Therapists in California

Hello! My name is Melissa Bautista and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. In life, different circumstances can arise that can affect our mental health. Although these circumstances may be inevitable, I would like to be able to be a resource to help you during those times. I work with adolescents and adults. I have had the opportunity to work with diverse populations and diagnoses. I would like to be a part of your first steps toward getting back to a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step, I will provide a safe space for you and I am here to support you.

As a supportive therapist, I fully assist clients to achieve empowerment and life of satisfaction. I effectively collaborate with clients to increase self-compassion and supportive social connections to live a life of independence and courage. With non-judgmental empathy, I listen to help clients understand their losses and even unendurable psychological pains, and provide ongoing support with therapeutic insight and expertise in a confidential setting.

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with over 10 years of experience specializing in treating anxiety related disorders such as depression, generalized anxiety, adjustment disorder with anxiety, etc. I also work with people experiencing life transitions, and women's issues. I have a masters degree in clinical psychology from Azusa Pacific University and enjoy helping clients reach their life goals.

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.

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

Hello, my name is Carol Metcalf-Roth, LMFT, and I have been working with clients for 21 years as a Licensed Marriage Therapist. My career history includes progressive experience as a Therapist, Director of Social Services, and Clinical Supervisor, working in agency services, hospitals and private practice. I am also a licensed Military Family Life Counselor.

Are you ready to be guided on a journey of self-discovery and growth? I imagine that you are now eager, open-minded, and ready to embark on a transformative experience. You are ready to come to each session with a willingness to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings, eager to unravel the complexities of your mind and heart. You are ready to follow the pathway to long-term healing and personal development. Maybe just maybe, a willingness to be vulnerable may have stopped you in the past. But now, you are at a place where you understand that true healing comes from opening up and allowing yourself to be seen, flaws and all. You may be afraid to confront difficult emotions or explore uncomfortable truths – I will make you comfortable so that you can welcome these opportunities as catalysts for growth. I recognize the importance of trust, honesty, and collaboration in the therapeutic process, and I committed to building a strong and supportive partnership with you. I see you. You are not just seeking a quick fix or temporary relief – you're committed to long-term healing and personal transformation. You understand that therapy is a journey, and you're ready to take the first step toward a brighter, more fulfilling future. So if you're ready to embark on this journey together, I invite you to take that first step and reach out today. Together, we can unlock the door to a happier, healthier, and more authentic life.

Justin has been working in the field of behavioral healthcare since 2014. He began his career as a mental health technician within a locked psychiatric hospital in Los Angeles, supporting two units of adolescent and adult psychiatric patients. It was this experience that solidified Justin’s passion for providing compassionate, client-centered care in the mental health, and co-occurring dual diagnosis treatment field. Justin has done extensive work providing direct client care as a facilitator of individual, group and family therapy providing crisis intervention and mental health services to youth and adults identified as at-risk in Los Angeles. Justin has served various treatment programs in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. Over the years, Justin’s roles have included Residential Counselor, Case Manager, Primary Therapist, and Program Director. Justin Cowell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). An alumnus of the University of Arizona and San José State University, where he earned his Master’s degree (MSW), has experience in mental health, counseling, and community-based settings. Before joining the Grow team, Justin worked with diverse populations and adolescents. He enjoys incorporating CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology into his sessions and is eager to bring these modalities to work with the recovery population at Grow Therapy. Born and raised in Inglewood, CA, Justin loves all LA sports teams, Lakers, Dodgers, Kings, and Rams, and loves going to games. Both personally and professionally, Justin is a proponent of self-care, having fun, and trying new things, and is excited to be a member of the Grow team.

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-focused therapist, certified in EMDR and trained in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. I’m originally from Southern California, the traditional homelands of the Tongva (Gabrielino) and Chumash peoples, and I’m now based in Colorado, on the ancestral lands of the Arapaho, Ute, and Cheyenne peoples. I offer virtual individual therapy to clients in both states. 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 is grounded in mindfulness, compassion, curiosity, and respect. I often draw from concepts rooted in Buddhist psychology and contemplative traditions. I frequently incorporate EMDR as an evidence-based method for working with both acute and developmental trauma, along with parts work (IFS). I am attentive to the impact of a person’s social, physical, and cultural environment, as well as systems of oppression. Clients describe my approach as 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.

