Hello there : ) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I have been practicing for 12 years. I create confidential, non-judgmental, and safe space for you to unpack your thoughts and process your feelings about whatever is causing you to feel sad, stuck, angry, or confused. It is a privilege to be a part of your journey of healing.
Hello! I’m Deonia Young, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, Georgia, and Alabama. I have six years of clinical experience and 30 years as a social worker. I am passionate about walking alongside women as they navigate life transitions, stress, and emotional challenges. I am also passionate about supporting women of color, creating a safe and affirming space for healing and growth.
When desired, I integrate evidence-based practices with a biblical perspective to support restoration, resilience, and hope.
My name is Isai (E-sai-EE), and I’m a Therapist based out of Southern California. I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds. My training as a social worker focuses on individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. My professional interests and specialities include working with teens, young adults, older adults, family therapy, and those who struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relationship issues, men’s issues, autism, anger management, and those with difficulty understanding/controlling big emotions.
As a male therapist, I try to make my sessions feel like a conversation with a friend and offer a calm space to talk about difficult issues, a new perspective to help better understand situations, and can help you identify and understand how you might be feeling.
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.
Hi! and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed therapist committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience. My work integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate, client-centered approach. I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, heal from trauma, and build stronger relationships—with others and with themselves.
I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs and goals. At the core of my practice is the belief that lasting change comes from both insight and action.
Hi, I’m Lindsey! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a master’s degree from New York University. I approach everything I do through a trauma-informed and culturally competent lens, honoring your unique experiences, identity, and background.
I specialize in working with adult individuals only (sorry no couples, children, or families at this time) navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use and recovery, low self-esteem, and more. Whether you're facing life transitions, struggling with codependency, experiencing burnout, learning to set healthy boundaries, or simply managing the everyday challenges of being human, I’m here to support you. My work is client-centered and strengths-based, emphasizing empowerment, insight, and practical tools for lasting change.
I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University. Although I have a doctorate degree, my scope of practice does not fall under psychological testing, pharmacological practices, nor community services. I only do individual therapy so if you need case management (such as letters), family/couples therapy, psychologicial testing, or medication, please refer to those licensed or practicing in those areas.
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here!
My name is Ester Raha, and I’m a licensed therapist with 12 years of experience in the mental health field, including the past 7 years as a practicing therapist. My journey in this profession has been shaped by both my personal experiences as a female veteran and mother, a trauma survivor, and my passion for supporting others through life’s challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinician in California, with over three decades of clinical experience. I specialize in culturally competent, Christian-integrated, strength-based therapy. My approach combines Biblical principles, Christian values, wisdom, and clinical expertise to support those seeking healing through a holistic and compassionate framework. I offer culturally competent therapeutic interventions, respecting all cultures and emphasizing the client's strengths as the foundation for overcoming challenges.
Hello! I’m Sandra V. Chávez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Psychological Assistant with the California Board of Psychology. I’m passionate about helping individuals grow both personally and emotionally through client-centered, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapies.
As a first-generation Latina, I learned ambition, tenacity, and determination from my parents. My educational journey includes dual bachelor’s degrees in Liberal Arts and Sciences and Psychology, as well as a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I’m currently on the path to becoming a licensed psychologist. Before entering the mental health field, I worked as a nurse and briefly attended medical school in Southern California. That experience deepened my interest in understanding the brain, human development, and the impact of environmental factors on behavior.
I specialize in supporting clients through mood disorders, life transitions, and self-empowerment challenges. My strengths lie in helping individuals develop emotional intelligence, identify, and understand their emotions. I believe therapy should be tailored to each person’s unique needs, which is why I use an integrative, eclectic approach that draws from evidence-based methods and holistic practices, including mindfulness and positive psychology.
I also enjoy working with individuals who incorporate their faith into their mental health journey. For those open to incorporating their faith as a tool for healing, I create a safe, welcoming space where spirituality and therapy work hand in hand.
Above all, I value building a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental environment where your thoughts and emotions are respected and where real progress can be made. Together, we’ll explore strategies, assignments, and tools that help you overcome life’s hurdles and achieve lasting personal growth and fulfillment.
Let’s begin this journey together!
Hi there, I'm Gut (Goot)!
Thanks for looking at my profile, "the journey of 1000 miles begins with one step". I am a Veteran looking to assist others with their own "1000" mile journey.
