Hello. I chose to become a therapist after recognizing its value as a tool for managing life's challenges. I am committed to fostering self-growth and exploration. I aim to support others in their personal development journeys! My style is eclectic, meaning I utilize a wide variety of therapeutic modalities and tools to help you achieve your therapy goals. Together, we can help to get you to a better place.
Are you ready to take steps towards actionable change? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy for young adults, adults, and older adults facing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and empowered to develop resilience, gain clarity, and make positive changes in their lives.
I’m Anabell Arias, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma, anxiety, and relationship concerns. My approach is warm, compassionate, and trauma-informed, helping women understand the root of their patterns while creating meaningful, lasting change. Through EMDR, somatic therapy, attachment-based approaches, IFS, and trauma-focused CBT, I help clients feel more secure, regulated, and connected to themselves and their relationships.
Hi there, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 7+ years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and perinatal mental health challenges.
My professional experience includes working with diverse populations, including expectant and new parents, adults experiencing homelessness, and older adults. Women's mental health, pregnancy, and postpartum wellness are areas I am especially passionate about. I spent many years supporting families throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period in a hospital setting and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) through Postpartum Support International. I earned my degree from California State University, Northridge, and have been licensed since 2019.
Hello I'm Sonja — a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. My path to this work wasn't a straight line and I think that makes me a better clinician. I started with a career in corrections in Arkansas, where I learned early on how to connect with people in difficult circumstances without judgment. That experience shaped how I show up in the therapy room to this day. I transitioned into mental health as a psychiatric technician, working directly with all age groups across inpatient and community settings; providing direct care, facilitating group therapy, and delivering individual therapy during my internship and later as a registered clinician with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. By the time I became fully licensed, I had accumulated nearly a decade of real-world clinical experience across some of the most demanding settings in behavioral health..
Janet Distefan, PhD LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She received a B.A. from the University of California, San Diego; an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from National University and a Ph.D. in Behavioral Epidemiology from the University of California, San Diego. She has been licensed since 2006 providing comprehensive clinical care for issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar disorder, relational difficulties, grief and loss, and major life transitions. Her clinical practice is collaborative and strength-based, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, object relations and attachment theories; and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
Hello, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I am a graduate of Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary and have been a practicing clinician for the past 10 years. I enjoy assisting clients in discovering their unique strengths and gifts that can be applied to improving mental health. My practice focuses on adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and parenting difficulties.
Congratulations! You have taken the first steps in the journey to your goal(s). I am extremely grateful you are considering me to partner up with. I consider my relationships as instrumental in learning who I am. The relationships that most speak to who I am include being a spouse, father, brother, son, colleague, and friend. My grandparents are deceased. Through these relationships I have learned a great deal.
I’m a bilingual therapist who provides a welcoming, safe, and nonjudgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. Together, we focus on your strengths, build resilience, and develop practical tools for meaningful change. My goal is to help you feel empowered, more confident, and connected to yourself and others while navigating life with greater ease.
Therapy doesn't have to feel stiff or intimidating. I aim to create a space where you can show up as you are—messy thoughts, difficult feelings, awkward questions, and all. My style is warm, personable, and direct, and I believe that meaningful growth happens when you feel both supported and challenged. Humor often has a place in the process, too.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and cross-cultural identity experiences. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply unsure of your next step, we'll work together to better understand what's happening beneath the surface and build practical strategies for moving forward.
I offer in-person therapy in Irvine and online sessions throughout California, providing flexible support wherever you are in your journey.
I have experience working with children, families, and individuals as a social worker since 2003, and as a licensed clinical social worker since 2017. Prior to training as a therapist I worked as an advocate for children, youth, and families in various community based non-profits. Witnessing families succeed as I helped ease their burdens led me to the path of clinical social work! I consider it a privilege to be invited and entrusted with the task of walking alongside you during a challenging moment in your life. Seeing you grow and succeed is one of the best rewards I could ask for.
