Therapists in California

As an ABOLITIONIST, I believe in *literally* abolishing police, prisons, & all other forms of state violence. I am happy to discuss in-depth but for now, know that I am most heavily oriented in the work of folx like Project Nia; Interrupting Criminalization; Equitable Care Certification, and Survived & Punished. Of course, I am still deepening my learning and praxis, as one ought. As a RESOURCE MAVEN, I facilitate linkages to information & resources to support people’s wellbeing. Meaning I actually make the calls with you, etc., if wanted/needed. This type of support is a major source of joy for me & something that I’m happy to help with! I’m a FACILITATOR of JOY because, as a Queer, Disabled, Neurodivergent, fat, Gender Nonconforming Black person, I place special emphasis on helping marginalized folx find and (re)create joy in a world that denies us joy. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is on understanding the environmental and contextual factors at play in your life. I come to therapy with a trauma-informed/healing-centered perspective and work collaboratively with you on determining what kinds of interventions are best suited for your needs. My approach is laid back and can be viewed as “coachy,” meaning I ask questions and provide feedback to help you figure out solutions that will work for your life. I also encourage you to bring your creative and spiritual practices to therapy, so if you want to include art, tarot, crystals, ancestor reverence, etc., we can do that!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a decade of experience specializing in treating individuals struggling with substance use disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. I work with dual-diagnosis clients, where I provide therapy to clients facing complex challenges, including addiction, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and motivational interviewing, helping clients uncover the underlying emotional and relational patterns that contribute to their struggles.

I believe that healing happens when we embrace our most authentic selves. My practice is built on a holistic, down-to-earth approach—one that honors the mind-body connection, values lived experience, and meets you exactly where you are. With a background in behavioral science and therapy, I specialize in supporting parents and caregivers of children with complex diagnoses, families navigating behavioral challenges, and adults seeking deep, sustainable change. Whether you're a parent feeling overwhelmed, an individual exploring alternative lifestyles, or someone ready to break old patterns, I offer a judgment-free space to realign with your truth. Together, we’ll blend evidence-based strategies with intuitive, heart-centered care—because transformation isn’t just about fixing problems; it’s about rediscovering who you were always meant to be. Let's get you back to you.

Micah Gamez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of practice experience in a variety of settings which include: schools, in-patient and outpatient behavioral health services, crisis, substance abuse, medical social work, family services, community-based wrap around services and private practice. Micah is bilingual, bicultural, a mother and military veteran. Micah is culturally competent and utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities and in her approach to counseling others. While including a strengths-based, client-centered, and holistic approach. is my passion to serve you and your needs. At this time, I provide services only through virtual telehealth.

Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.

Hi, I’m Kendal McDowell and I have years of experience working with teens and older, with a primary focus on working with college students and college athletes. Having been a college athlete myself, I'm familiar with the joys and stressors of collegiate life. College can be an exciting and eye opening experience, but sometimes it can also open our eyes to some things within ourselves or those around us we may not have noticed before.

I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.