Therapists in California

Hello! I'm Michael and if you are reading this, you are likely considering therapy as an avenue to make a change in your life. This is the first step in building the life you deserve. Are you overwhelmed by your emotions? Stuck in your past? Worried about the future? Do you just feel...blah...like you can't quite put your finger on what's wrong? You are in the right place! These are questions I can help you answer. I help men and women improve emotional skills, reduce symptoms, and develop coping skills to deal with life's challenges. Together, we will create a plan that works for you. This is your life and only you know the answer. You just need a little help uncovering it. Change is scary and uncomfortable, but if you can choose to show up anyway, amazing things can happen. I realize coming to therapy can be tough and so I like to make your experience with me as safe and comfortable as possible. I hope to hear from you soon.

Having been married for 50 years and raised four children to adulthood, I bring a wealth of life experience to the therapeutic relationship. There are so many challenges with marriage and raising a family, undergoing therapy myself (both individual and couple) has helped me through many difficult times, and I know what it takes make significant changes in my life. I love animals, and i have two dogs who bring me joy every day. My children and seven grandchildren are very important to my life. One of the benefits of being an older therapist is that I have overcome many of the obstacles that my clients face, and for even those I have not experienced, my clients benefit from the life skills I have developed.

Thank you for stopping by! A little about myself. I am a mother to three adult children, a Nana to 5 and dog mom to 2 Jack Russel's. I grew up in foster care and was adopted in my teens. That path led me through my own therapeutic journey as I struggled with depression and anxiety. As I found wellness, I launched into social work professionally to support youth and families, and eventually here, as a licensed therapist. I have been working with Individuals and families in various therapeutic settings for over 25 years. Please note that the open times on my schedule are those that are available weekly.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.

I take a strength based approach to therapy, focusing on the strengths, values, and resilience you already have rather than only on problems. Together, we build on what is working to help you navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful, lasting change. This approach supports growth that feels both practical and personally aligned with who you are and your goals.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 24 years of clinical experience helping adolescents and adults heal from trauma, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful change in their lives. I specialize in working with individuals affected by domestic violence, emotional, physical, mental, and sexual abuse, childhood neglect, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. Throughout my career, I have worked in nonprofit community mental health settings in a variety of leadership and clinical roles, including Clinical Director and Clinical Supervisor, while maintaining a private practice since 2010. Since 2019, I have focused primarily on private practice and genuinely enjoy the opportunity to build meaningful therapeutic relationships and support clients through their healing and growth. My approach is compassionate, direct, intuitive, and empowering. I believe people are resilient and capable of change when provided with the right support, tools, and insight. Together, we work to understand how past experiences continue to affect present-day thoughts, emotions, relationships, and decision-making, while developing practical strategies to improve self-worth, restore functioning, and achieve personal, educational, career, and relationship goals. I strive to create a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. Drawing from a variety of evidence-based approaches, I tailor treatment to each client's unique needs, strengths, cultural background, and life experiences. My goal is to help clients move beyond survival, reclaim their sense of self, and build healthier, more fulfilling lives.

My name is Felicia Burnett-Lopez, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I earned my Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology and earned my Masters’ Degree in Social Work. My education and experience include human behavior; environmental and biological psychology, substance abuse and addiction; understanding and working in mental health, with people with mental illnesses, within all populations.

Hi! My name is Yomaira Suazo and I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. I identify as a Latina and am bilingual. My experiences include young adults and adults. My main focus is proving a client-centered approach along with other approaches that help to create a non-judgment space for clients to feel safe and unpack, learn, and begin the healing process.

Hey Everyone, I’m Jennel — a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I believe therapy should be a space where you feel seen, validated, and understood. I draw from a range of approaches including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, etc. to tailor each session to meet your unique needs. My goal is to make therapy feel accessible and collaborative. I aim to keep our conversations down-to-earth, supportive, and meaningful.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 plus years of experience helping individuals and families facing trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, crisis situations, and serious mental illness. I provide a safe, supportive space to build resilience, develop coping skills, foster self-compassion, and create lasting change. I will take time to understand your experiences, strengths, and challenges while creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for you to share at your own pace.

Hello! My name is Sandra Randall, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in California and in Florida. With a Master of Social Work from San Jose State University and nine years of experience, I am dedicated to guiding individuals as they navigate life's challenges and transitions. As a former military spouse and an experienced hospice and hospital social worker, I deeply understand the emotional weight of unmet expectations and unforeseen life changes. My approach emphasizes uncovering your unique strengths and creative potential to empower you in difficult moments. Drawing from a rich tapestry of personal experiences and a faith-informed perspective, I bring both empathy and insight to the therapeutic process. Whether you’re facing grief, loss, or other challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with compassion and support. Together, we can navigate this journey and work toward healing and growth.

I work with adults navigating anxiety, stress, self-esteem concerns, depression, and the impact of trauma. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore thoughts, emotions, and patterns with honesty and curiosity. My approach integrates CBT and DBT to build practical coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen communication, while also incorporating Jungian-oriented insight to deepen self-understanding and meaning. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, self-aware, and empowered, supporting lasting change, clarity, and emotional balance.

Welcome! I am a licensed therapist providing compassionate and supportive therapy to adults and couples. I work with individuals who may be experiencing depression, low motivation, anxiety, excessive worry, stress, past trauma, relationship concerns, life transitions, and other challenges that may impact their emotional well-being. Therapy can provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to talk openly about your experiences and concerns. My approach is collaborative and focused on helping you better understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing practical tools to navigate life's challenges. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or simply looking for support during a difficult time, you do not have to work through it alone. Together, we can identify your strengths, develop healthy coping strategies, improve communication and relationships, and work toward goals that are meaningful to you. I believe that therapy is a process of growth and that each person's journey is unique. My goal is to meet you where you are, provide support and guidance, and help you build greater confidence, self-awareness, and emotional well-being.