24 years of experience has given me the privilege of working with different population with different cultural background. I have enjoyed working with different age groups including children, youth, adults, and older adults. I have facilitated groups such as bipolar , depression, women's issues, and duel diagnosis. I have worked with Youth in criminal justice system, clients with mood disorder, psychosis, family problems, relationship problems, self worth, anxiety, work related issues, domestic violence, and other conditions. I have worked with clients to get connected to community resources, collaborated with other agencies and provided case management services
Hello, and congratulations on taking the first step into your therapeutic journey! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters from Azusa Pacific University and my Bachelor's degree from CSU Channel Islands. I have over 14 years of experience working with various populations and settings. I believe that everyone has experienced something that shapes who they are today, and I'm passionate about using my own experiences to support others in achieving their goals and finding resilience. Whether you're a child, teen, or adult, I'm here to provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, overcome obstacles, and move forward with confidence.
First, I want to congratulate you on taking the first step toward making a difference in your life. I know that for some, seeking therapy can be difficult, and I am honored to be considered your copilot on this journey.
My name is SaQuoira, but you can call me Cora! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for the past 10 years, with the last 5 years focused on providing therapy.
My goal for your treatment is for it to be client-focused, collaborative, and centered around you. Therapy is your space, and together we will identify your goals, explore what matters most to you, and work toward meaningful change.
I consider myself a direct therapist. My approach is warm, genuine, and supportive, while also being honest and straightforward. I won’t simply tell you what you want to hear. I’ll encourage you to look at things from different perspectives, challenge patterns that may no longer be serving you, and celebrate your progress along the way.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, practicing in Florida and California. I have a PhD in Family Therapy. I have been working with clients in social and mental health settings for more than 20 years. I have experience working with diverse populations (different cultural backgrounds). I work with individuals, couples, and families facing grief, depression, anxiety, anger, life transitions, stress, problems in their relationships with relatives, co-worker/classmates, and trauma, among others.
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.
Hi, I'm Alyssa. I believe therapy works best when people feel genuinely seen, supported, and accepted. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity rather than judgment. I enjoy helping people better understand themselves, navigate life's challenges, and create healthier patterns in their relationships. Whether you're facing a difficult season or seeking personal growth, I strive to provide a space where you can feel safe, supported, and empowered to make meaningful change.
As your therapist, my goal is to help you understand how the events of your life have shaped the way you move through the world — and to use that understanding as a foundation for real, personal change. As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Art Therapist, I've worked alongside adolescents, adults, and families navigating the effects of violence and trauma, and I know that this work takes courage. Together, we'll identify your strengths and build coping tools that support genuine growth and healing. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, meaning you set the pace and I meet you where you are.
Hello, I’m Silvia. I am a bilingual-bicultural licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s heaviest transitions, heal from emotional stress, and reclaim their inner peace. With years of clinical experience, my practice is rooted in empathy, deep validation, and evidence-based frameworks tailored to your unique journey. I specialize in providing a supportive, collaborative environment where you can process complex feelings, break free from self-doubt, empowering you to break old cycles, foster genuine emotional autonomy, and confidently move forward toward a life that is congruent with your values and with what's truly important to you.
Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California with 30 years of clinical experience. I have been a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) since 2017 and PEERS® certified since 2021. I hold a master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach, and a bachelor’s degree from Grambling State University.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, with a particular focus on women, including individuals who are autistic, have ADHD, identify with both, or are exploring whether neurodivergence may be part of their experience. Many of the clients I work with experience anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, burnout, masking, sensory overload, executive functioning challenges, or difficulty balancing their own needs with the expectations of work, school, relationships, and everyday life.
Hello! I am an attachment based therapist that also specializes in psychodynamic theory. I believe therapy is a process where we discover our authentic self and learn to tolerate intolerable feelings. My goal for you is to understand your needs and hopes and dreams. We work on learning to set healthy boundaries for yourself. This is essential for healthy family functioning, work and romantic relationships. Therapy takes work, but it is work well worth it. Understanding yourself is well worth it!! What could be more important than to live an authentic life, and enjoy flourishing relationships? Everyone has the innate need to be heard and seen. I help you attain that for yourself. Theres a famous quote that i encourage all my clients to remember..."We teach people how to treat us". I specialize in working with couples, and individuals. I believe therapy can and will change the trajectory of your life. You are worthy of love and respect. You are worthy of understanding, "you are enough".
