Therapists near me in San Diego, CA

Welcome and thank you for considering me in your wellness journey. I'm Ekaete Ekpo, a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy. I bring warmth, care, compassion, and a nonjudgmental presence to our work together, tailoring therapy to your goals and the unique needs of each client. We'll build insight and practical tools.

I’m Johanna. I work with creative people, and with those who are working to heal, transition, and evolve from things that have hurt them. My approach blends traditional talk therapy with deeper work. With the use of Brainspotting and Jungian interventions, because real change rarely happens at the surface, we create deep meaningful change. When we're willing to go underneath, to the place where the old story lives, we can heal it and create room to become something new.

Welcome to my professional profile. My name is Paul Quezada, and I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a potential ally on your journey towards improved mental health and overall well-being. First and foremost, I want to acknowledge your courage in seeking help. Your mental health is paramount, and I commend you for prioritizing it. I am here to offer my support and guidance as you navigate life's obstacles and challenges. My role is to provide you with the necessary tools and support to manage the various struggles impacting your mental health. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating significant life transitions, I am here to accompany you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your therapeutic journey. I look forward to the opportunity to work together and support you in achieving your goals.

Congratulations on taking the first step in your journey of healing and self-discovery. I have experience working with adults from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds. I work collaboratively with clients to address problems such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety/worry, struggles in interpersonal relationships, LGBTQ+ -related issues and challenges navigating life transitions. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy, which allows me to draw on multiple theories and interventions such as process-oriented therapies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology to individualize treatment for the clients I serve.

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

Hi! I am an imperfect human first, therapist second. You will feel and experience my authenticity and heart in our work together. This a journey that we are embarking on and it will be based off of safety, joy, and connection. I have about 9 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and am finishing up my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. My passion includes supporting clients to embody more of who they truly are and find rest in their imperfection. I specifically work with high performers, creatives, and/or go getters who desire to be their best self but find themselves struggling with "getting there". I work with those who may struggle with the following: self-doubt, people-pleasing, shame, guilt, overthinking, stress, anxiety, control, codependency, and perfectionism.

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

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with more than 17 years of experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families through a variety of life experiences and challenges. My practice is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and culturally responsive care. I provide a safe, supportive space to explore challenges, build insight, develop coping strategies, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for each individual person.

Hello and welcome to my practice! I believe that mind, body, and spirit are all interconnected. Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you are going. I am here as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in practice since 2012, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, and parenting. I am proud of you for taking the first step towards therapy. Change can be hard and taking this first step is not always easy. I aim to provide a safe, judgment free space to anyone looking for help and wanting positive change. We will address your thoughts and feelings at a pace that works best for you. My therapy style is supportive, reassuring, accepting, and genuine. In our therapeutic relationship, I will provide tools you need to reach your goals. You will do all the heavy lifting, but I will be here to support and encourage change.

Hello there my name is Blake and I look forward to getting to know and work with you. I've been fortunate enough to work with all age ranges for the past 8 years providing assistance to those struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidality, post-traumatic stress, as well as grief and loss. I enjoy working alongside my clients utilizing evidence-based techniques to improve the quality of life and reinstall a healthy and sustainable trajectory.

I believe that even in the middle of a crisis, there is a real opportunity for growth. My path began in the theater and the study of Method Acting. This discipline focuses on how internal experience drives outward behavior. I apply this "inside-out" perspective to help you align your internal reality with your external actions. My way of working has evolved over time. I attended top universities and training programs. I was mentored by experts in the origins of trauma, addictions, and relationship difficulties. This foundation allowed me to build a successful group practice in Orange County. During that time, I taught at UC Irvine, chaired the Professional Practice Committee of the Orange County Psychological Association, and sat on its Board of Directors. In the midst of this success, I experienced a personal crisis and divorce. This led me on my own journey of growth. I began an extensive study of Buddhism and meditation which now guides how I live. I spent seven years living in Asia, where I studied with monks and cared for villagers. What I offer now is an integration of strong academic training and Eastern teachings. My decision to become a psychologist grew from a desire to relieve suffering and transform challenges into opportunities for growth. I combine empirical psychological methods with the cultivation of an "awakened heart"—a state of genuine presence and social connection. I work to bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be

