Therapists in California

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology Counseling from Mt. ST. Mary's University in Los Angeles and have been practicing for 15 years. I facilitate insight into problematic issues in your life transition towards a life worth living. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I help recognize unhealthy patterns of thoughts and behaviors.

Please Read Entirely: Families often come to seek more information on how to establish and produce healthier habits that benefit their well-being and self-esteem. They learn that the healthier they are, it increases their happiness and in turn benefits relationships. Kendall helps families and individuals explore and identify who they are, their communication style and how to protect these realizations with healthy boundaries. After learning more about themselves, families often feel much more equipped to decrease or rid themselves of symptoms that prompt them to seek therapy initially. It's always an honor, privilege and a wonderful opportunity to process with families in their sacred spaces. Consider starting your journey to Optimum Wellness today by scheduling a Live Session with Kendall Bradford, LCSW and Associates. Love and Light! ** Therapy is an emotional process and we do not conduct sessions while family's are operating moterized vehicles. Please do not drive during sessions and if you must, we can schedule a time for you to park or find a safe space to have the session. Thank you! ** We love couples therapy and couples therapy is not covered through insurance at this private practice. The price is out of pocket for couples between $150-$180 (depending on sliding scale). Private Practice Website: www.OptimumHealing.org or Contact using the email on file

Hello! I’m Melissa Bautista, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over seven years of experience supporting clients through life’s challenges. I provide telehealth therapy across California and strive to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and easy to talk in. I work with clients who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or navigating transitions, and I help them build practical tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and better understand themselves.

"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." — Arthur Ashe Hello there! I am first a mom, a sister, an aunt, a grandmother, and a neighbor and friend. In my life, I have naturally been inclined to help others. Realizing this, I decided to embark on a journey to become a professional helper of other humans, to help improve their life and feel better about their choices. Along this journey, I have become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I obtained my MA from Pacific Oaks College in 2013 and my Psy. D. Marital and Family Therapy from The Chicago School in 2021. I then started working in counseling and after completing my continued education for counseling studies with an emphasis on alcohol/drugs abuse studies at UCLA in 2020. I support and promote clients to explore their potential and utilize strengths to manage challenges in life. As your therapist, I strive to be authentic and nurturing and come from this understanding, as my true self, and as a South-American therapist. My years of experience and navigating through life while learning the art of therapy and counseling helped me to develop a strong patient-centered approach to join patients where they are at. Feedback I have heard from clients is that my experience working with different cultural backgrounds helps clients feel safe and they report that I have a more inclusive therapeutic relationship with them than other therapists.

I’ve studied and practiced many methods. I like to be eclectic and work with you with what’s needed to get you back on track and feeling your best. I was a teacher for many years, then went for my masters in social work. Life has many twists and turns. Sometimes we can feel off balance or are suffering from depression or anxiety. We’ve all had our ups and downs and getting back on track and feeling our best is a goal I enjoy helping people achieve to live the life they want.

I am a licensed therapist providing compassionate, collaborate results oriented therapy for clients seeking to change their lives for the better. I am devoted to acceptance and commitment therapy with the understanding that people have the capacity to grow and resolve. I believe that clients have the answers within themselves to remove barriers and challenges in their lives and it is a privilege to assist them in recognizing it and bringing it out.

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.

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.

Jaime Askew is a psychotherapist with 25+ years of experience in providing intensive mental health and substance abuse services. She specializes in treating trauma, which is one of the most prevalent conditions and underlying factors associated with mental health and substance abuse issues. She is a certified trainer and provider of TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy) which is an evidenced based technique shown to significantly improve the negative effects from trauma. She is also a trained provider of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is also an evidenced based treatment modality show to statistically improve the levels of distress from trauma. She possesses an international certification in another evidenced based service, Triple P, an evidenced based treatment to address severe behavior disorders. Jaime Askew received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in English Literature at the University of the Pacific and received her Master’s Degree with honors in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage, Family and Child Therapy. She was among the first in the State of California to receive the LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) license, as well as being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Jaime has conducted research and has publications in the field of psychology and is working towards her doctorate in Integral Psychology. Jaime has a passion for techniques that treat the whole person, integrating mind/ body/spirit connections, treating the underlying roots of the problem, augmenting care with holistic healing, and integrating Western and Eastern Philosophies. Jaime has a certification of Adult Residential Facility (ARF) which is utilized to ensure that clients are maintained with the highest quality of safety and care. She has extensive experience in coordination with community agencies such as Department of Health Care Services, Social Services, Probation, and in JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) and CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Residential Facilitates) certifications. Jaime Askew has been an owner, CEO, Program Director, and Clinical Director in cutting edge addiction treatment facilities and continues to have a passion for helping others achieve happiness, heal from their traumas, gain insight for growth, and fulfill their highest potential.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Hello there, I’m Lus. Do you miss feeling like yourself? Does it feel like you are going around in circles with the same problems yet can’t seem to find a permanent solution? I guide adults from a person-centered approach to find solutions to their problems when experiencing difficulty managing emotions such as those that come with depression and anxiety. I can help you work through major life transitions (newly married, becoming a parent, empty nester, starting school, grief, becoming ill, divorce, etc.) getting to the root of the problem and developing cognitive behavioral techniques that will get you back to stability. Obtaining therapy services can be intimidating but I can guarantee you that you are making the right decision. I possess bilingual abilities (Spanish), if it's your preference. You deserve your own space to heal and evolve. During our sessions, you will have a safe space where I will meet you with empathy and evidence-based practice. Let me help you.

