Book 100+ of the best Optum therapists in California
Find the best Optum therapist in California for your needs on Grow Therapy. Grow Therapy has 913 verified therapists accepting Optum who are accepting new patients and have availability in the next 30 days. Grow Therapy verifies every therapist using our team of in-house specialists. Grow Therapy only shows therapists we know are active and accepting new patients.Find the best Optum therapist in California for your needs on Grow Therapy. G...
Xinyi Cindy Yuan
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi! I’m Cindy, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, based in California with 8 years of experience working in community mental health clinics, school settings, and private practices. I’m passionate about helping individuals navigate life transitions and uncover their inner strength. I provide compassionate, client-centered care using a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EFT, EMDR, CBT, and IFS. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to achieve their goals.
April Jordan
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Elk Grove, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, I am April Jordan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from Cal State East Bay, Hayward, in 2005. I am a wife, mother of young children and understand the stressors linked with trying to balance life. I specialize in Women issues, Postpartum, anxiety,ADHD, depressive disorders, relationship stressors and career transitions. My Therapeutic approach is strength-based , solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My Professional experience I have worked years in mental health, medical social work, family services and with the criminal justice system. In addition I am a first responder myself working in the emergency room as a medical social worker I understand the dynamics of caring for others especially during a Pandemic. During these unprecedented times, were all feeling overwhelmed and anxious. I am a therapist that likes to look at restoring you back to feeling better and providing you with real life therapeutic tools needed to get back to a sense of normalcy.
Find therapists experienced in these areas
Vincent Paule
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Alameda, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Congratulations on taking steps to better yourself. My name is Vincent, and I'm a licensed therapist based in California with over 20 years of experience. If you are ready for positive change, then let’s begin the journey. I've helped everyone from high school teens to older adults overcome life challenges and gain a better understanding of their situation. I bring a wealth of experience and I'm here to support you.
Farhad Ghodsi
(he/him)
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
San Francisco, CA - Accepting clients in CA
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.
Sonica Thakur
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
San Jose, CA - Accepting clients in CA
“What one person has to offer to another, is their own being, nothing more, nothing less” – Ram Dass.
My therapeutic approach is a strength-based perspective that focuses on a person’s innate potential rather than pathologies and shortfalls. Consistent with this approach, my role as a therapist lies not in solving problems but in helping clients examine inhibited issues and biases, identify practical solutions to their problems and progress toward deeper wisdom.
I have worked with adults, children and families. This experience has included clients of various ethnicities and addressed a range of mental health issues, interpersonal relationship problems, and life transitions. I draw on my experience of 15 years in travel journalism and Corporate America and this understanding helps me support my clients as they navigate the stress and success in their place of work, endure layoffs, reevaluate priorities, and make renewed efforts towards new beginnings.
My therapeutic style is adaptive to the individual needs of my clients. I believe the process of change is an ongoing dialogue. This process can be brief or longer term, depending upon the needs of the client. Sometimes I use mindfulness techniques to supplement therapy.
Marco Regalado Chacon
(he/him)
Optum
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Fresno, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello there! I’m Marco.
If you’re struggling to cope with life’s challenges, I can help you navigate these obstacles and discover a path forward.
I’m a bilingual Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist committed to helping people learn how to build healthier relationships with themselves and the people they care most about. My work focuses on targeting ineffective patterns, habits, and beliefs around the self and interpersonal relationships. I wholeheartedly believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
If you’re interested in scheduling a consultation with me, please send an appointment request.
PLEASE NOTE: I am not currently taking on couples at this time.
Deja DeTrinidad
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Sacramento, CA - Accepting clients in CA
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am a client-centered therapist who values empowerment and highlighting an individual’s unique strengths. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, family systems, relational issues, disordered eating, and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. I am inspired by the resiliency of those I work with and feel honored to be invited on a person’s journey for self-reflection and betterment.
I come with a background of various therapeutic methods as I believe treatment should be individualized. I have knowledge in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Integrated Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness interventions, and Motivational Interviewing.
I look forward to our work together as we develop a relationship full of trust and understanding and create a safe space to achieve insight and growth on your journey towards healing.
