Therapists in California

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical social worker (LCSW) in California. I received my master's in social work from the California State University, San Bernardino and have been practicing for 7 years. My focus has been on helping individuals that struggle with feeling like they are not enough, grief, anxiety, and depression reframe and reclaim their lives.

I am a seasoned and dedicated therapist, holding a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and I am based in California. With 15 years of experience in this field, my practice is driven by a profound commitment to assisting individuals in their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. My therapeutic approach centers around meeting my clients right where they are in their lives, offering them a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I am deeply passionate about nurturing self-understanding, self-compassion, and self-love, guiding individuals to embrace these qualities as they navigate life's challenges. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of moving away from self-criticism and self-blame, recognizing these patterns as hindrances to personal well-being. Instead, I work collaboratively with my clients to foster self-acceptance and self-compassion, empowering them to build healthier relationships with themselves and others. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to help individuals discover their inner strengths, enhance their self-awareness, and develop the tools they need to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. It's a privilege and a passion of mine to assist others on their journey towards greater self-acceptance and emotional well-being.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 23 years of experience in psychotherapy. I hold a Master's degree in Social Work and dual MBAs in Finance and Cybersecurity. Based in California, my practice has been enriched by my extensive travels and a deep appreciation for nature and hiking. I have had the privilege of working with a diverse population, providing tailored psychotherapy to meet a wide range of mental health needs. My approach is informed by a blend of professional expertise and personal insights, aiming to offer compassionate, effective care to each of my clients.

I specialize in trauma, depression and anxiety. I have worked in many therapeutic settings, with individuals experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I enjoy working with individuals that are motivated to engage in deep self-reflection, seeking understanding of past experiences and their impact on current struggles and committed to healing and growth, showing a readiness to work through difficult emotions and patterns in order to create lasting change.

Hello potential clients! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Sacramento, CA. My naturally altruistic personality has led me to a career I love. Whether you are experiencing difficulty understanding and experiencing your emotions or if you simply don't understand why you are seeking help and would like help defining your need, kudos to you for taking the first step to seek support. I have experience in facilitating positive change and helping clients discover and live in their authentic selves. It is amazing how this form of support alleviates symptoms perpetuated by anxiety, depression, anger, unresolved trauma, relationship issues, gender, sexual preferences, racial tensions, life stage changes and other stressors. It is very important, for me, that we develop a positive therapuetic relationship on a strong foundation rooted in honesty and trust. I advocate for self-empowerment within my clients helping them discover the power, strength, and control they hold within themselves. In return, I ask for commitment to the work so we can operate as a successful team.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My passion for counseling started in 6th grade where I was nominated to be a peer counselor and I saw the power of how communication, active reflective listening and conflict resolution could shift relationships. I grew up in a chaotic household and studying psychology helped me to develop compassion, empathy and understanding where there was profound pain. My own experience with trauma, depression and anxiety helps me to understand clients from a lived perspective.

As a licensed therapist of more than thirty years, I have the experience and expertise to work with clients on a variety of issues. I provide a safe therapeutic environment that builds trust and openness. Clients who engage in the counseling process discover new energy for life and relationships. This results in positive change and increased self-awareness. I’m actively involved in the sessions, providing guidance, structuring interventions, and setting goals. Positive change happens one step at a time, trusting that life can get better. I also have expertise in anger management/domestic violence treatment.

Hi, I'm a licensed mental health therapist based in California, and I've had the privilege of working with individuals for the past seven years. My passion lies in helping adults navigate through the different seasons and challenges of life, with the goal of empowering them to live a fulfilling and balanced life. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on working with individuals who struggle with anxiety and depression—two of the most common yet often misunderstood mental health challenges. I understand that these issues can feel overwhelming and isolating, but I also believe that with the right support and guidance, it’s possible to find a path toward healing and wholeness. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that each person is unique, and therefore, deserves a personalized and compassionate approach. I integrate various therapeutic techniques tailored to your specific needs, combining evidence-based practices with a holistic understanding of mental health. In our work together, my hope is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your feelings, identify patterns that may be holding you back, and develop new strategies for coping and thriving. Whether you’re dealing with the pressures of everyday life, navigating a major life transition, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to walk alongside you. Ultimately, my goal is to help you not just survive, but truly thrive. I believe in your potential to live a whole and healthy life, and I’m committed to being a partner in your journey toward greater mental and emotional well-being. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support you in achieving the life you desire.

