Therapists in California

You might be navigating difficult life transitions and feeling overwhelmed by it. As a therapist deeply committed to your well-being, I understand that seeking help can be daunting. In my practice, you’ll find a heartfelt space where we can explore life's challenges together, from coping with depression and anxiety to healing from trauma or working towards self-acceptance. My passion for therapy stems from my personal and professional experiences and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to heal and grow. By cultivating a compassionate mindset, we can embark on a journey towards not just recovery, but profound self-discovery.

Hello! I am Dr. Efrain Zepeda. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Social Worker. In the past 23 years of working as a mental health professional, one important lesson I have learned is that the most powerful therapeutic intervention is found in the interpersonal experience that occurs in the client-therapist relationship. Together we can analyze the past to co-create a new meaning to achieve healing. I strongly believe that therapy is not about labeling or judging, but rather about personal discovery.

As a therapist, I am passionate about creating a safe , compassionate, and collaborative space for individuals navigating through anxiety, depression, relational challenges, and life transitions. My goal is to walk alongside clients as they move toward greater self-awareness, deeper connection, and a more authentic fulfilling life. I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with attachment-based, person centered, and compassion focused approaches. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, empowered, and supported as you grow.

Do you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result? Are you struggling to find balance in your life? Do you feel like there's a part of you that has died and hasn't come back to life? Hi, my name is Merisa. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist and artist. I help highly functioning adults manage their stressors and find more balance in life. I am an art therapist, meaning we will use art as a communication tool to express emotions, process trauma and relieve stress. I have many clients who are not willing to do art therapy, and that's okay as well! Talking is just as effective. If you're from a family who didn't talk about feelings, and/or avoided conflict, it is possible that talking about your feelings isn't easy. I am here to help ease you into it. Therapy is like exercising. You will be working new muscles and I'm here to help you get stronger. Professional Background: I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts, minoring in Psychology in 2014 and graduated with my Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy in 2016. I was always creative and wanted to help others which lead me in the direction of art therapy and LMFT. I have worked at the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, providing therapy to patients and families; multiple addiction treatment centers and I was also a school counselor. I have been in recovery for years, and have personal and professional experience working with teens, adults and families in substance use and mental health treatment. I am willing to help you with addiction, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.

I am a client-centered professional with 15 years of experience providing broad mental health services to diverse populations of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified art therapist with specialization in utilizing multiple evidence-based modalities to address substance abuse, dual diagnoses, depression, anxiety, trauma, and domestic violence. I work with couples to increase effective communication skills in order to understand each other as well as grow emotional intimacy.

I'm Tanya, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I bring a respectful, compassionate presence to our work together. Clients often tell me they feel seen, heard, and genuinely respected in our sessions. I believe every person deserves a space where they are valued and met with empathy, no matter what they’re facing. I’ve worked in colleges, corporate settings, healthcare environments, and private practice, which has given me a well-rounded view of the challenges people face—whether it’s navigating career changes, managing stress, dealing with health issues, or simply feeling stuck. This diverse experience helps me meet clients with a practical, flexible, and deeply human approach. No matter where you are in life, I aim to offer support that feels grounded, relatable, and tailored to you. I genuinely care about understanding what matters most to you and supporting you in navigating life with more clarity and confidence.

Mike Valenzuela, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is dedicated to helping adults overcome anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and depression. I employ evidence-based therapies, including EMDR, to provide effective support tailored to your needs. My collaborative and empowering approach ensures that you not only heal but also acquire practical skills that promote lasting well-being and resilience. Together, we can unlock your potential for a more fulfilling life.

Welcome to my professional practice focused on providing emotional support. Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, and seeking assistance is a testament to personal strength. As a licensed therapist, I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals, addressing psychological issues such as emotional distress and relational dynamics. I offer both Christian counseling and secular therapeutic modalities, creating a secure environment for clients to express their emotions and foster healthier interpersonal connections. My methodology is rooted in evidence-based practices aimed at managing anxiety, facilitating life transitions, and processing past traumas. Together, we will work on enhancing self-awareness and implementing strategies for positive behavioral change, ultimately paving the way for a more satisfying and enriched life experience. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, CA. For almost 10 years, I have worked in various settings with teens and young adults to help them build resilience, healthy coping mechanisms, and learn to process emotions. I create a non-judgmental environment to support each client in their exploration of what led them to seek therapy. Through insight and awareness, clients can feel more empowered and find a deeper sense of self.

