Therapists in California

My approach is solution focused. I am not primarily concerned with how or why your present challenge developed but will focus instead on helping you to find a way forward. I hope to elicit and reinforce your positive attributes and competencies and help you access your inner strength. Your ability to change or improve your situation depends on your desire to do so and my job is to awaken that desire within you. The biggest challenge all of us face is negative thinking. This is a reflection of our own disappointment of what we see when we look inside ourselves. By improving our self-image through accentuating our positive qualities we begin to see the world in a more positive light. A sure way of feeling better about ourselves is to find something good in every other human being. Note: I do not write letters or fill out forms regarding disability due to behavioral health issues.

As a black female school-based therapist, my dream client is one who approaches therapy with openness, honesty, and a willingness to engage in the process of self-discovery and growth. My dream client understands the importance of mental health and values the support that therapy can provide in navigating the challenges of adolescence. Ideally, my dream client is someone who is eager to explore their identity, including aspects of race, culture, and gender, in a safe and affirming space. They are open to discussing sensitive topics and are willing to challenge societal norms and expectations that may be impacting their well-being. My dream client is proactive in their approach to therapy, actively participating in sessions, completing assigned tasks or homework, and practicing coping skills outside of our sessions. They understand that therapy is a collaborative effort and are committed to working together to achieve their goals. Additionally, my dream client is respectful, compassionate, and empathetic towards others, fostering a sense of community and support within the therapeutic environment. They are open to learning from different perspectives and are willing to engage in discussions around social justice, equity, and inclusion. Overall, my dream client is someone who is committed to their personal growth and development, embraces their uniqueness, and values the power of therapy in fostering resilience and well-being.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Hi, my name is James, and I have a passion for working with couples, adults, and older adults who may be navigating challenges in their marriages, careers, retirement, or simply in “finding purpose.” My goal is to help you shape—or re-shape—your life in ways that raise the quality of your day-to-day experience. Since you are reading this, I want you to know that an effective therapist is not only defined by professional training, but also by life experiences, expertise, patience, compassion, and an open mind. Therapy is a partnership, and together we will work toward clear, realistic, and meaningful goals that give you direction and confidence. I believe that growth often begins with the willingness to take the first step, and one of my favorite sayings reflects that truth: “Whatever you believe that you can do; begin it!” – Goethe If you are ready to begin, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

https://sherryyamlcsw.com Hi, I am a trauma consultant who graduated from the University of Southern California, with years of culturally diverse EMDR therapy experience since 2011. My expertise is to tailor research-supported EMDR therapy with highly successful expat, AAPI professionals (e.g. Journalists, Actors, Scientists, Corporate Leaders, Producers, First Responders) who experience a Medical Related Trauma, Fear of Flying, Stage Fright, Phobia, Unprocessed Grief, car accidents, wild fires, War Trauma or Cultural Issues. I received my trauma training at the National Center for PTSD and the EMDR Trauma Recovery Humanitarian Assistance Program. In our society, we overlook the necessity of trauma work for our highly successful leaders. Many of my clients come to me are specifically looking for EMDR therapy to resolve barriers so they can be a better leader and find a better work-life balance. Others come to me for EMDR therapy after they tried talk therapy for years and didn’t see the progress they hope for.

My objective is to help people gain insight and live more peaceful lives and I believe all people have strength and resilience within them and I will work to assist you in finding yours. I have a Master's degree in Counseling from California State University Los Angeles, specializing in school-based family counseling and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I work with individuals to help them function better within the complex systems of family and society. I have experience working as a psychiatric social worker with a diverse spectrum of people struggling with issues ranging from acute psychotic episodes to addiction, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR.

Hi! I am an LMFT based in California, more specifically the Bay Area. I am a father of two beautiful girls (#girldad), an avid golfer, and blackbelt in Brazilian Jiujitsu. I have been working in mental health and performance coaching for over 10 years. My passion is to help athletes and their parents find strategies to balance the demands of their sport and other areas of their life that they may be struggling with. I especially love working with fathers trying to engage their fatherhood in new ways.

Hello there, I’m Lus. Do you miss feeling like yourself? Does it feel like you are going around in circles with the same problems yet can’t seem to find a permanent solution? I guide adults from a person-centered approach to find solutions to their problems when experiencing difficult feelings such as those that come with depression and anxiety. I can help you work through major life transitions (newly married, becoming a parent, empty nester, starting school, grief, becoming ill, divorce, etc.) getting to the root of the problem and developing cognitive behavioral techniques that will get you back to stability. Obtaining therapy services can be intimidating but I can guarantee you that you are making the right decision. I possess bilingual abilities (Spanish), if it's your preference. You deserve your own space to heal and evolve. During our sessions, you will have a safe space where I will meet you with empathy and evidence-based practice. Let me help you.

