Therapists in California

I am a Christian-informed therapist licensed in multiple States. With a background in clinical social work and a desire to see the building up of the body of Christ, I am passionate about supporting and encouraging my brothers and sisters as they seek to navigate the difficulties of life and develop resilience that can lead to personal healing and spiritual growth. My areas of expertise include managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, faith formation, identity and purpose, peer relationships, transitional challenges, conflict resolution, forgiveness, etc.

Im a Bilingual English/Spanish-speaking therapist with a Marriage and Family License, with 18 years of clinical experience, 14 years licensed and in private practice. I consider myself to be bicultural. Having been raised as a first-generation American in a Latin family, I can identify with the mentality of someone living within two "worlds". Transitioning from one culture to another with seemingly different values, beliefs and language. I can easily understand the struggle that maintaining, and existing in both, can sometimes be. I've come to perceive and appreciate it as the gift of having a "bridge" that allows connection to, and understanding of, different aspects of people and life. My education has a foundation in Clinical Psychology, woven with holistic transpersonal themes, the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and just plain down-to-earth common sense. Always keeping in mind the client's personal beliefs and values.

I am a License marriage and family therapist I provides services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have been helping individuals with anxiety, social difficulties, Anger management, Depression, trauma and grief. I have experience in facilitating violence prevention programs and anger management groups. I utilizes a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, DBT, Psychoeducation, Play Therapy, behavior modification, mindfulness and relaxation.

Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Do you feel stuck? Struggling to better your relationships with others and/or with yourself, yet finding yourself repeatedly experiencing frustration and disappointment? I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and my passion is helping people overcome self-limiting thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. I have worked in many mental health settings with problems ranging from severe mental illness to problems of adjustment, and I draw from my training and experience to be creative in helping my clients work through challenges. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families identify what is most important to them and helping them find solutions that they feel enthusiastic about using to better their lives. My areas of expertise include healthy communication and men's issues.

Whether you are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a life transition, I am here to offer support and help you make meaningful change. Using cognitive behavioral techniques, as well as strength-based and solution-focused models, my goal is to help my clients develop coping skills to manage day-to-day stress, strengthen their relationships and gain an improved quality of life. I am a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience working with adults, couples, families, and children. I utilize my professional and personal experience, humor, and warmth to create a strong, collaborative relationship with my clients.

My approach is solution focused. I am not primarily concerned with how or why your present challenge developed but will focus instead on helping you to find a way forward. I hope to elicit and reinforce your positive attributes and competencies and help you access your inner strength. Your ability to change or improve your situation depends on your desire to do so and my job is to awaken that desire within you. The biggest challenge all of us face is negative thinking. This is a reflection of our own disappointment of what we see when we look inside ourselves. By improving our self-image through accentuating our positive qualities we begin to see the world in a more positive light. A sure way of feeling better about ourselves is to find something good in every other human being. Note: I do not write letters or fill out forms regarding disability due to behavioral health issues.

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 21 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals and families find healing, balance, and personal growth. My journey as a psychologist began with a deep passion for understanding the human mind and supporting people through life’s most challenging moments. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults through both individual and family therapy. My professional experience spans across inpatient and outpatient settings, where I’ve supported clients through a wide range of social, emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges.

I have been licensed as Marriage Family Therapist since April 3,2003. My area of clinical practice has focused on addressing the underlining causes of anxiety, addiction and depressive disorders. In addition, I have acquired a fundamental understanding of crisis that affects the struggle involving martial relationships. As a Marriage Therapist, I have expertise in the utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It my clinical experience that if you can effectively change your thoughts process your life will radically change for the better.

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.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with 15 years of experience. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and take an empathetic approach to building strong client relationships, fostering personal growth, and promoting healing. My experience ranges from working with individuals facing severe mental health challenges to those navigating life events for the first time.

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I earned my Masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Vanguard University. As your therapist, my hope is to create a supportive relationship where you will feel validated, heard, and seen within a safe environment. My clients have overcome depression, anxiety, toxic relationships, addictions, grief, and trauma. I look forward to us discovering the best you through our work.

I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University.

Hello! My name is Amelia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the San Francisco Bay Area. I have a Bachelors in Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Social Work from Fordham University, Graduate School of Social Service. I have 6+ years of experience providing school-based, community, and telehealth services to clients across the lifespan—ranging from preteens to older adults, as well as parents/caregivers/families. I most often support clients navigating child and adolescent concerns, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, depression, family and relationship challenges, grief and loss, identity and self-esteem, life transitions, and the ongoing impact of racial and systemic stressors. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I show up as a real person—someone who listens closely, reflects what I’m hearing, and gently but honestly names patterns that may be keeping you stuck, whether mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, etc. I believe you are the expert on your own life and family; my role is to help you make sense of what’s been heavy, honor your story and culture, build on your strengths, and partner with you as you explore and develop practical tools you can use outside of our time together.