Hello, I'm Evelyn, an LCSW working with GROW, exclusively with online clients. If you are experiencing sadness, anxiety or frustration with your relationships, it's time to get the support you need. If you are seeking a therapist who creates a safe and supportive space for change, I think we might work well together. My background encompasses not only experience in clinical social work but also in the fields of nursing and music. I enjoy being inclusive and open in both my personal and professional life. I look forward to learning about you and working collaboratively to effect positive change in your life.

Hello and thank you for taking the time to read about me. My name is Emily Cortez and I am an LMFT in CA. It is my hope to connect with you in a warm, supportive space to help process and tackle the many challenges that life throws at us. I have been practicing in the field going on 5 years now and have experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjustment/life transitions, trauma, and grief/loss.

I’m a licensed therapist specializing in co-occurring mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and bipolar disorder and addiction/alcoholism. I work with individuals who feel stuck in cycles they genuinely want to break—whether that’s , unhealthy relationships or feeling overwhelmed. My approach is direct, compassionate, and grounded in real-life application. I draw from evidence-based modalities like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, but I focus just as much on helping you actually use these tools in your day-to-day life. Therapy with me isn’t just about insight—it’s about change, accountability, and building a better life. Clients often tell me I’m easy to talk to, honest without being harsh, and able to balance structure with flexibility. I’m not a “blank slate” therapist—I show up as a real person in the room, and I value authenticity on both sides. I’ll challenge you when needed, support you when it’s hard, and help you stay focused on your goals.

I believe therapy should be a space where you feel heard, understood, and comfortable being yourself. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, life transitions, and overwhelming emotions. My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. Together, we’ll explore what’s weighing on you, identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and develop practical tools to help you feel more confident and in control of your life.

I am a licensed bilingual clinical therapist who provides individual therapy for concerns such a depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, anger management , communication difficulties and life transitions. I also have experience supporting individuals who have experienced domestic violence and sexual abuse. My approach is collaborative, supportive and grounding in creating a safe space where you can show up as your authentic self.

Do you feel stuck, even though you’re capable and high-functioning? Are you searching for more meaning, clarity, or direction but aren’t sure where to begin? I specialize in helping motivated individuals move through blocks, gain insight, and create real, lasting change. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience supporting people in reaching their full potential. My approach is direct, practical, and holistic—integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, mindfulness, and structured goal-setting. I work collaboratively with clients who are ready to take action, using clear strategies and between-session practices to build momentum, shift patterns, and create a more aligned, purposeful life.

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 emotional blocks 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! I provide most therapy sessions through GROW’s secure Telehealth video platform for convenience and accessibility. For clients who prefer in-person care, I offer periodic sessions in the greater Sacramento area and South Lake Tahoe—especially for those interested in trauma-informed brainspotting or walk-and-talk nature therapy. As of September 2026, I do not accept medical insurance, but offer cash-pay options to cover the cost of therapy sessions.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's degree in Marriage in Family Therapy from USC (University of Southern California). I help adults navigate conflicts that may arise from cultural differences, such as generational gaps, cultural identity, family/relationship issues, and cultural/societal pressures by helping you utilize your values and goals to reconcile dilemmas and maintaining healthy relationships with yourself and others. I also help adults experiencing depression and anxiety by helping you challenge unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, behaviors as well as develop and utilize tools to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress that impact your day to day life.

