. I've spent years helping people work through tough life events like trauma, addictions, ADHD, burnout from high-pressure jobs, anxiety, depression, and rocky relationships. What I love most is seeing folks step into their strength and build the life they want—I'm here to walk that path with you, no judgment, just genuine care.

Hi there! I am Michelle Pack, LMFT. I have been a licensed marriage/family therapist since 2015 and I'm happy to be here to help in any way I can. I have always had the desire to help others, even from a young age, and my favorite part about it is seeing the growth individuals, couples and families are able to make when they commit to making changes. I believe the role of the therapist (my role) is to be a guide, coming alongside you in the journey you're already on - adding support, knowledge, and guidance along the way.

Hi! I’m Karem, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 11 years of experience working with adults. I earned my Master’s in Counseling Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, graduating with distinction. I specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help individuals process stuck memories, reduce anxiety and depression, and shift unhelpful relationship patterns. I have experience assisting adults navigating a variety of challenges, including reproductive and post-partum struggles, traumatic events and abuse, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. My goal is to support you in creating meaningful, lasting change. You don’t have to do this alone. I’m here to walk alongside you.

I am a bilingual Spanish, English-speaking Licensed Marriage Family Therapist based in California and working with clients state-wide via telehealth. I work diligently to provide the best care for clients with professionalism, understanding, and a compassionate approach. Individuals and Families are empowered with essential tools learned in therapy by providing a non-judgmental and empathetic environment so they can feel relieved and are able to be empowered to deal with the day-to-day challenges.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Los Angeles with a Master’s from Columbia University and over 12 years of experience supporting individuals through major life transitions, dating and relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and unresolved past experiences. I work with individuals who are motivated to make meaningful changes—even if they feel stuck right now. I help you identify patterns, strengthen your voice, and develop tools to manage emotions, communicate effectively, and create healthier relationships. If you’re ready to feel more grounded, empowered, and in alignment with the life you want, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Feeling overwhelmed by stress, emotions, or complicated relationships? It’s time to make choices that work for you! As a California Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (since 2014) and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (since 2009), I offer a safe, judgment-free space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings. Together, we’ll tackle the negative patterns holding you back and work toward building a healthier, more balanced life. I’m here to actively listen, support, and help guide you through life’s toughest moments—with empathy and purpose.

My name is Heather Brown. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a therapist for 18 years and worked with a wide-array of clients in many walks of life. I like the curiosity of life and ways in which we can explore patterns and change and ways we can make adjustments in our lives to change future outcomes. I work for you and my job is to help you have an easier time on your journey through life and help you to meet your goals.

My goal as a therapist is to help clients face both the real and perceived challenges in their lives with clarity, support, and renewed strength. I approach each person as a unique human being with their own story, strengths, and struggles, and I see therapy as a collaborative process of moving forward together. I work in a way that is direct and pragmatic, drawing on psychoeducation and clinical experience to give clients new ways of seeing, understanding, and coping with life’s difficulties. At the same time, my style is deeply connection-based, rooted in empathy and authenticity, with room for levity when appropriate. I am a hopeful therapist who believes in the process of growth and in our ability as human beings to continually renew ourselves. I find it a genuine honor to share in a client’s journey, and I approach the work with respect, presence, and care. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety and anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship and coupling challenges, parenting stress, OCD, and many others.

I am a first‑generation, bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 15 years of experience providing trauma‑informed, culturally responsive mental health care. I specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic stress, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I also work closely with first‑generation individuals, parents, caregivers, and people balancing multiple roles, responsibilities, and cultural expectations. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence‑based therapy. I integrate Brainspotting for trauma processing and nervous system regulation, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution‑Focused Therapy to help clients reduce anxiety, build coping skills, and create meaningful, sustainable change. As a culturally attuned therapist, I believe therapy should honor your lived experience—not a one‑size‑fits‑all model. My goal is to create a supportive, affirming space where you feel understood, empowered, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, clarity, and confidence.

