Therapists in California

Hello, I am a licensed therapist in California, with 21 years of clinical experience. I specialize in trauma related symptoms, anxiety, depression, and co-occurring disorders. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) as an addiction specialist who also served 24 years of military service and have lots of experience with Veterans. I am sorry to hear you may be struggling with mental health problems and it takes a lot of courage to reach out and ask someone for help. You don't have to do this alone and I am here for you. Together we can find some inner peace and face and explore the fears, problems and challenges that prevent you from living life to the fullest potential. It's time for you today to take back the life you deserve by empowering yourself to release the pain and not avoid or suppress it any longer. I believe in the human to human connection from a client-centered and holistic approach to therapy. Focusing on the whole person and not just the symptoms. Creating a safe place to heal and to safely explore and express your thoughts, feelings and behaviors by being empathetic, non-judgmental, caring and compassionate to the problems you are dealing with. You are worthy of happiness, success and love and you have the power to make it a reality. Adults 18> at this time.

Hi there! My name is Marianne and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am Filipino, Chinese, and Spanish and born and raised in the Bay Area. I have been in the mental health field for 10 years and worked with children adolescents and adults from all cultures and socioeconomic status. I specialize in treating ADHD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, and anxiety issues. I look forward to working with you. Let's grow together!

"First time" seeking help? Feeling sad, shaky, irritable, stressed out? Constantly worrying? Do you feel the need to "work" on yourself? My name is Shawn Hackett. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 plus years of providing mental health services. I specialize in working with women as they struggle with anxiety, depression, life stress, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.

With over 6 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am passionate about creating a safe space for individuals, families, and groups to explore and grow. My work is centered on building genuine connections and empowering people to make meaningful behavioral changes. I specialize in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, and client-centered therapy, to support those who have experienced trauma and other challenges.

Hello and welcome. Entering therapy is not always easy, but an important step towards change. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process that both my clients and I work on as a team. Trust, empathy, experience, and education are key components to successful treatment that produces long term sustainable results. I hold a B.S. in psychology with an emphasis in law and criminal behavior, a M.S. in clinical psychology, and a Psy. D. I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in California and in Arizona. My training and experience in forensic, hospital, inpatient, and private practice settings allows for a wide range of therapeutic experiences that allows for a wide range of treatment interventions with my clients. I am CBT (cognitive- behavioral) and DBT(dialectical- behavioral), and ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment) trained. I believe in evidence based treatments that will provide long term change. I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in California and in Arizona. I have been in practice for over 15 years with my practice focusing on Addiction, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD.

Hi I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) i have been working with children, families, couple and individuals in the mental health field for over 10 years i have been providing therapy in a community based setting for over 5 years. I believe in a mind body/ holistic approach while providing an individualized service based off of your individual needs.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's from California State University of Long Beach. I have over 5 years working in outpatient and inpatient medical settings. I have worked as medical and mental health social worker. I have experienced working with adults, older adults dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use, life changes and other challenges.

I believe in the power of choice! I utilize Telehealth offering video and phone sessions tailoring my holistic approach to address clients’ emotional, cognitive, relational, and spiritual challenges by incorporating useful strategies encouraging resolution. I offer useful strategies that encourage problem resolution. It is my pleasure to assist clients on their journey to wellness, encouraging and supporting them becoming more positive, successful, and happy people.

Hi, I am a LMFT based in California! I have my Master's degree from National University and have been in the behavioral health field for 17 years. I have found a passion in helping those in crisis, struggling with self-esteem, relational challenges, athletic performance and mood/eating disorders. I want to be able to make change and guide those to focus on thought patterns, feelings and emotions to challenging situations and improve their daily living.

Cherrie Phillips is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has been practicing since 2014, working in multiple settings including the community mental health setting, substance abuse residential facilities, and private practice. Cherrie has worked with various age groups ranging from as young as 5 years old up to later in life years. Cherrie prides herself on being a civil minded therapist, and particularly enjoys working with marginalized populations to guide them in unpacking and healing generational trauma.

I am a dedicated professional who works tirelessly to meet the needs of my clients. With a focus on relationships and exploring options, I strive to deliver exceptional service in all aspects of my work. My goal is to build strong, long-lasting relationships based on trust and mutual respect. I like to explore the history of an issue and its relationship to you.