Hi, I'm Dave Jaskolski, a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor. LMFT. I graduated from JFK University with a degree in Counseling and Transpersonal Psychology. I have worked at Antioch Children's Behavioral Health for over 26 years. I have worked with children, adolescents, and their families with serious symptoms and challenges such as: PTSD & trauma-related issues, ADHD/ learning disorders, and school-related IEPs, Self-harming/cutting/suicidal ideation and attempts, foster children, attachment issues, aggression/ anger issues. Autistic spectrum issues. I have taught and supervised interns in training to become therapists. I lead a Multi-Family Dialectical Behavior Therapy Group. I also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

Hi. I am the daughter of immigrants which motivated me to study Multicultural community based psychology. I have worked in many different settings from community mental health to private practice. Currently I am the director of a consultation unit for youth and young adults in the foster care system. I really enjoy working with people on how to maximize their potential to create happier lives; sometimes this is achieved through more traditional therapy while other times this may require life coaching. I do not believe that therapy needs to be a continuous life long process, but rather a process individuals move in and out of at different stages of their lives.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides individualized therapy for adult women. I help women navigate anxiety, stress, substance recovery, relationship concerns, self-esteem, boundaries, and life transitions while developing healthier patterns and greater confidence. I primarily work with adult women who are managing daily responsibilities while navigating life challenges. I am most comfortable supporting clients who are ready to reflect, build skills, and work toward personal growth.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) (LCPC) (LPC) (LMHC) licensed in various states. I received my Masters from Avila University in Kansas City and have been practicing for over a decade. I have helped women struggling with life problems and aid them in regaining control over worry, panic, fear, or dread in order to become the best version of themselves.

Sometimes, the most profound connections are formed when someone truly listens. I’m here to listen with care and understand what’s happening beneath the surface. My background in Clinical Psychology and nine years of experience as a therapist have allowed me to work deeply with trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also bring extensive experience with PTSD, complex family dynamics, relationship challenges, identity, and major life changes. I work with a wide range of clients and especially welcome lesbian and gay clients seeking support in these areas.

*I only work with individuals, no couples, no minors (under 18)* Trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, I am available to help clients navigate trauma, anxiety, relational issues, communication skills, depression, and stress management . As a first generation Eritrean American born and raised in the Bay Area, I struggled with a sense of belonging throughout my adolescence, often straddling the line between multiple identities and insecurities surrounding the idea of not being “American enough" and not being “African enough.” Early on in college, I took a psychology class that helped me further understand the human condition and its applications in my own life. I learned transformative concepts in terms of moods, relationships, and behaviors, prompting me to further pursue the field of psychology. Since then, I have taken it upon myself to get advanced training in various therapeutic approaches, which I believe help clients get the most out of their therapy experience.

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.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) fluent in both English and Spanish. With a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges, I have been dedicated to the mental health field since 2017, working with adults and children from diverse communities. I embarked on my journey in mental healthcare driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact in people's lives. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from California State University, Bakersfield, which equipped me with the knowledge and skills to provide effective therapy services.

My name is Chiwoo. I enjoy working with individuals who struggle with overthinking, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. As a recovering people-pleaser myself, I understand the challenge of being your authentic self while trying to meet other people's expectations. In therapy, I combine evidence-based approaches with my own healing journey to help you feel less alone, build self-trust, and live with more confidence.

Hi, I’m Brittnay. I am a licensed therapist providing culturally grounded, intersectional mental health support across California. As a Black, queer practitioner, my practice is rooted in the belief that healing happens when you can bring your entire, authentic self into the room. Navigating a world that often demands compliance can be exhausting. That is why I offer an unapologetic, trauma-informed space where your lived experiences as a QTBIPOC individual are not just understood, but honored. Together, we will work through life’s complexities without you ever needing to explain your basic identity. Whether you are looking to process minority stress, heal from trauma, or navigate relationships, I am here to walk alongside you. You do not have to do this work alone. Let's build a space where you can feel deeply seen, safe, and supported.