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.

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and the elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments. She teaches at five local universities, including UCLA’s medical school. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising. She also works with family and criminal law courts as an expert witness.

You don’t have to struggle alone! I look forward to the opportunity to work collaboratively with you in your journey in discovering how to make positive changes, decrease negative behaviors and thoughts, and help improve your mood and engagement with life! In our hectic world we often find ourselves afraid to take risks that could jeopardize the stable lives we have created for ourselves. We remain in jobs, relationships and old patterns that no longer work, while symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger and self-defeating patterns keep us from making real changes to our lives. If that sounds like you, you are stuck. We can feel lost and alone when we are unable to move forward, whether in work or a personal relationship. Therapy can help you break free of that and thrive. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on teens, adults, and couples. I have worked with clients on concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and family reunification. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I also minored in sociology.

If you are a client of Kaiser Permanente, it is necessary to obtain a referral from Kaiser before proceeding. Once you have received the referral, Kaiser will provide you with a link to schedule a session with me. I specialize in helping individuals navigate grief, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, and behavioral concerns. Many people live with anxiety without realizing how deeply it affects their relationships, decision-making, and overall quality of life. If you find yourself feeling constantly on edge, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted, you’re not alone—and support can make a meaningful difference. Depression is not always obvious or dramatic; it often shows up as fatigue, irritability, disconnection, or a loss of motivation. It is one of the most common and misunderstood struggles people face today, yet it is also highly treatable. With the right support, individuals can regain clarity, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of control over their lives.

Hi I’m a licensed professional counselor licensed in California, Georgia, Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, and Rhode Island. I have been in the counseling field helping children and adults for more than 25 years. I help adults of all ages struggling with everyday stressors, anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, relationship issues, work stress etc, my goal is to help you figure out and work through challenges to live life on your terms and create a healthy balance.

Are you pondering on embracing a new pathway to healing? Ready to conquer those negative thoughts or triumph over trauma to meet that you that you have never seen? Look no further. I am a licensed therapist specializing in trauma-informed care. I utilize an integrative approach to assist clients with achieving their goals and maximum mental wellness as we collaborate together on their journey to healing.

Hi there! I'm Cindy Nguman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I’m so glad you’re here. I work with clients all across the state through the convenience of Telehealth, creating a safe and supportive space, wherever you are. I specialize in supporting young adults and adults who are navigating life’s many ups and downs, whether that’s anxiety, stress, depression, dating, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. You're not alone in what you're going through, and together, we’ll work to help you feel more grounded, confident, and understood. My style is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I use a person-centered approach, which means I deeply value who you are and what you bring to the table. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy to help us make meaningful progress toward your goals. Reaching out is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. 💛

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in southern California. I work with individual adults only, utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) in treating those suffering from single trauma events. I also do a lot of relational work assisting with learning how to set healthy boundaries and prioritize your values in relationships. Areas of treatment: Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors/Adjustments, Relational issues, Trauma/PTSD.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a decade of experience specializing in treating individuals struggling with substance use disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. I work with dual-diagnosis clients, where I provide therapy to clients facing complex challenges, including addiction, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic therapy, family and couples therapy, and interpersonal relationships helping clients uncover the underlying emotional and relational patterns that contribute to their struggles.

I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.

We know that initiating counseling services for your child or yourself can be very challenging. However, please know that you are making a positive step towards a healthy change in your life. During the counseling process, together we will identify your strengths and use those strengths to help propel you in making the necessary changes you would like to make in your life. If you want to obtain support in dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse, anger management, trauma, parenting assistance, divorce or substance abuse, I am here to help you navigate this process.

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

In my role as a mindfulness-based therapist, I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that is nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to delve into their inner workings with a sense of compassion and empathy. I emphasize the importance of being fully present in the current moment and embracing a mindset of acceptance without criticism in my therapeutic approach. Furthermore, I prioritize guiding clients toward cultivating a deep sense of self-compassion and understanding, recognizing these as fundamental elements for personal advancement and emotional reconciliation. By integrating mindfulness techniques and meditation practices, I actively assist clients in developing an enhanced self-awareness and fostering a compassionate outlook on their experiences.

Meet Tara Zandi, LICSW – a compassionate and highly skilled therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults, children, and families. Tara holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, blending deep academic knowledge with practical expertise. She’s trained in a powerful range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, PCIT, EMDR, and even yoga for children—offering a holistic and personalized approach to healing. Whether working through depression, anxiety, or behavioral health challenges, Tara meets her clients with empathy, insight, and culturally sensitive care. Fluent in English and Farsi, Tara creates a welcoming space for diverse communities to feel seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward wellness.