Therapists in California

I am Wes Hardcastle-Orr a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the State of California. I have lived in many states and several countries overseas in my work with active-duty personnel and veterans. I practice a type of CBT called Rational Emotive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This therapy works well for a broad range of problems and difficulties. Common issues I work with include Depression, Anxiety, Alcohol and Cannabis Use Disorders and Work or Personal Stress and much more.

Hello! I'm Melissa. I love what I do! Counseling people is my life's work. Been doing it 20 years. Whatever you are going through, I can assure you, I've worked with someone who's dealt with something similar. I specialize in treating addiction, worked in 5 in-patient drug & alcohol treatment centers/rehabs in my career (mostly w/men). I have years of professional experience working with an array of issues and populations. I enjoy working with individuals and families. I have several years experience working w/teens, including those who grew up in the system, been abused, at high-risk, or with behavioral or learning problems. Clients feedback is reported as: I'm "easy to talk to," "friendly," "down to earth." I've been told I'm helpful & a "good listener;" that's important to me. I'm mostly solution-focused, meaning...I want to understand the problem, but get into the tough work of finding solutions as soon as possible. As a therapist, I have empathy, am caring, and invested in improving your life circumstances. I'm non-judgmental. I believe no matter how similar or different we may be, we can work together and develop rapport. We can start right away, opening lines of communication so I can understand where you're coming from and help anyway I can. My hope is to develop a warm, trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable, and heard. One of my favorite things to hear as a therapist from a client is, "exactly," because I know we're on the same page, and smile when a client says after session, " I feel much better." That's my aspiration, to help, get to know you. Please understand this is not just a job for me. I'm genuinely here for you! Thanks for taking the time to read this & learn more about me as a professional.

Hello and Welcome to Grow Therapy, my name is Sabrina Thurman. Do you ever find yourself struggling in relationships, at work, with family, peers or with your health and wellbeing? You are not alone, and change is possible. I have helped clients' just like you to make sustainable and permanent life changes, by increasing my client's ability to manage and cope with stress. I use a holistic approach to address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I am excited to begin our journey together. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. My job is to provide a space for you to process your feelings while assisting you to feel safe within our teletherapy environment. You are the expert on your life, your personal goals have value and will drive our treatment plan. My ideal patient is focused on personal growth and healing.

Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here! My name is Ester Raha, and I’m a licensed therapist with 12 years of experience in the mental health field, including the past 7 years as a practicing therapist. My journey in this profession has been shaped by both my personal experiences as a female veteran and mother, a trauma survivor, and my passion for supporting others through life’s challenges.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently eligible to see Telehealth clients in California and Florida. I have been practicing Holistic Psychotherapy in my private practice for 7 years specializing in Hypnotherapy and trauma resolution. I assist adults to navigate life transitions such as grief, heartbreak, career changes, healing from trauma or outdated versions of themselves, so they can feel more free and present in everyday life.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters degree in Mental Health from Christian Theological Seminary in Butler University at Indiana. My Masters program is a Four year special degree program which is integrated with Psychology, Philosophy and Theology, that provides holistic approach to Psychotherapy. I work with adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Anger, Trauma events such as military combat, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and Racism.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I'm experienced in supporting individuals manage life stressors and challenges to improve their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. I offer a supportive space to help clients learn how to navigate their emotions and experiences, especially those who have not had these skills modeled due to cultural stigma or intergenerational patterns.

Greetings! My name is Dr. Kate Dunn. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY32472) with nine years of experience treating many different mental health diagnoses, challenges, and symptoms. I have a background working with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, addictive behaviors, and psychosis. I have specific clinical training and experience treating trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I see clients of all ages 18+ utilizing a tailored, culturally-sensitive, empathic, and related approach. I blend humanistic, existential, and cognitive behavioral philosophies depending on the comfort and preferences of each client. I strongly believe that cultivating a safe and trusting therapeutic connection creates the foundation for meaningful growth and healing. My ultimate goal is that therapy is a positive and beneficial experience for each person that I work with. In my free time I enjoy yoga, meditation, good food, and walks with my dog Hazel.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's in 2014 and have been practicing for 11 years. I help adults manage their stressors in life and help them reduce their symptoms to be successful in their own life. I have experience working with children from 4 years old to older adults of the age of 80 years old.

