Therapists in California

I am licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT) originally from the central coast of California. I now live in the Greater Sacramento California Area and have experience in working with adolescents/teens and adults who struggle with various issues including depression or the intricacies of being part of the LGBT community. I have three years of experience in education supporting adolescents as a Therapist ages 11-15.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, where I specialized in the Psychology of Trauma. I support individuals of all ages in processing a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, substance use disorder and various patterns of addiction, intimate partner issues, trauma, both current and past involving families and work environments, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.

Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed. Mental Health Professionals have taken on this role in their respective communities and are an excellent resource for you to realize your strengths and improve your well-being. When your car breaks down you take it to a mechanic. When your tooth hurts you see a dentist. When your mental health can use a “tune-up,” see a Mental Health Professional!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations in different community settings. I have adapted different approaches in my clinical work to fit with the populations that I serve. As a therapist, I work to help make clients feel grounded and supported in our session appointments. I strive for authenticity when working with others. I try to help clients value honesty within themselves and in others. I hope to be able to facilitate growth and change in our time together.

About Are you feeling unfulfilled in your relationships, choices, and just life? Those who feel detached from those around them often believe they're a burden and bring no value to those around them. If any of that resonated with you, you may feel disconnected from different areas of your life, such as work, relationships, family, and interests. Many individuals go through life never feeling like they belong and lack fulfillment, joy, and a sense of identity. You're here looking to finally put yourself first, to find a sense of satisfaction in your life, and I'd love to be part of that journey so you no longer feel alone. I take great pride in helping individuals find their sense of belonging and overcoming deep negative schemas that they aren't worthy of love. I do this by helping you work through those fears of abandonment, criticism, and rejection. Forming healthy relationships and attachments are instrumental in my approach, and you'll never feel alone. Life is challenging, and it's an even bigger struggle when we are our worst enemies. You may feel like a burden to those around you, but you won't have to feel that way in our therapeutic relationship. I invite you to have a free 15-minute consultation with me to ask any questions or concerns you may have. I look forward to being part of your journey.

I’m a therapist dedicated to helping you find clarity, strength, and purpose amid life’s challenges. My practice is grounded in timeless values—honoring family, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. I provide a safe, welcoming space where you can explore your struggles, aspirations, and beliefs, feeling heard and respected every step of the way. My approach blends proven techniques, like cognitive-behavioral therapy, with practical wisdom tailored to your unique path. Therapy with me is a partnership—we’ll work together to uncover actionable steps that build resilience, deepen your connections, and align your choices with what matters most to you. Drawing from years of coaching individuals and couples, I specialize in guiding those who cherish tradition, integrity, and personal growth. I’m committed to understanding your story, whether you’re navigating stress, seeking to strengthen relationships, or longing to live with greater purpose. Clients appreciate my straightforward yet warm style, which balances thoughtful insight with a touch of humor, making our sessions both impactful and approachable. Inspired by a love for community and intentional living, I bring a grounded perspective to our work, focusing on real-world solutions that honor your values. If you’re ready to take charge of your journey and build a life rooted in what’s true and lasting, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can create a plan for meaningful, lasting change together.

Therapy is a very personal and intimate journey to self discovery, understanding & acceptance. It can also be a journey with an intimate partner in discovering connectedness & being present for the needs of your partner Clients seeking to explore the emotional depths within themselves & remove the barriers to achieving their desired life, will find a working partner in my practice. Whether it's feeling more connected in your relationships, reframing a negative thought process, or moving through your trauma, I am ready to help. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR & Imago Relationship Therapy using it successfully in my 20 years of practice helping clients dealing with depression, anxiety & relationship challenges. I have extensive experience in working with addictions & the relationship between your patterns of use & unresolved trauma, depression, or anxiety. I am a skilled trauma therapist, trained in EMDR. I have experience working with a diverse client population to include: issues related to sexual orientation, couples therapy, and the challenges created by overuse of social media and internet pornography. I recently acquired a program that will support bilateral stimulation in EMDR sessions while on video