Offers in-person in Burbank, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
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, I am Lisa-Marie!
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma. I provide a client-centered, warm and non-judgmental space where individuals can feel supported as they work towards improving their mental health and overall well-being. Together, we create a space where you can exhale, speak honestly and begin to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.
My approach centers on deep listening, empathy, and honoring each client’s lived experience. I intentionally consider cultural, environmental, and systemic influences, ensuring therapy is respectful, collaborative, and client-led. I believe in creating a comfortable space that supports growth while affirming each person’s identity and self-determination. I am especially enthusiastic about returning to a practice setting focused on working with adults, where I can support clients in exploring identity, healing, and growth.
I help high-functioning adults reconnect with themselves and learn to trust their own judgment again.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable adults who have spent years taking care of everyone else while quietly struggling themselves. They often appear successful on the outside but privately feel anxious, emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who they used to be.
You may be recovering from betrayal, navigating a difficult relationship or divorce, struggling with perfectionism or people-pleasing, healing from trauma, or facing a major life transition. Somewhere along the way, you may have begun second-guessing yourself, losing confidence in your instincts, or wondering why life feels so much harder than it looks from the outside.
My approach is warm, practical, and collaborative. Together, we'll make sense of the patterns keeping you stuck, calm your nervous system, reduce shame, strengthen healthy boundaries, and build the confidence to make choices that align with your values instead of fear or self-doubt. Therapy should leave you feeling understood, supported, and equipped with practical tools that make everyday life feel lighter.
I’m really glad you’re here.
I’m Shannon, a licensed psychotherapist and certified yoga therapist. I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck in their relationships, or disconnected from themselves.
If you tend to overthink, feel anxious in connection, or shut down when things get hard—you’re not alone. Together, we slow things down so you can understand what’s actually happening inside you, and learn how to feel more like yourself again.
My work blends talk therapy with body awareness, because real change doesn’t just happen in your head—it happens when you can feel it.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, CEAP) based in California, Georgia, Maryland, and New Jersey. I received my Masters from the University of Maryland Baltimore and have been practicing for 25 years. I help young adults, adults, and elderly adults struggling with life transitioning issues that may cause stress, depression, and anxiety through CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation treatment modalities that helps individuals reach their highest potential.
Do you struggle with motivation and focus troubles that affects more than just your ability to get your homework done? Do you feel overwhelmed by basic tasks that you can’t seem to get started? Do you ever wonder that life could be better, your mind a little quieter? Now more than ever, young adults are feeling overwhelmed with the life presented to them.
I believe you can find the motivation to get control of your life again. I work primarily with young adults with ADHD and Anxiety and use a person first approach to therapy. We will start with learning how your struggles manifest uniquely in your life. I then will help you by offering behavioral change tools while also working on the deeper ‘why’ that brings you to treatment. I strive to offer a safe, nonjudgmental, and open place, so you can get the help you need.
My name is Thomas Barhorst, and I started counseling in 2004. In addition to having a small private practice shortly after I received my Missouri license in 2007; I have worked as a K-12 school counselor, in substance use treatment, in a residential treatment setting, in a community mental health agency, helping individuals with disabilities transition into the workforce, and helping graduate students manage stress in their professional programs (i.e. medical school, dental school, etc.). Recently, I have begun providing telehealth therapy after obtaining licensure in Arizona and California.
Outside of work, spending time with family and friends is important to me. I also enjoy stories, laughing, listening to stand-up comedy, cooking, playing sports like wallyball and ultimate frisbee on a non-competitive level, watching film noir and psychological thrillers, recently had the opportunity to take my car to a racetrack, and have played bass guitar in a rock band.
I am Licensed MFT and I help my client to explore their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in a safe and confidential space. The goal is personal growth and improve mental wellbeing and navigate the client through anxiety, depression, addiction and relationship issues, through collaborative work my client able to gain the tools and insight to deal with the at hand problems and future issues. Developing rapport with my clients is a primary focus and understanding their struggles in their own words, by providing them with safe and nonjudgmental environment.