Nicole Gonzalez
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Tulare, CA - Accepting clients in CA
My Approach is non judge mental and client centered. I am passionate about helping others grow through mental health and realize that life can be challenging and creating change can be difficult. I have been providing individuals with mental health treatment for 10 years and find my clinical strength is with individuals who struggle with thinking patterns, anxiety, depression, anger, parenting, and marriage discourse. I focus a lot on thinking patterns, emotions, behaviors and their connections as well as building insight and awareness into thoughts and behaviors that create barriers in life or sustain challenges. I utilize CBT, DBT, EFT, SF, and Narrative therapy for the most part and also focus on the nervous system/polyvagal to assist with calming the body and rewiring what it has learned through distress. My objective is to create an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and to allow clients to feel safe while processing their thoughts and feelings while gently providing psycho education and techniques to assist.
Jessica Mendoza
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
2940 Summit St,...
Oakland, CA - Accepting clients in CA
If you are reading this, I imagine that you are having a hard time or maybe you are looking to make some changes in your life. I love working with young adults to find their passion in life, remove blocks that are keeping them from being their most awesome selves and learn to live the life they have always dreamed of.
First-generation cic gender Latinx women. I was born and raised in the bay area. I've been a licensed therapist for 2 years and just started my very own private practice.
Kiah Marks
Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am a licensed clinical social worker working with the women population. With a strong sense of compassion and counseling skills, a space is created that leads to successful treatment outcomes and a transformative therapeutic experience. I acknowledge the importance of healing as women to develop healthy relationships with ourselves and others in our lives. As a therapist, I am warm, down-to-earth, encouraging, and empathetic. You will feel heard and deeply understood, which is the first step to profound change.
Brian Mitchell
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Fontana, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello there, I'm Brian Mitchell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a client-centered approach to therapy, focusing on trauma and PTSD. I tailor my approach to each client's unique needs and experiences. I am trained in several evidence-based therapies, including CBT, EMDR, and TF-CBT, as well as mindfulness techniques and stress reduction strategies. I work to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to work towards healing and learning coping skills.
My attraction to a career as a therapist stemmed from a desire to help marginalized populations find their voice and advocate for their needs. What drives me to do this work is a deep passion for helping others find a better path forward in their lives.
Jasmine Tolmajian
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
Glendale, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi. I'm Jasmine, I'm a LMFT. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 2008. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Sharon Stewart
Optum
LMFT
22 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
The most precious you can give to yourself is a little bit of your own attention. Life can get so busy and it's easy to become distracted by daily tasks. This makes it easy to loose sight of the most important person in your life....YOU! You are the most important project that you will ever work on and I am so glad that you are here. I have over 22 years of experience in the mental health industry and I am passionate about working with clients from all different backgrounds and life paths. I have experience working with a wide variety of ages from children to adolescents and adults. I also have experience working with with a variety of mental health diagnosis. It has been a blessing to work as a School Counselor for 22+ years, and know that it has provided me with a wealth of experience in so many areas with a large variety of clients with all different needs. I strive to meet my clients where they are and am passionate about helping them work on their goals. I have particularly enjoyed helping clients manage transition, trauma, depression, grief, adjustment, anxiety and parenting. I also am passionate about working with First Responders and their families. I have been part of a First Responder family for 27+ years, which has provided me with a wealth of information as well as compassion and commitment to serve this population.
Tracey Horwitz
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
We live in a stressful world which leaves many of us feeling unsettled by anxiety, guilt, worry, sadness, and irritability. Although change can be difficult, it is possible. I deeply care about my clients' well-being and I am dedicated to the process of uncovering a more fulfilled life. Therapy can be a profound experience for those eager to engage.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy with an open mind, a willingness to explore and work through their struggles, and a motivation for change. Finding a therapist can be a tough process, so I applaud your courage and effort getting here.
Dr. Samatra Downing
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
El Sobrante, CA - Accepting clients in CA
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.
Jackie Balarezo
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Whittier, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! I am Jackeline Balarezo- Ruvalcaba. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about helping individuals from all walks of life. I have 14 years of experience working within the school district, foster system and young and older adults in mental health. I am very passionate in guiding individual to reach their full potentials and empowering them to meeting their goals.
Shirell Bunch-Lipscomb
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
18484 CA-18, Ap...
Apple Valley, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Welcome, I'm Shirell Bunch-Lipscomb, a mother of 4 and a grandmother to 3 children. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is committed to helping individuals and families overcome various challenges and heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. My mission is to help you build stronger, more connected relationships while fostering emotional growth and resilience. My passion is also working with the youth populations and help guide them to become stronger individuals.