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 Support@OptimumHealing.Org

Hi, I’m Albert. I’m a Licensed Psychotherapist with more than a decade of experience. I help people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or hard on themselves learn to understand their patterns and make choices that align with what matters most. Therapy with me is collaborative and active. We use CBT and mindfulness to work with thoughts, emotions, and habits. We bring in trauma-informed care when relevant. We can also explore meaning, values, and purpose if that fits you. The goal is not a stress-free life. The goal is a life you can stand behind with clarity, courage, and care for yourself and others. You set the direction. I provide structure, tools, and steady accountability. If this resonates, book a first session. We will map what’s not working, define what you want more of, and take one practical step right away.

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

California State University Stanislaus of Social Work, Master's in Social Work License LCSW# 76744 23 Years of experience Hello! My name is Robert Garza, LCSW Bi-lingual. I have over 18 years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood, adolescence, children/families, adults, and end-of-life care. I have always viewed my professional career to learn as much as possible and be able to impact the largest number of people in need of support, counseling, therapy, and a safe space. I have worked in educational settings, healthcare settings, and clinical settings. I was born in Corcoran and raised in Central California. I currently reside in Rocklin CA, and enjoy horseshoe pitching, long walks, the ocean, and family and friends. My historical area of focus ranges from challenges in school to overcoming childhood traumas, depression, anxiety, social isolation, and conflict within family units. These are common things that we all face as we grow and evolve into our adult selves.

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

My career as a classroom teacher, assistant principal and university professor served me well in my current practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Doctorate in Education/Ed.D. from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. As a university professor, I became the Multiple Subject Program Director, Graduate Reading Director, and Supervisor of Student Teachers with both national and international publications.

My name is David Serbin. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #147386) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC #15666). Through therapy, I work with clients to help them see the positive storylines in their lives. I help make counseling fun for clients through narrative building, developing strategies for challenging negative self-talk, self-exploration of strengths, and games, among other ways. I believe that each client has the main ingredient for success in therapy: hope.

Hi! I'm Evan and I'm a licensed therapist (LMFT) based in California. I believe that every person has unique strengths and inner resources that can be harnessed to overcome challenges and foster meaningful personal growth. My role as your therapist is to help you recognize those strengths, clarify what truly matters to you, and guide you in developing the tools and strategies you need to move forward with confidence. In our sessions, we’ll collaborate to identify your goals and create practical, actionable solutions tailored to your specific needs — whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, or simply seeking a greater sense of balance and fulfillment. Together, we’ll focus on uncovering what’s working, building on your resilience, and creating a roadmap for positive change. My therapeutic approach is rooted in solution-focused therapy and positive psychology, integrating a strengths-based perspective to help you gain insight, reframe unhelpful patterns, and develop a mindset that supports growth and well-being. I also draw on evidence-based techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) when helpful, allowing us to challenge limiting beliefs and replace them with more empowering thoughts and behaviors. My aim is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental, and encouraging environment where you feel truly understood, motivated, and ready to take charge of your life. I see therapy as a collaborative process — one where we work side by side to help you create meaningful, lasting change. If you’re ready to take the next step, let’s work together to unlock your potential and build a life that feels purposeful, balanced, and fulfilling.

Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy that you reached out for help. I am Robert Nwanganga, a licensed therapist. I have been a Social Worker since 2003. I also need to let you know that I am more interested in finding out why a certain behavior is occurring than I am in demonizing you for exhibiting the behavior. I have worked with a diverse populations and I have learned that therapy has to be personal if it is to be effective. I am committed to working with you in finding what modality works with your personality and focus on your strength in dealing with the situation that brought you to us.

My name is Isai (E-sai-EE), and I’m a Therapist based out of Southern California. I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds. My training as a social worker focuses on individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. My professional interests and specialities include working with teens, young adults, older adults, family therapy, and those who struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relationship issues, men’s issues, autism, anger management, and those with difficulty understanding/controlling big emotions. As a male therapist, I try to make my sessions feel like a conversation with a friend and offer a calm space to talk about difficult issues, a new perspective to help better understand situations, and can help you identify and understand how you might be feeling.