My approach is a therapist who works collaboratively with clients to create a space that feels safe, respectful and grounded in authenticity. It is important that my clients feel emotionally safe, seen and empowered. I intend to create an environment where they can feel comfortable to navigate the challenging and difficult experiences they have endured throughout their life. My focus is on supporting clients as they learn to understand and manage their emotions, express their thoughts and feelings effectively, and explore how childhood experiences shape who we are today.
Hello! I love meeting people where they are, and helping them transition to their next best thing. Whether it be transitioning from college to adult life, or perimenopause ladies rocking into their next best self, I love being there to support when you're unsure and to reflect and help processing things that just aren't making sense...yet! Transitions can make us anxious for trying something new, or depressed from letting something go. I am there as a calm and positive force for you to springboard into what's next, while honoring and holding on to what still is a part of the YOU you are growing into!
Hi, I’m Sandra Martinez Silva, LCSW, a bilingual English and Spanish therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions for adults and women navigating stress, emotional overwhelm, and burnout. I provide a warm, supportive, and culturally responsive space where clients can better understand their emotions, strengthen coping skills, and reconnect with their values and inner strengths. My approach integrates CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care to help clients improve emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Hello, I'm Karen and I am so happy that you have made this first step of seeking what might help whatever situation you are in. It's a big step, and not taken lightly. Therapy effectiveness is known to work best when it feels like the right fit for you, and you are in a place in your life to move forward with it. I have been doing this for a minute, and know how much change can come about walking alongside you on this journey.
I have worked in outpatient settings, managed counseling programs, private practice, schools, drug treatment, crisis response, elder care, and at-risk settings. While I have skill sets in those areas, I feel that working with anxiety, trauma, grief, ADHD , and adjustments to life's circumstances are particularly strong attributes for me.
VirtualOffers in-person in Lodi, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I am a down-to-earth and collaborative therapist who believes that the foundation of effective healing is a genuine, honest connection. I prioritize creating a transparent environment where you feel heard and respected, allowing us to work as true partners in your mental health journey. My approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is most effective when it is practical, straightforward, and focused on your unique reality.
In our sessions, I value honesty and the identification of healthy, realistic goals. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), where we work together to uncover the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By identifying irrational thinking patterns and challenging negative self-talk, we can begin to reframe your narrative in a way that serves your growth rather than hindering it.
I understand that starting therapy can feel like a significant step, which is why I focus on providing a non-judgmental space where we can tackle challenges at your pace. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, daily stress, or life transitions, my goal is to provide you with a functional toolkit of strategies you can use long after our sessions end. Together, we will move toward a more balanced, resilient, and fulfilling life.
I believe therapy should be a place where you can show up exactly as you are—without judgment, pressure, or the expectation that you have everything figured out. Clients often describe me as warm, genuine, and direct, and I believe therapy works best when it feels like a real conversation: one where you feel heard, understood, gently challenged, and equipped with practical tools you can use in everyday life.
Building a trusting, collaborative relationship is at the heart of my work. I strive to create a space where you feel safe bringing every part of yourself into therapy, knowing you'll be met with compassion, honesty, and respect. Together, we'll work toward helping you better understand yourself, navigate life's challenges, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Hi, My name is Carol I have 40 years experience with the mentally ill at all levels. I am very compassionate but I'm also tough. I want you to Feel better as quickly as possible. I'm very straightforward, I will not lie to you. I am World traveled and studied world cultures and world religions. I have many personal life experiences. I would be happy to Assist you to have a productive and happy life.
Offers in-person in Desert Hot Springs, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Welcome—I’m so glad you’re here.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, having earned my license in 2014. My passion is simple: helping people feel better, feel heard, and regain their footing during life’s most challenging moments.
I specialize in supporting postpartum mothers navigating the weight of depression, anxiety, and the overwhelming transitions that come with motherhood. Beyond maternal mental health, I bring two decades of expertise to help individuals work through anxiety and depressive disorders.
Therapy with me is built on genuine connection and deep, active listening. I offer a completely judgment-free space where you can show up exactly as you are—without pressure, expectation, or shame. Together, we’ll work at your pace to find clarity, relief, and a path forward.