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience offering trauma informed and mindfulness based therapy. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment approaches to support clients in better understanding their emotions, developing coping skills that feel usable in daily life, and navigating life’s challenges with greater steadiness. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, attachment styles, and unresolved trauma, with an emphasis on strengthening emotional awareness, building healthier communication skills, and fostering a more compassionate relationship with oneself.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with 15 years of experience. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and take an empathetic approach to building strong client relationships, fostering personal growth, and promoting healing. My experience ranges from working with individuals facing severe mental health challenges to those navigating life events for the first time.

Hello there : ) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I have been practicing for 12 years. I create confidential, non-judgmental, and safe space for you to unpack your thoughts and process your feelings about whatever is causing you to feel sad, stuck, angry, or confused. It is a privilege to be a part of your journey of healing.

My approach is integrative, tailoring services to each client’s unique needs and available resources. I create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I address the whole perspective of a person to help identify areas of desired change and hindrances. Helping you gain more self-awareness is my primary goal to get you on track to where you would like to be. I cultivate a safe and open space where clients feel heard and understood without fear of judgment. My approach draws from Client-Centered Therapy, Existential/Experiential learning, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, helping clients understand their experiences holistically. By considering the full perspective of an individual, I guide them in identifying areas for growth and overcoming obstacles that may hinder progress. My goal is to foster deeper self-awareness, empowering clients to take meaningful steps toward personal fulfillment.

Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Hello, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist offering therapy to individuals. I am passionate about reducing the stigma around therapy and creating a supportive space for healing, exploration, and growth. As a grounded therapist I seek to help clients navigate life’s challenges with insight, clarity, and accountability. With over 15 years of clinical experience that spans diverse settings, including community mental health, high-crisis inpatient care, and residential programs for foster youth. I have supported individuals and families facing anxiety, depression, blended family dynamics, neurodivergence, and significant life transitions such as loss, incarceration, or shifting roles within family structure.

Hello, I am Coralia Valdez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working in the mental health field for over 25 years. Throughout my work as therapist, I believe that real change happens when you feel truly heard and supported. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can explore your challenges, discover your strengths, and move toward the life you want.

Hello and thank you so much for having enough courage and honesty to take the first big step. My name is Erlynn Cabarles, LCSW and I have a Master’s in Social Work from SFSU. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 2015. I have 20 plus years of experience in the mental health field and I believe that the first step of healing is self-discovery and the development of personal goals to overcome challenges. My intentions are to instill hope and inspiration and to empower you to be able to move on to a more fulfilling life. Remember that You are resilient and determined to change for the positivity. My purpose is to provide a safe space and non-judgmental environment. If you’re ready, I’ll be here to support you on your journey towards healing!

I’m a licensed therapist who works with adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and insight-oriented, blending practical tools with deeper exploration of patterns. I create a grounded, supportive space where clients can gain clarity, better understand their emotional responses, and move toward meaningful, sustainable change. I value building strong therapeutic relationships and meeting clients where they are while helping them move forward at a pace that feels steady and manageable.

Hello! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been working with individuals, couples and families for twenty three years. I use interventions based on cognitive behavioral techniques to help you reach your goals and overcome patterns of behavior that are not working well for you. I believe you are the expert in your own life and strive to work with you to understand and move forward toward your goals.

Hello! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.

I am an LPCC in California and an LPC in Texas. My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master's in clinical counseling, and a Master's in Addictions. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a certified addictions counselor. My past clinical experience includes working for a crisis center where the majority of clients experienced issues related to suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and child and elder abuse. These issues impact people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. I have also worked for a county-based permanent assisted housing development where all of the clients have experienced episodes of homelessness, and have been significantly impacted by issues of trauma, depression, addictions, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Megan believes in fostering a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. A large part of healing is being witnessed by another being with compassion and being reminded of your strength. Her approach is encouraging, and she aims to create an atmosphere where humor, curiosity, and authenticity are welcome. Consider working together if you're open to exploring your thoughts, feelings, and sensations with curiosity and if you're looking for a therapist who can offer encouragement and a playful, yet professional, atmosphere. Megan's therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in mindfulness and cognitive therapy. She integrates various techniques to help you become more aware of your body’s signals and how to manage emotions effectively. She works with adults who are ready to explore themselves more deeply, whether navigating anxiety, stress or personal growth. Megan would love to connect with you and explore how therapy can support your personal growth and well-being. If you’re ready to start your journey toward healing, please reach out to schedule a free 15-min phone consultation.