My approach
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals on their perspective journeys. I utilize Solution Focused Brief Therapy primarily with couples.
My focus
I have found that my style and approach work well with individuals who prefer a straightforward, assertive approach.
My communication style is assertive, direct, with a curious undertone to solicit perspective.
My journey in mental healthcare
I wanted to assist with preventing Veteran suicides.
My goals for you
My goal is not that of a pastor; I do not want you to keep coming back, but to take what we have learned and continue the journey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working with adults. Throughout my career, I have treated a wide range of symptoms in both the outpatient and inpatient setting. I have experience with working on a variety of life challenges including; racial and systemic issues, relationships, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self worth, self harm/SI, and more . My hope is that, through a collaborative process, we can work together to help improve wellbeing, understand emotions, and improve behaviors.
My approach to therapy is combined from my years of using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy and a client centered approach. My goal is to take the knowledge I have and help you navigate your life and goals.
As an American Family Therapist, I work from a systemic perspective, focusing on the entire family unit rather than just the individual. My goal is to help families uncover and understand deep-rooted patterns and issues that interfere with healthy communication and connection. Through this process, I support each member in developing more effective ways of relating, resolving conflict, and fostering emotional safety with the family system. I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and view my work through that lens. This means focusing on mindfulness, expanding tolerance for discomfort, increasing effectiveness in relationships and strengthening emotional regulation. When challenges arise in therapy, I often find that the root of the issue can be addressed through one of these core areas. For clients struggling with post-traumatic stress injuries-particularly common in military populations-I also incorporate Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help them reframe and work through trauma-related beliefs. My approach is structured, evidence-based, and tailored to the needs of each individual or family.
Hi! My name is Danielle. I have a Doctorate in Psychology and a License in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have worked with clients in a number of outpatient settings since 2011 and have been in private practice since 2019. My specialties include childhood trauma/trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, interpersonal conflict, family conflict and parent-child relationships. I am a client led therapist using cognitive behavioral interventions.
Welcome to my profile and the start of your wellness journey. I am Ashlyn Lance, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California (LMFT 91205). I graduated with a Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University. I received advanced training in Intimate Partner Violence and Domestic Violence Intervention. I have been licensed as an MFT in the state of California since 2015 and has been involved in supervising and collaborating with pre-licensed associates since 2017. I consider my approach to be eclectic and draw from what best suits the client's needs. I am certified in CBT, DBT, and Trauma-focused treatment.
As an individual, I consider myself to be analytical, intellectual, insightful, creative, and passionate. What drove me to become a psychotherapist was the idea of implementing philosophical concepts and the creative process to help people cope with suffering, which I believe is an unavoidable part of the human condition. I have clinical experience providing services to individuals and families from a diverse population. I am enthusiastic about putting my skills to service and assisting my clients in the process of healing and growth.
If you’re feeling anxious, down, stuck in old patterns, or overwhelmed by racing thoughts, you’re not alone—and things can get better. Therapy can help you feel calmer, clearer, and more like yourself again.
I’m a California-based LCSW supporting teens and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma responses, ADHD, OCD, and relationship challenges. My approach is warm, encouraging, and structured. We’ll identify what’s getting in the way, build a plan that fits you, and practice practical tools you can start using right away. We’ll also track your progress so you can see real momentum.
You deserve support that feels steady, hopeful, and useful. When you’re ready, I’m here to help.
It has been a privilege to provide psychotherapy to a variety of patients for over 20 years. I have advanced clinical training in trauma, addictions, sexual abuse, depression and anxiety, and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and respectful. I provide support and encouragement as you examine core issues and change entrenched patterns of behavior or simply gain clarity concerning a recent issue.
Hey Everyone, I’m Jennel — a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I believe therapy should be a space where you feel seen, validated, and understood. I draw from a range of approaches including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, etc. to tailor each session to meet your unique needs. My goal is to make therapy feel accessible and collaborative. I aim to keep our conversations down-to-earth, supportive, and meaningful.