Julia Richardson
Optum
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
San Luis Obispo, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, my name is Julia Richardson. I am a Marriage Family Therapist, licensed for 25 years in California. I offer my services to adults, couples and parents and children over the age of 12. I grew up in California and went to the University of San Francisco for my Masters in Counseling/Psychology. I help people who are on a path of discovery about themselves.
Shauna Miranda
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hesperia, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have worked with client's from all different backgrounds and walks of life. I enjoy helping client's that are struggle with their mental health, relationships, and over all well-being. My goal is to help the client become the best version of themselves and learn to love themselves along the way.
Keesha Sledge
Optum
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Suwanee, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the states of Alabama, California, Virginia, Texas, Tennessee, Florida , Hawaii, New Mexico, Arkansas, and Georgia. She has over 10 years of experience working with adults, children and couples seeking help with depression, relationship issues, anxiety and major life stressors. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from The University of Alabama at Birmingham and received her Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Al.
I utilizes relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution focused and emotionally focused approaches to therapy always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual and couple.
I want to establish a caring relationships with clients to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.
George Naves
(he/him)
Optum
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Glendale, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi, I’m George. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families of all ages. I bring a diverse background and wide range of interests to my work as a mental health therapist. Some of my major areas of focus include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, gender identity concerns, and LGBTQ issues. Other areas include panic disorders, anger management, divorce, blended families, sexual abuse, domestic violence, and parenting issues.
I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University Northridge and a Master of Science degree from California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, California. I currently offer daytime, and evening appointments and am committed to providing my clients with the highest quality of care and individualized services.
June Razzano
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Sacramento, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Are you a highly sensitive person who struggles to be understood? Do you often suffer and struggle with anxiety, low self-worth, and feelings of discomfort? Do fears of being judged keep you from feeling free to be your authentic self? I can help you manage anxiety before it becomes debilitating. My role is to provide you the emotional support you deserve and help you develop the skills you need in order to get through difficult times in your life and to help guide you in reaching your full potential.
In therapy, we can work collaboratively on strengthening your personal boundaries, identify healthy coping mechanisms, and improve your relationships. During our session we will collaborate and strategize on how to maximize your strengths and increase your resiliency. I strongly believe that no one should have to suffer and struggle alone.
Stacie Ashley-Williams
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Artesia, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's from California State University Long Beach and my undergraduate from Grambling State University. I have been practicing for 30 years. I help adults ages 18+ who are struggling with anxiety, depression, managing emotions, symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder, career, school, relational, family and/or various other concerns.
Kendall Bradford
Optum
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Families often come to seek more information on how to establish and produce healthier habits that benefit their well-being and self-esteem. They learn that the healthier they are, it increases their happiness and in turn benefits relationships.
Kendall helps families and individuals explore and identify who they are, their communication style and how to protect these realizations with healthy boundaries. After learning more about themselves, families often feel much more equipped to decrease or rid themselves of symptoms that prompt them to seek therapy initially.
It's always an honor, privilege and a wonderful opportunity to process with families in their sacred spaces.
Consider starting your journey to Optimum Wellness today by scheduling a Live Session with Kendall Bradford, LCSW and Associates. Love and Light!
** Therapy is an emotional process and we do not conduct sessions while family's are operating moterized vehicles. Please do not drive during sessions and if you must, we can schedule a time for you to park or find a safe space to have the session. Thank you!
** We love couples therapy and couples therapy is not covered through insurance at this private practice. The price is out of pocket for couples between $150-$180 (depending on sliding scale).
Private Practice Website: www.OptimumHealing.org or Contact using Support@OptimumHealing.Org
Tina Salazar
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Montebello, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, my name is Tina Salazar, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA. Are you struggling with isolation, stress, depression, or anxiety? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Know that you are not alone. Asking for support is an act of strength and courage and is the first step in making positive changes. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and the things that give your life happiness and meaning. You can overcome life’s challenges so you can experience personal growth and live a full and authentic life. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore, learn, grow, and change by combining Coaching and therapy to suit your needs.
Lauren Alonzo
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
My name is Lauren Alonzo, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated from California Lutheran University in 2018 and have seven years of experience helping clients identify the barriers that are preventing them from living life as their true, authentic self. I aim to normalize mental health struggles and remove the stigma that so often prevents individuals from seeking help.
