Therapists in California

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

I am a licensed social worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, and addiction. I have experience working with adults, including Veterans and members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach to care. As a native Spanish speaker, I offer services in both English and Spanish. I also have extensive experience working with Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), helping clients navigate personal and workplace concerns effectively.

Hi. I'm an old white lady with years of experience living on this earth. I want to share what I've learned with you and assist you to recover from trauma, abuse, and attachment dysregulation. I'm culturally competent and have specific experience working with people who are first-generation Americans who are walking the line between two cultures, learning how to integrate all their parts into a cohesive whole.

I first and foremost adapt my style of therapy to meet your needs. We work together to identify what best supports you toward your goals or areas of focus in therapy. Some clients progress through insight and understanding about an issue while others progress through tangible present-moment skills and tools, all of which I can provide support you with. I also feel that Identity (race, gender, sexual orientation, etc) plays an important role about how we experience the world and how the world views us and I incorporate this into therapy. I see therapy as an equal and collaborative effort between us. I offer a broad range of personal experiences and clinical background to therapy. I enjoy working with people of color and I identify strongly with them. I have extensive experience working with couples, mixed race individuals, inter-racial relationships, the LGBTQQI community, and athletes. I believe I have a great feel for supporting you to be comfortable entering into therapy. Finding a balance of acceptance of you and where you are at in your life while also supporting you with the change you want to make. I offer inquisitive questions to inspire critical thought with tangible actions and tools that you can use.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a doctorate degree in P-12 Educational Leadership and a Masters degree, in Social Work. I have over 12 years of experience working with children, families, and adults in both in-person and telehealth. Through strength-based and culturally sensitive approaches, I support children and families who are dealing with a multitude of challenges including anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression. Having professional experience working at a Children’s hospital, I utilize a family systems approach to child therapy and worked closely with children with complex medical and/or mental health challenges. I also have extensive experience with leading parent support groups and social skills groups for kids. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my three kids, going to the beach, and baking.

I am Licensed MFT and I help my client to explore their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in a safe and confidential space. The goal is personal growth and improve mental wellbeing and navigate the client through anxiety, depression, addiction and relationship issues, through collaborative work my client able to gain the tools and insight to deal with the at hand problems and future issues. Developing rapport with my clients is a primary focus and understanding their struggles in their own words, by providing them with safe and nonjudgmental environment.

Hello, I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California, I live in the Palm Springs area of Southern Cal. My goal in life is to assist others with their mental health challenges and provide them with tools and education that will help them successfully manage these challenges. I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions.

Hello, my name is Seana Aylen and I'm a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for assisting individuals who find themselves needing a bit of support to get through their current struggles. I believe in empowering individuals and working collaboratively to resolve feelings of anxiety, depression, or a range of troubled interpersonal dynamics. I have been fortunate to have a long career in the field of assisting others, thereby, have created a sense of understanding and empathy, while presenting as authentic. I understand that life is sometimes a bit messy and everyone could potentially use someone to guide them in their return to personal happiness and a sense of stability and peace. Together we can collaborate and find a way to get you back into a balance, addressing the individualized troubles that have been making life challenging.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of dedicated experience in the field of mental health. Fluent in both Spanish and English, I am committed to bridging cultural and linguistic gaps to provide comprehensive and inclusive care to individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. My approach is grounded in empathy, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where client can explore their unique experiences, values, and challenges. My goal is to empower each person I work with to navigate emotional difficulties, strengthen relationships, and build resilience in the face of life's complexities.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and graduated with my Masters from the University of Southern California in 2014. I work with people who are struggling with their self identity due to anxiety and depression. I lead with understanding and commitment toward seeing the fullness of my clients. I enjoy working with clients to see the dualities that exist within our world in order to help them meet their goals.

Hi, I have been providing social services for the last thirty years and have learned that at times we all need some support as life happens. I have also learned that people have benefited from being heard, provided emotional support, tools and greater understanding of solutions to unique challenges. It would be my honor to partner with you in your wellness journey.

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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), licensed in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. I have a Master of Arts in psychology and have been practicing for 14 years. I help adults of all ages, who are struggling with symptoms relative to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other issues, to reduce their symptoms on their path towards mental wellness and the best version of themselves.

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 am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 19 years of experience. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, empathetic, and collaborative. My areas of focus are depression, anxiety, crisis management, living with chronic health conditions, grief, and helping clients develop and/or increase their resilience and ability to cope. My therapeutic approach is an eclectic approach that is tailored primarily using CBT, DBT, solution focused therapy, ERP, crisis intervention, and motivational interviewing. I believe that developing rapport and trust are keys to building an effective client-therapist partnership.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for 12 years. I am a diplomate of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy. As a licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I am committed to helping clients identify and transform negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their emotional difficulties. Through CBT, therapy focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you in understanding and overcoming the challenges you face, while equipping you with the tools and strategies needed for long-term success. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, we will work together to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. University of California, Berkeley (UCB) for the AB in English and University of San Francisco (USF) in Counseling. Because of my personal experiences with having seizures when I was younger, I now concentrate on addressing the emotions and hopes and dreams of people who are dealing with the multiple, and often times consuming, issues of having a seizure disorder as well as any combination of realities and histories that equal the seizure experience. Please let me know if I can bring a more balanced picture to your life and those who you value and love in your life as well.