I help my clients to gain a deeper understanding of the behavioral issues, triggers, coping mechanisms, and traumas that may be contributing to their challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your story and find healing. Your security and safety are my top priority, and I will work with you every step of the way to ensure you feel comfortable and supported. So come as you are, and let's start our healing journey together.
VirtualOffers in-person in Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California (USC) emphasis in Mental Health and Military Social Work. I have been practicing for 7 years. I help US Military Service Members and Veteran's struggling with adjusting to civilian life, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and Anger Management skills. The military teaches structure and purpose everyday. You know what you have to do, where you have to be and when you have to be there and going to waking up as a civilian to “what do I do now” can be a struggle. This is where I can help with the transition to civilian life.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree from California State University and I've been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I grew up in Italy and moved to the US 42 years ago. I work with adult men and women struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationships. I'm passionate about helping them live more fulfilling relationships and peaceful life.
Hi and welcome! Have you been feeling lost, helpless and anxious? Whether youre feeling overwhelmed and want help with adjustments or just need someone to listen, I am here to help. I am an interactive, personable, non judgmental and direct therapist and my goal is to create a comfortable and safe place for you. Taking the first step in seeking therapy can be difficult, but you've made a great decision. I would like to get to know you better and together we can work on managing your current struggles better. We will identify what's not working and get you back to balance. Lets work together!
Welcome! My name is Davis Lo and I am currently a Licensed Therapist. Currently accepting new clients for weekly or biweekly sessions!
Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further!
By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life. You will be able to live your best life according to your own values and what is important to you. You will learn skills to be able to manage your stressors and find what is important to you.
I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues. As a therapist, I focus on helping clients understand their own challenges and working together to find a solution that works for them in a safe environment. In addition, I focus on helping clients find their inner strengths while working on helping them develop a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's degree in 1999 from the California State University of Long Beach (CSULB), and have been practicing for 20+ years. I specialize in helping adults navigate depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, loss and grief, and life transitions using a combination of warmth, compassion, and evidence-based therapies.
Hello, I am Emily Donahue, Trauma Therapist. My passion has been to assist and support individuals on their healing paths and recovery. I work with survivors of trauma; sexual assault and abuse, human trafficking, PTSD. My clients also learn new strategies and skills for experiencing the fall out from those experiences; addiction, codependency, anger, life goals, fear, guilt, scare. I also have experience working with a mobile crises unit, that have both a crises worker and EMT. I have seen individuals gain insight and have aha moments. Trauma is only one aspect of your life, come find out about the rest!
Offers in-person in Santa Rosa, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I’m Steven Frank, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in California, now living in Seattle and working with California residents through telehealth. I’ve been licensed since 1983 and began my private practice in 1993. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in inpatient psychiatric settings as a California‑licensed Psychiatric Technician, where I gained early experience supporting people in acute emotional distress.
My approach is solution focused. I am not primarily concerned with how or why your present challenge developed but will focus instead on helping you to find a way forward. I hope to elicit and reinforce your positive attributes and competencies and help you access your inner strength. Your ability to change or improve your situation depends on your desire to do so and my job is to awaken that desire within you.
The biggest challenge all of us face is negative thinking. This is a reflection of our own disappointment of what we see when we look inside ourselves. By improving our self-image through accentuating our positive qualities we begin to see the world in a more positive light. A sure way of feeling better about ourselves is to find something good in every other human being.
My experience as a therapist is wide-ranging: I have worked in adult rehab, child development, college counseling, women's trauma recovery, and individual online and in-person work with teens, adults, and seniors. I currently work exclusively with adults and seniors in an online setting.
I found my way to therapy living and working across three continents, through careers in the theatre, and in teaching at all levels up to post-graduate professional development. My clinical and life experiences have helped teach me the value of community, and a strong and dynamic sense of self-worth.
After graduating university, I taught English in Japan and Vietnam for five years. I developed an empathetic patience and ability to work with people from different backgrounds than myself by living in foreign countries where I had no connection. Upon my return to the United States, I began applying my patience and people skills by working in the mental health field for the past ten years until becoming licensed as a therapist.