Blue Shield Of California Medicare Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Hello, my name is Steven Nelson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over nine years of clinical experience. While my professional background includes family and relationship therapy, my current focus is working with individuals, helping each person navigate their unique journey toward healing, personal growth, and emotional well-being. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with people from diverse backgrounds and professions, including first responders, law enforcement personnel, active-duty military members and their families, nurses, attorneys, and many others facing a wide range of life challenges. Life's difficulties are a natural part of the human experience. At times, individuals may feel isolated in their struggles or believe that no one truly understands what they are going through. These thoughts can contribute to anxiety, depression, substance use, and other challenges that impact relationships, work, and overall quality of life. When left unaddressed, these difficulties can become overwhelming and interfere with one's ability to move forward. I believe that meaningful change is possible through a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based therapeutic approach. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can gain insight, build effective coping skills, strengthen resilience, and develop healthier ways of managing life's challenges. Together, we can work toward healing, personal wellness, and lasting positive change. 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.

Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence from 2011-2013, to working as a shelter counselor in Oakland for youth 13-21 from 2016-2018. I worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments from 2018-2022. I have been licensed with my LCSW since May 2025 and focused my prior professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

In my practice, I provided psychotherapy to diverse adult populations experiencing Anxiety, Panic symptoms, Depression, Stress, Life Transitions/Adjustment Difficulties, ,Anger Management, Relationship Issues, Family challenges, Perinatal Mental Health Concerns (Pregnancy, Postpartum Anxiety/Depression, BirthTrauma), Women's Issues. I provide evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Approaches and Solution-Focused Therapy in both Japanese and English.

Hello! I appreciate your curiosity and willingness to explore yourself and your goals. I'm Alison Camhi, a California-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working with individuals, couples, families and groups for over 20 years to navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance and process addictions, dual diagnoses, co-dependence, mood disorders, grief, communication and the various challenges we walk through each day. My most important goal is to help my Clients transform positive AND difficult experiences into a strategy for forward movement and progress built upon your insights, along with practical tools for consistent momentum.

Hello, I'm Jamal Cameron, a licensed marriage and family therapist (133473) who has worked with patients throughout California for the past decade. I work with all types of people late stage teenagers and adults of all ages. In addition to therapy, I have conducted research including abduction prevention and the effects of peer mentorship with children and adolescents. My career has led me to focus on providing therapy to individuals with schizophrenia spectrum illness, depression, bipolar and substance abuse. In addition, I have taken on advocacy roles related to assisting families with academic and legal concerns.

Hi, I'm James. I believe therapy should ultimately help create meaningful change. What change looks like is different for everyone. Whether you're beginning therapy for the first time, returning after time away, or realizing that something in your life isn't working the way you'd like, I would be glad to explore that with you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Supervisor with 15 years of experience, I've had the privilege of working with people across a wide range of backgrounds, and levels of need. Much of my career has been spent serving and leading in community mental health, where I saw how our mental health can be shaped not only by our history, but by our families, communities, cultures, and the world around us. I am comfortable working with experiences that are often described as "high acuity," including significant trauma, depression, anxiety, and psychosis. I am equally interested in the quieter things that can make life harder than it needs to be, like the nagging doubts, persistent insecurities, difficult relationships, or old patterns that no longer serve you. Whatever brings you here, you don't need to have it figured out before we begin. My role is to listen, take your experiences seriously, and work alongside you to better understand what's happening and to facilitate change. I will honor your story and your pace while helping you move toward change that feels meaningful and authentic to you.

I provide mental health treatment to individual adults, couples and adolescents. I'm an empathetic therapist who helps clients navigate and improve their sense of self and family/partner relationships. I specialize in anxiety, stress, and depression and relationships using a variety of therapeutic modalities to help my patients begin to make progress and start feeling better. My approach to therapy varies based on the individual needs of each client I work with. I enjoy assisting clients navigate and improve their sense of self and family/partner relationships.

