Therapists in California

I'm Essy, a licensed therapist and coach who works best with folks who feel like outsiders in a world built for sameness. I support neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ adults navigating identity, trauma, burnout, and the pressure to mask or overperform. With equal parts warmth and real talk, I help clients make sense of their story, rewrite the rules they’ve been handed, and build a life that actually fits.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California, currently living in Florida. I received my undergraduate degree from William Jessup University, with a Master's Degree from Chapman University. I love people and I love to see relationships thrive. Research shows us that the quality of life that we have is more dependent on the quality of relationships than any other factor. I want you to have the most fulfilling and satisfying life as possible.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I am also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) to work with people living in California. I have been practicing for 25 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma from childhood or events, substance use, sexual abuse, low self-worth and many other issues. I work with individuals to help them improve their lives.

I’m John Tzanos, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist passionate about helping people make meaningful changes in their lives. I offer a practical and straightforward approach to therapy, where you can feel comfortable being yourself. My goal is to create a space where we can talk openly about what’s going on in your life and work together to find solutions that fit you as an individual. I focus on helping clients develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while also providing tools and strategies that can be applied in daily life. I work well with people who are motivated to change and who enjoy learning new ways to view and approach the challenges they face. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to support you through the process of finding clarity and direction. In our sessions, I strive to create a genuine connection, offering both guidance and flexibility as we explore what’s most important to you. My approach is collaborative, I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward at your own pace. Therapy is a partnership, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s ups and downs in a way that aligns with your values and goals.

------------Cash Pay: Sliding Scale Available Upon Request --------- Hi, I’m Javier, a trauma-focused ecotherapist and founder of Eutierria Therapy. I help Black, Indigenous, and People of Color heal from deep-rooted trauma, especially the historical and intergenerational wounds that affect identity and belonging. My approach blends trauma-informed care, cultural sensitivity, nature-based practices, and ketamine-assisted therapy to guide you on a holistic journey of self-discovery, healing, and reconnection with both your cultural heritage and the natural world. At Eutierria Therapy, I focus on healing the individual and the collective by fostering a deeper connection to the Earth and ancestral wisdom. Together, we’ll explore your roots, build resilience, and strengthen your relationship with the land through mindfulness, land-based rituals, and somatic practices. Whether you're facing trauma, life transitions, or seeking spiritual connection, I’m here to support your journey toward wholeness. If you’re ready to reconnect with your heritage and the natural world, let’s work together to reclaim your sense of self and create a life of deep connection and empowerment.

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

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

I am warm, DIRECT, solution-focused, AUTHENTIC, mildly confrontational and 100% Raw and Real. I won't lie to you or co-sign lies you tell yourself. I will gently reflect what you are not saying and what you are not showing so that you can explore for yourself. The intention of services provided to present and future clients are to support them in navigating through the pain. The only way out is through. Not above, below, or around the pain but through it. The good news is you are not alone and don’t have to do it alone. Utilize the resources offered in this collaborative effort in creating the life (mind, body, & soul) you deserve.

Hello! My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from San Jose State University and my PhD from Alliant International University. I primarily support the LGBTQ+ Community, particularly children and adolescents. Although I do work with clients from various backgrounds and identities. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families.

My name is Shant Bardakjian and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Glendale, California. I currently work with children, adolescents and adults within the greater Los Angeles area. Currently, I work with clients aged 18 to 64. My approach to therapy is tailored to the client’s needs. I enter into therapy with whatever you bring into the session. If you need a creative approach to solve your problems, then I would use an eclectic approach with a person centered lens that can be flexible for whatever need is brought into the room. My communication style is calm and approachable. I would like my clients to feel at ease in sharing whatever is on their heart without fear of judgment. I decided to become a therapist because I have wanted to help people discover their best selves. I have been drawn to helping people discover their innate ability to heal past whatever is keeping them stuck in life. My aim is for whoever works with me to be able to define a goal that can be accomplished and for trust to be gradually built within the therapeutic relationship. In this way, the progress that is seen in therapy will in turn translate to improvements in multiple areas of your life. In our first session together, you can expect the primary focus to be for me to hear your story of what brought you to therapy. The first session is to determine if there is an initial connection and also questions that would enable me to better understand what would work best for you as treatment progresses.