You aren't your thoughts, feelings or traumatic experiences, you are what you choose to be! You deserve to be free from your trauma! I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), serving in all areas of California. I specialize in supporting adults who are struggling with traumatic experiences. My main focus includes Childhood Abuse Survivors, Sexual Assault Survivors and Culturally Specific Trauma. Trauma can subconsciously have an effect on an individual and prevent him or her from properly treating the issue mentally. However, not all who experience trauma are necessarily traumatized. I am here to assist you in processing trauma in ways that aren't too discomforting. You will learn ways to transform shame and guilt into self compassion by soothing your inner child. Let’s look at your old story with a different perspective and try to discover the cause of your internal struggles and recreate a new story, where you get to choose the ending. I look forward to joining you in your journey!

Hello, I am Sanayah Marriott, a licensed clinical social worker in CA, AZ and HI. I am fluent in English and Haitian Creole. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor-II with 9 years of extensive experience in addiction treatment settings and 19 years of military experience. I am thrilled that you have chosen to embark on a journey towards personal growth and self-care. Are you ready to let go of your worries, discover your purpose, embrace emotional wellness, adapt to change, and lead a balanced life? While the journey may be challenging, I aim to support you as you gain awareness and understanding.

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.

Robin Hall, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the state of California and Hawaii. She attained her Master's in Social Work from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, in 2009. Robin's professional journey has led her to work extensively in areas such as sleep challenges, PTSD, anxiety, and trauma, where she uses a combination of evidence-based therapeutic approaches. In her therapy sessions, Robin prioritizes creating a safe, judgment-free environment where people can openly express themselves, ensuring that you feel seen, heard, and valued throughout the journey towards healing and growth.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from Antioch University and have been practicing for over 9 years. I enjoy helping people become the best versions of themselves. I believe in allowing my clients to guide me while teaching them how to ride the waves of life's difficulties. I believe everyone has the answers they are looking for within themselves; I am only a sounding board designed to guide.

Hello. I am a Clinical Psychologist. I am licensed in California and in Arizona. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence based treatment methods to achieve long term sustainable change with my clients. I hold a Master’s of Science in Clinical Psychology as well as a Psy.D. ( Psychology Doctorate). I have been in practice for over 10 years with my practice focusing on Addiction, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.

Welcome! With more than 25 years experience, my clinical approach is solution-focused, goal-oriented, compassionate and client-centered. I work with you in partnership to help uncover solutions to your challenges so we don't get "stuck" on the problems themselves. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, or simply feeling "stuck," I'm here to help you restore balance and move toward a life of fulfillment. I strive to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered to make lasting changes. I've enjoyed helping adults navigate life's most difficult transitions for the last 25 years and I'd like to help you, too. By focusing on the skills of distress tolerance, emotional regulation, mindfulness and interpersonal effectiveness, we can begin to feel more in control of our day to day responses to stressors. I provide sessions geared towards formulating, motivating, achieving, and sustaining desired behavioral change. It helps you get "unstuck" and back in control! One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing clients set meaningful, value-driven goals and achieving them. That's why I partner with you to ensure you are empowered to reach your full potential. As you work through life's transitions, I will be there to guide, encourage, and challenge you to push past obstacles and create the life you want. Visit my website at www.valued-directions.com to find out more about my approach to therapy

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 am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 5 years of experience working with marginalized populations, specifically with BIPOC LGBTQ members. I have experience assisting clients deal with managing life stressors, relationships and overcome trauma. I provide trauma-informed, culturally attuned, and strengths based services to assist clients identify and achieve their goals as well as develop healthy and adaptive coping skills. I am passionate about creating safe, affirming spaces for healing and growth. Soy Trabajadora Social Clínica Licenciada con más de 5 años de experiencia trabajando con poblaciones marginadas, específicamente con miembros LGBTQ de comunidades BIPOC. Tengo experiencia ayudando a clientes a manejar el estrés de la vida, las relaciones interpersonales y a superar traumas. Ofrezco servicios informados por el trauma, culturalmente sensibles y basados en las fortalezas, para ayudar a los clientes a identificar y alcanzar sus metas, así como a desarrollar habilidades de afrontamiento saludables y adaptativas. Me apasiona crear espacios seguros y afirmativos para la sanación y el crecimiento.

Hi there! I'm Ann. I'm so glad you're considering making space for therapy. It's not easy to reach out for help, and I give you so much credit for taking this step. My name is Ann LeFevre, and I’m a PhD, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Denver, CO. I work with adults in CA, CO, and PA, and I have over 20 years of experience treating depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I welcome clients of all races, abilities, genders, beliefs, and sexual orientations. I encourage you to take your time selecting a provider who seems to be a good fit for your treatment needs as well as your personality and communication style. If you would like to chat with me briefly prior to scheduling, please feel free to schedule a free phone consultation.

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.

