Independence Personal Choice 65 Ppo Therapists in San Diego, CA

My name is Dr. Perynn D'Alba and I am a clinical psychologist. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to make changes. These can be big or small, this is your life and your time, I am here to help you figure out what isn't working quite right. I enjoy being creative in my interventions and really figuring out what will work best for you. I use humor where appropriate because it can be an important intervention and give space to dig deeper. I have had various jobs in my life in quite a few different fields but the common thread was that I enjoy empowering others and helping people figure out what they want and how to get that.

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.

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).

Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.

I’m Kasi Barkawi-Buck, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting adults through life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. I provide a warm, collaborative space where clients can explore emotions, strengthen coping skills, and work through stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, and past trauma. My goal is to help individuals build resilience, deepen self-understanding, and create a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Hello, my name is Asher and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist that specializes in trauma, addiction and anxiety disorders. I specialize in working with children ages 10-18 years of age. I also specialize in working with adults with an emphasis on memory and aging disorders. I am a brainspotting practitioner which is a trauma/anxiety treatment in the same family of EMDR.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in the local San Diego community for over 25 years. For the past 24 years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I believe everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up. I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in children and adolescents as well as adults who have experienced trauma related to abuse, car accidents and/or witnessing and being exposed to life-threatening situations. I also specialize in treating individuals who identify as Neurodivergent and/or have specific learning differences.

I specialize in helping clients break out of codependency and being stuck in repetitive cycles of behavior by addressing self-sabotage, low self-esteem, and developing self-sufficiency. I focus on helping you understand and manage your physical responses to the world, which leads to managing overstimulation and emotions. You'll develop a sense of control and understanding of your experiences, finding freedom from impulsivity and overwhelm so you can feel calmer and make more intentional, healthy choices. I work with individual adults (18+) only. I do not see couples, minors, or families. Specialties: -Individuation & identity development -Codependency & relationship patterns -Life transitions & life stage challenges -Boundaries, self-worth & people-pleasing -Self-discovery & personal growth -Anxiety related to change & uncertainty

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor with experience in the mental health field dating back to 2014. I received my training providing crisis care at the Community Research Foundation (i.e. crisis houses), Bayview Crisis Stabilization Unit (affiliated with Paradise Valley Hospital, Kaiser and Horizon Adult Daycare Center. In those roles, I gained experience working with kids 3 and up, adolescence, couples and adults. I have experience using various modalities: Trauma Informed Care, Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (just to name a few). I received my Masters of Science from SDSU. I received my Bachelors from St. Mary's College of Maryland.

My name is Isai (E-sai-EE), and I’m a Therapist based out of Southern California. I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds. My training as a social worker focuses on individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. My professional interests and specialities include working with teens, young adults, older adults, family therapy, and those who struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relationship issues, men’s issues, autism, anger management, and those with difficulty understanding/controlling big emotions. As a male therapist, I try to make my sessions feel like a conversation with a friend and offer a calm space to talk about difficult issues, a new perspective to help better understand situations, and can help you identify and understand how you might be feeling.

*My Expertise: Chronic Pain Recovery/Nervous System Recovery, not general mental health. I'm Dr. Les Aria, a pain psychologist with over 23 years of experience helping people understand and recover from chronic pain. I specialize in the neuroscience of pain — how the brain and nervous system learn pain, and more importantly, how they can unlearn it. My work draws from Polyvagal Theory, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mind-body medicine. I offer both individual therapy and group-based pain recovery programs.

Hello! I’m Ignacio. I am a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) based in Monterey, California that truly enjoys helping clients overcome life struggles. While English is my primary language, I also speak Spanish fluently. I have worked with clients that have different life experiences including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, recovery from break-ups, identity issues, and other challenges. I am also welcoming to LGBTQIQ folx as an ally and I am gender-affirming. I am bicultural (Mexican-American) and bilingual (Spanish). The clients I have served in the past have benefited from the way in which I do therapy and help them overcome the difficulties in their lives to help them live and enjoy life more. I use science-backed (EBT) methods to help my clients including CBT, MI, and Mindfulness.

Hi there, I'm Edward, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a diverse background in my years working in the mental health field which includes having two Masters in Social Work and Criminal Justice. I have worked with families, individuals, and couples, with issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, thought disorders, and emotional disturbances. I have worked in a variety of different settings that have helped me develop a unique skill set in addressing overall mental health. Some examples include outpatient/inpatient care, hospice, the prison system, and the education system. My approach is collaborative and I strive to make my patients feel understood and heard throughout the process. I often explain to them that even though I may be the professional, they are the professionals of their own lives and it's just an honor to play a small part in supporting them.