As a biracial, Black and Mexican, female clinician, I understand the obstacles and barriers to healing the mind, body and soul; and leading an overall physically and mentally healthy life. I take a collaborative approach in helping individuals create life goals that they want to work towards. I aim to create a safe and non- judgmental space for individuals. If you feel as though you can benefit from learning how to develop positive ways to cope with anxiety, sadness, anger, low- self esteem, isolation, racing thoughts and more, please contact me for further information and a consultation. I look forward to starting this journey of healing with you

My name is Shawna Reynolds, and I have been in the social work field for 20 years, and the clinical field for over 15 years now. I was drawn to social work to specifically to help provide a sense of safety, security and stability for youth and families. I bring that same sense of safety, security and stability to my Therapy Practice where using a variety of CBT and TFCBT different modalities I now help adult clients identify areas of self-improvement so that they can make positive behavioral changes in their lives to experience more positive pleasurable emotions such as excitement, happiness and a healthy self-concept.

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.

Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I help individuals to navigate the complexities of modern life, balancing responsibilities at work and home. I work with youth and adults, facing challenges related to intimacy, communication, or personal fulfillment. My ideal client can also be a parent, juggling the demands of raising children while maintaining their own well-being. Together we can explore a deeper understanding of self and emotions, desires to develop healthier coping mechanisms, build resilience, and enhance your self-esteem.

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

Building self-awareness is often a hard place to start. I meet my patients where they are in their journey and support the process. Sometimes taking the first step to explore psychotherapy is confusing. Ask questions so you can find a therapist who is the right fit for you. My approach meets people where they are presently, to determine where they want to be in the future. I like to get to know my new patients to determine their needs in treatment.

I'm Julie Loeb, a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist specializing in guiding adult clients struggling with depression and anxiety through life transitions. With 20 years in mental health, including 13 years as a psychotherapist, I offer virtual-based therapy which is empathetic support and a judgment-free space for you to be heard. My experience spans private practice and public mental health clinics, honing my clinical skills and delivering successful outcomes. Get the tools you need today to thrive not just survive.

My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of California State University in Bakersfield. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, and relationships issues.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who believes in the power of change, all you need are the right tools. I have invested in earning additional certificates to ensure that I am equipped to support you to meet, and surpass, your goals. I am a registered Art Therapist, EMDR and Energy Psychology practitioner. After a thorough assessment and creation of a care plan, together we can work towards creating the life you've dreamed of, embracing who you are and moving through the traumas that have held you back. As a therapist, I believe in possibilities. Anything is possible when you are willing to do the work. Are you ready to go beyond? Beyond your ideas or conclusions of what you can create. Together, we will go there.

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.

Hi there, I am Donna I love a mixture of different approaches to therapy to get to the root of what has been difficult or confusing at times during our journey in life. the ups and downs in our journey in relationships, job stress, and family interactions can be overwhelming and stressful, learning balance is part of what I believe is finding ourselves and identifying the needs versus the wants of life choices and understanding ourselves. I love the empowering of the self. Working together using a whole self approach addresses what I identify as balance - body, mind, and soul (content or peace) that helps develop a strong relationship with yourself. Seeking therapy can be a scary adventure, but well worth it. I am transparent, open, and honest with each person I come in contact with, I am here to help you on your journey with mindfulness, understanding, and evidence-based techniques.

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.

Greetings. I am an experienced, enthusiastic therapist who truly believes in our ability to heal. We can increase and build upon your capacity for joy and meaningful relationships with self and others by creating a safe space together in which to work. I am here to serve you by learning about your individual needs, experiences, beliefs and goals as the basis of our work together. I am eager to help you to discover what works for you and assist you in letting go of what has not worked in the past. I think we oftentimes listen more to what we say to ourselves than what others say to us yet many times that voice within us are old tapes from the past. Let's take a compassionate view together to create the changes you seek in your life.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with teens, young adults and new parents who are struggling with anxiety, depression and adjustment issues. I use evidence-based treatments to help you or your loved one manage symptoms. I help my younger clients work through the many trials and adjustments that come with growing up, and I work with young adults who are experiencing periods of transition and who often describe themselves as stressed out and overwhelmed. I help new and expecting mothers & fathers who are struggling with a perinatal mood disorder, or simply need support while adjusting to parenthood. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, or for your loved one, I’m here to help you through these difficult times and empower you with therapeutic tools that will last you a lifetime. I work with clients experiencing a variety of issues including: Anxiety Depression & suicidal ideation Adjustment issues Family conflict Low self-esteem Relationship issues Grief & Loss Self-harm behaviors Drug use/abuse Bullying Trauma Together we’ll explore what brought you to therapy in the first place, but we’ll also go beyond that. You’ll learn new ways to understand and solve your problems and develop healthy coping mechanisms so that you’ll be equipped to care for your mental well-being in the long term.

