Therapists in California

Hello! My name is Mica and I am a therapist specializing in body-based trauma healing. Trauma and grief will touch all of us at some point in our lives. However, each person is impacted in a different way. If you are finding it hard to cope with life’s overwhelming experiences, you are not alone and I can help in your journey toward healing.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and former Army medic, I've dedicated my career to helping others overcome challenges and find healing. I specialize in treating OCD and hoarding disorder, guiding individuals through a gradual process of breaking free from these often debilitating cycles. I believe in a collaborative and supportive approach, empowering you to achieve lasting change.

I am a seasoned and dedicated therapist, holding a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a PhD, with a specialization in trauma and PTSD. With 27 years of experience in the mental health field, my practice is driven by a profound commitment to assisting individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth.My therapeutic approach centers around meeting clients where they are in their lives, providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I am deeply passionate about nurturing self-understanding, self-compassion, and self-love, guiding individuals to embrace these qualities as they navigate life’s challenges.In my practice, I emphasize the importance of moving away from self-criticism and self-blame, recognizing these patterns as obstacles to personal well-being. Instead, I work collaboratively with clients to foster self-acceptance and self-compassion, empowering them to build healthier relationships with themselves and others. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to help individuals discover their inner strengths, enhance their self-awareness, and develop the tools they need to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. It is both a privilege and a passion to assist others on their journey toward greater self-acceptance and emotional well-being. I also speak farsi

Hello, I’m Cristina Osollo! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. My primary focus is substance abuse, depression, trauma, anxiety, and relationship discord. I take an integrative approach to therapy, using evidence-based frameworks to provide concrete tools and strategies for symptom reduction and deeper exploration. I believe we all have what it takes to create the life we are meant to live. I invite you to take the step of finding out what is possible for you. Through a process of discovery, awareness, and a commitment to self-understanding, there is a hope of embodying your truest self. Bringing a delicate balance of effort, care, and experience, it would be my privilege to accompany you on this intimate and very often, deeply satisfying journey.

I am a therapist with ample life experience, as well as experience serving the client populations of California. I will meet you where you are and have the ability to empathize with you on many levels. I will listen, encourage and support you in a non-judgmental environment. Feel free to express yourself how you like and be open about how you feel. Let's begin this journey and make some progress together.

I believe that everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life’s challenges and create positive change in their lives. As a licensed LMFT therapist, I support clients towards their self-discovery process through the transformative power of psychotherapy to create meaningful changes in life, empower unique gifts and purpose, and enhance mental and emotional well-being. I believe that each of us possesses an internal source of insight and wisdom that can be cultivated through therapy. My approach is warm, relational, strengths-based and trauma-informed. I work from a place of compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Whether you are looking for guidance, improved relationships, insight, or to develop healthy coping strategies, you can make meaningful changes in your life one step at a time. So I encourage you to take time for yourself to nurture your mental and emotional well-being, activating your innate ability to cultivate a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Hi, I’m Luke Lorefice, a therapist and college/career counselor dedicated to helping young adults, including neurodivergent students and those facing emotional or academic challenges, find clarity, confidence, and purpose. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University and a College Counseling Certificate from UCLA Extension. My work blends mental health expertise with practical career guidance to support individuals navigating education, employment, and life transitions. Through Grow and my private practice, Wave Point Counseling, I help clients explore meaningful paths—whether that’s higher education, a career pivot, or rediscovering a sense of direction.

Hello! I am Samantha, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my master's degree from the University of La Verne in 2016. My journey to mental healthcare began with a deep desire to make a difference in people's lives. I bring experience working with children, adolescents and adults to help navigate life's challenges. As your therapist, I believe you are the expert of your own life. I aim to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and validated. Through compassion and collaboration, we will work together to find solutions and foster positive change. You are the expert of your life and I will be here to walk alongside and support you. Asking for help isn't easy. Thank you for taking the first step!

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

Welcome! I'm Hector Madril, LMFT, Are you feeling worried all the time? Feeling down or depressed? Dealing with negative thinking that wont go away? Are you struggling to maintain a balance between responsibilities and everyday challenges? Let me help you! I will guide you to effectively manage anxiety, depression or elevated stress that may arise when dealing with past or present relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, separation, parenting difficulties, trauma, illness, loss, transitions or other life stressors. We will work with a humanistic approach, integrating evidence-based and mindfulness techniques that will bring a healthy balance and restore wholeness. I'm here for you! You don't need to tackle this alone. Let me assist you to bring about the changes and harmony you desire. I'll treat you with empathy and compassion while sharing the knowledge, skills, and strategies to help you conquer the obstacles on your life journey. Let's team up and work together!