Etisha Wilbon
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Fresno, CA - Accepting clients in CA
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over ten years of experience, I specialize in trauma-informed care, CBT, and DBT to support individuals and couples. I am committed to fostering growth and resilience through a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). My dynamic, collaborative approach creates a supportive environment tailored to each client's needs, empowering them to achieve lasting change and reach their full potential.
Bianca Quintero
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Bonita, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! My name is Bianca Quintero, and I'm a bilingual (English/Spanish) CA Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently offering online faith-based therapy. Serving in this profession brings me both joy and honor as I am devoted to assisting individuals not just in surviving, but in thriving. With a unique blend of clinical expertise and spiritual guidance, I offer compassionate support to navigate life's complexities. My mission is to foster a nurturing environment where you feel not only accepted but also empowered. I am dedicated to providing steadfast support, encouragement, and the necessary tools to overcome life's obstacles. Healing and renewal will only take place when we fully embrace who we are in Christ and allow His loving hand to walk us through long lasting transformation. With compassion and empathy, I'm here to accompany you on this journey. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you through life's beautiful yet challenging moments.
Darlene Melendez
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Lake Forest, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California with over a decade of experience. I approach each counseling session with a compassionate heart and a commitment to support you on your journey to healing. I have dedicated my career to helping people navigate life's challenges while providing a safe space for self-exploration and understanding. If you are looking to make some changes and want more clarity in your life, then make a difference and schedule a session with me today.
Maria A Welch
Optum
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
Hi! I'm happy you found me! If you are here it means that something has prompted you to want change and healing. Healing is a long journey and you need the right people with you along the way. I'm Maria Welch LMFT, I specialize in helping people heal from or in relationships, and find a sense of peace in themselves with whatever they are carrying.
Whether you are healing from divorce or grief and loss or just wanting a better relationship with yourself, Id love to help!
Ricardo Gonzalez
(he/him)
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Sunnyvale, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my masters with an emphasis in cognitive behavioral therapy from the University of San Francisco. I have been practicing therapy for 7 years. I help individuals, families, adolescence, teens, and adults looking to work toward goals or explore issues in order to create goals to take outside of the therapy session.
Kimberly Pelle
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
My name is Kimberly. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have a Master’s in Public Health and a Master’s in Social Work. I have about ten years of experience in mental health and medical social work. I received the majority of my training in an inpatient mental health unit and hospital settings. I began providing therapy in 2019.
John Alexander
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Mission Viejo, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, my name is John Alexander. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from University of Southern California .
I believe that in our journey of life, we are faced with many challenges - challenges that can be overcome with guidance , education , teamwork and commitment.
It is my goal to provide personalized care for each individual and assist in accomplishing their therapeutic goals .
Dolores Villanueva
(she/her/ella)
Optum
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Are you able to show up as your authentic self in every space you enter ? Are you having difficulty in your life and feeling stuck? Are the things you have tried not getting you the results you want? Whether it be a life transition or an issue that has been bubbling up for a long time and is about to explode, I invite you to partner up with me in your healing journey. Talking to a therapist who sees you matters. A therapist who "gets you" AND provides a confidential space for yourself can be the thing that makes a difference. Our sessions will create a brave space for you to reflect, let your emotions out and become aware of any patterns that contribute to your life and mental health challenges. You get to decide what changes or shifts you want to make. You chose when
and how you center your wellness. I will guide you, hold space for you and teach you about honoring your capacity with boundaries. I know that it is possible to create the life that you want. I am a bilingual LCSW that is culturally centered and have over 17 years of clinical experience to offer you. My approach is holistic, strength-based and centered around uplifting you and helping you connect to any ancestral wisdom that can support your journey. My work is rooted in Liberation Psychology and I always have a Social Justice framework
Cecilia Fabe
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Corona, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello and welcome, I'm Cecilia! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have been involved in the mental health field since 2016. I am based in Southern California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating an environment of safety, collaboration, and authenticity. Are you ready to embark on your journey of self-acceptance and personal growth? I'm here as your partner in healing to help you develop your resiliency against stressors and to discover your own potential. Together, I will work with you to foster your personal strengths and to push back on the parts that do not serve you. In my practice, I hold a safe space for you with empathy, curiosity, and respect. We'll celebrate together wins of all sizes.