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.

Hello, My name is Dan Powell, and I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing a wide range of mental health challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and professionalism, ensuring that every client feels heard, supported, and respected. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized care through evidence-based treatments tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. My diverse professional background allows me to draw from a broad range of therapeutic approaches, ensuring that my clients receive the most effective and personalized care possible. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to help them achieve their goals and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence. My areas of specialization include treating anxiety, depression, phobias, and life transitions. I also provide support for parenting challenges, couples conflicts, and more complex mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, personality disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Additionally, I have extensive experience in helping individuals overcome alcohol and chemical addictions, as well as working with those who have experienced trauma. If you’re ready to take the first step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being, I encourage you to reach out. Contact me today to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey to healing and personal growth. Best, Dan Powell MA., MFT, BCBA

I am a licensed clinical social worker with about 15 years of experience helping people navigate life’s challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings including mobile crisis, inpatient care, corrections, and community mental health, so I understand how complex and overwhelming things can get. My approach is down to earth, practical, and tailored to what works best for you. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I am here to help you build the tools to move forward.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles who frequently uses Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I work collaboratively with adults, exploring ways to invigorate clients who are stuck creatively, relationally, professionally, emotionally, or are reacting in the present to a trauma that they have not fully processed (EMDR works well with this). I work effectively with clients experiencing a trauma response, professional malaise, writer's block, family issues, or a stagnant relationship. I work compassionately with the client to identify any dynamic that is no longer helpful, and together we explore the path to relief and a more connected and vibrant humanity.

My goal is to help you break free from the cycle of stress and anxiety through practical techniques and personalized strategies for growth. With a background in mindfulness, meditation, and psychedelic-assisted therapy, I take a holistic approach to therapy. Together we'll create a comfortable space where you can explore your challenges, gain perspective, and deepen your emotional awareness without feeling judged.

Hi! My name is Jose Rodriguez, I have been working in behavioral health since 2008, and it has been a very rewarding experience. I have an energetic and enthusiastic approach. Please note that I am licensed in both California and New York. I stay up to date with the latest studies to provide the best care possible. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I am originally from New York, so I have had the opportunity to gain experience at reputable institutions such as New York Presbyterian Hospital and Montefiore Health System. I have also served as Director of the Behavior Health Department at Salinas Valley Health in Salinas, California. I earned my BA in Psychology from Boston College and my Master of Social Work from Fordham University. I also earned my MBA in Healthcare Administration in 2019. Outside of work, I enjoy boxing, playing golf, yoga, lifting weights, and going to the beach! The goal in psychotherapy is for you to become your own therapist. We would achieve this in a collaborative and strategic manner. There has always been a need to address our emotional well being but until recent times, this topic is more accepted than ever to discuss. Not only do I help people address their problems, but I also aim to help people be self-actualizing.

Exhausted by the way you think about yourself? We are often (if not always) our own worst enemies. Whether this pattern has caused you problems with guilt, shame, anxiety, depression, addiction or you name it - the starting point is generally the same. When we embark on the project of therapy you will be asked to put your painful thoughts and feelings into words. As the process unfolds, the strength and fervor used to overthink and condemn yourself will become accessible to use productively in reaching your goals.

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.

You don’t have to struggle alone! I look forward to the opportunity to work collaboratively with you in your journey in discovering how to make positive changes, decrease negative behaviors and thoughts, and help improve your mood and engagement with life! In our hectic world we often find ourselves afraid to take risks that could jeopardize the stable lives we have created for ourselves. We remain in jobs, relationships and old patterns that no longer work, while symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger and self-defeating patterns keep us from making real changes to our lives. If that sounds like you, you are stuck. We can feel lost and alone when we are unable to move forward, whether in work or a personal relationship. Therapy can help you break free of that and thrive. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on teens, adults, and couples. I have worked with clients on concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and family reunification. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I also minored in sociology.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, where I specialized in the Psychology of Trauma. I support individuals of all ages in processing a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, substance use disorder and various patterns of addiction, intimate partner issues, trauma, both current and past involving families and work environments, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.