Hi there, I'm Edward, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a diverse background in my years working in the mental health field which includes having two Masters in Social Work and Criminal Justice. I have worked with families, individuals, and couples, with issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, thought disorders, and emotional disturbances. I have worked in a variety of different settings that have helped me develop a unique skill set in addressing overall mental health. Some examples include outpatient/inpatient care, hospice, the prison system, and the education system. My approach is collaborative and I strive to make my patients feel understood and heard throughout the process. I often explain to them that even though I may be the professional, they are the professionals of their own lives and it's just an honor to play a small part in supporting them.

Hello! I’m Ignacio. I am a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) based in Monterey, California that truly enjoys helping clients overcome life struggles. While English is my primary language, I also speak Spanish fluently. I have worked with clients that have different life experiences including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, recovery from break-ups, identity issues, and other challenges. I am also welcoming to LGBTQIQ folx as an ally and I am gender-affirming. I am bicultural (Mexican-American) and bilingual (Spanish). The clients I have served in the past have benefited from the way in which I do therapy and help them overcome the difficulties in their lives to help them live and enjoy life more. I use science-backed (EBT) methods to help my clients including CBT, MI, and Mindfulness.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 18 years of experience helping individuals navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working closely with veterans, first responders, and survivors of sexual assault, supporting those who carry both visible and invisible wounds with strength, resilience, and courage. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in practical, evidence-based strategies designed to create meaningful and lasting change. I strive to provide a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, valued, and genuinely understood. Together, we will develop practical tools to help restore balance, build confidence, and move forward with greater clarity, purpose, and hope. I believe every person’s story is unique. That’s why I tailor our work together to honor your individual experiences, strengths, needs, and goals. My goal is to meet you where you are, walk alongside you through the process, and help you create a path toward greater well-being and a more fulfilling life.

My name is Nadine and I was born and raised in Iran, went to high school in England and came to the US when I was 16. Having lived in three different countries, I am very familiar with how culture affects individuals. I have a sense of humor and enjoy meeting people from different walks of life. Every individual that I meet, has a different story. I am here to listen

My name is Dr. Perynn D'Alba and I am a clinical psychologist. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to make changes. These can be big or small, this is your life and your time, I am here to help you figure out what isn't working quite right. I enjoy being creative in my interventions and really figuring out what will work best for you. I use humor where appropriate because it can be an important intervention and give space to dig deeper. I have had various jobs in my life in quite a few different fields but the common thread was that I enjoy empowering others and helping people figure out what they want and how to get that.

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, a new life transition, or struggling to cope with the weight of your problems daily? I can help you find a way forward and offer you the tools to tap into the inner strength that you possess. I believe in approaching therapy from a warm, genuine, and validating perspective and often use humor to help my clients get “unstuck” from unhelpful thinking patterns. My job is to be your mirror to see what is already there: infinite wisdom.

Hello! I’m Yasaman Sharifi, Licensed Family and Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), a dedicated mental health professional with a passion for helping individuals navigate their challenges through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With a focus on fostering self-awareness and resilience, I work collaboratively with clients to identify and reshape negative thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve their personal therapy goals. I address the roots and underlining issues to assist individual with faster recovery with the current problems. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I am here to provide a supportive and empowering environment for your growth and healing. Let’s embark on this journey together!

Life can feel overwhelming when past experiences continue to show up as anxiety, stress, or emotional exhaustion. You may notice patterns that don’t make sense, feel stuck in survival mode, or carry a heaviness you can’t quite name. Therapy offers a space to slow down, understand what’s beneath the surface, and begin responding to life with more clarity and self-compassion. You don’t have to navigate difficult seasons alone—healing is possible, and support can make the path forward feel more steady and manageable. I also work in afternoons and evenings to ensure everyone gets a chance to be seen.

My name is William Money, a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I have 8 years in the field and I love my job. I am not the person to give advice or tell you how to live your life. I will not tell you I know everything because I don’t. I will meet you wherever you are therapeutically no matter where you are in your journey. I am not judgmental and I have experience with lots of things so if you feel we are a good fit please reach out to me to schedule our first appointment.