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

With over 17 years of experience, Georena is a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges. With expertise in anxiety, depression, anger management, addictions, and other struggles. Georena provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore emotions, build resilience, and develop practical strategies for growth. Committed to personalized care, Georena helps clients navigate change and achieve meaningful, lasting well-being.

My name is Crystal Gee, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have worked in the Human Service field for over 20 years with the past 10 years working in Mental Health. I am well-versed in treating clients that suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral disruption, grief, anger management, mood disorders, and suicidal ideations. I focus on increasing effective solutions by increasing problem-solving skills, communication skills, social skills, self-esteem and emotional identification.

I believe we all have the strength within us to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. I am here to help you develop confidence and skills to better manage your negative thinking patterns, distressing emotions and destructive behaviors. My goal is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, reconnecting with your authentic self and building a life that is more aligned with your values. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, social anxiety, relationship issues & life transitions. I have a particular focus on helping individuals with emetophobia (fear of vomiting).

I want to work with you if you are between the ages of 25 and 55 and struggle with anxious attachment, people pleasing, setting boundaries, feeling triggered, anger, anxiety, depression, co-dependence, parenting issues, and ADD/ ADHD. These symptoms and attachment style are often related to each other and often related to similar childhood experiences of inconstant or abusive/neglectful caregivers. (ADD and ADHD is not cause by caregivers, however, when it goes undiagnosed in children, there is s strong correlation to symptoms described above)

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR Certified. I understand that individuals are continually adapting to their surroundings and doing their best to manage amongst systemic, environmental, and interpersonal stressors. In my therapy sessions, I offer a space for individuals to both process their experiences and explore strategies for managing stressors in a healthy way. I have extensive experience over the past 15 years supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.

Hello! Beginning September 23rd, I will have availability on Tuesdays only. 5pm: weekly or bimontly appointments 6pm: weekly or bimonthly appointments 7pm: weekly or bimontly appointmets If you have a question about a particular day/time, please feel free to message me. My name is I'm DuJuana Ware. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with a faith-based (Christian) background. I am licensed in California and Texas and currently provide only virtual sessions. I reside in the state of Texas which means I follow Central Standard Time (CST) for scheduling. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or sad? Do you struggle with low self-esteem and confidence? You are not alone. My goal is to help you become your BEST self. Together, we can identify what you feel is not working and address the WHY behind it. We will use a combination of cognitive-behavioral strategies with a client-centered focus to improve how you see yourself and experience life. Creating a more balanced view of yourself will enhance your relationship to self and empower your relationships and communication with others. Whether you are struggling with being a teenager or #adulting at any age, I am here to help. Let's GROW!

My name is Tomekia Edwards. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Texas and California) with over 14 years of experience. I've worked in inpatient behavioral health, mobile psychiatric assessment, and HIV case management capacities. I've also worked with service members and their families around issues related to military life. Typical concerns I address through counseling include anxiety, depression, work/school stressors, and relationship stressors. I provide services based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused approaches with years of experience working with adults, children, families, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, Texas, and Virginia. I have over a decade of experience working with a diverse population of individuals. I have worked in community mental health, public schools, corrections facilities, hospitals, and as an EAP provider. I am most passionate about working with the younger generation as I feel like that is where the most change and progress can be made. I would love to be a positive influence on the next generation. As a first-generation Iranian American, I understand the feeling of being caught between cultures. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow. My approach is warm, empathic, and solution-focused.

I am a dedicated psychotherapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, improve emotional well-being, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, or life transitions, I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights to create lasting change and live a more fulfilling life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in both California and Texas. I received my master's from Notre Dame de Namur and have been practicing for 13 years. I help adults who are struggling with intense emotions or in the midst of a major life change, to find balance again in their life. My goal is to support clients in living their most authentic life.

Welcome! My name is Dr. Michael Labib, a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working as a Clinical Psychologist and life coach. I am fluent in both English and Arabic. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. In 2009, Dr. Labib joined the United States Armed forces as an active-duty Military Psychologist in the USN, in 2017 he separated from active-duty service and worked as a civilian advisor to the First Marine Division, then joined the department of psychology at the El Segundo Air Force Base. Since 2017, I worked on developing my telehealth private practice. I understand it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you feeling unsatisfied in your relationships or find yourself wanting more out of life? Whatever brought you here, you've taken a first step toward change. My approach blends practical tools from CBT and DBT with somatic work and EMDR, so you not only learn to shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors but also understand how the body holds onto experiences and how to release them. This combination of evidence-based techniques and genuine conversation helps you create real, lasting change.

