Therapists in California

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

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! My name is Brooke and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I am a strengths-based, client centered, and solutions focused therapist. I strive to create an environment that you feel supported, safe, and free of judgment. I work with individuals and couples of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, depression, peer/interpersonal relationship conflicts, bullying, life transitions, low self-esteem, burnout, insomnia, anger, panic attacks, and stress management. My approach is to integrate evidence-based practice and theory while honoring your individual needs and meeting you where you are at. My goal is to provide you with the tools to enhance your quality of life and feel more confident with navigating life's presenting challenges. My promise as a therapist is to be with you every step of the way. I look forward to meeting you!

Hello. I am here with 19 years of experience balanced with cultural competence and sensitivity to varied backgrounds, including socioeconomic status, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, and gender identity. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my training is rooted in psychotherapy and family systems theory. My approach is with an emphasis on valuing and utilizing the client's own expertise and understanding of their life circumstances, prioritizing individualized care, and recognizing that no single therapeutic modality fits every client or challenge.

Hello, my name is Layla Hernandez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in the mental health field. I'm fluent in English and Spanish and take a client-focused approach to therapy. I utilize evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), to ensure the best outcomes for my clients.

Hello, thanks for visiting my page. I am Dr. Banigo, and I love to collaborate with patients and render needed assistance. I am a skilled clinician, and I provide clinical supervision to clinicians focused on sharpening their clinical skills. I am an adjunct professor. I encourage patients to actively participate in their care with me and other treatment providers such as primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and others. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc).

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.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering supportive, strength-based therapy to adults and families. I have a B.A. in Psychology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and an M.A. in Counseling with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Webster University in Irvine, California. Throughout my carrier, I have worked with clients with a variety of issues and from all socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. My experience in College Hospital, a mental health facility, trained me to understand how different mental health issues can be compounded by trauma and substance abuse, as well as preparing me for dealing with clients with variety of mental health problems. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced different traumas. Among my areas of experience are anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, women's issues, adolescents' issues and family problems. I utilize many different treatment modalities and treatment techniques depending on the client's needs.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has worked with individuals that are experiencing a variation of difficulties. I specialize in helping patients with anxiety, depression, and stress. I also have experience helping individuals with ADHD, brain injury, relationships, self-esteem, school/career and other life difficulties. We all want to be heard when something is bothering us. Having someone hear us when we are upset can mean a lot. It can also feel good to have someone to vent to when a day has been long. I am interested in helping you through life's struggles and setting goals for the future. I'm also here to guide and support you through difficult experiences. I am here to listen because sometimes you may need to share when life changes or need help processing what has happened. I want to be there for you even when the day is neither good or bad. I am here.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. My approach to therapy is person-centered and psychodynamic, and I use various modalities to help people become more connected to their true selves. My goal is to offer a supportive environment where people can fully express themselves, gain insight, and take steps toward healing and personal growth. In therapy, I work with people to explore, make sense of, and identify how their upbringing may be contributing to problems in living. This awareness is often a catalyst for healing and positive change. I also use mindfulness-based CBT to help people become aware of and challenge thoughts that aren’t true and are contributing to depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California, offering telehealth services to clients statewide. I work with adults who are ready to take an honest look at their lives and make intentional changes. My areas of focus include anxiety, life transitions, depression, and boundary-setting. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and other modalities based on each client’s needs. While we may reflect on past experiences to gain insight, the focus is on using those insights to make better choices and set higher standards for your future.

I've been providing therapy for 7 years. I use a down-to-earth, straight-forward approach to address attachment trauma, and how it manifests in adults. I create space to explore all aspects of oneself without judgement. I have a background in medical research, case management, and psychotherapy. I've worked in various healthcare environments that include the ER, PICU, psychiatric floors, crisis stabilization, residential, and outpatient private practice. I'm a proud USC graduate.

My name is Monica Smith, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California, providing telehealth services to adults statewide. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to name a few. I help clients build awareness, develop coping skills, and improve their overall emotional well-being.

Your life is changing and you’re not sure why you’re not handling it better. In my work with clients, I’ve seen that even good changes can make usually well-adjusted people struggle with day-to-day stress that didn’t seem to be a challenge in the past. I’ve worked with people who struggle with communicating emotions, prioritizing themselves, or feeling like their best is not good enough. If you feel like you can identify with those experiences and are not sure how to change things, I’d love to work with you.

I have been in the field of mental health for 29 years. My goal as a therapist is to help you achieve ultimate happiness and peace in your life. As human beings we can not go back and change our past but we can find the tools that can help us live our lives fully and find the ways to use our full potential. I will listen to you and will try my best to support you in finding the path to happiness by practicing and using the tools and methods that are helpful and tangible.