Hello and welcome! My name is Pamuela Halliwell (she/her) and I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I’ve been working in the mental health field for the past 10 years, largely working with folx that identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, especially trans/nonbinary folx, military members, both active duty and transitioning out, and other marginalized communities such as African American, BIPOC, folx seeking asylum, and folx impacted by trauma. As a Black trans woman that has had to navigate her own transition, I incorporate lived and professional experience to help folx tap into their own strength and resilience and become improved versions of themselves. Treatment modalities that I use include TFCBT, CBT, EMDR, Solution Focused, Schema Therapy and elements of Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Narrative Therapy.

I have been in practice for 15 years. I do my best to meet new clients where they’re at and allow them to identify what they want to work on. I try my best to be kind, but direct. I value clients time and understand it’s often difficult to begin the therapy process. I allow clients to set the and honor the therapeutic process. Life is hard! And I’m here to help

Angelica has a passion for helping young children and adolescents, as well as couples and families. She works with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, adjustment, grief, family conflicts and sever medical diagnosis. Angelica has specialized experience working with those who have suffered extreme trauma or have unresolved feelings about past experiences. Angelica also specializes in support for children and adolescents with serious behavioral difficulties (including: cutting or other self-harming behaviors, anger outbursts, defiance, dis-respectfulness, etc) Angelica believes that understanding, respect, and honesty are at the heart of the therapeutic relationship. She works with clients to explore past experiences and practice real life challenges, providing clients with the tools to better manage themselves towards their goals.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of California. I have a Masters Degree from the University of Southern California and a Bachelors degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. I spent 8 years in the Navy and have lived all over the world. I have been a Social Worker for 15 years and have been working as a Therapist for 10 years. I have recently trained and am certified as an EMDR therapist.

Hello, I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in supporting people navigating unforeseen and unwelcome change. Some of the common emotional experiences of the people whom I serve include coping with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, and loss. My background is with people impacted by cancer. I have worked on the east and west coasts in hospitals and outpatient clinical settings. A life-threatening illness can impact overall quality of life including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My area of interest is to support people who are facing various life transitions and stressors – whether it be a conflict in a relationship, a concern at work, or worries about the future. It is completely “normal” not to know exactly what it is that brings you to therapy, to know what it is that you are feeling, or what, if anything, you would like to be different in your life. With an open mind and some patience, together, we can explore what matters most to you, and what might promote a sense of meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.

Hola! My name is Brianna and I’m so glad you’re here. The decision to begin therapy is a big one, and I feel honored that you are considering doing that with me. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. On our therapeutic journey, I welcome you just the way you are so that we can work to create an authentic life balance that will support your success, wellness and happiness. Whatever it is, telling your story to someone who cares and accepts the most authentic version of you, is the first step toward healing. I want to work with you to help you figure out how to solve challenges and find the most authentic version of yourself so that you can live the life you’ve always envisioned. I received my Masters from CSU San Jose State and have been supporting clients for 8 years.

Welcome to therapy, I'm Rachel. If you or your loved one are experiencing emotional distress due to family, work, relationships or the unknown then I am here to help. It takes courage to seek out a Therapist and I am glad you are ready to get started. I empower high-functioning individuals to reduce feelings of being overwhelmed, nervousness, worry, sadness and other symptoms that are disrupting life. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and I have provided mental health counseling for individuals in small rural clinics, larger city clinics, and as a provider for short-term counseling grant programs. I offer flexible appointments, evenings and weekends. I understand how difficult the work/school week can be and want to increase your opportunities for accessing uniquely tailored mental health treatment. *Currently not accepting couples*

Hi, I’m Martin Alvarez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I help adults overcome stress, burnout, and relationship struggles so they can feel grounded, confident, and connected again. After earning my degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, I’ve dedicated my work to supporting professionals, veterans, and families through life transitions. My approach is practical, compassionate, and focused on helping you move from surviving to thriving, both personally and professionally.

I am authentic genuine, warm, direct and client centered. I have worked in Residential treatment centers, conducted risk assessments in hospital settings , worked in skilled nursing facilities , worked as a Program Director and have experience working with families, couples and individuals. I believe in the field and am excited for every interaction and opportunity when individuals show up for themselves. I am honored to join in the journey to aid with tools to assist with living life from a place of abundance and courage.