My name is Jessica Barton-Grimley and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy in the state of California. I am committed to fostering a trusting environment where you can freely explore your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions at a pace that feels comfortable to you. Alongside my empathetic and compassionate support, I focus on equipping clients with practical tools and resources to support you in achieving your goals.

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

Aloha! My name is Koalani, and I am a LMFT in California. I specialize in anxiety, stress management; life transitions. I have special knowledge in child development, and in maternal/paternal mental health, and will support postpartum challenges and experiences affecting clients and their partners during pregnancy and the postpartum period. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults in schools, hospitals, military installations, and in private practice.

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

I am a Hispanic Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California and Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from San Diego State University in Clinical Social Work, and have been practicing for four years. I provide bilingual (Spanish/English) and bicultural psychotherapy services to individuals 18+ struggling with mental health challenges and trauma-related disorders regain self-control and power. In my practice, I utilize a blend of holistic, multisystemic, and integrative evidence-based models tailored to your specific needs and concerns. I am gender and culturally affirming, incredibly compassionate and genuine, able to create an immediate warm and safe space that evokes clients to open up and share.

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

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I received my Masters degree from CSU Fresno and have been practicing for over 5 years in the public sector in both individual and group therapy settings. I have worked with different populations such as children and teens, adults, the unhoused, veterans and in an impatient substance abuse facility.

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

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. I received my Masters from Azusa University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults experiencing emotional distress, burnouts, and life stage challenges overcome their difficulties and reach their goals. Additionally, I enjoy working with individuals facing cultural issues within their family of origin and with partner.

Hi, I’m Angie. Are you ready to make some positive changes that will improve your life? Maybe you’re suffering from depression, or anxiety is imposing limitations on how you live your life. Your journey and the life experience that led you here can be complicated, multidimensional, and diverse. I believe the approach to your psychotherapy should be as dynamic as you are and shouldn’t be limited to a “one theory fits all” methodology. You don’t have to face these challenges alone.

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

I'm Nakila Hill, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) committed to offering compassionate and supportive therapy. I focus on meeting clients exactly where they are in their personal journeys, assisting them in progressing towards their aspirations and goals. Specializing in depression, anxiety, and trauma-focused therapy, I create a safe and nurturing environment that encourages healing, personal growth, and positive transformation. My approach is client-centered, fostering empowerment and resilience in each individual's life.

Hello there, I'm Brian Mitchell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a client-centered approach to therapy, focusing on trauma and PTSD. I tailor my approach to each client's unique needs and experiences. I am trained in several evidence-based therapies, including CBT, EMDR, and TF-CBT, as well as mindfulness techniques and stress reduction strategies. I work to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to work towards healing and learning coping skills. My attraction to a career as a therapist stemmed from a desire to help marginalized populations find their voice and advocate for their needs. What drives me to do this work is a deep passion for helping others find a better path forward in their lives.

Hello and welcome! If you are reading this, you are probably someone who is struggling with something in your life. I am here to listen to you and help you work through whatever may be bothering you. I believe I am very caring, compassionate, and empowering, while also believing in being honest and real with my clients. I was born and raised in Minnesota, where I was practicing until very recently. I just moved to California. I have spent a couple of years living and practicing in Upstate New York. I have both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in social work, with my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work. I have worked with a range of populations, individuals as young as 4 years old to 55 years old, individuals of several different cultures, the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with developmental disabilities, families, individuals, and couples. My passion is working with children and adults who have experienced trauma. This being said, I have experience with a range of challenges from anger management, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, exploring healthy and unhealthy relationships, low self esteem and self confidence, parenting issues, LGBTQ+ issues, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and blended families.

As an LMFT, I focus on seeing men and women with anxiety and depression by helping them feel more independent, develop their self confidence, set new boundaries with family, and bring new joy and peace back into their daily lives. I am licensed in both Texas and California, and love to see clients remotely for virtual sessions. In addition to my clinical experience, I also have a background in religious studies and am passionate about seeing clients from various cultural backgrounds. Whether you are starting therapy for the first time, returning, or looking for a better fit, all clients are welcome.