As a Filipina-American therapist, my multicultural perspective influences my practice to empower each client's unique identity. I have worked with clients addressing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal/relationship conflicts, emotion regulation, and trauma. I have worked with adolescents, young adults and adults on their own professional and personal journeys. I have a passion for working with high-achieving individuals to develop self-acceptance and self-compassion. If any of these resonate with you, I hope to work with you too.
Nancy R Madani
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
San Fernando, CA - Accepting clients in CA
"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." — Arthur Ashe
Hello there! I am first a mom, a sister, an aunt, a grandmother, and a neighbor and friend. In my life, I have naturally been inclined to help others. Realizing this, I decided to embark on a journey to become a professional helper of other humans, to help improve their life and feel better about their choices. Along this journey, I have become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I obtained my MA from Pacific Oaks College in 2013 and my Psy. D. Marital and Family Therapy from The Chicago School in 2021. I then started working in counseling and after completing my continued education for counseling studies with an emphasis on alcohol/drugs abuse studies at UCLA in 2020. I support and promote clients to explore their potential and utilize strengths to manage challenges in life. As your therapist, I strive to be authentic and nurturing and come from this understanding, as my true self, and as a South-American therapist. My years of experience and navigating through life while learning the art of therapy and counseling helped me to develop a strong patient-centered approach to join patients where they are at. Feedback I have heard from clients is that my experience working with different cultural backgrounds helps clients feel safe and they report that I have a more inclusive therapeutic relationship with them than other therapists.
Elaine Godoy
Optum
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
Anaheim, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! My name is Elaine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that therapy should feel like a conversation with a trusted friend—open, honest, and without pretense. With a straightforward approach and a genuine interest in understanding your unique story, I aim to create a space where you can be yourself without judgment. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship challenges, or just feeling stuck, I'm here to help you navigate life's ups and downs with compassionate support. Let's work together to find the path that feels right for you.
My specialties include: working with parents who have a child with special needs, LGBTQ+ issues, and grief.
I know you are tired of not feeling like yourself. You deserve to start feeling good again.
Sheilly (pronounced Shelly) Arora
Optum
LP
18 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
My name is Sheilly Arora, and I am a practicing psychologist for almost 20 years. I love what I do and find it a privilege to be of help to others. I am fluent in several Evidence Based treatments including and not limited to treatments for depression, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia and PTSD.
While originally from the East coast, I did both my internship and post-doctoral training in California. I have been here ever since and feel lucky to be able to call California my home.
Lisa Tahir
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
New Orleans, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I approach our first session with wanting to know exactly where you are and what you need today. This is because people usually book a therapy session with an issue in mind, or with a problem to solve. I assure you that if you are motivated to change your mindset and ready to work on yourself, that you will feel more peaceful and calm with just one session, and you will leave knowing that you will be able to solve what is going on.
We tend to be harsh and critical of ourselves thinking that will promote change when that only causes us to procrastinate and feel depression and anxiety. To address this I offer you my book endorsed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama on self-forgiveness- find it on Amazon and in Barnes & Noble, "The Chiron Effect: Healing Our Core Wounds through Astrology, Empathy, and Self-Forgiveness."
I offer you my podcast- "All Things Therapy," which can be found on iTunes and Spotify. It is a mental health and wellness-focused podcast with over 410 episodes for you to dig into.
Krista Edwards
(she /her )
Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Riverside, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, my name is Krista Edwards I’m a licensed in the state of California and Arizona. I have 20 + year of experience in the field of helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and bipolar clients. I have been working with children and families. With such vast of knowledge, I believe I am qualified to assist you move on to the next phase of your journey.
My specialty is in the area of child abuse, parenting, trauma domestic violence and substance abuse, child abuse issues. I know how to navigate in this area . My experience working in the area of mental health disorders such as bipolar, depression, anxiety and as a facilitator and at a mental health hospital.
I have a caring and friendly nature. I will help you learn to put tools in your tool box to make changes in life. I am ready to help and assist you. Let's work together to help you make changes and experience life in a more positive way. You can talk openly and honestly with me and share whatever is on your mind.
Alejandro Maya
(he/him)
Optum
LMFT
19 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR-certified therapist. In my practice history, I have worked with a diverse range of clients facing various challenges, including lack of coping resources, complex trauma, physical health issues, self-esteem struggles, life transitions, racism, and grief.