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

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.

Marcus Jones is a result driven therapist that assists individuals in managing symptoms of mental illness, maintaining sobriety, resolving motivations for self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, and improving relationships. His experience is inclusive of adolescent and adult populations. Marcus is a Licensed Psychotherapist, Certified Alcohol and drug Counselor, and Certified Anger Management Specialist. He earned his Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Southwest, Masters of Business Administration and Bachelor in Organizational management from Ashford University. Marcus has has worked in the field of Mental health for 20 years. In the last 7 years, he has provided counseling services in individual, families and groups, with experience in a range of settings from community counseling to inpatient treatment settings. He specializes in Addiction, Anger Management and Men issues. He has served as the Director of Inpatient Addiction and Outpatient treatment services at an Atlanta based Mental health hospital, he is the former host of 102.6 the Situations Radio’s Mental Health Monday’s. He has an in-depth understanding of the different levels of mental Healthcare and how they can best serve individuals suffering from Mental Illness.

I earned my doctorate and post-graduate master's degrees in psychology and my master's degree in counseling from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Professionally, I retired from the United States Air Force as a senior non-commissioned officer, and since retiring, have worked in several different behavioral health settings. In addition to my private practice, I am a graduate-level adjunct professor of counseling psychology.

Hi, my name is Evan. For the past 25 years I have been helping people improve their lives. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma from childhood or events they experienced, substance use, sexual abuse, low self-worth, people pleasing and many other issues. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I am also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) to work with people living in California.

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

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.

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.

I’m Kimberly M. Brooks, LCSW. I help adults and couples facing anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship strain, and emotional overwhelm find clarity and peace. My style is warm, direct, and grounding. I offer practical tools, honest insight, and optional faith-integrated support to help you heal, strengthen your relationships, and move forward with confidence. Clients often tell me they appreciate the calm space I create, the clarity that comes from honest conversations, and the steady guidance that helps them move forward.

To others it may seem like you've got it all together, but on the inside you're spinning out of control. Panic randomly punches you in the chest, taking your breath away, and you can't focus on anything else other than how to make it stop. You are consumed by trying to keep up with everyone else since they seem to have it all together, but you can barely function through the day. You feel like an awful mom because you are lashing out on your kids and hating the daily monotony instead of "embracing the joy of motherhood." You feel like you are failing your partner because somewhere along this journey you just lost yourself. You want to be a better mom to your kids. And remember why you fell in love with your partner. And stop the tornado of anxiety that knocks you out on the regular. You want to stop living by the expectations of others and rediscover who you truly are. It's time to win back some peace of mind and self-worth and attract the life you want. I have the DBT and mindfulness skills, which uses both mind and body exercises that will help you manage the crippling anxiety, love yourself better, be a more present and joyful mom, improve your relationships, and attract the life you want.

Good day! My name is Daniel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience serving multiple populations including clients struggling through financial hardship, life changes, relationship issues, emotional/ physical abuse/trauma, diagnosis of a serious mental illness in the family, and depression/ anxiety. I graduated from the University of Texas A&M - Commerce and am currently licensed in California, Kentucky, and Texas. I believe the bravest and most fulfilling way to grow is to "do the work" and I look forward to assisting clients in that journey in every way that I can.

I am a compassionate therapist who uses a blend of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and REBT, to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I work with individuals and couples to build coping skills, improve communication, and create meaningful change. My approach is friendly, supportive, and solution-focused, providing education and guidance to help clients feel heard, empowered, and motivated to achieve their goals.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, CEAP) based in California, Georgia, Maryland, and New Jersey. I received my Masters from the University of Maryland Baltimore and have been practicing for 25 years. I help young adults, adults, and elderly adults struggling with life transitioning issues that may cause stress, depression, and anxiety through CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation treatment modalities that helps individuals reach their highest potential.

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.

Greetings to You! I am Bethany and am thankful you have made the decision to live your most phenomenal life! Do you feel utterly lost, stuck or even misunderstood? Do you feel like you know what to do but don't have the will-power or tools to execute it? I help marginalized individuals identify how to show up as their most authentic selves and get the life they deserve. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, racism, transphobia or addiction, I'm here to help and comfort. Seeking therapy can feel unnerving but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal, grow, try on new perspectivesand just BE. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together and get you to the next level of your healing journey!