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

Life transitions and unexpected challenges can bring a mix of emotions, including stress, uncertainty, anxiety, sadness, and self-doubt. Whether you are navigating changes in relationships, school, work, identity, family dynamics, or other personal challenges, therapy can provide a supportive space to process these experiences and develop healthier ways of coping. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy in both English and Spanish. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and empowered. Over the past several years, I have worked in a variety of settings including schools, community mental health, inpatient psychiatric care, and hospital emergency services, helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges.

My name is Laurissa Miller, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ventura County, California. I have over 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families with a strong background in trauma, PTSD, and foster care. I have also worked extensively with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, and I strive to meet clients where they are while working together towards meaningful, achievable goals. I look forward to supporting you on your therapeutic journey.

Do you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result? Are you struggling to find balance in your life? Do you feel like there's a part of you that has died and hasn't come back to life? Hi, my name is Merisa. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist and artist. I help highly functioning adults manage their stressors and find more balance in life. I am an art therapist, meaning we will use art as a communication tool to express emotions, process trauma and relieve stress. I have many clients who are not willing to do art therapy, and that's okay as well! Talking is just as effective. If you're from a family who didn't talk about feelings, and/or avoided conflict, it is possible that talking about your feelings isn't easy. I am here to help ease you into it. Therapy is like exercising. You will be working new muscles and I'm here to help you get stronger. Professional Background: I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts, minoring in Psychology in 2014 and graduated with my Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy in 2016. I was always creative and wanted to help others which lead me in the direction of art therapy and LMFT. I have worked at the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, providing therapy to patients and families; multiple addiction treatment centers and I was also a school counselor. I have been in recovery for years, and have personal and professional experience working with teens, adults and families in substance use and mental health treatment. I am willing to help you with addiction, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.

If you are on the path toward healing or overcoming your past yet still struggle, my practice can help. Through time spent serving in community mental health and substance abuse treatment settings, I have obtained over 15 years of experience in guiding children and adults toward answers for their life issues and conflicts. Specifically, I engage wounded individuals who feel ready to confront the traumas and problems that get in the way of living their best lives. Through a non-judgmental, client-centered approach, I help find answers about your functioning and relationships. Specifically, I utilize body-based interventions to link your past experiences to present-day struggles to treat severe mood disorders, substance abuse and PTSD/trauma in children and adults. In seeking help, you need someone who not only understands your issues but also understands you as a person.

After earning my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley, I spent a number of years traveling the world and then went on to earn two Master’s degrees, the second in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have been working as a therapist for close to seven years, but have worked as a counselor with children, adolescents, and families for over 15 years. I built my own academic counseling business after my first graduate school, in which I fostered relationships with families and the community. This experience working closely with hundreds of local families gave me great insight into the power of supportive, goal oriented, client centered, positive relationships as catalysts for change in individuals and relational systems. I approach my clients with the belief that they are capable and valuable, and that with my support in identifying their strengths and resources, both internal and external, they can gain skills and achieve goals that can instill a sense of hope which enables them to move forward successfully. I have spent a great deal of time traveling, living, and working in diverse parts of the world, and I believe my own experiences coupled with my genuine positive regard for people has cultivated a broad perspective of understanding that contributes to my success as a therapist.

Each of us has our own story and sometimes our experiences leaves us feeling confused, frightened, sad, and often tremendously isolated. I believe therapy can unravel harmful repetitive thought processes and behaviors. Your painful experiences do not have to define you. My approach to therapy always starts with listening to my client's needs. My methods evolve through constant customization and mutual collaboration. Therapy with me will include exploring aspects of life that are not working well and constructing solutions.

You might feel stuck in patterns like overthinking, anxiety, or relationship stress that are hard to turn off. Even when things look fine on the outside, it can feel exhausting trying to manage everything internally. I work with adults who want to understand these patterns and respond differently, not just cope. Our work focuses on making sense of what is happening beneath the surface while also finding practical ways to feel more clear, grounded, and in control in daily life. I integrate trauma informed care and parts work to help you build self-trust, set boundaries, and move through challenges with more clarity and confidence.