I am so glad that you are considering starting therapy! As you browse around to see who you think will be a good fit, thoroughly read through the profiles and do not be afraid to ask questions. The most important thing about the Therapeutic relationship is that you feel comfortable and heard. I'd like to share a little about myself...... I hope I can be the right therapist for you. I absolutely love working with people. I have over 5 years of experience working with children ages 3 and up. In my 6 years of practice I have provided services to children, adolescents and their families. My focuses include: depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, life adjustments, communication, parenting, social skills, coping skills and advocating for children with special needs. I also have over 3 years of working in correctional facilities with juveniles and adults. I work within a person centered approach, meaning that the focus will be centered on you and your therapy goals. I utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills and interventions to help decrease problems symptoms and behaviors. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask!

I am not only a therapist but a real person. Everyone struggles with mood and thoughts and sometimes we all need help navigating the intensity of these experiences. I hope to be a guide for you as you walk through whatever challenges are keeping you from moving forward. This process will be challenging and will take work, however if you take away one thing from reading this, it is that you are not alone and there are people out there waiting to offer help.

I’m Elizabeth Hughes, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping adults build healthier, more satisfying relationships. I work with individuals who are ready to make meaningful change and develop practical skills that improve daily life. I offer individual therapy for adult focused on lasting change. I use evidence-based approaches to enhance communication, boundary setting, and self-esteem. This will be a collaborative process where you will be provided with practical tools that can be used in between sessions.

Welcome, to Space for Grace Therapy, where we celebrate the journey of growth and evolution. We are committed to the values of transparency, compassion, empathy and vulnerability, recognizing them as vital to enhancing self-worth. By embracing new knowledge and cultivating the seeds of self-love in our minds we can foster meaningful change. Check out our website for details regarding services and reviews from client's that have graduated! https://www.spaceforgracetherapy.com/

Hello, my name is Megan. I appreciate you taking the leap to want to do something different in your life. I know how hard talking about some of these big life issues can be like the death of our person, living through the struggle of infertility and acknowledging the weight of our anxiety is too much. Sometimes, we are stuck in our loop and yet, we do not have the perspective how to shift the big feelings to make you start to feel better. In the beginning of working together, I want you to feel comfortable sharing your story. Everyone arrives wanting a witness to their grieving at different stages of their process. Your relationship is to different each person had a different relationship to their person. I believe the importance of listening to what is said in the room or what is not said. Many times we are not able to verbalize our pain of trying to live without our person. I think a very necessary part to our healing is to be witnessed by another. My goal is to always create safety in the room. I am a fairly transparent therapist sharing sometimes my personal journey to connect and help clients realize they are not alone in their pain. I look forward to joining you in your healing journey.

Hi! I am so glad that you are reaching out for therapy! My name is Melissa. I am a Licensed Professional Clincal Counselor (LPCC) in CA. I have been in this field since 2019. I have a Master's Degree in Counseling as well as a Master's Degree in Psychology. As a therapist, my role is to support those who feel lost, overwhelmed, or uncertain, helping them find clarity and healing. Everyone struggles at some point in life, and you don’t have to face it alone—compassionate guidance can make all the difference.

My name is Penny, and I have been in practice for 14+ years. I am here to help you grow and heal. I enjoy meeting a client where they are, and I take a client centered approach to treatment. My approach is rooted in respect, empathy and confidentiality. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and ensure clients are comfortable sharing their unique experiences.

I am a licensed psychotherapist and certified hypnotherapist in California with over 20 years of experience, specializing in empowering women to overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, infertility, and relationship ruptures, as well as navigating the emotional complexities of life transitions and self-doubt. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing space where healing and growth can thrive. Understanding the deep impact of sadness, isolation, and trauma, my mission is to help women build resilience, embrace empowerment, and prioritize their well-being to live their best lives. I am here to support you on your healing journey.

Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California for 20 years and I hold a doctorate degree in the Philosophy of Counseling. I am in my second marriage for 29 years now, after my 24-year first marriage failed. We have seven children between the two of us, 31 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. I have had good success counseling couples who have given up on their relationship, especially those who have experienced infedelity. I don't counsel children until they are 18. I enjoy helping people understand how they became the way they are and therfore find ways to leave dysfunction behind.