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

Mr. Ilya Shtykan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Masters's Degree graduate in Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, Ilya has worked with multiple organizations and various types of client populations. Also, Ilya currently provides counseling services for sufferers of co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders. Ilya has gained a lot of valuable insight about himself as a therapist through participating in these programs. He has also developed an empathetic understanding of the patients and the everyday struggles they endure. Ilya's long-term goal in this field is to help make a positive change in clients' lives and provide a meaningful service that makes a difference. Ilya is very passionate about assisting people in finding positive ways to deal with their issues and struggles and being seen, heard, and understood.

I am extremely passionate about empowering individuals and therapists/associates to heal and live their best, most authentic lives. I strongly believe that each and every individual, regardless of background, ability, or beliefs, should have a safe space where they can feel comfortable being their true self. I know that sitting across from someone with similar experiences can help to build trust and promote connection, and am therefore deeply committed to holding space for womxn and people of color.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from the University Antioch Los Angeles and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults at different stages of life and transitions who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and trauma to help nurture and restore a sense of balance. My approach to working with clients is centered around the individual as a whole - recognizing intrinsic uniqueness and reinforcing inner strength – supporting an individuals innate ability to grow and thrive.

Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or just not ok. Are you overwhelmed trying to manage life's ebbs and flows? Do you have repetitious thoughts despite efforts to push them aside? Living with uncertainty while experiencing so many different feelings can be exhausting. I offer culturally sensitive services to clients of all socioeconomic backgrounds and abilities in a respectful, safe, supportive space. Together, we will work to identify your presenting concerns and the internalized belief systems impacting how you address your them. Approaches designed to meet your specific needs, will be drawn from psychodynamic, art, mindfulness and somatic modalities. I hope my supportive, non-judgemental, and warm approach will support your work in clarifying goals and gaining insights and skills to reach them.

Hello, and welcome. I’m glad you’re here. Seeking help to improve your mental health is not always easy—it takes courage and strength. Taking that first step can open the door to healing, emotional recovery, and meaningful positive change. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 25 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families who are navigating emotional and relational challenges. Throughout my career, I have provided therapeutic services in private practice, county and community-based clinics, residential programs, and educational settings. I am committed to helping clients gain insight, learn effective coping strategies, build resilience, and feel empowered to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Hello, I am a licensed Psychologist and have been working in the field for approximately 20 years. As a psychologist, I find fulfillment in helping individuals navigate, not only mental health challenges, but daily challenges in life by providing a supportive and compassionate environment. By utilizing an eclectic and collaborative approach we can find solutions together to overcome life's difficulties. Let me assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.

Hello, and welcome. I am Dr. Diari Banigo, Ph.D, LCSW, a Christian, doctoral‑trained clinician, and adjunct professor. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence‑informed therapy that honors the whole person. My approach emphasizes emotional resilience, meaningful connection, and healing from life’s stressors. I believe therapy is most effective as a collaborative process, and I encourage patients to actively engage in their care with me and with other providers who support their overall wellbeing. Important Notice: Dr. Banigo provides psychotherapeutic services. Requests for administrative documentation—such as disability certification, FMLA, or emotional support animal letters—will be referred to another mental health provider. This policy ensures that therapy sessions remain focused on clinical care and your healing process.

Hello , I am a licensed social worker based in Ohio. And I also am licensed in California. I have been practicing for close to 40 years, so have a great deal of professional and life experience, that I can apply to my work with clients. I am motivated to help adults of any age, move forward with their lives. And also there to help clients develop healthy skills that they can utilize, to become their "best selves." My approach tends to be more SHORT TERM and Solution Focused. I also see myself as a life coach for many of my clients. I am a regular practitioner of yoga and meditation and enjoy bringing elements of these practices into my work as well. I also love animals and enjoy hiking and biking in nature. *I do not work with clients who have HIGH RISK CONCERNS, such as recent suicidality, recent psychiatric hospitalization, domestic violence or substance abuse issues. Since I feel clients managing these issues, are better served seeing providers in a traditional office setting with more wrap around services. Clients who book with me presenting with these high risk concerns will have to be referred out by me to other providers or more appropriate resources in their community.