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my master's in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University in California and have been practicing for the last 8 years. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts, and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.

Hi! My name is Dr. M and I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California. I received my M.A in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and my Ph.D from California School of Professional Psychology. I have been practicing for 10 years and I love working with individuals experiencing any relationship difficulties. I have completed accredited training at various APA sites across southern California including USC, Loyola Marymount University, and CSUN.

Kaiser client you need a referral from Kaiser first then Kaiser will send you a link to book a session with me. I specialized in treating grief, anxiety depression, anger issues, relationship issues, and behavioral disorders. Are you experiencing anxiety? Is this impacting your relationships and overall happiness? Depression manifests various forms but is among the most common issues faced by individuals today. If you do find a time in your schedule, please contact me to see if I can adjust my availability

"Can she help me?" - A question you maybe asking yourself as you move through profile after profile, browsing bio after bio. Everything you are going through in your life right now, has brought you to this very point- where you have run out of solutions, options and ideas. You have tried everything you know so far. You're here, hoping to find a professional who not only understands you, but can also help you figure out how to redirect your life in a way that will be the most aligned, to what you want it to be. THIS is a moment worthy of pride. The fact that you are looking for help at all, says that you are someone who wants something better, something different. That you are not content with adjusting to struggle but you want to do what you can to elevate your life to a level that you feel good about. You're doing your part on working on yourself. How about I tell you what part I can play so you don't have to do that alone? Hi, my name is Nam and I have been a therapist helping people exactly like you, for 22 years. While I have 3 graduate degrees, several certifications and many years of helping people across 2 continents, under my belt, I have one solid mission in the work I do. To help every single person I work with find ease in their relationship with others and with themselves. I specialize in working with men and their loved ones with a focus on Relationships.

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

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 40 years of experience in the fields of addiction, domestic violence, and medical social work. In my years of experience, I've worked almost exclusively with adults individually and in groups who had difficulties managing their lives due to substance abuse and the concomitant mental health issues of depression and anxiety. I also facilitated groups of male and female substance abusers and perpetrators of domestic violence. In our groups, we focused on CBT lessons and exercises involving role play, modeling, and demonstrations. Clients were given homework to continue their learning and practice on their own between sessions. As a social worker working in public and private agencies, I worked with clients experiencing relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, and day to day life problems. I strongly uphold the Social Workers Code of Ethics that includes, respecting the dignity and worth of a person and exercising compassion and a non-judgmental approach with each individual. I endorse and utilize multiple therapeutic techniques that include the following: psychodynamic techniques, cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, person-centered techniques, and solution focused techniques. I am sensitive and respectful in using techniques that are agreed upon by the client and suitable to meet each individual's needs. I look forward to the opportunity to assist you in working through challenges that will help promote and maintain a better, happier and more peaceful life. My style is loving, compassionate and direct. If you just want someone to listen and not give you suggestions on how to improve your life, then I am not the right therapist for you! I actively participate in each and every session.

Hi and thank you for your consideration. Please note, I currently only accept new clients who are insured by Kaiser. Relationships with professors led to my providing therapy as an undergraduate student majoring in Community Service at University of Oregon. After receiving a Masters Degree in Social Work, the majority of my career was working 23 years for the National Center for PTSD. I had the extraordinary experience of creating my own job description as a Health Scientist in the emerging field of Disaster Mental Health. Over the course of these years, I responded to more than a dozen Presidentially-declared catastrophic events. At first, I worked with survivors or next-of-kin. As a first responder, I learned what every first responder learns when working with people in need. Without intention, we receive more than we give. It is, if you will, sacred work. It has long been important to me to conceptualize what I am trying to achieve professionally. Toward that end, I published research, published guidelines to practice, etc. Eventually, I became a national, and then international consultant regarding emergency response policies, be they federal, state, county, or institutional. In 2018, I received a Fulbright grant to continue the work I began in Ukraine, following the revolution in 2014. In 2022, I began offering telemental health therapy and have been enjoying the work and the progress with my clients.

I have been in the field for twenty five years and have learned to adjust to what the client is presenting in the session to achieve a sense of safety. I work with what the client is presenting and focus on how to guide the client to work through their presenting problem. I have had a history of working with a variety of clients and cultures. I started working in a therapeutic community with at risk adolescents. I later worked with court referred gang members. From there I worked with the homeless and the LGBTQ Community on addictions. I opened a private practice in a more suburban environment.