I have been a licensed therapist for 19 years. I believe the most important part of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic relationship is formed in a collaboration between myself and my clients in an environment of mutual acceptance and respect. In addition to my education, training and experience as a therapist I rely on my innate skills as an active listener, my good memory and genuine caring to guide me in my approach to therapy.

As a clinician, I am dedicated to achieving results for my clients. I believe my clients can find their best solutions, and my job is to help them navigate towards these goals. I take a collaborative approach, working together with my clients to explore and distinguish difficult emotions and their underlying story. Once my client has a good understanding of where they’ve been and where they are, we can work together to plot a course towards where they want to me.

My name is Manuel Cruz and I have been practicing for almost 20 years. I have worked in a variety of settings from schools to hospitals treating various mental health conditions. Believing that every client is unique I utilize an integrative approach of cognitive, interpersonal, client-centered therapy to tailor interventions to the specific needs of my clients. With an extensive background and experience with relational therapy I am able to help couples, families, and individuals realize their potential and achieve their goals.

Hello, I am Julie. We often are doing the best we can with what we are given, and I am here to help improve daily practices, routines, and maintain a life worth living. I help clients who struggle with Acute and Chronic Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depressive disorders. I am trained in utilizing Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) therapy. Although, I have training in specific therapy modalities I take time to incorporate client goals and address the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. I am excited to begin working with individuals in their journey to self-exploration and healing. "What we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human." -Brene Brown

Hi I'm Luis, a therapist who has been in the field for 15yrs. I've worked in various clinical setting in helping children, adults, and older adult clients develop healthy coping skills to manage emotional distress and to improve or return to their typical function. I'm looking forward to walking with you in finding your set of healthy coping skills and to reduce the impact of symptoms on your function.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with adults, older adults, children and families. My approach to therapy is to meet client’s where they’re at, creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment to work through life’s challenges. I work together with my clients to establish and support their goals so that they will ultimately discover and develop their inner strengths. My goal is for clients to explore, develop and gain healthy coping skills to thrive. I provide support and guidance to individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety and depression, as well as the stresses that can arise from relationships, career, aging and other life changes. My clinical approach is strength-based, and trauma informed. I also incorporate modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused brief therapy and mindfulness.

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore what's on your mind, process challenges, and move toward growth and healing. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience - guided by your needs, your voice, and your goals. Reaching out for support takes courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you in this process.

Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I grew up in the Central Valley area of California. I enjoy helping others find their strengths. I found my passion for social work while volunteering at the Poverello House. I enjoyed giving back to my community. I am client centered/client focused. I have a holistic approach to therapy utilizing Solution Focused and Motivational Interviewing skills.

Note: Book with me with the understanding that I am relocated to Arkansas, but maintaining my California license to see California patients virtually Hi, I'm Sharifa. Do you find yourself wishing you could set better boundaries in your relationships with other people? Or want to prioritize yourself and your own needs, but find that others' demands, guilt, or depression get in the way? I empower people who have suffered from non-reciprocal relationships and self-neglecting patterns to break the script of self-sacrifice. Together, we can address your past relational dynamics, and the depression and anxiety that keeps you stuck. I use a plethora of clinical tools based on clients' needs but generally work from a psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and solution-focused perspective. Entering psychotherapy can be daunting, but I am here to provide a supportive and helpful space where you can work to close the gap between the life you wish for in your head, and the one you're living now. I'd love to work with you!

I'm Elizabeth, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic self, develop compassion towards self and others, and live a meaningful life through transformation and healing.

Hello! I am Jackeline Balarezo- Ruvalcaba. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about helping individuals from all walks of life. I have 14 years of experience working within the school district, foster system and young and older adults in mental health. I am very passionate in guiding individual to reach their full potentials and empowering them to meeting their goals.

Cynthia Rose has 20 years of experience working within the mental health field in the US and Europe. She has extensive experience treating mental health and substance abuse issues in jail and probation populations, domestic violence offenders, active and retired military personnel, and emergency mental health providers. She is an LMFT, is certified in DBT and is trained in EMDR as well as other modalities that can help.

Hi! My name is Yomaira Suazo and I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. I identify as a Latina and am bilingual. My experiences include young adults and adults. My main focus is proving a client-centered approach along with other approaches that help to create a non-judgment space for clients to feel safe and unpack, learn, and begin the healing process.

Hi, I’m Cylest, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with children, teens, and adults who are facing anxiety, depression, and life stressors. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. Together, we explore thoughts and emotions, develop practical coping skills, and create strategies for lasting change and personal growth, empowering you to feel more confident and balanced in everyday life.

Hello, my name is Dr. Schubert and I’m a clinical psychologist with 45 years of experience. For the past 37 years, I have been in full-time private practice, helping individuals from all walks of life navigate their personal challenges. My approach integrates the most effective Western psychotherapeutic techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), alongside Eastern spiritual practices. This unique combination allows me to guide clients toward a more satisfying and fulfilling life.