I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and self-understanding. My practice focuses on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, cultural and identity-related concerns, and attachment challenges. I provide a warm, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed space where clients can explore their experiences, strengthen relationships, and develop meaningful, lasting change. Together, we work to build insight, foster healing, and create a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.

Hi my name is Maria Mercedes Giol, I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, California, Utah and Washington. I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and completed my Master's in Mental Health Counseling in Miami, Florida. I have lived in sunny (sometimes Florida, lol ) for 29 years and I am a devoted mother to a 17-year-old son and 1 small dog. I enjoy boating with my family, watching sunsets, hiking, bicycling, singing, and making homemade soaps.

My name is Wendy Bertram and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LISW) based out of Arizona with a Masters in Social Work from ASU. Currently I'm licensed in both Arizona and California, providing both in-person and teleheatlh services. I use a client centered approach and multiple therapy models, depending on your needs. I am here to partner with you to work through the issues causing disruptions in your life and to help you meet your goals. Everyone’s experience is unique, and the therapeutic experience should reflect this. My expertise spans various areas, including life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem struggles, stress and worry, caregiver stress, and those struggling with the impacts of medical diagnoses. By employing a client-centered approach, I work to foster a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I employ evidence-based interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused therapy to promote personal insight, resilience, and coping skills for positive change.

As a seasoned therapist with nearly 20 years of consecutive licensing across multiple states, I specialize in a diverse array of client issues, including men's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, aging and chronic illness challenges, sexual addiction, trauma and PTSD, anger management, clinical depression, and anxiety. My approach is built on an affirming and caring nature, allowing clients to feel safe and understood in our collaborative work. I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including person-centered therapy, CBT, and ACT, alongside group therapy, to tailor my interventions to each individual’s unique needs. My strong listening and speaking skills facilitate deep connections with clients, empowering them to explore their struggles, find meaning, and ultimately create positive changes in their lives. The impact of my work is reflected in the growth and resilience of my clients, as they navigate their personal journeys toward healing and fulfillment.

I grew up in Europe, graduated from Pepperdine University in 2007 with MA in clinical Psychology, in practice since then. Married, father of 2. Life can be challenging and certainly has its ups and downs. I strive to assist clients in gaining awareness, understanding, and control over their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through exploration, self-reflection, and insight, I work with clients and provide the space that is necessary to process, gain insight, and achieve desired change.

I am passionate about the impact of spirituality in mental health therapy. As an attachment informed humanist LPCC, I consider the bio-psycho-social-spiritual/existential condition of the folks with whom I work. Healing is a matter of integrating the disparate and fragmented parts of life. Empathy, acceptance, positive regard, and genuineness are crucial elements for effective therapy and these are the characteristics I seek to cultivate in my practice. As far as a specific toolkit, CBT and Motivational Interviewing are the primary evidence based methodologies I employ to be with people in their self-paced, goal oriented healing efforts. Those who want to examine the angst, anxiety, disquiet, and friction in their lives will find a fellow traveler in me.

Welcome! I am Heidi Boatright, MS, LMFT, and I am glad you are here. Reaching out for support takes courage and my goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood and empowered to create meaningful change. With more than 15 years experience, I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, life transitions, grief, stress and low self esteem. I also enjoy supporting individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck or uncertain about their next steps in life.

PLEASE NOTE: I specialize in Gerontology. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.

Hello - I am an LCSW serving the adult population in the state of California. I earned my MSW degree from San Jose State University and have been licensed for 12 years. I work with clients from a strength based perspective and offer knowledge/skills to support in increasing functioning and efficacy. I believe in mindfulness practices and making the most of each moment thus moving away from depressive and anxious thoughts. I also excel in increasing self esteem/compassion and improving relationships to self and others. I hope to see you on my schedule and look forward to working with you!