Hello! I am a License Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master of Social Work from California State University Long Beach. I received my BA in Psychology degree from California Stated University Fullerton. I have been practicing mental health counseling for 17 years. I help adolescents, adults and older adults struggling with careers, stress and burnout, traumatic life events, experiencing depression and anxiety to be able to function as normal as they can be.

Greetings. I’m David Joel Miller, licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Professional Clinical Counselor. Before entering private practice, I worked as a substance abuse counselor and for my local County Behavioral Health. I specialize in helping clients navigate life’s transitions and overcome depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. After working as a substance abuse counselor and then a marriage and family therapist, I also completed the requirements for licensure as a professional clinical Counselor. I am also a certified life coach. I think of myself as an indoor mountain climber. I don’t like getting out in the cold and rain, but I do like taking on new challenges. I read a great deal and have learned a lot, but I continue to learn more things each day. Like most people my age, I have the frustrations of coping with technology. But one of my interns taught me how to answer texts, and now my younger family friends are teaching me how to use iPads and streaming videos. I hope that these experiences give me some insight into how things are changing and how some things don’t change at all. I’d like to accompany you as you try to work through your life challenges.

I work with adults navigating anxiety, stress, self-esteem concerns, depression, and the impact of trauma. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore thoughts, emotions, and patterns with honesty and curiosity. My approach integrates CBT and DBT to build practical coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen communication, while also incorporating Jungian-oriented insight to deepen self-understanding and meaning. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, self-aware, and empowered, supporting lasting change, clarity, and emotional balance.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been practicing for 15 years. In the past 7 years, I have engaged in doing short-term, goal-oriented therapy with adults. I have always thought that individuals (especially adults that seek out therapy willfully) have in them the potentials to rethink their situation and work towards resolving their concerns when provided the appropriate tools allowing them to clearly see and identify what their objective is at that time.

Providing online therapy throughout California, I work with adults of all ages who find themselves feeling stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, defeated, or frustrated in their experience of daily life and relationships. Having a safe and confidential space to talk about how you're really doing, where all your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be shared and accepted without judgement is an important step in healing past hurts and growing into the person you'd like to become.

Hello! My name is Brigit Jacoby and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide clients a therapeutic guide to healing, developing tools to navigate life’s challenges as well as build on what is currently working. My therapeutic approach is heavily dependent on what my clients bring to session including managing Anxiety, Depression and working on balancing personal and work relationships.

Finding a place where you can be completely honest about how you’re doing shouldn't be so difficult. I’m Elizabeth, and I help people navigate the deeper, more complex parts of their lives that often feel hard to put into words. I believe that the challenges you’re facing today are usually connected to a larger story. Whether you are dealing with the long-term effects of trauma, the weight of life changes, or a persistent feeling that something is 'off,' I’m here to help you make sense of it. My goal is to move beyond just managing symptoms so we can understand and address the root causes of your distress.

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in the counseling field for over 20 years. Through my years of experience, I have helped adults, young adults, adolescence, and children to manage anxiety, depression, stress, and family related conflicts. As a therapist My passion is and has been to help individuals become the best versions of themselves.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of over twenty years and have worked with a variety of patients across multiple specialties. I also have a master's degree in Public Health. I've worked in medical social work, with patients in oncology, physical rehabilitation and dialysis. In this way, I have a robust understanding of both the physical and mental aspects of my clients.

Hi! I'm Nancy Strong, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my masters degree from the University of Oklahoma and have been practicing for approximately 25 years. I help children, teens and adults. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their future. Lets be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to ADHD, PTSD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, anxiety, depression, anger and stress /self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life.

Hello, my name is Ritika Kaur. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California (License #101199) providing psychotherapy services in English and Punjabi. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help individuals navigate life's challenges and find hope, healing, and well-being. I was drawn to the mental health field by a deep desire to help others overcome adversity and lead fulfilling lives. After earning my Master's in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2011, I gained diverse experience in community mental health, substance use treatment, and providing evidence-based services before becoming licensed in California in 2017. For new clients, completion of the intake form is required to secure your initial appointment. I will reach out via message and/or phone (if unable to get a response via message) to confirm, and if the intake form remains uncompleted or the appointment is not confirmed within 48 hours, I will unfortunately have to cancel the appointment and provide a referral. Updated Policy Details:  Intake Requirement: Please ensure all intake documents are completed prior to our session. Confirmation Process: I will send follow-up messages and /or make a phone call to confirm your booking. Cancellation Policy: Failure to confirm or complete paperwork will result in cancellation and referral to another provider.  Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring a smooth start to our work together.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, grief, or anger? As a compassionate therapist, I am here to support you through life's challenges. I specialize in helping clients navigate depression, cope with loss, and manage anger effectively. Together, we will set realistic goals and identify your unique strengths to foster resilience and personal growth. My friendly, professional approach creates a safe space for you to explore your feelings and develop practical strategies. You don't have to face these difficulties alone; let's work together to find clarity, healing, and renewed hope on your journey toward well-being.