My clients tend to be people who want to feel more in control of their emotions, more effective at getting what they want, less stuck, more flexible, more connected and really just more at peace. They seek relief from patterns - sometimes chronic and severe, sometimes only subtly troublesome - of painful emotions, negative self-talk and thoughts, rumination, relationship instability and self sabotaging behaviors.

Hi! I am an LMFT based in California, more specifically the Bay Area. I am a father of two beautiful girls (#girldad), an avid golfer, and blackbelt in Brazilian Jiujitsu. I have been working in mental health and performance coaching for over 10 years. My passion is to help athletes and their parents find strategies to balance the demands of their sport and other areas of their life that they may be struggling with. I especially love working with fathers trying to engage their fatherhood in new ways.

Hi, I'm Audrey! I’m a therapist dedicated to helping individuals break free from cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and past trauma so they can reconnect with their authentic selves. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can explore challenges at your own pace and develop the tools to create a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based techniques to help you heal and grow.

A Licensed Marriage Family Therapy with 8 years experience working within both non profits and government agencies. Eager to provide a comprehensive treatment for clients who are seeking to change for the better. A bilingual in Spanish and English individual who is ready and highly driven to provide a supportive and nurturing approach to psychotherapy, which will allow clients to thrive and grow.

Hi, I am Matthew Ortega! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the beautiful, sunny state of California with nearly 15 years of experience working with clients in the community. Are you longing for more right now? Is ADHD executive dysfunction ruling your day? Are you needing help coping with a new diagnosis of Bipolar disorder or OCD? Or are you looking for a safe place to discuss topics with your spouse, validate your feelings and restore your relationship to its former glory? I help empower individuals and couples of all ages and relationship statuses to overcome their obstacles and live a happy and fulfilling life. I use an educational and interactive approach to elevate and validate you. My approach offers cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, harm reduction, and trauma-informed perspectives as needed for YOUR unique situation. Together we dig deep to bring forth your most rewarding and fulfilling life. I take pride in leaving the stigmatizing labels at the door, here you are welcomed as you are! I believe it takes great strength and courage to take the first step in connecting with a therapist. My goal is to make you comfortable and empowered throughout the entire experience. If you’re ready to make the commitment and put in the honest effort to dig deep and blossom, then I am here to support you! I look forward to working with you and building this relationship!

Hello, My name is Marshawn Rodgers. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living in Southern California. I have been in this field for 20+ years. I specialize in grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. If you don't identify with any of these struggles let's talk anyway. Congratulations on taking the first steps to nurture and care for yourself. I am hoping that you will assist me in helping you reconcile your past, present, and set up a positive outlook on your future.

I am a clinical psychologist with 40+ years of experience in a major San Francisco Medical Center and in private practice. I have worked with all age groups with a wide range of psychological issues. I have a background in neuropsychology and psychodynamic treatment. I have worked with the geriatric population and I am very familiar the issues of aging.

Hi there! My name is Marlene. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had the pleasure of working in mental health for over 5 years. I specialize in working with adults navigating major life transitions—such as starting college or becoming a parent—while also exploring how these experiences intersect with aspects of your identity, including being first-generation students, parenting in ways that break cycles of trauma, and identifying as people of color. I provide trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive care. It is always my goal to create a space where you feel safe and understood during our time together.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's degree from California State University, Fresno, and my Doctorate from Walden University in Minnesota. With 18 years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their emotional and relational challenges to lead more fulfilling lives. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on empowering my clients with the tools they need to achieve their personal and interpersonal goals.

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.

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

Do you often feel overwhelmed or struggle with relationship issues? Life presents us all with mental, emotional, and psychological challenges at times. I can help you explore difficult situations in your relationships and find ways to overcome your current struggles. Since 2002, I have been supporting men and women who are tired of constantly trying to please others. I help individuals move from feeling stuck to achieving clarity in various aspects of their lives.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters from California State University, Los Angeles and have been practicing for 8 years. I aim to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, comfortable, non-judgmental and empathetic. I provide counseling to adults using evidence-based interventions to meet individual needs. During the course of therapy, I implement various psychological approaches depending on the problem that is being treated and tailor treatment that will best benefit you.

Hello, I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in the field for over twenty years. I generally see Adults for Individual Therapy and Couples Counseling. I am also a Registered Addiction Specialist. My life experiences and education makes it possible for me to meet Individuals and Couples where they are emotionally to assist them through their Therapeutics Journey.

Hello and Welcome. I commend you for taking the time to identify the right therapist for you, and I would be delighted to have the opportunity to serve you through your journey to either heal, grow, or build. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist; I aim to help individuals strengthen their sense of self and relationships. I have over ten years of experience working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds who have experienced various mental health challenges.