Hi! My name is Bhavan and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I specialize in trauma-informed care, PTSD, anxiety, and depression, along with a variety of other issues. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and respect for your unique experiences. My work also encompasses cultural identity by focusing on you as an individual and supporting you explore how your cultural lens shapes your understanding of trauma and resilience. My aim is to support you along your healing journey towards well-being, by helping you reclaim your sense of self, safety, balance, and personal strength.

I bring empathy, insight, and clinical skills, to the therapeutic process. I help clients struggling with stress/anxiety, depression, relationship or family issues, life transitions, learning disabilities, career struggles, and grief. I interact with clients in their growth process by increasing awareness of the source of their distress, implementing new ways of thinking to positively affect their experiences and helping them learn healthier coping responses in their life. Seeking therapy is a courageous choice, and I will join you in this endeavor by using an integrative and interactive approach to help you gain insight into your processes and live a more enjoyable life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Registered Art Therapist based in California. I have been practicing for 18 years with an array of populations and in different settings. I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and relational issues, or personal struggles that may be causing distress and preventing them from becoming their best self, or preventing them to meet their goals in life.

Hi!! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Southern California with 10 years of clinical experience in various mental health settings. The focus of my work is on children, adolescents, adults, and families. I believe the therapeutic process should be an integrative and collaborative approach toward healing, recognizing that every person has a unique history. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support and empower you if you are ready to take that step. Thank you for trusting me in your journey to healing. I look forward to working with you.

Hi! I’m Heidi! I know how hard it is to spill your guts to a stranger, and I don’t take that lightly. Feeling safe and comfortable is the most important part of therapy, and I strive to create a space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. You don’t have to do this alone—I’m here to help. I take a down-to-earth, real-world approach to therapy because I’ve survived my own struggles, and I know what it’s like to fight for healing. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies with holistic and mindfulness-based techniques to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, or relationship challenges, I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore your emotions and create lasting change. I have worked in inpatient facilities specializing in substance abuse, mental health, and trauma, providing intensive support to individuals in crisis. In my private practice, I have worked with both survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence, as well as high-profile individuals in Hollywood who require a high level of discretion and specialized care. My experience in these settings has deepened my understanding of complex trauma, addiction, and the unique stressors that come with high-pressure environments.

Perinatal Mental Health Certified Therapist. Thank you for taking the brave step to seek help during this challenging time. It takes courage to reach out, and I’m here to support you with compassion and care as you navigate this journey. My name is Terri and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of California dedicated to supporting individuals and their families during life’s transitions. In addition to providing therapy services with Thrive with Thistle Therapy, I am a mother of two young children and I serve as a clinical social worker on the mother-baby units of a hospital. I have experience providing care and support to patients and their families navigating challenges including: pregnancy complications, baby blues, difficulty adjusting postpartum, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), birth trauma, NICU admission for their baby, adoption, surrogacy, infertility, pregnancy and newborn loss, and first time parents. ​ I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Southern California (USC) and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Chapman University. In an effort to better serve my clients, I obtained a Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) from Postpartum Support International to equip me with specialized knowledge and skills to support individuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

I am Filipino American and immigrated to the United States as a child. While I am not fluent in Tagalog, I can understand Tagalog. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Santa Clara County. I received my master's degree in social work from San Jose State University (SJSU). I have experience working with younger to older adults who struggle with depression and anxiety.

Hey there! My name is Jaclyn, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California, practicing for six years. I offer a relaxed, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their concerns at their own pace. My approach is client-led, ensuring sessions are tailored to individual needs while equipping clients with practical tools for growth. With a supportive, warm, and empathetic presence, I help clients navigate challenges, fostering trust and empowerment in their journey toward healing.

Hello! I am Vanessa Ly and it's so great to meet you. Am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I specialize in treating younger adults and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, or relationship concerns. I have also worked closely with first generation individuals and families to be the cycle breaker. I believe that positive change and growth can happen and it’s the first step to your journey of healing.

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.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years experience. I have trained in many modalities including CBT and psychodynamic therapies, as well as couples' counseling including sexual issues. I am very active in therapy and rely on a collaborative approach where you are the expert on you, and we form hypotheses together on how to best help you resolve the problems you are dealing with.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, I received my master of social work (MSW) from University of Southern California (USC). My experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults with depression, anxiety, and trauma; helping them identify triggers to their symptoms and helping them create effective coping mechanisms to decrease their symptoms and live emotionally healthy lives.