Stan Speck LMFT Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA) About Me Hello, and welcome. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, currently licensed in California. Although I relocated to Washington three years ago, I continue to offer telehealth therapy exclusively for clients residing in California. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Westmont College and my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, both in Santa Barbara. With over 35 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life’s challenges with compassion, insight, and evidence-based care. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, and stress-related concerns. I also have extensive experience working with substance use issues and supporting the healing process for both individuals and families affected by addiction. My approach integrates proven therapeutic techniques to explore patterns, address past experiences, and develop healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and relating. Whether you’re looking to improve communication, break free from unhelpful cycles, or gain deeper personal insight, our work together can support you in moving toward greater clarity, connection, and emotional well-being.

I’m Dr. Adisa Anderson, a licensed psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and create meaningful change. I work with a wide range of clients, including professionals balancing career and personal stress, students navigating academic and identity challenges, couples working to strengthen their relationships, and individuals processing trauma, anxiety, or depression. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and culturally responsive. I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and relational approaches, while tailoring therapy to each client’s unique needs and lived experiences. I also specialize in multicultural therapy and supporting clients navigating racial identity, cultural stressors, and systemic challenges. In our work together, my goal is to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered to make changes that align with your values and vision for your life. Whether you are seeking to manage stress, heal from past experiences, improve communication, or build resilience, I provide practical tools and a safe, affirming space for growth. Clients often describe our sessions as both supportive and transformative—where they gain insight, develop new coping strategies, and leave with a renewed sense of clarity and strength. Therapy is a journey, and I see my role as walking alongside you with care and expertise, helping you uncover your strengths and create lasting, positive change.

I'm Jamie Wyatt, a licensed professional counselor in California, Virginia, and Florida. I approach therapy as a companion to you on your journey as you free yourself from what's holding you back, see yourself with new eyes, and develop that inner compass toward what is really important to you - toward your true potential and the life you want to live.

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

Hello! I'm Matt and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), currently licensed in Arizona and California. In my life, I’ve seen many people with a broad spectrum of challenges. I’ve also seen that hope and relief are possible. I offer a unique perspective in getting you that help. I enjoy seeing individuals and families solve problems and feel closer together. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for kids, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues including anxiety, autism, Asperger's syndrome, depression, stress, relationship and family issues, life transitions, parenting, and caregiving issues in a variety of settings. My approach and therapy style draws influence from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is important that you and I work together as a team using a collaborative approach and that I meet you where you are.

Brannon La Force, a Mobile, Alabama native, is a mental health professional with 35 years in the field. He holds licenses in Alabama, California, Florida, Kansas, Oregon, and Texas as professional counselor. He completed a BA in History from Asbury University, and a MS in Counseling from the University of South Alabama. He is a PhD doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology with Walden University. He is the Owner and Senior Clinician with Brannon La Force, LPC-S & Associates, PLLC and currently lives and works abroad as a digital nomad. Mr. La Force is also an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University where he teaches forensic psychology. In addition to owning a private practice, he has worked in community mental health, a forensic hospital, hospital emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric units. While the bulk of his work has been in the US, Mr. La Force has also written behavior plans for intellectually disadvantaged adults in Australia, treated genocide survivors in Rwanda, and supported sailors in the US Navy with their mental health needs on the island kingdom of Bahrain. His areas of expertise include trauma, relationships, and borderline personality disorder. He is an avid proponent of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and runs a DBT group. He also supervises associate counselors in Texas and Kansas and precepts psychiatric nurse practitioners nationwide for their psychotherapy rotation. Mr. La Force has three adult children, two of which are also counselors. He is an avid Crimson Tide fan, loves seafood and provides support to Village Health Team in western Uganda.

I am warm, DIRECT, solution-focused, AUTHENTIC, mildly confrontational and 100% Raw and Real. I won't lie to you or co-sign lies you tell yourself. I will gently reflect what you are not saying and what you are not showing so that you can explore for yourself. The intention of services provided to present and future clients are to support them in navigating through the pain. The only way out is through. Not above, below, or around the pain but through it. The good news is you are not alone and don’t have to do it alone. Utilize the resources offered in this collaborative effort in creating the life (mind, body, & soul) you deserve.