As a therapist with a curiosity about what makes humans tick and my own struggles with mental health, I understand how one’s experiences shape our mental health and how we strive to have hope to cope. My own pursuit of healing and Chinese-American background has inspired me to combine culture with therapy, offering relatable care that embraces our brokenness and yet, finds strength in our weaknesses. I deeply enjoy having deep conversations about challenges like cross-cultural identity issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions because I know how important it is to have an accepting professional that can offer an objective viewpoint with unconditional positive regard.

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in southern California. I work with individual adults only, utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) in treating those suffering from single trauma events. I also do a lot of relational work assisting with learning how to set healthy boundaries and prioritize your values in relationships. Areas of treatment: Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors/Adjustments, Relational issues, Trauma/PTSD.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a decade of experience specializing in treating individuals struggling with substance use disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. I work with dual-diagnosis clients, where I provide therapy to clients facing complex challenges, including addiction, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic therapy, family and couples therapy, and interpersonal relationships helping clients uncover the underlying emotional and relational patterns that contribute to their struggles.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specializing in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship dynamics. I create a warm, compassionate space where clients can feel truly heard and supported as they navigate their challenges. Together, we work to build resilience, develop practical coping strategies, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-worth. My goal is to empower you with the tools to move forward with confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of hope.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology Counseling from Mt. ST. Mary's University in Los Angeles and have been practicing for 15 years. I facilitate insight into problematic issues in your life transition towards a life worth living. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I help recognize unhealthy patterns of thoughts and behaviors.

Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 14 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."

Hi! I'm Jordan, a California and Florida Licensed Mental Healthcare Practitioner and I'm glad you're here. I am a compassion focused and evidence-based clinician specializing in treating clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. Using a combination of effective therapies I help clients like you develop, understand, and accomplish their therapeutic goals. In California, I currently hold contracts with and am accepting new clients for: Kaiser NorCal, Aetna, Carelon, Cigna, and Anthem. In Florida I hold contracts with and am accepting new clients for: Aetna and Ambetter.

Hello, I'm Samantha a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy to adolescents and adults throughout California and Oregon. I specialize in supporting clients who are managing stress, navigating life transitions, and coping with anxiety. Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether you’re adjusting to a new role, facing uncertainty, or dealing with persistent worry. You don’t have to navigate it alone. I offer a supportive space where you can slow down, reflect, and begin to make sense of what you’re experiencing. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. I believe therapy works best as a partnership—one where your voice is valued and your experiences are respected. Together, we’ll explore what’s been weighing on you and identify practical, realistic tools that align with your lifestyle and personal goals. Because no two individuals experience stress or anxiety in the same way, I tailor each session to meet your unique needs. I strive to create a safe, welcoming environment where you can show up as your authentic self. My goal is to help you gain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and build the confidence needed to move forward with intention. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating space to grow, heal, and take meaningful steps toward the life you want.

My name is Emilie Crist and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from Fresno State with a Bachelor of Science in Special Studies Pre-Public Health and attained my Master’s of Art in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide. I have worked in community health and private practice and have a broad range of knowledge and experience that I am able to apply to my work as a clinician. I look forward to helping you on your healing journey to find deeper meaning and a better understanding of yourself to reach your full potential.

I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University. Although I have a doctorate degree, my scope of practice does not fall under psychological testing, pharmacological practices, nor community services. I only do individual therapy so if you need case management (such as letters), family/couples therapy, psychologicial testing, or medication, please refer to those licensed or practicing in those areas.

Hello and welcome! I'm so glad you have taken the steps towards self-improvement, and hope this will be a good match. I have worked in various settings over the last 10 years from school-based therapy, juvenile detention, group private practice and now telehealth. I enjoy working with a wide population, including individuals, couples and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and BiPolar II disorder to name a few. *I am currently NOT accepting couple sessions who have any type of Medi-cal as their insurance*

Welcome to my profile and the start of your wellness journey. I am Ashlyn Lance, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California (LMFT 91205). I graduated with a Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University. I received advanced training in Intimate Partner Violence and Domestic Violence Intervention. I have been licensed as an MFT in the state of California since 2015 and has been involved in supervising and collaborating with pre-licensed associates since 2017. I consider my approach to be eclectic and draw from what best suits the client's needs. I am certified in CBT, DBT, and Trauma-focused treatment.