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) (LCPC) (LPC) (LMHC) licensed in various states. I received my Masters from Avila University in Kansas City and have been practicing for over a decade. I have helped women struggling with life problems and aid them in regaining control over worry, panic, fear, or dread in order to become the best version of themselves.

Hi, I'm Dave Jaskolski, a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor. LMFT. I graduated from JFK University with a degree in Counseling and Transpersonal Psychology. I have worked at Antioch Children's Behavioral Health for over 26 years. I have worked with children, adolescents, and their families with serious symptoms and challenges such as: PTSD & trauma-related issues, ADHD/ learning disorders, and school-related IEPs, Self-harming/cutting/suicidal ideation and attempts, foster children, attachment issues, aggression/ anger issues. Autistic spectrum issues. I have taught and supervised interns in training to become therapists. I lead a Multi-Family Dialectical Behavior Therapy Group. I also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am passionate about helping people navigate difficult moments and find a greater sense of balance and clarity. I specialize in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and working with individuals facing depression, anxiety, stress, and major life challenges. My goal is to meet you where you are and support you in building tools that feel meaningful and sustainable.

Hello, my name is Asher and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist that specializes in trauma, addiction and anxiety disorders. I specialize in working with children ages 10-18 years of age. I also specialize in working with adults with an emphasis on memory and aging disorders. I am a brainspotting practitioner which is a trauma/anxiety treatment in the same family of EMDR.

It truly is nice to see you. I am Dr. Tinai James, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the founder and Clinical Director of Rooted & Relevant Psychological Services, a group therapy practice dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across every season of life. Our approach is built on the RCB Framework™: Rooted, Culture-First, and Brave. We believe successful therapy takes place in a Brave Space where you don’t have to code-switch to be heard. Whether you are a student facing the "identity shift" of campus life or a parent seeking a therapist who understands your family’s cultural background, our goal is to provide clinical expertise that feels relevant to your real life. In our sessions, we combine PhD-level clinical science with practical, goal-oriented strategies. We will work together to tackle anxiety and social pressure while building the cultural confidence you need to thrive. Our practice is currently licensed to see clients in Georgia and California, in addition to 40+ states via PSYPACT, offering high-energy, modern care that honors exactly who you are. Let’s build your brave!

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.

Hello!!! I’m Nadia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and support. My background consist of working with teens, young adults, adults, and older adults experiencing different levels of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance dependency and trauma. I’ve worked in outpatient settings such as treatment centers with individuals experiencing drug and alcohol dependency, the homeless population and now currently working with veterans. I focus on building strong rapport while also helping clients develop practical coping strategies.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in the local San Diego community for over 25 years. For the past 24 years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I believe everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up. I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in children and adolescents as well as adults who have experienced trauma related to abuse, car accidents and/or witnessing and being exposed to life-threatening situations. I also specialize in treating individuals who identify as Neurodivergent and/or have specific learning differences.

As a therapist, I am committed to guiding you toward meaningful change and lasting healing by creating a space where you feel seen, supported, and understood. I serve adult clients with a broad range of life experiences and challenges, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, mental health issues during pregnancy and postpartum, trauma, and substance use. I received my bachelor’s degree from Yale University and subsequently did research at the medical schools at Yale and Stanford. I continued my education at California State University in Sacramento where I completed a master’s degree in social work. After working as a therapist at a community health agency for the past decade, I recently started a private practice. My clients often come in wanting relief from distress as well as a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns. I tailor my approach to honor each client’s unique experiences and strengths, and I draw from a range of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). My approach to therapy is both structured and supportive, helping you build practical skills, process difficult experiences, and deepen your self-awareness. Together, we’ll work toward helping you feel more balanced, resilient, and confident.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step—especially if you’re not totally sure what to say or where to begin. My job is to make that part easier. I’m a licensed therapist who works with people dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, burnout, low motivation, and feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Some clients come in with something specific going on, while others just know something feels off and want to figure it out. Both are completely welcome here. In our work together, we focus on what’s actually happening in your day-to-day life and how to create real, noticeable changes—not just talk in circles. I aim to keep sessions practical, collaborative, and grounded so you leave with clarity and a better sense of direction. Clients often tell me they appreciate having a space where they can be honest without feeling judged or analyzed. You don’t need to have the “right words” or a clear plan before starting—we’ll figure that out together. If you’re looking for therapy that feels straightforward, supportive, and focused on helping you move forward, I’d be glad to work with you.