Hello! I'm Norit Bercovicz (pronounced Nor-reet Berk-o-vitz), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#122569) and a Registered Art Therapist in California. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Rutgers University and a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University, I've dedicated over 7 years to working with with diverse populations, from children to military veterans. In my practice, informed by personal growth and training, I blend Art Therapy, mindfulness practices, and more to promote heightened awareness. Embracing a client-centered approach, I meet you where you are, whether or not that involves art-making. Specializing in day-to-day challenges like anxiety, depression, and adjustment difficulties, I also guide individuals in transforming uncertainty into opportunity. Beyond my therapeutic work, I find joy in nature—whether hiking, camping, or on a backpacking trip with loved ones. I recharge by spending time with family, friends, and my delightful fur baby, Shoko.

I am a Christian Clinical, Forensic and Sports Neuropsychologist. Like many folks who get into the mental health field, I had certain mental health challenges. My family of origin was burdened with addiction and mental health. I currently have 40 years of sobriety and am intimately familiar with 12 Step, Christ-centered and Mindfulness aspects of recovery. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma and Addiction with family systems and attachment orientation. As a trained child psychologist I also place particular emphasis on developmental aspects of trauma. As a former Navy psychologist with many years working with veterans and first responders, I am very familiar with those cultures. I played college soccer, run 20 marathons, taught scuba as well as being an award winning underwater photographer and competed at the CrossFit World Games for 3 years. I am married, have a son (retired Navy) and a daughter in heaven.

My name is Alanna Walker, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Las Vegas, Nevada. I currently provide telehealth services to clients in California and have experience offering both in-person and virtual therapy in Nevada. I’m certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and domestic violence intervention, and I also have specialized training in substance use disorders and addiction.

Congratulations! You have taken the first steps in the journey to your goal(s). I am extremely grateful you are considering me to partner up with. I consider my relationships as instrumental in learning who I am. The relationships that most speak to who I am include being a spouse, father, brother, son, colleague, and friend. My grandparents are deceased. Through these relationships I have learned a great deal.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help adults struggling with stress and mental health issues become the best versions of themselves. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and helping them feel better and reach their goals.

Hello, my name is Carol Metcalf-Roth, LMFT, and I have been working with clients for 21 years as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My career history includes progressive experience as a Therapist, Director of Social Services, and Clinical Supervisor, working in agency services, hospitals and private practice. I am also a licensed Military Family Life Counselor with previous counseling to current and former military and their families. I have many successfully treated clients. I do accept private paying clients if you do not have insurance. I require a credit card on file for non-insurance clients.

Hi. I’m Anupama. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD. Panic disorder. I have lots of experience with couples issues and domestic violence. I have also worked with parenting issues I have a calming and gentle approach. I like to make my clients feel comfortable right away. I would love to meet you and will do my best to help you.

Greetings to You! I am Bethany and am thankful you have made the decision to live your most phenomenal life! Do you feel utterly lost, stuck or even misunderstood? Do you feel like you know what to do but don't have the will-power or tools to execute it? I help marginalized individuals identify how to show up as their most authentic selves and get the life they deserve. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, racism, transphobia or addiction, I'm here to help and comfort. Seeking therapy can feel unnerving but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal, grow, try on new perspectivesand just BE. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together and get you to the next level of your healing journey!

Hi there and great job on taking that first step in considering if therapy is right for you. I invite you to come with me on a journey of your own choosing where we will walk together in darkness to find the light you’ve been seeking. Whether it’s life’s little annoying stressors or more complex issues, as a trauma survivor myself, I know firsthand what this is like and wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Whether you choose me or another therapist, make the choice to just give it a try. Sometimes all you need is another person to hold the light while you do the work you need to heal.

I'm Julie Loeb, a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist specializing in guiding adult clients struggling with depression and anxiety through life transitions. With 20 years in mental health, including 13 years as a psychotherapist, I offer virtual-based therapy which is empathetic support and a judgment-free space for you to be heard. My experience spans private practice and public mental health clinics, honing my clinical skills and delivering successful outcomes. Get the tools you need today to thrive not just survive.

I'm a clinician + artist who specializes in: EMDR, clinical hypnosis, sound healing & communication. I hold space for individuals to feel safe, feel relief, and build awareness. I'm an educator and teacher who is motivated to meet you where you are at and provide knowledge and processing that will assist you on getting unstuck, & finding out where you want to go.