I'm Tabara, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist whom has a background of working in both public and private mental health programs. I enjoy working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and life transitional concerns through incorporating a integrative approach of CBT, Psychodynamic, and Solution Focused modalities. My goal is to support my Client's in working towards their goals to lead to a more fulfilling life and assist them in learning skills that they can utilize.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in grief/loss, difficulty adjusting, anxiety and depression. I utilize an eclectic approach when working with clients, but primarily drawing from my work with CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), as well as the DBT skills (dialectical behavioral therapy) mindfulness skills I have acquired in my experience. I have had an extensive background in healthcare as a community hospital social worker, as well as experience with hospice patients and their families.
I’m a mental health therapist dedicated to helping individuals who are in the process of finding themselves. I work with clients who may feel uncertain about their identity, direction, or sense of purpose, and who are ready to explore those questions in a supportive, nonjudgmental space. My goal is always to support you in the way you need and give you the ability to make changes to improve your life.
Hi there :) Thanks for stopping by! I’m a Pakistani-Muslim therapist specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD, with a deep commitment to care that is culturally attuned, liberatory, and rooted in honoring your lived experience. I've worked with clients who have experienced a spectrum of challenges and have created a safe space to hold those unique challenges and experiences without judgement or shame.
I'm Casey Binstadt, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Interwoven Connection. I work with individuals navigating some of life's most disorienting moments — divorce, infertility, relationship shifts, and the transitions that quietly reshape who you are. My approach is warm, honest, and grounded in real connection. If you're ready to stop feeling stuck, I'd love to help.
I bring both clinical expertise and lived experience to my work. Having navigated significant life transitions myself, including divorce and co-parenting, I approach each client with genuine empathy and a grounded, realistic perspective. Reaching out takes courage, and I don't take that lightly.
I know that starting therapy can feel intimidating. That's why I offer every potential client a complimentary 30-minute consultation before we begin - an opportunity to get to know one another, ask anything on your mind, and determine together whether we're the right fit. There are no wrong questions and no pressure. To schedule a :30 minute no charge consultation please follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/No-Charge-Consultation
My style is warm and direct. Sessions are collaborative and active - we'll be working together toward something concrete. There is nothing more rewarding than watching a couple arrive on the other side of hard work with clarity and renewed intention, or witnessing an individual move from sadness and confusion to finding their footing and a version of themselves they feel good about.
I work exclusively via telehealth - and I believe that's a genuine advantage. There's real value in therapy that happens on your own terms. No traffic, no babysitter needed - show up as you are. It's not unusual for a little one to wander in, and those moments often give me a richer understanding of a client's world than any office could.
Outside the office I'm a mother, grandmother, and devoted companion to golden retrievers Whitney and Ginger. I'm closely connected to my 87-year-old parents, connected to communities in Marin County, North Lake Tahoe, and Bend, Oregon, and endlessly curious about the world. Licensed in California, Oregon, and Nevada.
If you're ready to take that first step, I'd love to hear from you.
Hi there! I'm Ann.
I'm so glad you're considering making space for therapy. It's not easy to reach out for help, and I give you so much credit for taking this step.
My name is Ann LeFevre, and I’m a PhD, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Denver, CO. I work with adults in CA, CO, and PA, and I have over 20 years of experience treating depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I welcome clients of all races, abilities, genders, beliefs, and sexual orientations.
I encourage you to take your time selecting a provider who seems to be a good fit for your treatment needs as well as your personality and communication style. If you would like to chat with me briefly prior to scheduling, please feel free to schedule a free phone consultation.
I am a doctoral-level therapist who believes that the right therapeutic relationship can change everything. I work with adults moving through life's harder seasons — relationship struggles, personal growth, anxiety, and the weight of everyday stress — as well as parents raising children through school challenges, screen overuse, and mental health difficulties.
In our sessions, you can expect warmth, honesty, and a space where nothing is off limits. I will never push you faster than you are ready to go, but I will gently challenge you when it serves your growth. I believe that real change does not come from advice — it comes from helping you reconnect with your own wisdom and build the kind of relationships, both with yourself and others, that allow you to truly thrive.
If you are ready for thoughtful, caring work with someone genuinely invested in your story, I would love to connect.
Hello! My name is Stacia, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in therapy services in California. Providing therapy is my career, but it is also a passion of mine. To help another person learn to navigate their own struggles is a blessing in itself. "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime". I would love to work with you to navigate whatever it is you are going through!
I have been providing therapy services since 2015, and have worked with all ages. I am currently providing online therapy services young adults (aged 18 and up) who are currently struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, work stress, life stressors and life transitions. Therapy sessions are conducted online.