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

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

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

Hi, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I am also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) to work with people living in California. I have been practicing for 25 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma from childhood or events, substance use, sexual abuse, low self-worth and many other issues. I work with individuals to help them improve their lives.

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

I'm Essy, a licensed therapist and coach who works best with folks who feel like outsiders in a world built for sameness. I support neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ adults navigating identity, trauma, burnout, and the pressure to mask or overperform. With equal parts warmth and real talk, I help clients make sense of their story, rewrite the rules they’ve been handed, and build a life that actually fits.

I’m John Tzanos, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist passionate about helping people make meaningful changes in their lives. I offer a practical and straightforward approach to therapy, where you can feel comfortable being yourself. My goal is to create a space where we can talk openly about what’s going on in your life and work together to find solutions that fit you as an individual. I focus on helping clients develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while also providing tools and strategies that can be applied in daily life. I work well with people who are motivated to change and who enjoy learning new ways to view and approach the challenges they face. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to support you through the process of finding clarity and direction. In our sessions, I strive to create a genuine connection, offering both guidance and flexibility as we explore what’s most important to you. My approach is collaborative, I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward at your own pace. Therapy is a partnership, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s ups and downs in a way that aligns with your values and goals.

Greetings, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the states of California and Texas. I have been in the mental health field for nearly 20 years. I specialize in treating couples and individuals with issues related to communication, infidelity, trauma, depression and anxiety. As a marriage and family therapist, I am trained to treat individuals with the goal of ameliorating symptoms and challenges that occur within the context of relationships.

------------Cash Pay: Sliding Scale Available Upon Request --------- Hi, I’m Javier, a trauma-focused ecotherapist and founder of Eutierria Therapy. I help Black, Indigenous, and People of Color heal from deep-rooted trauma, especially the historical and intergenerational wounds that affect identity and belonging. My approach blends trauma-informed care, cultural sensitivity, nature-based practices, and ketamine-assisted therapy to guide you on a holistic journey of self-discovery, healing, and reconnection with both your cultural heritage and the natural world. At Eutierria Therapy, I focus on healing the individual and the collective by fostering a deeper connection to the Earth and ancestral wisdom. Together, we’ll explore your roots, build resilience, and strengthen your relationship with the land through mindfulness, land-based rituals, and somatic practices. Whether you're facing trauma, life transitions, or seeking spiritual connection, I’m here to support your journey toward wholeness. If you’re ready to reconnect with your heritage and the natural world, let’s work together to reclaim your sense of self and create a life of deep connection and empowerment.

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

Hello! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.

Thank you for visiting my page. Deciding to embark on the path of healing can be challenging, and I applaud you for taking the first step. I work with adults seeking to address concerns regarding relationships, self-worth, and fear of commitment. I offer a safe and supportive space for exploring these complex issues. My goal is to help folks develop the skills they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, grief, traumatic experiences, depression, or relationship issues, I am here to help you create a more fulfilling life. I invite you to reach out.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in San Francisco, specializing in psychotherapy for adult/elder individuals and couples. I’ve had the privilege of working within various multidisciplinary teams providing psychotherapy for over a decade. This work has enabled me to develop my therapeutic skills and expand on personal attributes vital to the therapeutic processes. I’m passionate, committed to work with people toward their goals, to heal emotional wounds, to achieve more clarity while allowing for growth and improving lives.