I really love being a therapist, and it’s so rewarding to support people on their journeys of self-discovery. In many ways, I get to give back the same kind of support that therapy gave me. Over time, I’ve come to see that things like anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or struggles in relationships and careers often show up when something’s off in the mind-body-spirit connection. I’ve been through my own path of growth and transformation, and along the way, I picked up some powerful tools that I truly believe can help you find more healing, love, peace, and purpose in your life. In my work, I lean into attachment theory and also explore the deeper, more spiritual aspects of what it means to be human.

I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.

Hi, I’m LaCortney—Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, Hawaii, and Alabama. I specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and stress, helping you build motivation and confidence to create meaningful change. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and a strengths-based approach, I’ll guide you in understanding your triggers, reframing limiting beliefs, and developing practical coping skills. Through Maddox Motivations LLC, I offer a supportive space where you can explore your story, gain self-awareness, and grow into the version of yourself you’re ready to become.

*Currently accepting female clients only* Therapy has changed, and thankfully so. The old idea of spilling your heart out to someone who feels distant, judgmental, or out of touch does not work anymore. So let’s not do that. I’m Jessica Milgrome, a licensed mental health clinician with 15 years of experience, a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and a National Certified Counselor. I work with women navigating anxiety, overthinking, emotional overwhelm, relationship stress, burnout, and major life transitions. My approach is modern, direct, and judgment-free. Therapy with me is a real conversation. No awkward silence. No walking on eggshells. No wondering if you said the wrong thing. We talk openly, focus on what actually helps, and skip techniques that do not fit your real life. Sessions can be video or phone. If video feels too intense some days, that is okay. Therapy should feel supportive, practical, and human. To share a bit about myself, I’m a big fan of stand-up comedy because laughing really is life. I look forward to Mondays for Spotify’s Discover Weekly playlists and live by the mantra, “When words fail, let the music speak.” I also share my life with six dogs. I’m here to help you organize your thoughts, build confidence, set boundaries you can keep, and move forward feeling clearer and more grounded.

I am an open-minded and compassionate professional dedicated to offering a safe and supportive space for individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma, self-esteem issues, and coping difficulties. My approach is both caring and direct, helping you navigate your unique emotional landscapes while fostering personal growth and resilience. By working together, I can help empower you to overcome mental health barriers and enhance their overall quality of life, cultivating lasting positive change and a deeper sense of well-being.

Hello, I am Kathleen. Do you feel overwhelmed, burnt out or pulled in a million different directions? Are you struggling with your relationships, work or health? Is it difficult for you to find time for yourself, let alone, be kind to yourself? Do you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward? Many of us are experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety and social isolation, so it is important to make caring for yourself a priority. Therapy can help you feel more connected, balanced and peaceful. Together, we can help identify what is not working and regain a sense of balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your body, mind and spirit. We will develop a "toolbox" of coping skills and create new insights and awarenesses to help you become a happier and healthier version of yourself. Seeking therapy can feel threatening but it's one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and by doing so also give to others. In our sessions, I will meet you with kindness, compassion, humor and evidence-based modalities, so you can overcome obstacles and habits that may be holding you back. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and empathic environment in which to work through current issues, conflicting relationships and/or past pain. I look forward to meeting you and working together.

Katerina Sorrell, MA, PPSC, LPCC, is a licensed psychotherapist and National Board Certified Counselor with over a decade of experience helping clients achieve healing, resilience, and personal growth. With a Master’s in Counseling from Chapman University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from CSULB, she offers a strong academic foundation paired with compassionate, culturally responsive care. Katerina is fluent in English and Spanish and provides services to children, adolescents, and adults, drawing from evidence-based approaches such as CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Her work spans working with Orange County Department of Education and various school districts in Orange County, California, where she has served as a School Counselor and Mental Health Practitioner. She specializes in crisis intervention, early identification of students in need, and the development of supportive mental health strategies. Katerina also volunteered with the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, demonstrating her deep commitment to mental health advocacy. In addition to her school-based work, Katerina provides individual therapy in private practice in Laguna Hills, California,, helping adults, military and youth clients manage challenges like anxiety, depression, family conflict, peer pressure, and trauma. Her unique background also includes career assessments, allowing her to support clients in discovering their strengths and life direction. Whether in schools, clinical settings, or the community, Katerina empowers her clients to navigate life’s challenges with confidence, connection, and hope.