Hi and thank you for your consideration.
📘 Introduction
Relationships with professors led to my first becoming a therapist as an undergraduate student majoring in Community Service at University of Oregon. After receiving a master's degree in social work, the majority of my career was working 23 years for the National Center for PTSD. I had the extraordinary experience of creating my own job description as a Health Scientist in the emerging field of Disaster Mental Health. Over the course of these years, I responded to a dozen Presidentially declared catastrophic events. Additionally, I created a therapy integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and meditation endorsed by a leading 20th century cognitive therapy psychologist who assisted the work being published in an international clinical journal.
📘Overview:
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) helping clients cope with anxiety, depression and traumatic events to achieve behavioral change.
• In 2022, I began offering telemental health therapy and have been enjoying the work and the progress with my clients.
• Former Health Science Specialist and Editor-in Chief of clinical journal at National Center for PTSD.
• Career spans research, emergency response, clinical practice, clinical training, administrative consultation, 30+ publications, and international humanitarian response.
Primary author of "Disaster Mental Health Services: A Guidebook for Clinicians & Administrators". One of the most referenced manuals in disaster mental health. Twenty-nine publications in all.
Research, Trainer, & Publications covering:
• Disaster mental health systems (national, state, & community)
• Interventions for PTSD, anxiety, emergency responder self-care
Field Experience
• Provided direct services, training, and consultation in the aftermath of terrorist attacks, plane crashes, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, & civil unrest.
International Work
• Assembled American Disaster Mental Health Team, Ukraine (2014) Post-Maidan Revolution
• Fulbright Scholar in Ukraine (2018)
I have been in practice for 30+ years and as a clinically trained social worker. I have served in several interesting capacities. My goal as a therapist is to be a part of the therapeutic process in guiding you forward to find the fulfilling life you deserve. I provide a nurturing and safe space for us to work as a team to identify your therapy goals and it's my priority to meet you where you are at in your journey. I will approach your challenges with support and openness to assist with the process of developing healthy, and useful coping strategies that work for you.
VirtualOffers in-person in San Clemente, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have been an LCSW for seven years and have been doing outpatient care since then. I work with individuals and couples from 13 to 64.
Prior to getting my license, I worked in a nonprofit setting and gained experience in treating adults who struggled with mood disorders and destructive behaviors.
I received my Masters from California State University of Long Beach in 2014 with a specialization in Children, Youth, and Families.
My name is Judy Jordan and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years years of professional experience in counseling with children,, adults, and families. I took an evening course in Psychology 5 when starting school, and by the end of it , I knew I wanted to become a therapist. I was drawn to understanding people on a deeper level and helping them through their struggles. With support from my dad, I left my job and went back to school starting from scratch. I loved every minute of learning and felt more certain with each class that I was on the right path. My dedication paid off...I earned straight A's and received the Academic Achievement Award in Psychology. More importantly I found a sense of purpose in supporting others on their mental health journeys.
Psychotherapy relies heavily on the rapport between therapist and client, without it growth and trust cease to exist. I work towards understanding your needs and wants in a nonjudgmental safe, supportive, and empathetic environment. I believe mental health issues are a symptom of deeper, unresolved emotional issues and childhood wounds. I work with teenagers 13+ and adults. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy to help identify irrational thoughts and faulty thinking that are the main culprits behind anxiety and stress. I also utilize psychodynamic therapy to help uncover past issues, such as family dynamics and childhood issues. My full fee is $200 for individuals and $250 for couples, however I do work on a sliding scale as well. I see virtual clients and accept females, teens, and couples only for in person sessions.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, and families. I began my work in community-based public mental health, serving underserved populations, and that foundation continues to shape how I show up today—with care, respect, and a real understanding of life’s complexities. My background includes working with severe mental illness, including schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma, so I’m comfortable supporting both early or emerging concerns and ongoing mental health conditions. I’ve worked extensively with low-income communities, immigrants, and individuals from diverse cultural and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. I also have a strong background working with mothers, particularly single mothers, who are navigating their own mental health while supporting children or adult children with their own challenges. My approach is collaborative and strength-based—I focus on helping you build on what’s already working while developing practical tools you can use in your daily life. I aim to create a space that is calm, supportive, and nonjudgmental, where you can show up as you are, speak openly, and process what you’re going through while also building practical tools to better navigate everyday life.