Hello! I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a Master’s degree in Social Work focused on Children and Families. My practice is client-centered, culturally affirming, and rooted in evidence-based approaches. I have significant experience working with children, teens, young adults, and their families, helping them address challenges like anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, behavioral issues, grief, loss, trauma, self-esteem, family dynamics, divorce or separation, and life transitions.

Hello there.....My name is Maria Paola Cortes Elser, I was born in Colombia and have been living in the USA for 23 years now, and as an immigrant, I confronted different situations that helped me to grow personally, and spiritually and understand how special it is to be from somewhere else and become part of this extraordinary country. I understand the challenges that come from this transition from different land to America and all the life experiences that those changes include, mentally culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Santo Tomas De Aquino University in Bogota Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University in the USA. I have been working in this field for 10 years, and I have experience with DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to help and support individuals and families who struggle with relationships, and Mental illnesses through faith and professional clinical counseling.

Hi, I’m Victoria Elena Lane, an LCSW in California. I provide inclusive, affirming care for Queer, Trans, BIPOC, and Women’s rights communities. Specializing in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity-based stressors, I use a client-centered, solution-focused approach to support individuals at every stage of their mental health journey. Together, we’ll uncover clarity, foster balance, and empower growth in a safe, supportive space.

I am a Psychologist licensed in California and have provided psychotherapy to individuals for over 30 years. I am also a lifelong artist and I am interested in how the creative process functions in our lives. I help people connect with their true potential that may have been ignored or forgotten in their search for meaning and purpose in their lives.

Hi, I’m Corrine. I look forward to working with you. While therapy can be scary and difficult, it can also be life changing and exhilarating. It can bring enlightenment, inspiration, and transformation to your life. Together, we will create a collaborative space where we can reflect on patterns and beliefs that exist in your life and affect your relationships, interactions, and responses in various situations. We will connect past experiences to current behaviors and thought patterns that may no longer serve you. Through our work, we will aim to uncover the root of anxiety, depression, or trauma and build healthy coping skills. Ultimately, I hope to empower you to improve the quality of your relationships and have agency over your life.

Hello, My name is Steven Nelson. I'm a licensed Marital and Family Therapist for 8 years. I always find it to be an honor to help others find their solutions and journey. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. "If you seek, you will find solutions." At times we just need that support to help see it. In addition to my Psychological Therapy license, I hold specialties certifications in Drug and Alcohol addiction, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Sex Addiction, Trauma and Domestic Violence prevention.

Congrats on taking your first step (or continuing on) your personal wellness journey! I'm Kristen & I've spent decades helping others navigate through the difficult times in their life. It's been one of the pleasures of my work, watching individuals flourish into the healthiest adult versions of themselves. It was my own persona traumas and difficulties experienced earlier in life that originally set me on this path of whole person wellness and personal recovery. As a result, I integrate biological, psychological and spiritual components in my work with clients, at which ever level they are comfortable with.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I was a social worker for 10 years for nonprofit foster care/adoption agencies. I then worked for a clinical nonprofit agency for over 7 years in which I worked in school settings, a children's clinic, advocate to parents, and then an adult clinic. I have been working through private practice fulltime since April 2024. I enjoy working with different people with different struggles. I enjoy providing a different perspective to my clients.

As a therapist, I am committed to helping you have healthier, more balanced, harmonious lives and relationships. My therapy approach includes traditional and holistic healing techniques that involve mind, body, heart and spirit as well as things unseen. My years of experience in community mental health include individual, child, couples, co-parenting and family therapy. I am able to relate well to many different cultural, ethnic, socio-economic groups. With an M.A. in transpersonal psychology and an M.B.A. from University of Chicago plus 25 years of corporate experience, I use a broad range of skills to help my clients explore their needs and goals. As a certified yoga and meditation teacher, many of my clients have learned mindfulness techniques that enhance their recovery. All of us need confidential support for different things at times. My job is to compassionately support you in what you need, with your values, to have the life that you want.

I am Brandy Stewart, a licensed clinical social worker in California with 19 years of clinical experience serving children, adolescents, transition age youth, adults and families. I help individuals who struggle with managing relationship issues resolve interpersonal conflicts to promote healthy overall functioning. I also help people manage emotional distress and conflict, as they heal from the past, in order to achieve a greater wellbeing.

Hi there, I'm Loc. Do you find yourself struggling with life's challenges and in need of support to move forward? I help clients manage anxiety and depression while also preventing burnout. Together, we can identify what isn't working in your life and get you back to a state of balance and on track. Whether you're facing overwhelming relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel daunting, but it's a positive step to take. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll provide a trusting environment and focus on practical solutions to help you overcome the obstacles and habits that are holding you back. Let's work together!