My name is Shant Bardakjian and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Glendale, California. I currently work with children, adolescents and adults within the greater Los Angeles area. Currently, I work with clients aged 18 to 64. My approach to therapy is tailored to the client’s needs. I enter into therapy with whatever you bring into the session. If you need a creative approach to solve your problems, then I would use an eclectic approach with a person centered lens that can be flexible for whatever need is brought into the room. My communication style is calm and approachable. I would like my clients to feel at ease in sharing whatever is on their heart without fear of judgment. I decided to become a therapist because I have wanted to help people discover their best selves. I have been drawn to helping people discover their innate ability to heal past whatever is keeping them stuck in life. My aim is for whoever works with me to be able to define a goal that can be accomplished and for trust to be gradually built within the therapeutic relationship. In this way, the progress that is seen in therapy will in turn translate to improvements in multiple areas of your life. In our first session together, you can expect the primary focus to be for me to hear your story of what brought you to therapy. The first session is to determine if there is an initial connection and also questions that would enable me to better understand what would work best for you as treatment progresses.

Thank you for considering me as your therapist in your journey to improving your mental health!  Seeking treatment can be an extremely daunting task, especially within a culture where mental health may not be openly discussed.  This leaves individuals struggling alone with distressing mental health symptoms including anxiety, stress, fear, insecurities, isolation, depression, racing thoughts, poor self-image and many others.  With a lack of support or a safe environment to openly share these experiences, it can be extremely difficult and overwhelming to understand how to manage these symptoms in a healthy way.  This can lead to maladaptive coping skills including substance use, overworking, self-harm, suicidal ideations, hypersexuality, and other risky behaviors.  Even maladaptive coping skills are part of the brain's effort to protect us from the discomfort that comes with mental health symptoms. My goal is to assist empower clients to take control and manage these symptoms independently.  I assist clients with gaining insight about their difficulties and how they experience mental health symptoms in their lives.  I provide clients with psychoeducation to achieve this insight and then work toward developing concrete coping skills in an effort to manage the symptoms.  We will work together to identify short term and long term goals that the client hoping to achieve in therapy and I will ensure that we stay on track toward achieving those goals.  Through accomplishing these goals, clients are able to increase their emotional intelligence and resilience as they manage day to day stressors. I am structured in my approach and committed to seeing progress for my clients as they take on the challenge of self-improvement.  My clinical orientation is in trauma work.  I assist clients with understanding their trauma in their life and how it impacts them today.  I emphasize the unique cultural backgrounds of my clients and all the different traits of their identity to assist them with understanding themselves in a more complete way. In person services available for clients near Santa maria, Ca.  Telehealth services are available for clients throughout the state.  Feel free to reach out directly via phone call or text to discuss scheduling details or to ask any other relevant questions! (805)250-6802 I'd be happy to answer any questions!

I help couples and individuals to navigate turbulent times to find their innate vitality and loving relationships. As a couples therapist, I can help you move beyond patterns of arguing and conflict. You will learn how to communicate and express yourself and be heard and received. I also help couples who are striving to find a path to either stay together or move in. I also guide individuals with financial and/or time constraints to move towards a life balancing family, work and personal passion. I have decades of experience helping people achieve a healthy, happy long life filled with joy and connection. When we work together, I listen to your story. I bring decades of experience, but you are the expert on your own life. I’ll do a deep dive to understand how your symptoms affect you. My role isn’t to diagnose or label you. Instead, I offer invitations to explore new perspectives, try different approaches, and gently challenge the patterns holding you back. I feel confident about my abilities to help you to move forward into the life you have always desired. Therapy can be a daunting experience. I appreciate your courage in pursuing help. I always bring a sense of playfulness to the journey. Things can be hard and still be fun. I look forward to hearing from you.

Exhausted by the way you think about yourself? We are often (if not always) our own worst enemies. Whether this pattern has caused you problems with guilt, shame, anxiety, depression, addiction or you name it - the starting point is generally the same. When we embark on the project of therapy you will be asked to put your painful thoughts and feelings into words. As the process unfolds, the strength and fervor used to overthink and condemn yourself will become accessible to use productively in reaching your goals.

My goal is to help you break free from the cycle of stress and anxiety through practical techniques and personalized strategies for growth. With a background in mindfulness, meditation, and psychedelic-assisted therapy, I take a holistic approach to therapy. Together we'll create a comfortable space where you can explore your challenges, gain perspective, and deepen your emotional awareness without feeling judged.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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