I am trained in several therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts. I hold a master's degree in Holistic Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University and have completed graduate degrees in Expressive Arts Therapy from San Diego University for Integrative Studies and Ecopsychology from Naropa University.
Amy Guy
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Dallas, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship/ family conflicts, parenting issues/postpartum, life transitions, eating concerns/body image, and low self-esteem. Therapy is a safe space to explore, process, and understand your feelings. In addition to creating a safe space to understand your emotions, I may pull from different therapeutic approaches to tailor a treatment that correlates to your goals. For example, I may incorporate mindfulness practices and/or cognitive behavioral therapy (addressing negative thoughts). We can explore your childhood and your family's history, which may have left an emotional imprint. Or we can explore practical solutions for immediate relief.
Ileana Gallegos
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
Virtual
Fontana, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Have you find yourself repeating unwanted patterns in your work, relationships, or other aspects of your life? Are you dealing with feelings of low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety?
I am so excited that you have decided to take this next step in your journey to allow me to assist you with promoting healing, helping you reach desired goals, to become a healthier stronger version of yourself. II have helped individuals with trauma, mental illness, relationship issues, life transitions, and grief and loss. I utilize a variety of techniques including psychodynamic, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral and supportive interventions.
I am a bilingual therapist who is passionate about facilitating the healing process by collaborating with you to assist you with your goals. I strongly believe in creating safe spaces for clients without judgement.
Alicia Santiago
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Mill Valley, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi there, I'm Alicia.
Are you feeling lost or stuck in some aspect of your life and finding it hard to move forward? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? With your permission, I help to hold the container for deeper exploration and healing.
I am a trauma-based therapist certified in EMDR and versed in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
I believe that each of us possesses an internal source of wisdom that can be cultivated through psychotherapy, psychedelic medicines, meditation practices, yoga and other connecting practices that link the brain, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach has a foundation of mindfulness and compassion, curiosity and respect. I often use EMDR as an evidence-based approach to working with trauma and other issues. I am sensitive to the impact of one's social, physical and cultural environment as well as systems of oppression. Clients say my approach is warm, relational, collaborative, strengths-based and trauma-informed.
I cannot do the work for you, but I can help you along the way, and it is truly an honor and a joy for me.
Stephanie Miller
Optum
LMFT
32 years of experience
Virtual
Carlsbad, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years of experience, specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. My approach to therapy is rooted in understanding the context in which problems arise and the relationships between the individuals involved. I believe in a "wellness" approach to treatment, which focuses on helping clients tap into their existing strengths and resources. By encouraging self-reflection and growth, my goal is to support clients in creating lasting positive change and fostering healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
Debra K Iversen
Optum
LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
It is not always easy to reach out for help, but you are on the right path. Things will get better as we approach your struggles and goals together. I have any easy going straight forward approach to therapy as I work to meet each client’s unique needs.
I have been a therapist for over 30 years and have worked with clients on a myriad of issues including anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, perinatal loss and other women’s issues. My work has also included working with folks on life transitions whether it be family or career related, as these can create much stress for people.
I have worked in Connecticut, Florida and Texas, both as a clinical leader and practicing clinician. I am currently licensed in Connecticut, California and Texas. My training was at the Columbia School of Social Work where I received my masters degree.
I truly look forward to the opportunity of working together and hope we will talk soon. You are not alone.
Melissa Patti
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Torrance, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for 12 years. I am a diplomate of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy. As a licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I am committed to helping clients identify and transform negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their emotional difficulties. Through CBT, therapy focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you in understanding and overcoming the challenges you face, while equipping you with the tools and strategies needed for long-term success. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, we will work together to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.
Maria Aleman
Optum
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Bakersfield, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Do you feel trapped with work stress or family problems? Maybe a recent life event that has turned your life upside-down? Or Perhaps, you feel stuck and unable to tackle your full potential or get back to the things that made you feel happy?
I have dedicated over 12 years working with teens, adults, and families strengthening relationships and finding the best in every individual.
*Hablo Español
Robert Ramos
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
San Jose, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you and walk alongside with you in that process.
Rhonda Ince
Optum
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
Shafter, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I use a client centered approach in therapy sessions. I am here to listen to your words and be understanding, I will also provide feedback as needed. You can count on a nonjudgmental, safe and confidential space. It has been a privilege to work with adults, families, and children. I look forward to joining you in discovering all that life has to offer.