I am extremely passionate about empowering individuals and therapists/associates to heal and live their best, most authentic lives. I strongly believe that each and every individual, regardless of background, ability, or beliefs, should have a safe space where they can feel comfortable being their true self. I know that sitting across from someone with similar experiences can help to build trust and promote connection, and am therefore deeply committed to holding space for womxn and people of color.

My name is Nadine and I was born and raised in Iran, went to high school in England and came to the US when I was 16. Having lived in three different countries, I am very familiar with how culture affects individuals. I have a sense of humor and enjoy meeting people from different walks of life. Every individual that I meet, has a different story. I am here to listen

Life can feel overwhelming when past experiences continue to show up as anxiety, stress, or emotional exhaustion. You may notice patterns that don’t make sense, feel stuck in survival mode, or carry a heaviness you can’t quite name. Therapy offers a space to slow down, understand what’s beneath the surface, and begin responding to life with more clarity and self-compassion. You don’t have to navigate difficult seasons alone—healing is possible, and support can make the path forward feel more steady and manageable. I also work in afternoons and evenings to ensure everyone gets a chance to be seen.

Hello! I’m Yasaman Sharifi, Licensed Family and Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), a dedicated mental health professional with a passion for helping individuals navigate their challenges through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With a focus on fostering self-awareness and resilience, I work collaboratively with clients to identify and reshape negative thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve their personal therapy goals. I address the roots and underlining issues to assist individual with faster recovery with the current problems. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I am here to provide a supportive and empowering environment for your growth and healing. Let’s embark on this journey together!

Sometimes we get to a point in our lives where the way we were doing things is no longer working, and something has to change. Do you feel like you're stuck in the same pattern but not sure how to change it? I strive to create a warm, trusting, and safe relationship for you to be able to express your authentic self, without fear of judgement. I believe that healing and change are possible given the right tools. I work through a psychodynamic and person-centered lens, where we can explore your past experiences to learn how they have shaped who you are today and determine where to go next to create a more sustainable and fulfilling life. I utilize Mindful Self-Compassion tools and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to support clients in creating lasting changes.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from the University Antioch Los Angeles and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults at different stages of life and transitions who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and trauma to help nurture and restore a sense of balance. My approach to working with clients is centered around the individual as a whole - recognizing intrinsic uniqueness and reinforcing inner strength – supporting an individuals innate ability to grow and thrive.

Hello, my name is Steven Nelson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over nine years of clinical experience. While my professional background includes family and relationship therapy, my current focus is working with individuals, helping each person navigate their unique journey toward healing, personal growth, and emotional well-being. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with people from diverse backgrounds and professions, including first responders, law enforcement personnel, active-duty military members and their families, nurses, attorneys, and many others facing a wide range of life challenges. Life's difficulties are a natural part of the human experience. At times, individuals may feel isolated in their struggles or believe that no one truly understands what they are going through. These thoughts can contribute to anxiety, depression, substance use, and other challenges that impact relationships, work, and overall quality of life. When left unaddressed, these difficulties can become overwhelming and interfere with one's ability to move forward. I believe that meaningful change is possible through a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based therapeutic approach. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can gain insight, build effective coping skills, strengthen resilience, and develop healthier ways of managing life's challenges. Together, we can work toward healing, personal wellness, and lasting positive change. In addition to my Psychological Therapy license, I hold specialties certifications in Drug and Alcohol addiction, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Sex Addiction, Trauma and Domestic Violence prevention.

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, a new life transition, or struggling to cope with the weight of your problems daily? I can help you find a way forward and offer you the tools to tap into the inner strength that you possess. I believe in approaching therapy from a warm, genuine, and validating perspective and often use humor to help my clients get “unstuck” from unhelpful thinking patterns. My job is to be your mirror to see what is already there: infinite wisdom.

Hi! I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Phoenix a and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and trauma. I will help you navigate through life challenges and help you gently face your deepest struggles. I have worked in a multitude of settings that include residential, PHP, and IOP.

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

My name is William Money, a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I have 8 years in the field and I love my job. I am not the person to give advice or tell you how to live your life. I will not tell you I know everything because I don’t. I will meet you wherever you are therapeutically no matter where you are in your journey. I am not judgmental and I have experience with lots of things so if you feel we are a good fit please reach out to me to schedule our first appointment.

Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or just not ok. Are you overwhelmed trying to manage life's ebbs and flows? Do you have repetitious thoughts despite efforts to push them aside? Living with uncertainty while experiencing so many different feelings can be exhausting. I offer culturally sensitive services to clients of all socioeconomic backgrounds and abilities in a respectful, safe, supportive space. Together, we will work to identify your presenting concerns and the internalized belief systems impacting how you address your them. Approaches designed to meet your specific needs, will be drawn from psychodynamic, art, mindfulness and somatic modalities. I hope my supportive, non-judgemental, and warm approach will support your work in clarifying goals and gaining insights and skills to reach them.

Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence from 2011-2013, to working as a shelter counselor in Oakland for youth 13-21 from 2016-2018. I worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments from 2018-2022. I have been licensed with my LCSW since May 2025 and focused my prior professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

Hello, and welcome. I am Dr. Diari Banigo, Ph.D, LCSW, a Christian, doctoral‑trained clinician, and adjunct professor. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence‑informed therapy that honors the whole person. My approach emphasizes emotional resilience, meaningful connection, and healing from life’s stressors. I believe therapy is most effective as a collaborative process, and I encourage patients to actively engage in their care with me and with other providers who support their overall wellbeing. Important Notice: Dr. Banigo provides psychotherapeutic services. Requests for administrative documentation—such as disability certification, FMLA, or emotional support animal letters—will be referred to another mental health provider. This policy ensures that therapy sessions remain focused on clinical care and your healing process.

Mr. Ilya Shtykan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Masters's Degree graduate in Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, Ilya has worked with multiple organizations and various types of client populations. Also, Ilya currently provides counseling services for sufferers of co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders. Ilya has gained a lot of valuable insight about himself as a therapist through participating in these programs. He has also developed an empathetic understanding of the patients and the everyday struggles they endure. Ilya's long-term goal in this field is to help make a positive change in clients' lives and provide a meaningful service that makes a difference. Ilya is very passionate about assisting people in finding positive ways to deal with their issues and struggles and being seen, heard, and understood.

As a dedicated licensed mental health therapist, I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, across a wide spectrum of socioeconomic statuses, and addressing an array of mental health concerns. My experience spans different populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and families, with an emphasis on creating a safe, inclusive, and empathetic space for healing and growth.

Hi my name is Maria Mercedes Giol, I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, California, Utah and Washington. I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and completed my Master's in Mental Health Counseling in Miami, Florida. I have lived in sunny (sometimes Florida, lol ) for 29 years and I am a devoted mother to a 17-year-old son and 1 small dog. I enjoy boating with my fiancee, watching sunsets, hiking, bicycling, singing, and making homemade soaps.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience helping people navigate life's complexities. Before becoming a therapist, I spent years working in the technology industry—an experience that taught me the value of bridging innovative solutions with genuine human connection. That balance is exactly why I practice at Grow. My approach to therapy is built on genuine warmth, compassion, and realness. I believe that true transformation happens when you are finally given the space to drop the mask. My intention is to hold a deeply safe, non-judgmental environment where we can explore the barriers holding you back. Together, we will discover new ways to approach your struggles and unlock a more expansive, authentic way of being.

As a seasoned therapist with nearly 20 years of consecutive licensing across multiple states, I specialize in a diverse array of client issues, including men's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, aging and chronic illness challenges, sexual addiction, trauma and PTSD, anger management, clinical depression, and anxiety. My approach is built on an affirming and caring nature, allowing clients to feel safe and understood in our collaborative work. I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including person-centered therapy, CBT, and ACT, alongside group therapy, to tailor my interventions to each individual’s unique needs. My strong listening and speaking skills facilitate deep connections with clients, empowering them to explore their struggles, find meaning, and ultimately create positive changes in their lives. The impact of my work is reflected in the growth and resilience of my clients, as they navigate their personal journeys toward healing and fulfillment.

I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and self-understanding. My practice focuses on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, cultural and identity-related concerns, and attachment challenges. I provide a warm, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed space where clients can explore their experiences, strengthen relationships, and develop meaningful, lasting change. Together, we work to build insight, foster healing, and create a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.