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 am, Valeh Bahram-Soltani, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have worked in this field for approximately 20 years. I work with a diverse range of clients, from children to adults, including LGBTQ individuals, at-risk youth, military and law enforcement families, single parents, and families navigating divorce or justice system involvement. I take pride in using evidence-based practices while honoring each person's unique story. My own experiences with mental health and witnessing the need for compassionate, effective care inspired me to become a therapist. I wanted to be part of creating positive change in this field. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral methods, but I adapt my approach to fit your unique needs. Flexibility is key—I believe therapy should meet you where you are and support the changes you want to make. My experience includes working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. My areas of focus include anxiety, grief, depression, divorce, trauma, family conflict, relationship issues, school challenges, military family experiences, and LGBTQ concerns.

I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist who focuses on creating a safe, supportive space where people can explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. My approach blends evidence-based practices with genuine connection to help clients build insight, resilience, and confidence. My style is collaborative and empathetic, communicating in a way that feels grounding and approachable. This combination makes clients feel both heard and guided.

Let’s face it—today’s world can feel like trying to navigate the increasingly complicated system at Disneyland that used to feel so easy but now feels impossibly exclusive. Anxiety, uncertainty, frustration, and stress are natural responses to the chaos around us, and if you're feeling overwhelmed, you're definitely not alone. I get it—I’ve been there too. I have a holistic approach to help you not only understand what you're going through, but to navigate it with more clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll explore the root of your challenges and develop practical strategies that will help you find your way to a place of flourishing—no special app required!

Hello and welcome! Thank you for taking the time to read a little about me. I've been in the field of working with people for 15 years. I've worked with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings including in-home, school, telehealth, and crisis response. The main goal of my work is ensuring client integrity, safety, and an honest working relationship. I like to tell my clients that it's like going on a road trip; you're driving the bus and I'm in the passenger seat helping with directions. If we miss a turn or take a detour, I'm here to help you get back on track. Ultimately you have control of where you want to go and how you get there. If this is your first time considering therapy, or you are having to look for a new provider, I understand it can be overwhelming. I want to assure you, I'm here to make the experience as easy as possible. If we meet and you find that we're not a good fit, please continue your search. It's so important to feel comfortable with the person you choose. A therapeutic relationship is vital in helping you reach your goals. You want to be able to "vibe" with your provider, whoever it may be.

Hi! It’s nice to meet you, and I’m glad you’re considering therapy. My name is Elisa and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who values authenticity, strong rapport, and a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. I bring experience working across school-based, residential, and outpatient settings, which has shaped a flexible, grounded style that allows me to meet clients where they are in their healing process. I focus on creating a space that feels warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental from the very beginning. My goal is to help you build confidence, better understand your emotions, and feel supported as you move toward meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.

I work with individuals seeking meaningful change, greater clarity, and a stronger sense of self. My approach is grounded in warmth, empathy, and the ability to meet clients where they are—supporting them in feeling seen, understood, and empowered as they navigate life’s challenges. My work is informed by more than 60 years of life experience, both professional and personal, which brings depth, perspective, and authenticity to the therapeutic process. After several careers and at age 50—supported by ten years of sobriety—I felt called to create a more fulfilling and intentional life. Through my own work in therapy and career counseling, I chose to return to school and build the life and practice I have today. This journey continues to shape my compassion, insight, and respect for the courage it takes to pursue growth and healing. I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Santa Clara University in California. In alignment with California requirements for licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I completed 3,000 supervised clinical internship hours at Almaden Valley Counseling Agency in San Jose, where I worked with individuals, couples, families, and children. This experience strengthened my ability to work across the lifespan and address a wide range of personal, relational, and emotional concerns.

I work with adults and adolescents who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or worn down by anxiety, depression, life changes, or relationship stress. My approach is compassionate, honest, and collaborative—blending practical tools with real connection. Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to hold everything together. We move through what you’re carrying at your pace, focusing on building clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self so you can feel more grounded and supported in your everyday life.