Hi! I'm James McLaughlin, I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. Located in the city of Temecula. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are looking for help navigating the challenges of life. I focus on getting to the core of what may be getting in the way of fulfillment and work actively and collaboratively to re-write your life story. I'm warm and welcoming. I believe everyone deserves compassion and a helping hand. I can also be direct and challenging. My goal is to create an environment to encourage growth and change. After working a career in sales and marketing, I pursued a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and became licensed as a Marriage & Family Therapist. Since then, I've helped populations cope with life's challenges such as trauma, addiction, grief, depression, and anxiety. My specialty is in helping people take control of the narratives of their own lives, to write the future they want to tell. In my spare time, I can usually be found running, wine tasting with my wife Sarah, and playing with my young son Dean, and dog, Noah.

Hello! I'm Alyssa and I'm so excited to be (potentially) working with you! I have always enjoyed helping others so I figured why not make a career out of it? I got my Bachelors in Psychology at Vanguard University and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. I've been working in a mental health center for the last 7 years and have been seeing individual clients for 4 years. I'm looking forward to getting to know you! I work primarily with those struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, depression, and trauma.

Hello - I am an LCSW serving the adult population in the state of California. I earned my MSW degree from San Jose State University and have been licensed for 12 years. I work with clients from a strength based perspective and offer knowledge/skills to support in increasing functioning and efficacy. I believe in mindfulness practices and making the most of each moment thus moving away from depressive and anxious thoughts. I also excel in increasing self esteem/compassion and improving relationships to self and others. I hope to see you on my schedule and look forward to working with you!

The most precious you can give to yourself is a little bit of your own attention. Life can get so busy and it's easy to become distracted by daily tasks. This makes it easy to loose sight of the most important person in your life....YOU! You are the most important project that you will ever work on and I am so glad that you are here. I have over 24 years of experience in the mental health industry and I am passionate about working with clients from all different backgrounds and life paths. I have experience working with a wide variety of ages from children to adolescents and adults. I also have experience working with with a variety of mental health diagnosis. It has been a blessing to have worked as a School Counselor for 22+ years, and know that it has provided me with a wealth of experience in so many areas with a large variety of clients with all different needs. I strive to meet my clients where they are and am passionate about helping them work on their goals. I have particularly enjoyed helping clients manage transition, trauma, depression, grief, adjustment, anxiety and parenting. I also am passionate about working with First Responders and their families. I have been part of a First Responder family for 27+ years, which has provided me with a wealth of information as well as compassion and commitment to serve this population.

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

Hello, I’m Kamron Poosti, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles. I specialize in addressing issues like anxiety, depression, dating, communication, relationships, burnout, and work-related stress. My client-centered approach offers tailored support to help you navigate your unique challenges and develop effective coping strategies. I’m dedicated to helping individuals from all walks of life achieve greater mental well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

My name is Jay Ruan, a licensed clinical social worker in State of California. Beyond my education, trainings, and working experiences, I am also have lived experience of struggling with mental health. This give me not only the knowledges, but also empathy and different perspective that are support and guide you in your journey toward restoring your true potential and overall wellness. I seek not to tell you where to go, but walk with you on your side. I believe that "unable to change" is trauma and live through experience that are not yet given the needed care and untangling. My approach is using the method that best address your need and situation. I often help client restore and build needed support in their life during time of change, interpersonal conflict, and grief & lost. After I work on addressing urgent issues, I want to help you build insight and deal with root of the issue that aim to produce long lasting recovery long after treatment ended. I am not here to solve your problem, but to guide and empower you to conquered them. (PLEASE NOTE APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE 4PM TO 11PM FROM SUNDAY TO THURSDAY ONLY)

As a bilingual (English and Mandarin) social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are and honoring their unique experiences. My experiences living across cultures and exploring different aspects of identity have shaped my appreciation for the diverse paths people take in life. Through our journey together, I will walk alongside you as you build resilience, deepen self-understanding, and develop practical tools for lasting growth and healing.