My name is Wendy Bertram and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LISW) based out of Arizona with a Masters in Social Work from ASU. Currently I'm licensed in both Arizona and California, providing both in-person and teleheatlh services. I use a client centered approach and multiple therapy models, depending on your needs. I am here to partner with you to work through the issues causing disruptions in your life and to help you meet your goals. Everyone’s experience is unique, and the therapeutic experience should reflect this. My expertise spans various areas, including life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem struggles, stress and worry, caregiver stress, and those struggling with the impacts of medical diagnoses. By employing a client-centered approach, I work to foster a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I employ evidence-based interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused therapy to promote personal insight, resilience, and coping skills for positive change.

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.

"Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health" – Lauren Mersy. As an integrative therapist, I tailor my approach to help you understand the causes of your distress and find personalized coping strategies to achieve your goals. With compassion, validation, and flexibility, I support your healing journey. Together, we will work toward a healthier, more balanced life.

Hello-My name is Ryan, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based out of Southern California (Long Beach). I work with young men and adult males in an individual setting, and I specialize in men's issues, substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and anger issues. It is my goal to support you in getting back on track and finding your way again. I will help you identify negative self-talk and faulty cognitive errors that are causing emotional pain and discomfort. My approach involves providing you with the tools and techniques that will assist you in being the best version of yourself- which is happy, joyous, and free. We can work together to modify thought processes which will improve feelings, behaviors and outcomes. My therapeutic orientation is cognitive and behavioral based, as well as solution focused. My approach is geared toward helping identify negative thoughts and belief patterns which cause emotional discomfort and unhealthy outcome results. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with substance abuse issues, depression, and anxiety. You are not alone.

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.

I grew up in Europe, graduated from Pepperdine University in 2007 with MA in clinical Psychology, in practice since then. Married, father of 2. Life can be challenging and certainly has its ups and downs. I strive to assist clients in gaining awareness, understanding, and control over their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through exploration, self-reflection, and insight, I work with clients and provide the space that is necessary to process, gain insight, and achieve desired change.

Hello, I was born and raised in Stockton, California. I enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 17 and in 1997, after 25 yeas of service, I retired from the Marine Corps as a Master Sergeant. After retiring from the Marine Corps, I worked as a Farrier (Horseshoer), as well as a structural welder (Ironworker), as those were the most marketable skill that I had. I came to a point where old injuries came back to haunt me and I could no longer walk (several years later, thanks to a surgery through the VA, I can walk again; thankful for that). At this point, I changed professions and out of a desire to work with veterans, I returned to school, accomplishing all that was necessary to become a licensed counselor. I spent another career working for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically as a counselor in the Readjustment Counseling Service (Vet Center). I recently retired from the Vet Center and now I work part-time here with Grow Therapy. As a retired Marine senior staff Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) and disabled combat veteran myself, the Vet Center was the perfect job. Vet Centers provide readjustment counseling to combat veterans and provide counseling to survivors of military sexual trauma (MST). Vet Centers also provide group counseling, bereavement counseling and couples counseling when this is determined to be of support to the veteran. Readjustment counseling many times consists of treating/addressing symptoms related to post-traumatic stress (PTSD), I.e., anxiety, depression, exaggerated startle response, hypervigilance, sleep disturbance, etc. Many veterans go on to work as first responders and working with many first responders as well as medical personal, has provided me with a great deal of additional experience.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PhD) in northern California. I received my doctorate degree from the University of Florida. I have 40+ years of experience as a therapist treating adults. I will only see patients in-person in my office. Phone calls and texting/emails are used for communication as necessary between visits. I initially address what prompted an individual to seek help at this particular time, ie why now? I help people clarify issues--concerns, thoughts, feelings, situations--and explore/develop effective coping strategies and behaviors.

Hello, I'm David. Do you have a change you are facing and are unsure about which direction to go? Are you questioning your identity or aspects of who you are? Are you facing struggles that feel too large to conquer? Are stressors weighing you down? I help clients navigate these tough questions and work together to understand how to face these challenges. Exploring the choices together and discovering a path that resonates with you. I use a whole-person approach to unlock who you want to be and I will walk alongside as your journey unfolds. The challenges of today can become the strengths of tomorrow! Let’s work together to find that peace of mind you are looking for.