The burnout is real. You have so much to do, but you just don’t have the energy. Your mind is SO busy and SO loud. Sometimes you can get it together, but at the expense of your health. You clean the the entire garage! Or you work on that project so long that by the time you stop, you realize you haven’t eaten in five hours, your head hurts, and your bladder is about to explode. All of this and how the heck do you even find a therapist that you can feel safe with? This is a lot. The world is a lot. Therapy is a lot. Therapy is vulnerable. I get it! I understand. I'm Kim. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker, trauma therapist, ADHDer, mom, serial hobbiest, and corgi lover. I am neurodiversity affirming and a safe therapist for gender and sexuality diverse folks. I have lots of experience working with people who are struggling with PTSD/C-PTSD, ADHD, parenting issues, and life transitions. I am all too familiar with the gifted-kid to anxious-adult pipeline. I understand that for some people, really hard things may come easily and really basic things may be very hard. I love working with people who are tired of repeating the same old cycles and are ready to make a change.

My approach is client-centered and collaborative, rooted in the belief that healing begins by recognizing and building on each person’s unique strengths. Through hope-inducing relationships, goal-oriented work, and compassionate support, I help individuals move beyond trauma and toward empowered, meaningful change. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in trauma-informed care, drawing from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), somatic techniques, and strength-based approaches to support lasting healing and growth. I am EMDRIA-trained. I also hold certificates in Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy utilizing Internal Family Systems Parts Works (inner ecosystem perspectives), and Somatic EMDR Therapy, which allow me to help clients reconnect with their bodies, identify stored trauma, and restore a sense of presence and safety.

Hello, My name is Steven Nelson. I'm a licensed Marital and Family Therapist for 8 years. I always find it to be an honor to help others find their solutions and journey. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. "If you seek, you will find solutions." At times we just need that support to help see it. 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.

Navigating life's challenges can be daunting, especially when they stem from deep-rooted experiences like childhood trauma or complex PTSD. But you're not alone in this journey. As a therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can freely express, process, and explore their emotions. Whether you're an active-duty military member, part of a neurodiverse couple, or an individual facing various struggles, my goal is to support you every step of the way. Together, we'll work towards cultivating hope, resilience, and inner strength, empowering you to lead a more fulfilling life. I possess a decade-plus of expertise in aiding adults, adolescents, couples, and families during challenging times. With a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy, I am licensed in CA and OR and boast additional certifications in various modalities, including trauma-informed therapy.

I deeply understand the complexities of seeking support and the courage it takes to embark on this journey. My experiences have shaped my approach to therapy, making me empathetic to the struggles and triumphs of my clients. I’m here to provide a compassionate, open-minded space to work together towards your goals and well-being. I’m committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you feel understood and valued. Compassion in our sessions means I listen to you with empathy and care, acknowledging your challenges and celebrating your progress. This supportive approach helps foster a trusting relationship where you can openly explore and address your concerns. I am dedicated to continuous learning and professional development, which allows me to stay current with the latest research and best practices in the field. This commitment enhances my ability to provide effective, evidence-based interventions and support.

I am a Psychologist licensed in California and have provided psychotherapy to individuals for over 30 years. I am also a lifelong artist and I am interested in how the creative process functions in our lives. I help people connect with their true potential that may have been ignored or forgotten in their search for meaning and purpose in their lives.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I offer clients over 20 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in providing a holistic environment that is collaborative, client-centered, and strength-based for clients. Whether you are seeking tools to help you face current challenges or looking to improve your mental health, I am here to support you.

As a Clinical Licensed Social worker with over 10 years of experience, I bring deep understanding of the complexities of mental health to my work with clients. With a strong background in social services, I have developed a particular expertise in working with adolescents struggling with severe mental health. My experience as a foster parents has given me a unique perspective on the challenges faced by vulnerable population, and I am passionate about advocating for the well-being of children and families. My work with veterans has allowed me to develop a specialized understanding of unique needs and challenges faced by military families and veteran. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence based therapy that empowers clients to achieve their goals and improve their overall well being.

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 oof Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University.

I am an LCSW from CA. I am a rarity, as I was born and raised in Los Angeles and have lived all over southern California. I have also traveled throughout the state and known how the state is unique. I have experience working with the military, Veterans, and their families. I also have experience working with families and children of all ages. My journey to mental healthcare I did a lot of volunteer work and held a few AmeriCorps positions (America's version of PeaceCorps). I fell in love with helping people and I was told in order to achieve this, I would need to go back to school and complete my MSW.