I am firmly rooted in the belief that the therapeutic process is a symbiotic collaboration between therapist and client. Regardless of whether you're navigating a temporary challenge and seeking targeted, solution-driven guidance, or grappling with a persistent concern that requires long-term therapeutic involvement, there are moments when we all benefit from external assistance. I recognize the importance of individualizing therapeutic interventions. Everyone's journey is distinct, influenced by their unique life experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual belief systems. It's essential to take a comprehensive view, taking into account not just the present symptoms but the whole person and their life narrative. By understanding each person’s individual story, I can offer more tailored guidance and interventions. This personalized approach not only addresses the immediate concerns but also empowers clients to better handle future challenges with increased confidence and self-awareness. I earned my doctorate degree from the esteemed California School of Professional Psychology. My professional journey has seen me serve in a range of environments. This journey includes my work at the UCLA Anxiety Disorder Clinic, where, as a psychological assistant under a seasoned psychologist, I honed my skills in managing anxiety disorders. My expertise also extends to substance abuse environments, both in acute inpatient psychiatric hospital, as well as outpatient clinics, where I've addressed the intricate dance between anxiety, depression, and addiction. My work in collegiate settings, such as President Barack Obama’s alma mater, has equipped me with insights into the stresses and anxieties faced by students navigating academic pressures and life's pivotal decisions. Furthermore, In the unique and challenging setting of maximum security prisons. Where as a forensic psychologist, I've supported inmates, including those serving life sentences, through the complex emotional landscapes of anxiety and depression linked to their circumstances. My therapeutic approach is anchored in both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic theory. Typically, I employ psychodynamic perspectives to facilitate deeper insights into the origins of a client's psychological concerns. This understanding then serves as a foundation upon which we build a CBT-driven treatment plan, ensuring you're well-equipped to achieve your therapeutic objectives.

I spent twenty years as a writer in the entertainment industry and began training to be a therapist in my forties. I am a father and live in Los Angeles with my partner, our kids, and several cats. As someone who changed careers late in life, I know better than anyone that it is never too late to start living by your deepest principals, and that transformation is always possible.

Hi, I’m Marvin West, a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist with training in Expressive Arts. I believe therapy is a powerful tool for growth, healing, and self-discovery. You are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to meet you where you are—through the highs and the lows—offering guidance and support along the way. Let’s take this journey together to create a brighter, healthier future for you.

Dr. Mario Rocha is a psychotherapist, CEO of a non-profit organization, author, speaker, and father. He has spent over 10 years in the mental health field. He obtained a doctorate of psychology in marital family therapy and is a licensed marriage and family therapist. He specializes in working with trauma, complex PTSD, family trauma, and couples therapy. He also works with anxiety, depression, and other mental health-related issues. He has done extensive research on sex trafficking victims and complex trauma. He has a passion for the arts, underserved communities, and program development.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in San Francisco, specializing in psychotherapy for adult/elder individuals and couples. I’ve had the privilege of working within various multidisciplinary teams providing psychotherapy for over a decade. This work has enabled me to develop my therapeutic skills and expand on personal attributes vital to the therapeutic processes. I’m passionate, committed to work with people toward their goals, to heal emotional wounds, to achieve more clarity while allowing for growth and improving lives.

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

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.

Hello, my name is Pak. I am a licensed therapist providing services for individuals in California, Texas, and Nevada. If you're considering therapy, you're likely facing challenges or difficulties that are impacting your well-being and quality of life. It takes courage to acknowledge these struggles and seek help, and I want you to know that I understand how difficult this can be. I want to help my clients develop meaningful insight that will contribute to better self-awareness and personal growth. I want to help couples strengthen their relationship through better support and communication. I am a true believer in relationships. Healthy relationships will lead to emotional strength, which is ultimately my goal for all my clients.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from the Portland State University in Portland Oregon and have been practicing for 4 years as a licensed clinician. I help adults and young adults struggling with mental health and addiction disorders to become the best versions of themselves. I have been employed in mental health inpatient and outpatient agencies and addiction programs with effective results.

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!

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 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.

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.