Life comes with challenges. Whether you are faced with difficulties in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and/or wish to overcome trauma, seeking therapeutic assistance is a healthy step toward evolving into a better version of yourself. I have been working in this field for over eight years . I have experience working with the Hispanic community. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist. I am also trained in The Flash Technique, Trauma Focused CBT (TFCBT), Internal Family Systems, and most recently Internal family Systems and Brain spotting. Over the years, I have gained experienced in helping individuals deal with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harming, childhood trauma, relationship counseling and parenting. I'm passionate about helping people achieve their goals and I provide a safe, empathetic, healing environment.

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I am licensed in Arizona and California. I've been working in the counseling field for about 20 years. I have counseling expertise in the following areas: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, family conflict and relationships which include estrangement, divorce and or separation issues. I also have treated Individuals and families of loved ones with addiction and alcohol use disorder. Other populations I have experience in is military veterans, life phase transitions (college, new relationship, retirement) which can be major life adjustments needing support.

I’m a California-licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience helping clients overcome stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, motivation struggles, and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is compassionate, empowering, and deeply personalized—because your story and goals are uniquely yours. As a published author of mindfulness and meditation planners and coloring books on Amazon, I weave creativity and mindfulness into therapy to help you reconnect with peace and purpose. Together, we’ll design a treatment plan that supports your growth and healing every step of the way. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage—and I’m proud of you for starting this journey.

Welcome! *I am currently only taking virtual EAP (employee assistance program) clients.* I work with people outside in the natural world, engaging in ecotherapy practices. We would meet at a local park in the East Bay Area, where we would sit, walk, or explore the area while tending to whatever emotions or questions are arising in you. Connecting with nature has been shown to reduce stress, loneliness, depression, and anxiety and provides a rich landscape for personal growth and healing. If you are interested in learning more, please sign up for a free 15-minute consultation (please do so before scheduling an initial session). Current openings: Thursday afternoons at Tilden Park. Ecotherapy is somewhat different than traditional talk therapy. While there will be space for you to share what is going on in your life, we will also take time to do grounding exercises, practice mindfulness and guided visualizations, and engage with the natural world. This modality provides a uniquely large "container" for healing work associated with woundings from childhood, traumatic experiences, grief, and unlearning patterns that no longer serve you. The natural world shows us the lifecycles of plants and animals, the interdependence of ecosystems, and the colors, textures, sounds and smells that awaken our senses. In this context, there are endless ways to make meaning of the suffering you are experiencing and to gain insight into your emotions and relationships. For people who are exploring their purpose and are considering work or relationship changes, ecotherapy can support you to embody your true self and better understand your role within the community.

Do you experience stress that can lead you to feeling overwhelmed? Does your stress cause you to isolate yourself from your family and friends? Are you struggling with thoughts that prevent you from being your 'true' self? I support individuals struggling with their thoughts and emotions to make sense of what challenges they face. Working together, we will explore current challenges, how your thoughts and emotions impact your efforts to make sense of these challenges and discover ways to empower yourself to resolve and flourish from these challenges. My role is to support you! Practicing as a psychotherapist for 18 years, I have extensive skills in mindfulness, support, and empowerment. In our sessions, I focus on providing a safe, comfortable space without judgment. I use compassion, genuine focus, and years of clinical training as a psychotherapist to support resolving your challenges.

Keisha Owens received her bachelor's in psychology from Morgan State University and her master's in counseling psychology at National University. She has over 20 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, Dual Diagnosed Substance Abuse outpatient programs, structured intensive outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric, large nonprofits, and private practice. Keisha uses several therapeutic modalities and is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Crisis Intervention. She continues to seek ongoing updates to her skills and knowledge base. Keisha is invested in an approach emphasizing a more integrative, dynamic, and holistic approach to mental health. She is particularly concerned with the impact of loss and trauma and improving intervention to support trauma recovery for better emotional, physical and relationship health.

Do you feel stuck but aren't sure why? Do you feel a lack of meaning or purpose? Do you want to make changes but lack the clarity, direction or motivation to get started? I empower high-functioning individuals to overcome obstacles toward goal attainment through a holistic approach. I am an LCSW with over 30 years of experience helping people work toward reaching their potential. I utilize several approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness & Concentration, and I am heavy on goal-setting, attainment and homework between sessions.

Hola! I’m Fatima Mendoza, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC #17018) providing online therapy for adults throughout California. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, and cultural adjustment, using a grounded, compassionate, and goal-oriented approach. As a bilingual, bicultural therapist and first-generation Latina, I understand the complexity of balancing two cultures, intergenerational expectations, and the pressure to succeed. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and strive to make the process approachable, especially for those new to therapy or from immigrant and first-gen families.