Hello and Welcome. I commend you for taking the time to identify the right therapist for you, and I would be delighted to have the opportunity to serve you through your journey to either heal, grow, or build. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist; I aim to help individuals strengthen their sense of self and relationships. I have over ten years of experience working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds who have experienced various mental health challenges.

My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.

Hello! I'm a Hmong-American therapist based in California with experience working with BIPOC and underserved communities of color. I also have experience working in Child Protective Services where I supported children and biological, foster, and adopted parents in the foster care system. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships, or life transitions. My approach is empathetic and client centered. As needed, I also press and push for accountability to help clients work toward the change they desire.

I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. I bring a unique, spiritual, Latino/Hispanic perspective to mental health counseling that focuses on the needs of our community. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. Aporto una perspectiva única, espiritual, latina/hispana al asesoramiento de salud mental que se centra en las necesidades de nuestra comunidad.

My name means “Light,” and my goal is to help you rediscover yours. As a BIPOC therapist, I bring a culturally sensitive, holistic approach to healing. Together, we’ll shed light on your challenges and explore compassionate, practical solutions to help you move forward. My work is rooted in the transformative power of mindfulness, spirituality, and self-awareness. I integrate psychoanalysis, faith-based counseling, and holistic healing to create a space where you can reconnect with your authentic self and cultivate resilience. I specialize in supporting adults facing anxiety, trauma, depression, and men’s issues. My approach blends psychotherapy with spiritual exploration and self-discovery — helping you realign with your purpose and inner peace. I believe every person holds untapped potential and innate wisdom. My role is to hold a nonjudgmental space where you can feel seen, supported, and understood. Through our work together, we’ll turn over the stones of your experience to reveal clarity, healing, and a renewed sense of direction. I’ve personally walked through profound loss and transformation — including a near-death experience and the passing of my beloved mother to cancer. These experiences deepened my faith in the human spirit and in our collective ability to heal and shine again. Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to help you grow and remember who you truly are — a light meant to shine.

 Love and work are essential to a meaningful life. Relationships with others define experience and work gives a sense of purpose. Disturbance in these affect well being and contribute to an overwhelmed response leading to collapse. As trauma is relational so is recovery and healing. Having the right therapeutic alliance is a key element and requires, attunement and constistency.  James has over 17 years of clinical experience treating diverse individuals in a variety of settings. As a Mind-Body-Awareness trained therapist, he works with adults having problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. In addition to having a graduate degree in Social Work from San Jose State University; he also attended years of practicum training from the following: Certification in Somatic Experiencing from SE Trauma Institute; Sierra Institute for Contemporary Gestalt Training; Professional Training in Hakomi Mindfulness-Based Experiential Psychotherapy Santa Cruz; iRest Integrative Restoration, an evidence informed meditation practice for trauma; Certification in Satyananda Yoga Nidra; and Completion of 500 hours of Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training. 

Hi, I'm Hazel. I'm a bilingual Asian mental health therapist fluent in both Vietnamese and English, dedicated to supporting neurodiverse adults, including those with ASD, ADHD, and co-occurring conditions. I am also trained in assessing and diagnosing adult ASD and ADHD, and I understand the importance of accurate identification to inform effective treatment. I am deeply passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and understanding the unique challenges they face, such as low self-esteem, mood regulation difficulties, relationship struggles, loneliness, stress, executive dysfunction, and rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD). I strive to provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore these challenges and develop strategies for growth and healing. In addition, I have extensive experience working in hospice care, which has given me valuable insight into the complex emotions surrounding grief, loss, and mourning. I also specialize in supporting clients through grief, narcissistic abuse and healing, as well as processing trauma. My approach is holistic, emphasizing compassion and understanding through these profound experiences. Having endured my own share of trauma throughout my life—including experiences with sudden death, betrayal, and resentment—I bring a deep sense of empathy to my work. With a culturally sensitive approach, I aim to create a safe environment where my clients feel seen and supported. My overarching goal is to empower individuals to navigate their challenges, foster resilience, and promote overall well-being. I am committed to breaking down barriers to mental health care and walking alongside my clients through life’s many transitions with sensitivity and care.

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and the elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments. She teaches at five local universities, including UCLA’s medical school. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising. She also works with family and criminal law courts as an expert witness.