Hi, I'm Codi. First of all, let's take a moment to give yourself a pat on the back. You have taken the first brave step in reaching out! For over a decade, I've created a safe space where clients feel truly seen and heard. I can teach you skills to help you align with your own values, help you learn how to handle tough moments and build a life you love. You don't need to let mental health roadblocks hold you back. Let's keep this momentum going and get started as soon as possible.

I specialize in supporting individuals who carry the weight of trauma, identity-based stress, interpersonal relationship issues, and systemic injustice. My practice is grounded in cultural humility, affirming care, and a profound respect for each person’s unique lived experience. Whether you're exploring your gender identity, healing from relational harm, or navigating life in a world that often misunderstands you—I offer a space where your truth is honored and your healing is possible. To help remove barriers to care, I offer evening (up to 11 p.m.) and weekend appointments (10 a.m. - 6 p.m.), recognizing that accessibility is essential—not optional. You deserve support that fits your life, not the other way around.

I'm Jamie Wyatt, a licensed professional counselor in California, Virginia, and Florida. I approach therapy as a companion to you on your journey as you free yourself from what's holding you back, see yourself with new eyes, and develop that inner compass toward what is really important to you - toward your true potential and the life you want to live.

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.

I’m Kourtney Carter, PhD, LCSW, CCS, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience working with individuals and couples facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, and ADHD. I integrate evidence-based therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide a compassionate, safe, and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to empower clients to build resilience, enhance emotional regulation, and live in alignment with their core values. Together, we work collaboratively toward meaningful and lasting change that supports your overall well-being and personal growth.

I am Brandy, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW/LCSW) offering compassionate and specialized psychotherapy services to adults in California, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. I am also a U.S. military Veteran with multiple deployments, and my lived experience deeply informs the care I provide. My own healing journey, combined with my service background and professional training, has shaped an integrative, trauma-informed approach to therapy that honors the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. I am an EMDRIA-trained EMDR therapist and offer evidence-based trauma treatment to help clients process and heal from painful life experiences. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the emotional impact of serious health diagnoses. Whether you're coping with the aftermath of trauma or facing a new chapter in life, I offer a collaborative, supportive space focused on strengthening your resilience, restoring your sense of self, and promoting lasting emotional well-being.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 14 years of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida and am currently licensed to practice in Florida, Maine, Virginia, Arizona, and Colorado. While I reside in Florida, I work with clients across these states through telehealth. My approach is compassionate and collaborative—I believe in helping clients recognize their own strengths and inner resilience to create meaningful change. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I'm here to support you in finding balance, clarity, and healing.

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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help adults struggling with stress and mental health issues become the best versions of themselves. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and helping them feel better and reach their goals.

As a **licensed marriage and family therapist** with 15 years of experience, I've had the opportunity to work with diverse clients, from individuals as young as three to adults of all ages, as well as couples and families. I began my career in substance abuse counseling and DUI classes. Over the years, I’ve specialized in **talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy**, with a focus on helping clients resolve **unresolved trauma**. I'm also trained in **Parent-Child Interaction Therapy** and can provide these services via telehealth. Most recently, I spent six years as the **Behavioral Health Program Director** for a foster agency in California. This role was incredibly rewarding and allowed me to work with children in foster care, their biological and foster parents, and adoptive families. Although I loved my work as a director, I truly missed the hands-on experience of working directly with individuals and families in a therapeutic setting, which is why I am back in private practice.

Life can bring us challenges that feel overwhelming. As a result, you may find yourself feeling anxious, irritable, or maybe even struggling in managing your day to day life activities. If you're looking to make some changes in your life, then therapy is the perfect place to start. As an integrative client-centered therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the needs of my client. You are unique and so is your journey toward healing. My job is to be flexible to your needs as we work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.

I get satisfaction from being a voice of reasoning for others through my genuineness. I consider this a life purpose for me. I am driven by a deep desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those struggling with their mental well-being. I believe in providing a safe space with a non-judgmental stance while supporting the patient through his or her emotional well-being and encouraging autonomy.

My name is Brooke Mullineaux, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. With a unique background working alongside medical professionals across diverse specialties, I bring compassionate support to those navigating some of life's most challenging moments - helping you find strength and healing when you need it most. Whether you find yourself navigating major life transitions, facing a personal or family health challenge, working as a healthcare professional, or dealing with the pain of grief - you’re not alone. Therapy can be a dedicated space where you feel safe to nurture yourself, heal at your own pace, and discover more about who you truly are.

I was a CPS Social Worker before I was a therapist. Both of my degrees are in Social Work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and hold licenses in California, Washington, and Oregon. I am very responsive, and your story matters to me. I have been practicing for 7 years. I assist clients ages 12 and older who are struggling with their mental health.

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.

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.

Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.