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) currently living in Pennsylvania, but was born and raised in California (Bay Area). I have been practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist for 19 years, and am licensed in both states. I find therapy rewarding at all ages, but specifically enjoy working with adults and families. My goal is to help you build up the confidence you need to be successful.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW118953) in the state of California with over 8 years of experience working with individuals of various ages and backgrounds. I utilize culturally sensitive therapy techniques and incorporate a person-centered approach into the work I do with clients. I am trained in a variety of therapy modalities and utilize an integrative approach with Psychodynamic, Narrative, Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Most importantly, my approach is collaborative and tailored to the specific needs of the client, recognizing that everyone is unique in their own experience. I provide a warm and empathetic space where we can explore your emotions and experiences together. I utilize both lived experience and clinical training to work through emotions and issues I support clients through. Witnessing resilience and growth in each client is a privilege, and my goal is to empower you to define your path towards self-discovery and acceptance. My career path choice stems from being a first-generation bicultural Latina in Los Angeles. Having lived in my home country of Nicaragua for over 9 years, I learned first hand the amount of stigma that remains in the Latinx community surrounding mental health. My goal is to be a social agent of change for the Latinx community by providing high quality services that break down stigma barriers and will positively impact generations to come.

I aim to support individuals, couples and groups to connect with and express their true selves. With a solid relationship with ourselves and our support systems we are able to overcome many of lifes challenges. Unfortunately, a lot is out of our control, but I like to highlight our strengths in recognizing what is in our control and take back our own power to live the life we want and deserve.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's degree from California State University, Fresno, and my Doctorate from Walden University in Minnesota. With 18 years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their emotional and relational challenges to lead more fulfilling lives. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on empowering my clients with the tools they need to achieve their personal and interpersonal goals.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and California, and I show up in therapy as a real person first. I know how important it is to have a space where you can be seen and understood without judgment. My style is warm, honest, and down-to-earth. I don’t use labels to define you. I listen, reflect, and walk with you through whatever challenges you’re facing. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, or shame, I help you untangle what feels heavy so you can move toward healing and peace.

I am a very straightforward, direct clinician. I work best with motivated clients who may not have the answers but are ready and willing to do the work. I have significant experience working with clients at all levels of care in substance use and mental health treatment. I enjoy untangling ruptures and attachment styles to provide insight around what the underlying issues you are currently struggling with. I am proud and excited to launch my private practice to focus on this client base.

Hi! My name is Araceli and I graduated with my masters in counseling 17 yrs ago. I have worked in all type of settings from hospice, suicide prevention, trauma, etc. My passion has always been working with individuals who are struggling to find themselves after the loss of a loved one (this might even include a pet). I am bilingual; I speak fluent in English and Spanish, and being able to work with the Spanish speaking community would be a pleasure.

I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of Texas, California and Florida. I hold a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. My baccalaureate studies included Human Development and Christian Ministry. I am an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Air Force. I specialize in counseling adolescents and adults with mood disorders, anxiety, depression and traumatic experiences.

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida, and I’ve been supporting individuals on their healing journeys for over 17 years. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. I have extensive clinical experience in working in medical settings alongside doctors, nurses, psychiatrist, clinicians, and other medical staff in an integrative approach to mental health care. I am licensed in different states as a clinician and as a clinical supervisor. I’m passionate about helping clients discover their strengths, build effective coping tools, and find renewed hope for the future. My approach is personalized and collaborative—I meet you where you are and tailor our work to support your unique goals. Whether you're feeling stuck, navigating life changes, or simply looking for more satisfaction and balance, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll identify what’s most important to you and work toward lasting personal and relational growth. If you’re ready for change or just need a supportive space to explore what’s next, I’d love to work with you. Let’s get started—you don’t have to do this alone.

Hi, I’m Kendal McDowell and I have years of experience working with teens and older, with a primary focus on working with college students and college athletes. Having been a college athlete myself, I'm familiar with the joys and stressors of collegiate life. College can be an exciting and eye opening experience, but sometimes it can also open our eyes to some things within ourselves or those around us we may not have noticed before.

In my role as a mindfulness-based therapist, I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that is nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to delve into their inner workings with a sense of compassion and empathy. I emphasize the importance of being fully present in the current moment and embracing a mindset of acceptance without criticism in my therapeutic approach. Furthermore, I prioritize guiding clients toward cultivating a deep sense of self-compassion and understanding, recognizing these as fundamental elements for personal advancement and emotional reconciliation. By integrating mindfulness techniques and meditation practices, I actively assist clients in developing an enhanced self-awareness and fostering a compassionate outlook on their experiences.

I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.