Hola! My name is Monica. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) offering culturally-sensitive and modern therapeutic care. As a bilingual, Hispanic therapist, I am pleased to welcome you in both English and Spanish (¡Bienvenidos!). Do you find yourself navigating the burdens of stress and overwhelm? Are you struggling to effectively manage daily stressors, or experiencing the persistent weight of anxiety, overthinking, and anxious thought patterns? I specialize in helping adults develop robust coping strategies and effectively manage the anxiety triggered by modern life. I understand that the emotional toll of day-to-day challenges can feel immense, but I believe that with the appropriate tools and support, managing these emotions becomes achievable. I am dedicated to cultivating a safe, therapeutic, and relaxed environment where you can explore your inner world comfortably. Recognizing that each client presents with unique struggles, difficulties, and therapeutic goals, I utilize an integrative, client-centered approach to ensure your care is both tailored and personalized to your specific needs. My commitment is to guide, support, and empower you throughout your journey. I meet you with an understanding of your current emotional state, employing a non-directive style that encourages self-discovery and allows you to find your own authentic path forward.

Hi there! Nice to e-meet you. My name is Liza, pronounced Lisa, last name Castro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am not your ordinary therapist and will always be honest and truthful with you, even if it may sting just a little, but positive outcomes are always the goal. Change is never comfortable and neither is being confronted with the truth and lets be honest, both perspectives can and will hurt. If this is what you need, then I am who you seek. I am a great coach and cheerleader. I will help you understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors and help you explore how to become the best version of you. I am here to help you win in your own way; one choice and one session at a time. I am currently seeing clients on Mondays VIA TELEHEALTH ONLY. I will be seeing clients via telehealth and in-office Tuesday through Saturdays. Keep in mind I do work with a few other organizations, so scheduling will be sporadic and clients have the autonomy to schedule where openings are available. I am located in North County San Diego and hope to see you online or in person soon!

My name is Jacob Garel, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a unique background in the military as a Pararescueman. With 20 years of experience serving and saving lives, I bring a deep understanding of crisis situations and a passion for helping individuals and families in need. Specializing in psychodynamic, Rogerian, and existential approaches. Whether it's grief work, PTSD therapy, or accompanying you on your mental health journey, I am dedicated to walking beside you every step of the way.

Hi there! My name is Chelsea and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. In the past, I've had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients of all ages and backgrounds. I believe my communication style is calm and gentle, while still being direct. I do my best to provide a nonjudgmental space wherein the clients I work with can feel comfortable sharing their concerns. I will also challenge clients when appropriate, to allow them to develop insight into ways they can change their thoughts or behaviors in a way that would be helpful for them. My goal is to empower clients to reach their goals, so they can learn tools and techniques to help them better build upon their strengths and manage mental health symptoms. Eventually, my hope is for all of my clients to feel they are in a place where they can manage symptoms and life stressors on their own, through utilizing the skills they've learned throughout therapy. But until that time, I aim to help my clients learn how to change maladaptive patterns of behavior, and learn ways of helping their selves manage the challenges they are facing.

As a Black clinician, I also provide a unique perspective by integrating a strong multicultural framework to fully understand your experiences, relationships and the way you navigate to the world around you. Brionne (Bri) Clemons is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in the heart of Los Angeles. Bri received her Undergraduate Degree from California State University Northridge in 2016, Majoring in Sociology: Criminology and Criminal Justice as well Minoring in Africana Studies. Bri continued her education at California State University Northridge receiving her Masters in Social Work, Class of 2018.

I am a TRAUMA based therapist of Mexican descent, and my work is grounded in understanding how trauma, culture, and identity shape emotional well-being. My background and training allow me to approach healing through both a clinical and cultural lens, honoring lived experience, family systems and generational resilience. This is Trauma based therapy which means we may explore childhood experiences, family relationships and generational patterns that continue to impact your current life. Potential clients are those who are having to navigate living in a society that profiles, polices, and dehumanizes People of Color and immigrant bodies. Culturally rooted and trauma aware, treatment will focus on utilizing EMDR versus traditional talk therapy. A therapist who "gets it" without the need to explain culture or values. More specifically, I want to create a safe space and invite individuals who are being racially profiled and targeted in public spaces, anxiety tied to immigration status, racial/cultural trauma, emotional impact of racism/deportation fears, shame/guilt, hypervigilance, depression, emotional numbness, family pressure, people pleasing, perfectionism, made to feel as they are "not good enough", feeling responsible for everyone's emotions, cultural identity, internalized shame or silence around your culture/identity/or needs, family expectations, or intergenerational trauma. You may feel torn between cultures, exhausted by the need to explain yourself or burdened by stories and silence that were passed down to you. You are NOT broken, you have been surviving utilizing survival responses, passed down out of love, pain and necessity.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.