I knew I wanted to be a therapist from a young age. I received my MSW from UCLA in 2006 and became an LCSW in 2011. I have worked with children, tweens, teens and adults. I am drawn to CBT and EMDR because of its emphasis on creating positive cognitions and its potential to empower clients to take control of their lives. My experiences with individuals dealing with the generational cycle of trauma have solidified my desire to help others navigate their own struggles and find lasting well-being.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth services to children, adolescents, and adults across California. As a bilingual therapist fluent in Spanish, I have extensive experience supporting clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and deeply value culturally responsive care. I earned my Master of Science in Counseling, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, from California State University, Los Angeles, where I also completed my Bachelor of Arts in Child Development. My education and clinical training provided a strong foundation in evidence based practices, lifespan development, and relational dynamics, which continue to guide the way I support my clients. I work with individuals and families navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, and relationship stress. I support children and adolescents in strengthening emotional regulation and coping skills, while helping adults manage stress, burnout, and personal growth with greater confidence and clarity. I believe meaningful change begins with connection. I meet each client where they are, creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and respected. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, focused on building resilience, increasing self awareness, and helping you develop practical tools that you can use in your everyday life. I offer flexible virtual sessions designed to fit into your schedule while providing accessible, high quality care.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 12 years of professional experience. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and a wide range of adult mental health concerns. I work with individuals navigating stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and experiences of abuse, as well as challenges related to self-esteem, motivation, and self-worth. I support clients who are coping with major life transitions, caregiver stress, illness, disability, workplace challenges, and communication difficulties in relationships. I also help individuals work through feelings of guilt and shame, isolation and loneliness, questions of life purpose, midlife concerns, forgiveness, self-love, and women’s issues. Using evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I help clients better understand their emotional patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and build resilience. My approach is compassionate and individualized, and I strive to create a supportive space where adults can heal, grow, and move toward greater clarity, confidence, and emotional well-being.

I have been licensed for 35 years. I received my degree in clinical psychology from George Fox University. I specialize in PTSD, depression and anxiety. I use EMDR and CBT to address trauma. I enjoy helping people discover stories they have been living that no longer work for them. Hope is an essential quality to have as you embrace new narratives and ways of being in the world. I am committed to honesty and compassion as you discover new ways of being. I employ a style that is relational and collaborative. Faith has been an important part of my journey and I am comfortable incorporating that into your work if you desire.

I’m Dr. Deanna Mercado, a Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience walking alongside individuals, couples, and families in their healing journeys. My work is grounded in depth psychology, which means we look beyond surface symptoms to explore the underlying emotional patterns, relational wounds, cultural narratives, and unconscious dynamics shaping your life. I believe many struggles , anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, identity questions, or life transitions , are invitations to deeper understanding. In our work together, we will gently explore your personal history, family stories, and internal world to uncover meaning, strengthen self-awareness, and restore connection to your authentic self. My approach is reflective, relational, and culturally attuned. I hold space for the complexities of identity, ancestry, and lived experience, recognizing that healing happens not only within the individual, but in relationship to culture, community, and the larger story of your life.

I am currently providing psychotherapy services in both English and Spanish in person and via Telehealth in California. As a strength-based clinician, I have had the opportunity and privilege to assist people in bringing stability and healing to their lives by helping them find and recognize their inner strengths and apply them in their daily lives. I employ an in-depth therapeutic approach to provide short-term and effective symptom reduction. I also focus on Affirmative Therapy, advocating for the needs of sexual and gender minority patients. Additionally, for longer-term treatment, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have most of my experience working in inpatient medical settings ranging from ICU, hospice, emergency room, and much more. My goal is to support patients' medical challenges, transitions in life, as well as dealing with chronic medical conditions. I use a variety of modalities working with a diverse clientele depending on their individual needs, including crisis interventions, CBT, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and strengths-based interventions

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. I value therapy as being a collaborative process and strive to create a warm, welcoming and non-judgmental environment for my clients. I use a holistic approach and aim to be culturally sensitive, catering to each individuals’ unique worldview. Through therapy, my goal is to help clients feel empowered and validated so they can increase self-efficacy, decrease problematic symptoms, gain insight and self-awareness and learn how to heal in order to have a more positive life experience. I use a strength- based, person centered approach. I am interested in helping people who struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, self-esteem issues, emotional disturbances (including anger management concerns), and/or are trying to cope with situational life stressors. I use a blend of compassion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy as well as a solution focused model where appropriate.

I launched my practice for the purposes of helping clients increase self-compassion and build resilience in the face of adversity. We all find ourselves stuck at times and taking the step to start therapy is a radical act of self care. Through consistent support we can move beyond surviving to truly thriving. By first accepting who we are and processing our experience, we then are able to create change and can live more intentionally.

I earned my doctorate and post-graduate master's degrees in psychology and my master's degree in counseling from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Professionally, I retired from the United States Air Force as a senior non-commissioned officer, and since retiring, have worked in several different behavioral health settings. In addition to my private practice, I am a graduate-level adjunct professor of counseling psychology.