Hello, and Thank You for reading my profile!
My name is Sharlene Hanaway. I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for many years. During that time, I have worked with many clients who have been deeply challenged by their life circumstances and everyday issues. My clients have tried many different ways to help themselves but need fresh eyes and someone who can help them change their perspectives about the things they can change and let go of the things they can not change. It is a collaborative relationship where we find what works for you!
I welcome you to work with me, so you can move on from the issues that are getting in the way of your living the life you want.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 38 years experience working at a Community Based Organization in multiple roles both as a clinical social worker, program director and supervisor and executive.
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting as well as career challenges, in achieving a work-life balance that works for you.
I work with adult children who are dealing with aging parents, as well as many older adults who have experienced trauma, including Survivors of the Holocaust and their children.
It takes courage to seek help and to take the first step to better understand yourself.
if you are ready to take that step, then I look forward to working together.
Hi there, I'm Christina. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist that has been in practice for over 11 years. During our sessions, we'll work at your pace and where you are at emotionally. Creating a safe space filled with compassion and kindness is important to me, plus a mixture of mental health interventions. We'll set a goal and work towards achieving that goal.
Don't worry, we don't have to delve deep into your past if you are not ready. Sometimes there is the need to process what you are going through at the moment and have someone to be there and listen and that's okay too. We can start there.
Offers in-person in Tulare, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I’m Dr. Jordan Elaine Fink. I hold a Ph.D. in Counseling Education & Supervision , and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have over 10 years of experience helping people achieve meaningful life changes and rediscover hope. I am certified in evidence-based & strengths-oriented therapeutic modalities that I will draw from and tailor to your unique needs.
You are not meant to carry the weight of problems alone, or struggle in isolation. You deserve safety, empathy, and connection. I will provide a non-judgmental and emotionally safe space for you to discuss your concerns and begin building the life you want. When you are ready, I am here for you.
Session Rates for Cash Pay/Out-of-Pocket:
Individual: $250
Couples/Family: $300
Hello. My name is Brian Kaufman. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My commitment to you is to be by your side every step of the way. I believe there is goodness inside of everyone and I will be sure to point out to you where that goodness is inside of you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
I'm so glad you're taking this step to prioritize your mental health—it's the foundation of everything else in life.
As a mother of three young adults, including boy-girl twins and a neurodivergent daughter, and with experience as a psychologist, coach, and leader in both tech and education, I bring a wide range of lived experience to my work.
I work with individuals and families at all stages of life, helping them release outdated mindsets and adopt empowering new ones by uncovering the root causes, patterns, and obstacles that hold them back. My approach integrates neuroscience, cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and depth psychology, always focusing on creating meaningful connections that unlock new possibilities.
I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I hold an unwavering belief in each person’s boundless potential. By focusing on what truly matters, we can always transform challenges into opportunities.
I’m a licensed therapist who helps adults navigate anxiety, overwhelm, life transitions, and the moments where everything feels like “too much.” My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. Therapy with me is a space to slow down, feel understood, and gain clarity. Together, we focus on building practical tools that support emotional balance, confidence, and a greater sense of control in your everyday life.
Hi there, I'm Kash!
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with nearly a decade of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. I specialize in working with culturally diverse clients who are balancing personal needs with family expectations, identity, and cultural pressures.
Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns, or unsure how to set boundaries or feel secure in their relationships. My goal is to help you understand where these patterns come from and support you in creating meaningful, lasting change.
**Please note that I am a child and adolescent provider with a focus of treating trauma exposure and associated symptoms. I do not treat adults.**
I am a child and adolescent psychologist with over 16 years of experience in treatment of youth ages 7-18 who have experienced trauma, adverse experiences, and/or stressful or challenging life events. My focus is to help clients be their own agents of change to help them move forward, empower them to gain control over trauma reactions, and foster their resilience. I focus on evidence-based approaches to treat trauma, PTSD/complex PTSD, and associated symptoms, and adjust treatment according to the client's specific needs.
I treat trauma related symptoms and reactions stemming from a wide range of stressful events including physical or sexual abuse or assault; maltreatment or neglect; domestic or community violence; motor vehicle accidents; serious injuries; natural disasters; grief or loss; medical trauma and more.