Dr. Sterling focuses on specifically "women issues," grief, life transitions, cultural issues, anxiety, depressed moods, and will support other various challenges. Dr. Sterling practices a humanistic and person-centered approach when providing counseling and life coaching support. She is very compassionate while helping people with overcoming adversities and reaching their resilience. Also, she is genuine, real, and present during each conversation. Dr. Sterling displays a real authentic persona that is comfortable, relaxed, and filled with good energy! The objective she focuses on is to bring ease into a persons life no matter the situation or where they come from! Dr. Sterling will uplift your spirits and is someone to look forward to speaking with! "I have a PhD. in Philosophy/Advanced Human Studies. I have over 17 years of experience educating higher learners & helping others through various lived experiences. I take nothing for granted, all I have is a blessing including working with people from this perspective within my life!" Dr. Sterling has accomplished a lot, but she is truly genuine and humble. She will not only build you up, she will lift you up, and teach you how to get up no matter how many times you fall down! "I'm here, lets talk!" ~Dr. Sterling

Hello, my name is Jessica, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish, which allows me to support clients in the language they feel most comfortable expressing themselves in. I provide a warm, compassionate, and client-centered approach to therapy. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional struggles. I believe that healing is a collaborative process, and I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. When requested, I welcome the integration of faith into treatment. As a Christian therapist, I am honored to include biblical principles and spiritual support for clients who desire to include their faith as part of the healing journey. I believe that combining psychological tools with spiritual insight can lead to deep, lasting transformation.

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.

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

My name is Jay and I have been a therapist for approx. 8 years. I specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma. I have years working with diverse populations and understanding that first we are human and everything else follows after. I have been in the field of social work for over 15 years. I am a strong believer in helping you understand your deeper self to work through everyday and subconscious problems, thoughts, ideas, and dreams. Once you understand yourself you are on the path to working on healing and pushing forward for your future.

Hello! I help empower those struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship and self-worth issues, life transitions, & trauma using a variety of cognitive therapies. I'm bilingual and come from a refugee/immigrant background that can provide compassionate, nonjudgmental, and collaborative approaches to help you feel seen and heard wherever you are in your journey. You are welcome to show up ready and be who you are.

Hi! I’m Felicia Williams, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I am grateful you’re here to see me. I am a highly compassionate, empathic social work professional dedicated to exceptional mental health services including effective treatment to diverse population including children, youth, and families struggling with persistent mental illness. I enjoy working with individuals who are also or was a part of the foster care system, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, and trauma.

Hello, I am Kathleen. Do you feel overwhelmed, burnt out or pulled in a million different directions? Are you struggling with your relationships, work or health? Is it difficult for you to find time for yourself, let alone, be kind to yourself? Do you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward? Many of us are experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety and social isolation, so it is important to make caring for yourself a priority. Therapy can help you feel more connected, balanced and peaceful. Together, we can help identify what is not working and regain a sense of balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your body, mind and spirit. We will develop a "toolbox" of coping skills and create new insights and awarenesses to help you become a happier and healthier version of yourself. Seeking therapy can feel threatening but it's one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and by doing so also give to others. In our sessions, I will meet you with kindness, compassion, humor and evidence-based modalities, so you can overcome obstacles and habits that may be holding you back. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and empathic environment in which to work through current issues, conflicting relationships and/or past pain. I look forward to meeting you and working together.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from New York University and have been practicing for 13 years. I have also have 7 years of experience as a educator and supervisor for pre-licensed therapists. I love helping my supervisees and clients overcome their challenges, learn great lessons in the process, and achieve their highest potentials.

I am a highly accomplished Licensed, Marriage, and Family Therapist with over 28 years of experience in managing challenging behaviors and helping individuals with ongoing significant social/emotional skill deficits, and/or mental health needs. Along with working with youth from many cultures and economic backgrounds, I also have over 20 years’ experience supervising and managing adults in the education field. My years of experience working for school districts, private practice settings, group homes and currently as a mental health administrator provide clients with a clinician who has a broad range of experience.

Hi, I’m Lainie Popp, LCSW. You may feel like no matter what you do, the past still shapes your choices today. Even with all the insight you’ve gained, you might still find yourself stuck in cycles of self-doubt, people-pleasing, or overwhelming emotions. Using EMDR, mindfulness, and parts work, I help clients process traumatic experiences and emotionally confusing relationships so they can live with more ease, choice, and fulfillment.

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.