Brannon La Force, a Mobile, Alabama native, is a mental health professional with 35 years in the field. He holds licenses in Alabama, California, Florida, Kansas, Oregon, Virginia, and Texas as professional counselor. He completed a BA in History from Asbury University, and a MS in Counseling from the University of South Alabama. He is a PhD doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology with Walden University. He is the Owner and Senior Clinician with Brannon La Force, LPC-S & Associates, PLLC and currently lives and works abroad as a digital nomad. Mr. La Force is also an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University where he teaches forensic psychology. In addition to owning a private practice, he has worked in community mental health, a forensic hospital, hospital emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric units. While the bulk of his work has been in the US, Mr. La Force has also written behavior plans for intellectually disadvantaged adults in Australia, treated genocide survivors in Rwanda, and supported sailors in the US Navy with their mental health needs on the island kingdom of Bahrain. His areas of expertise include trauma, relationships, and borderline personality disorder. He is an avid proponent of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and runs a DBT group. He also supervises associate counselors in Texas and Kansas and precepts psychiatric nurse practitioners nationwide for their psychotherapy rotation. Mr. La Force has three adult children, two of which are also counselors. He is an avid Crimson Tide fan, loves seafood and provides support to Village Health Team in western Uganda.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step—especially if you’re not totally sure what to say or where to begin. My job is to make that part easier. I’m a licensed therapist who works with people dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, burnout, low motivation, and feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Some clients come in with something specific going on, while others just know something feels off and want to figure it out. Both are completely welcome here. In our work together, we focus on what’s actually happening in your day-to-day life and how to create real, noticeable changes—not just talk in circles. I aim to keep sessions practical, collaborative, and grounded so you leave with clarity and a better sense of direction. Clients often tell me they appreciate having a space where they can be honest without feeling judged or analyzed. You don’t need to have the “right words” or a clear plan before starting—we’ll figure that out together. If you’re looking for therapy that feels straightforward, supportive, and focused on helping you move forward, I’d be glad to work with you.

I am a licensed mental health provider in California, Missouri and Texas and have helped clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, and coping with life changes. I believe you are the expert of your story and possess many strengths that can assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process.

Hello, my name is Serina Palomino. I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor), and NCC (nationally certified counselor), and I like to meet my clients where they are utilizing an integrative approach. I provide therapeutic services to children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation, primarily utilizing CBT, EMDR, art therapy, and mindfulness. My approach to therapeutic services is holistic and integrative. I provide in-depth assessments to determine therapeutic needs and identify core underlying issues contributing to client symptoms and behaviors. I integrate the qualities of a humanistic approach to establish and maintain the therapeutic alliance to support the client's successful discharge from services.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 40 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship challenges. I have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence, as well as individuals navigating complex life patterns shaped by past experiences. I specialize in working with adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up as they are. I also work with couples on occasion. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I bring both professional and lived understanding to this work. My approach is warm, compassionate, and direct. I believe therapy should be both supportive and effective—while you will always be heard and understood, I also actively engage in sessions to help you move forward. I won’t let you stay stuck. Together, we’ll break challenges down into manageable steps, build practical tools, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you. I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. I often incorporate structured exercises and between-session practices to help you apply what we discuss in real life, while remaining flexible and responsive to your individual needs. Clients often appreciate that I am clear, consistent, and gently persistent—I will meet you where you are, while continuing to support and encourage your growth, even when things feel difficult or overwhelming. My goal is to help you build insight, resilience, and confidence so you can create a more stable, fulfilling, and peaceful life. I am committed to practicing with empathy, respect, and without judgment, honoring each person’s dignity and lived experience. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. Option to insert (after paragraph 2):

Hi, I’m Megan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health and psychotherapy. I strive to create a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel safe exploring life’s challenges, emotions, relationships, and personal growth. My approach to therapy is collaborative, open-minded, and grounded in evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, REBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma-related concerns, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, and substance use concerns. I value authenticity, inclusivity, and meeting clients where they are in their 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.

California State University Stanislaus of Social Work, Master's in Social Work License LCSW# 76744 23 Years of experience Hello! My name is Robert Garza, LCSW Bi-lingual. I have over 18 years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood, adolescence, children/families, adults, and end-of-life care. I have always viewed my professional career to learn as much as possible and be able to impact the largest number of people in need of support, counseling, therapy, and a safe space. I have worked in educational settings, healthcare settings, and clinical settings. I was born in Corcoran and raised in Central California. I currently reside in Rocklin CA, and enjoy horseshoe pitching, long walks, the ocean, and family and friends. My historical area of focus ranges from challenges in school to overcoming childhood traumas, depression, anxiety, social isolation, and conflict within family units. These are common things that we all face as we grow and evolve into our adult selves.