Prior to private practice, I was a Clinical Associate Professor at Stanford where I directed the Stress and Resilience Clinic. I was part of the development team for Cue-Centered Therapy (CCT), an intervention combining cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with an insight-based approach for youth with complex trauma. I provide teaching and training both nationally and internationally.
Hi, I’m Nicole!
Are overwhelming thoughts and emotions keeping you stuck? I’ve been there, and I want to help you break free from those mental barriers and unlock your true potential.
I help people like you find balance, nurture self-love, and release anger and resentments that hold them back. Together, we’ll tap into your strengths, create healthier relationships, and manage negative thoughts.
We’ll explore the behaviors and patterns that have been keeping you stuck, and work through them to create lasting change. I’m direct, but bring a healthy sense of humor to make the journey easier.
The work can be tough, but it's so worth it! Let's make those changes together!
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been carrying anxiety, trauma, or stress on your own for a long time. You may feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, unsure how to move forward, or simply exhausted from trying to hold everything together. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
I work with adults and teens who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based care. Together, we’ll explore what’s been shaping your thoughts, emotions, and reactions, while building practical tools to help you feel more regulated, confident, and empowered in daily life.
My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.
I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
Dr. Charness is a former assistant district attorney specializing in prosecuting domestic violence and sexual assault, and rape cases. Additionally, she has her PsyD in clinical psychology specializing in trauma, attachment theory, and affect regulation. She has worked extensively with patients suffering from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse trauma. Further, Dr. Charness has a wealth of experience with PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality, and self-harm. She incorporates many modalities in her sessions, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and somatic work. She effectively supports clients working through past trauma and finding resolve and peace within themselves, which is crucial to individual mental health and functionality. Inclusivity and remaining culturally sensitive to patients are of utmost importance to her.
Dr. Charness has also contributed to several books, including Voices of Pain, Voices of Hope, Students Speak About Racism, and Learning Through Discussion. Her most recent passion is her blog on Psychology Today (under law and crime) regarding the intersection of law and mental health. She focuses primarily on how legal rulings can impact our mental health, motive, trauma-informed interrogation, and investigation, particularly in domestic violence and sexual assault cases, and the failings of both the legal and mental health systems. Teaching about the realities of what life looks like inside the courtroom for a victim of domestic violence or rape, whether it be to a classroom of students or an audience of readers, is incredibly important to her.
I received a B.A. degree in Psychology from UCLA and an M.A. degree in Counseling Psychology from Pepperdine University. Recently I received a Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health Policy and Practice from Northcentral University. I also have a Ph.D. (ABD) in International Psychology with a concentration in Trauma Response from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 1996 (LMFT 33119).
Previously, I worked for UCLA's Career Counseling Center as a Psychometrist, and as a social worker for the Department of Children and Family Services. Additionally, I worked as a Children's Mental Health Clinician for San Diego County Children's Mental Health.
Following my work with children, I conducted Psychiatric Evaluations for the Emergency Department at Tri-City Medical Center in Oceanside and worked at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center as an Emergency Department Patient Liaison/Analyst.
More recently, I worked as the Director of Family Services for a Native American Tribe, and as a Wraparound Clinical Program Manager for foster children at a nonprofit. Currently, in addition to my private practice, I teach as an Online Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University.
VirtualOffers in-person in Temecula, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I’ve been working with individuals for nearly 20 years, and if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s this: none of us are meant to do this alone.
Sitting one-on-one with someone as they untangle their story is work I don’t take lightly. It’s an honor. Over the years, I’ve supported people through burnout, transitions, grief, relationship shifts, identity questions, and those quieter seasons where you just know something needs to change, even if you can’t name it yet.
I also have advanced training in trauma and ADHD, which means I understand how deeply our nervous systems, past experiences, and unique wiring shape the way we move through the world. Whether you’re navigating the impact of trauma or trying to make sense of an ADHD brain in a world that doesn’t always accommodate it, we’ll approach your work with both compassion and practical insight.
Individual therapy is powerful. There is something sacred about having a space that is entirely yours — where you don’t have to perform, hold it together, or take care of anyone else. I also believe people need people and that is why I lead women's groups and retreats as well.
At the heart of my work is the belief that we’re all just trying to get home — home to ourselves. Home to steadiness, clarity, belonging, and alignment. My role is to walk alongside you as you reconnect with that place inside you that already knows the way.