Hello, I am a therapist who focuses on improving the lives of his clients. I will help empower them to enrich their lives. Together we can explore methods on helping the individual deal with everyday life stressors and also past trauma. I am someone who wants to see their clients excel and be able to manage life's difficulties. Hoping to help my clients see positive results in therapy.

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!

Hello, I am April Jordan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from Cal State East Bay, Hayward, in 2005. I am a wife, mother of young children and understand the stressors linked with trying to balance life. I specialize in Women issues, Postpartum, anxiety,ADHD, depressive disorders, relationship stressors and career transitions. My Therapeutic approach is strength-based , solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. My Professional experience I have worked years in mental health, medical social work, family services and with the criminal justice system. I used to be a medical social worker in the ED. I am a therapist that likes to look at restoring you back to feeling better and providing you with real life therapeutic tools needed to get back to a sense of normalcy.

Greetings! I’m a Black woman who is also a mother, wife, sister, daughter and a proud community member. I believe that we all (as humans) are each others’ keeper. I’m a native Los Angelean and I practice with multiple methods but often view individuals through psychodynamic and cultural lenses. Any religious or spiritual background that prioritizes kindness is my jam.

If you’re looking for a therapist who will actually listen—who won’t dismiss your concerns or pathologize your pain—you’re in the right place. Maybe you're wondering if you have ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Maybe you've been masking for years and don’t know where to start. Maybe you're carrying trauma, grief, or a deep sense that something has always felt a little off. I work with people who’ve spent too long feeling misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or minimized—and are ready for something different. You don’t need a perfect narrative. You don’t need to show up polished. You don’t even need to be sure what you need yet. With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in working with neurodivergent and emotionally complex clients—including first responders, trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I have a Master’s in Clinical Counseling, a Master’s in Forensic Psychology, and I’m currently completing a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology. I combine clinical insight with curiosity, humor, and a belief in your capacity to grow—even if it’s messy.

Teisha, the heart and soul behind Mental Wellness with Teisha, a mental health practice in California. Teisha is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 15 years of experience. As the founder of a Black, female-owned business, she is dedicated to offering mental health services that reflect her deep commitment to education, advocacy, and community support. Our practice is built on compassion, integrity, and collaboration. These core values guide us in providing the highest quality of care and ensure a respectful and empowering experience for all our clients.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an integrative approach to my work. My specialties include Cognitive Behavioral therapy, anxiety, grief, art therapy, stress management, mindfulness and guided imagery. I have a collaborative client-centered approach, which is warm, safe, empathetic and non-judgmental. I help you discover your own insight, cultivate strengths and find meaning and purpose for a more balanced life.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my masters from Hope International University in Fullerton, CA and have been working with clients for 5 years. I help adults who are trying to navigate and find themselves in the world. Having a family systems background, I love learning about you and your background as well as identifying generational patterns.

As a therapist specializing in serving individuals of color, I place great emphasis on promoting self-care and wellness among my clients. My goal is to assist my clients in navigating the intersectionality of their identities while prioritizing their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I provide a supportive environment for clients to explore their unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and societal pressures. My approach includes empowering clients to create personalized self-care routines, coping strategies, and resilience-building techniques that are tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, I provide various resources and methods to assist clients in cultivating self-awareness, establishing boundaries, coping with pressure, and fostering a sense of equilibrium and contentment in their lives.

Hi it's nice to meet you, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from Fuller Theological Seminary and have been practicing for 8 years. I help adults struggling with trauma, anxiety and stresses of life to regain their sense of agency, make sense of the past, and make progress towards their goals for the future.

Welcome, I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I am a licensed clinician in 4 states (CA, NY, FL & MA) and enjoy helping clients improve their mental health and their lives. I find joy in seeing clients achieving their goals, and feeling that I made a difference in their lives. I am a digital nomad, and meeting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Life can be overwhelming, especially for women trying to juggle everything and keep it all together. Maybe you're stuck in a cycle of anxiety, battling negative thoughts, carrying the weight of past trauma, or just feeling like you're not measuring up. If that sounds familiar, I want you to know you're not alone and you're not without hope. Hi there! I’m Claudia Johnson, a licensed therapist who works with women navigating anxiety, trauma, self-esteem struggles, and the highs and lows of motherhood. As a Christian therapist, I believe healing happens when we combine practical tools with the truth of God’s Word.