Hi I'm Kristina Gonzalez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing for the past 10 years. I received my Masters in Social Work in California in 2016 and have worked with a wide array of clientele. I started my career supporting individuals cope with the previous and current experiences of intimate partner violence. I then went on to support adults in crisis in a psychiatric care facility, support children and families cope with life transitions related to neuro-developmental disorders, and for many years worked with Military Veterans struggling with various psycho-social concerns in their communities. Since 2021 I have been providing virtual mental health services to adults struggling with an array of concerns all over California from various walks of life.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping you learn how to cultivate the life you deserve and want. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, thinking patterns, and self-limiting beliefs that create daily barriers to life fulfillment. I believe in taking a collaborative approach towards helping clients reach their goals. I hold space for you to narrate your journey without fear or judgment. I welcome your invitation to walk beside you in letting go of the things and ideas that no longer serve you. You deserve the opportunity to cultivate a better you.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am passionate about working with women in creating generational healing within themselves and their families. I believe this work starts within ourselves and that the relationship we have with ourself has the power to transform our lives for the better. I emphasize both in therapy. I approach therapy with a humanistic, client-centered, holistic and goal-oriented lens, focusing on reconnecting back to the self.

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

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

Hi, my name is Michael (Mike) Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s not working in your life and develop practical tools and strategies to create positive, lasting change. Sometimes that means identifying and replacing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors with ones that better align with your values and goals. My goal is to help you feel more empowered, balanced, and resilient.

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

My name is Savannah and I want to thank you for considering me as a partner on your journey to inner growth, safety, and peace. Psychotherapy is an endeavor that can feel uncomfortable at times, but together we can work to troubleshoot your "hang-ups" and insecurities to smooth out your path ahead. Do you find that no matter how hard you try, you continue to gravitate towards situations that cause you emotional pain, that leave you feeling exposed and vulnerable? Do you wonder why other people in your life seem so happy but you feel like you just can't "get it right?" Do you want to learn more about how and why it sometimes feels like you are your own worst enemy to progress? There is resolution to what you're experiencing and I want to work with you on your personalized quest for growth and safety. What have you been through? What recordings have been stuck on-loop in your mind? What kinds of characters have you crossed paths with in your life? Let's work together to figure it out and get you "un-jammed." I graduated with a Master of Social Work from Tulane University and I am licensed in the state of California to practice independently (LCSW #76380). I have years of experience working in a variety of psychiatric settings; when I am not seeing clients on this platform, I continue to work today in a local inpatient psychiatric hospital.

Hey bestie! I’m Saira Patino—your mental health cheerleader and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I’ve been in the field since 2010 and earned my MSW from Edinboro University in 2017, but beyond the credentials, I’m also you. I’ve battled depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, body image struggles, and the unique challenges that come with being a Mexican-American, first-gen Latina. I know what it’s like to grow up with parents who think therapy is only for “gente loca” and to feel torn between two cultures while trying to figure out who the hell you are. That’s why I show up to this work with realness, warmth, and zero judgment. Whether you’re dealing with burnout, identity issues, or just trying to hold it all together—I gotchu. My vibe is more comadre than clinical, and I create a space where you can be yourself, speak your Spanglish, laugh, cry, and start healing for you. We’ll go at your pace, and I’ll walk with you every step of the way as you learn to trust yourself and build the life you deserve.

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

Welcome, I'm glad to know you are here. In my practice, as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT142790), I will create a safe space for you to heal, explore yourself today and explore your past, create a new path for your future. I strive to provide space that offers compassion and honest reflection, facilitates exploration of your story, promotes natural self-awareness and personal growth. I will be mindful of how your unique story affects your presenting issues and will provide culturally and trauma informed care.

Hello! My name is Mackenzie Maurer and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I've been working as a clinical therapist for the last 7 years. I graduated with my MSW from Cal State University, Los Angeles in 2017 and became licensed in 2021. I became a social worker because it aligned well with my belief in social justice and working as a therapist has only strengthened this belief. I am lucky to really love what I do and I feel honored to get to witness my clients' growth in the therapeutic process.