I am a licensed mental health provider in California, Missouri and Texas and have helped clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, and coping with life changes. I believe you are the expert of your story and possess many strengths that can assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 40 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship challenges. I have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence, as well as individuals navigating complex life patterns shaped by past experiences. I specialize in working with adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up as they are. I also work with couples on occasion. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I bring both professional and lived understanding to this work. My approach is warm, compassionate, and direct. I believe therapy should be both supportive and effective—while you will always be heard and understood, I also actively engage in sessions to help you move forward. I won’t let you stay stuck. Together, we’ll break challenges down into manageable steps, build practical tools, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you. I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. I often incorporate structured exercises and between-session practices to help you apply what we discuss in real life, while remaining flexible and responsive to your individual needs. Clients often appreciate that I am clear, consistent, and gently persistent—I will meet you where you are, while continuing to support and encourage your growth, even when things feel difficult or overwhelming. My goal is to help you build insight, resilience, and confidence so you can create a more stable, fulfilling, and peaceful life. I am committed to practicing with empathy, respect, and without judgment, honoring each person’s dignity and lived experience. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. Option to insert (after paragraph 2):

"Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health" – Lauren Mersy. As an integrative therapist, I tailor my approach to help you understand the causes of your distress and find personalized coping strategies to achieve your goals. With compassion, validation, and flexibility, I support your healing journey. Together, we will work toward a healthier, more balanced life.

Maple Moriji was born on December 29, 1970 in Tokyo, Japan, an only child of a Japanese father and Danish mother. Instead of enrolling at a Japanese school, he attended a private international school called the American School in Japan (ASIJ). At ASIJ, he befriended other third culture children of different nationalities from across the globe. In 1989, he graduated from ASIJ and moved to Washington, DC where he enrolled at George Washington University. He received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 1994 after which he began his career in information technology. He eventually relocated to Los Angeles in 1998 and subsequently became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2004. After having worked in the corporate world for over 13 years, he was prompted by his lifelong interest in human psychology to become a Marriage and Family Therapist and enrolled at Antioch University in 2009. Over the years, he explored the subject extensively, attended a conference for Victims Of Incest Can Emerge Survivors (VOICES) in Action, and studied depth psychology at C.G. Jung Club of Orange County. Starting in October 2010, he began seeing clients regularly for psychotherapy at inpatient and outpatient facilities including The Center in Long Beach, Tarzana Treatment Centers, Solid Landings Behavioral Health, Hope by the Sea, Personal Involvement Center, Oceanfront Recovery and BLVD Treatment Centers. In private practice, he has been treating clients using a number of different approaches including EMDR since November 2012. In December 2011, he received a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. His calling is to specialize in treating clients who have struggled with issues related to cultural diversity and who have suffered from trauma while growing up (such as childhood sexual abuse). As of March 2017, he has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Hello , My name is Tom Hill. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working out of Sacramento California. I am working as a remote therapist with clients throughout the state of California. I attained my masters degree in 2002 and have been licensed as a therapist since 2012. I have worked with individuals, couples and families. My style of therapy is called cognitive behavioral therapy. Working with the client in understanding the connections between thoughts, feelings and behaviors/choices. I have a passion for sports and coaching. I look forward to working with you.

Hi, my name if Kim Gunderson, and I have worked as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 23 years. I have worked with middle school kids in a school setting, supervised incoming trainees at Cal State, University Fullerton, and have concurrently worked in private practice with a variety of individuals, couples, and families. You are the expert of you! I work collaboratively and aid in helping you identify underlying themes that may be adding to your distress.