I’m Alexandra Irish, an LMFT and LPC with over a decade of experience working in the mental health field and six years of experience as a therapist. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of needs, including individuals involved in mental health and drug court programs, high school students, veterans, and clients in private practice. Over the past three years, I have focused on building my private practice with the goal of creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel supported, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. I started my private practice to create greater balance for my family while continuing to pursue my passion for providing compassionate, high-quality mental health care. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where clients can feel comfortable being themselves and working toward the life they want.

Hello and welcome to my page! While I'd like to say that I'm here to solve all of your problems, I am not. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe space for you to express your thoughts/feelings, gain insight and bravery so you can create the life you deserve by mitigating the intrusive thoughts and feeling of overwhelmness.

Hello/Hola, I am/soy Candy! It takes courage to address your emotional, spiritual and mental well-being. One of the hardest challenges in life is to discover a new path when you're feeling stuck. You have just taken the hardest step by seeking support from an experienced licensed mental health professional. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions or have experienced a traumatic event, I want you to know that you're not alone. I use tele-therapy to offer a safe, non-judgemental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings and underlying issues that may be contributing to your well-being. Se necesita de mucha valentía para lidiar con tu bienestar emocional, espiritual y mental. Uno de los desafíos más difíciles de la vida es descubrir un nuevo camino cuando nos sentimos estancados. Tu acabas de dar el paso más difícil al buscar el apoyo de una profesional de salud mental con experiencia. Si estás lidiando con ansiedad, depresión, estrés, transiciones de vida o has pasado por un evento traumático, quiero que sepas que no estás solo(a/x/e). Yo utilizo la terapia para ofrecer un espacio seguro y sin prejuicios donde podemos explorar tus pensamientos, sentimientos y problemas subyacentes que pueden estar influenciando tu bienestar.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PsyD) with extensive experience working in residential treatment, sober living, and private practice settings since 2010. My career began as an intern in an eating disorder residential program, later expanding into adolescent dual-diagnosis treatment. Alongside completing my doctorate in clinical psychology, I launched my private practice, where I continue to work with clients through Telehealth. I am passionate about helping people reach their full potential by embracing their strengths while learning to accept their vulnerabilities. My clients inspire me every day, and seeing their success stories fuels my dedication to this work.

I am an African American female Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Los Angeles. I have experience working with clients with issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, panic attacks, divorce, grief and loss, ODD, ADHD, Autism, sexual and physical abuse, crisis, childhood trauma, career challenges, life event changes, social skills, and self esteem. My specialty is working with adolescents and women specifically due to my professional background and personal experiences which I use to guide my practice. I am a expert in helping adolescents navigate the difficulties and challenges that come with transitioning into adulthood such as: identity formation, sexuality, family issues, peer pressure, and developing short and long term career goals. As a woman of color, I also have a special ability to connect, guide and support women struggling with various interpersonal and intrapersonal issues i.e self esteem, termination of a relationship, communication skills, career changes, sexism, intimate partner conflict or life’s obstacles due to systemic racism that may affect them in various aspects of their daily lives. My approach to therapy combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic/Person Centered counseling with a socially/ culturally competent and Trauma -Informed lens to help the client not only recognize their strengths, but also utilize existing support systems, develop new coping skills, effectively respond to crisis and empower the client/family/couple to recognize the solution to their problem already exist inside themselves. I am also a EMDR trained clinician. My personal mantra in counseling is “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” ~Norman Vincent Peale. I look forward to working with you

My name is Janine Porter Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based on the Central Coast and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I earned my BA in Communication Studies from Cal Poly and my MA in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychotherapy from Pacifica Graduate Institute. I work with individual adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, transitions, women’s issues, and trauma.

Hi! I'm Karen. I'm an LMFT in private practice for 10 years and a Psychiatric/Geriatric Registered Nurse of 34 years. I'm retired from the Army and the VA, including a deployment in 1991 for Desert Shield/Storm. I provide care via Telehealth and my practice is a mixture of different tools and techniques according to what I determine, with your help, is the best fit for you at the time. I'm a fan of complimentary medicine, which uses creative tools and techniques to add extra value and interest to your care (Cinematherapy, Bibliotherapy, Animal Assisted Therapy- live and robotic, to name a few).