I have been a therapist for 10 yrs 6 yrs in private practice. I have worked with hundred of different people with many different problems. My wheelhouse is trauma as I have worked in many different agencies that train for and deal with trauma. I have wisdom, experience and years of education under my belt. I am currently enrolled in a doctorate program to become a licensed psychologist

Hola! I'm Susana a first generation Latina, bilingual, (Spanish & English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. First, I'd like to acknowledge the courage it takes to start your therapy journey you made it to the first step! Starting therapy can feel nerve wracking, but you won't be alone. You will be welcomed, seen and heard in a safe space. I have worked with youth, parents and young adults since 2014 and have been practicing as a therapist for the last 7 years, helping clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and several other needs. I look forward to helping people looking to break through cycles of stigma, intergenerational trauma, lived traumatic experiences and learn tools to navigate life's challenges.

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

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

I’m someone who believes that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in relationships where we feel safe enough to be real. As a therapist, I show up with warmth, honesty, and deep respect for your story. I’m especially drawn to working with people who’ve had to hold it all together for others, often at the expense of themselves. If you grew up feeling unseen, like you had to shrink yourself to stay safe or lovable, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep doing it that way. In our work together, I’ll meet you with curiosity and compassion. I’m here to help you understand where your patterns come from, reconnect with the parts of yourself that got buried, and figure out what healing actually looks like for you. There’s no pressure to be perfect—just space to be honest, explore what matters, and feel a little more free.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I offer compassionate and professional therapeutic guidance to address problematic situations negatively impacting your overall functioning (in relationships, work, or general overall life). I have extensive experience working with adults and teens who are in crisis and need support. Focusing on brief therapy, I assist people in stabilizing their functioning and feeling better. I am also a practicing Christian and am here for you!

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

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) originally from just outside of New York City and currently live in San Diego. Working to support the mental health of others is truly my greatest honor. We are often programmed by our previous experiences, culture, and past trauma to believe a false narrative about ourselves. Utilizing the therapeutic alliance, I help clients to resolve negative, false, or limiting beliefs that may be hindering their ability to step into their true identities. We do not have to continue to live out the script that we inherited or feel the need to live in the shadows. Instead, we can live with intension, purpose, and a sense of gratitude.

Hi, I’m Jessie, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and parent. I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to my work, supporting parents as they heal from past wounds, break generational cycles, and build stronger, more connected relationships with their children. My approach is compassionate and trauma-informed, integrating evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and attachment-based care to provide practical tools and deep healing on your parenting journey. I believe parenting is a powerful path for growth and transformation, and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

I aim to meet every person where they are and take into account their physical, emotional, and spiritual health.If you are looking for help, you are not alone. Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, but a desire to get more out of life. Together, we can set you on a path to achieving the life you envision for yourself. I have over 20 years of experience guiding people through difficult times and helping them gain insight and develop coping skills so that they can move through their lives with confidence.

Hello! I’m Gloria, a Filipina licensed clinical psychologist originally from Guam, now based in the Bay Area, CA. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, and multicultural concerns, areas that continue to guide my work today. My clinical experience includes working in a variety of settings, where I’ve supported clients through identity exploration, emotional challenges, and major life transitions. I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, and tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. Before becoming a psychologist, I spent eight years as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a memory care unit, supporting individuals with dementia and their families. That experience shaped my understanding of caregiver stress and inspired my doctoral dissertation, which focused on the emotional impact of caregiving. It also deepened my belief that self-care and balance aren’t luxuries, they’re essential to our well-being. At the core of my work is the belief that therapy should be a safe, inclusive, and empowering space, one where your full self is welcomed and affirmed. I bring a deep commitment to cultural sensitivity, authenticity, and compassion, drawing from both my professional training and lived experience. Therapy with me is not just about managing challenges, it’s about growth, healing, and creating a life that feels true to you. I look forward to walking alongside you on that journey.

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

If you’re a client who works with me, you can trust that you have a therapist with the highest level of education and training (B.A from Princeton; Ph.D. from UCLA), extensive experience working with individuals and couples, and a record of professional accomplishment (University Professor, Director of a Graduate Program in Counseling, author of multiple books and articles in the areas of Clinical Psychology and Human Development.) In addition to my work in psychology, I have a background in the creative arts as a Grammy award-winning songwriter and a published novelist. Because of this added dimension, some of my clients have welcomed suggestions for excellent stories, novels, movies, or television shows that depict characters who face similar challenges to their own and our discussions of these works and characters have provided these clients with another valuable source of understanding and growth. On a personal note, I grew up on the East Coast before relocating to California and I’m the father of two daughters.