I'm Lily, a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed therapist supporting mothers, parents and families through pregnancy, postpartum, and the identity shifts that come with both. My practice is fully telehealth, which means you can meet with me from wherever feels safest and most comfortable, your couch, your car during a nap window, wherever works. I just care about you showing up as you are. As a parent, human, 1st generation Latina, and someone who has lived through depression, postpartum struggles, and loss, I'm drawn to supporting others through situations that can be difficult to even put into words. My work is personal. Instead of seeing clients as a number, I hold space for the parts of life that are hard to process, heal, or acknowledge. My hope is to be part of a journey that doesn't just empower my clients, but also gives them tools and skills they can carry forward to navigate this journey we call life.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 6 years of clinical and professional work experience in the field of psychology. I am also the founder and president of Rafiki Wange Mental Health Services Corporation. I received my Ph.D from Walden University, and have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with clients going through life transitions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process.

Hello! I’m Sandra V. Chávez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Psychological Assistant with the California Board of Psychology. I’m passionate about helping individuals grow both personally and emotionally through client-centered, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapies. As a first-generation Latina, I learned ambition, tenacity, and determination from my parents. My educational journey includes dual bachelor’s degrees in Liberal Arts and Sciences and Psychology, as well as a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I’m currently on the path to becoming a licensed psychologist. Before entering the mental health field, I worked as a nurse and briefly attended medical school in Southern California. That experience deepened my interest in understanding the brain, human development, and the impact of environmental factors on behavior. I specialize in supporting clients through mood disorders, life transitions, and self-empowerment challenges. My strengths lie in helping individuals develop emotional intelligence, identify, and understand their emotions. I believe therapy should be tailored to each person’s unique needs, which is why I use an integrative, eclectic approach that draws from evidence-based methods and holistic practices, including mindfulness and positive psychology. I also enjoy working with individuals who incorporate their faith into their mental health journey. For those open to incorporating their faith as a tool for healing, I create a safe, welcoming space where spirituality and therapy work hand in hand. Above all, I value building a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental environment where your thoughts and emotions are respected and where real progress can be made. Together, we’ll explore strategies, assignments, and tools that help you overcome life’s hurdles and achieve lasting personal growth and fulfillment. Let’s begin this journey together!

I have been in the field for twenty six years and have learned to adjust to what the client is presenting in the session to achieve a sense of safety. I work with what the client is presenting and focus on how to guide the client to work through their presenting problem. I have had a history of working with a variety of clients and cultures. I started working in a therapeutic community with at risk adolescents. I later worked with court referred gang members. From there I worked with the homeless and the LGBTQ Community on addictions. I opened a private practice in a more suburban environment.

I listen and find your strengths to help you become the person you want to be. I am direct and hold you accountable as well as help you find forgiveness to heal and find the joy to lead you to a better life. I believe we all have the opportunity to overcome life's challenges but we must have the courage to ask for help. Sometimes asking for help can be scary and I want to provide you with a safe and honest space to create the life you deserve.

My practice centers on supporting women, with specialty care for adolescents. Many of the women I work with are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or major life transitions, and shifts in relationships, home, work, or family can leave them feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. I help clients understand what keeps them stuck, build practical coping skills, and move toward healing and resilience. I bring particular depth to trauma, grief, life transitions, and experiences connected to the child welfare system, including foster care and family disruption. As an Arabic-speaking therapist, I understand how much language and cultural connection matter in the healing process. My approach is warm, person-centered, and tailored to you, creating a space where you feel genuinely seen and heard, free from judgment. Whether you are carrying unresolved grief, managing anxiety or depression, or facing a major life change, I am here to walk alongside you. If you are ready to take the next step, I invite you to reach out so we can talk about how I can support you.