Thank you for taking the time to review my brief profile. My name is Dr. Sara Shuffer. I hold a Doctorate in Social Work and have extensive experience in healthcare for over 25 years. I have worked with many clients dealing with end-of-life, healing from grief and loss issues, depression, cultural conflicts, intergenerational and relationship stressors, work/life balance issues, and other life stressors that can potentially affect the daily living of a person. I am humbled to meet every client who selects me as their therapist.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who offers individuals, adults, geriatric populations in a general private practice setting in Texas & California. My practice offers a place where you can feel heard in a supportive, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment. I focus on adult care including women’s issues, career/educational issues, interpersonal communication, self-esteem, anger management, stress management, relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I like to do therapy in an “eclectic” manner, drawing on cognitive-behavioral, narrative, spirituality, solution-focused, and others.

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

My name is Joey Dolowy, (yes it rhymes and yes it is my name, enjoy) and I have been a professional therapist since June of 1998: I have pursued psychology and addiction since a friend over dosed and died when I was 13. I am motivated to help everyone who asks me, it feeds my spirit and it is such a huge part of my identity. I want to help you and I want to hear your story: please contact me and see if my style fits your needs: CHEERS.

Hi, my name is Mai Kou. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, hardships, relationship issues, feeling lost or stuck? Sometimes we need someone to talk to about what we are going through, and we need a safe person we can share these things with without being judged. I would love to talk to you to help you improve your quality of life, mental health, self-esteem, self-love, skills, motivation, and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities to meet my client’s unique treatment needs. Below are a few therapeutic modalities that I use in therapy. I am currently taking new clients adults ages 18-64 for individual therapy and therapy sessions are via telehealth. I have worked with children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families throughout my career. I have worked with the most severe mental illness population in an inpatient psychiatric facility, crisis stabilization center, and outpatient settings. I love being a therapist and I am very passionate at helping people.

I feel my primary responsibility as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is to foster a calm, safe and trusting environment with all clients through a warm and non-judgmental relationship. Therapy is a “we” program. My former career tracks in communication and education gives me the ability to connect with clients from various backgrounds and cultures with empathy and support to help you meet your goals. As a private practice and community mental health therapist, I was able to experience working clinically with children, youth, adults and couples. I use an individually tailored approach to therapy matching the needs of each client in the present moment.

Hello, I am Luis Martinez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have been serving my community helping families and individuals for over 8 years. Whether it's helping people with simple day to day stressors or deeper rooted concerns, there's an approach and solution to the problem. Together we can focus on building strengths and help facilitate positive change to help empower you moving forward in your life.

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 as they navigate grief, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, and behavioral concerns. I understand that these struggles are not just diagnoses—they are lived experiences that can quietly shape how you see yourself, how you connect with others, and how you move through your day. Anxiety can feel like a constant hum in the background—keeping you on edge, overthinking, and emotionally worn down. Many people carry it for years without realizing how much it’s impacting their relationships and sense of peace. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to keep managing it by yourself. Depression is often misunderstood because it doesn’t always look like sadness. Sometimes it feels like exhaustion, numbness, irritability, or simply going through the motions without feeling connected to your life. It can make even the smallest tasks feel heavy. But depression is treatable, and with the right support, it is possible to feel like yourself again. In our work together, I offer a space where you can be seen, heard, and understood—without judgment. My goal is not only to help you cope, but to help you reconnect with yourself, find clarity in what you’re feeling, and build a life that feels more grounded, meaningful, and yours.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of over twenty years and have worked with a variety of patients across multiple specialties. I also have a master's degree in Public Health. I've worked in medical social work, with patients in oncology, physical rehabilitation and dialysis. In this way, I have a robust understanding of both the physical and mental aspects of my clients.

Professional with over thirty experience collectively in mental health/clinic-based care and in an educational capacity. Bilingual fluency in both English and Spanish. Extensive work experience with culturally diverse populations throughout San Diego County and Ventura County. Knowledgeable in working with co-occurring disorders, substance abuse and a variety of mental health disorders. Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor since an intern in 2006.

I understand the apprehension in seeking therapy and counseling. I also understand the importance of obtaining therapy in a safe and non-judgmental environment. There are times when we all face a need to seek counsel and professional therapy with someone who is able to relate to your struggles. My clients are provided a safe and understanding environment; an environment where we are able to focus on "solutions".

Hello! I'm Karen Weaver. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing for over 15 years. Life can be challenging at times and we can all benefit from some support. I listen non-judgmentally and provide unbiased feedback to help you determine what needs to change. My focus in working together is to assist you in becoming your best self. That could be anything from managing anxiety and stress better, to overcoming past challenges or getting along better with family or friends. Life can be challenging but we also can find joy and growth in the tough times.

Your present circumstances don't determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. -Nido Qubein I take a whole person and collaborative approach to therapy, catering therapy to the individual sitting in front of me. My specialties are in the field of grief and loss. Grief is not just bereavement, it is also the loss of a job, a relationship or a dream.

--- I have experience working with community based mental health agencies, managed care, and private practice. My passion is working with children and families. I believe that the family is an important institution to society, that needs to be preserved. I am sensitive to the clients perspective and I never prescribe or make recommendations that are in direct violation of the client culture, values or beliefs. My specialty areas include: trauma, child abuse, parenting issues , family therapy, coping with loss, play therapy, stress management and life transitions. I approach therapy from a client centered approach, focusing on validating the clients feelings displaying empathy, with a strong emphasis on the client being the expert.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the state of California and Arizona. I received my masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing therapy in California for about 13 years in various settings. I recently obtained my license to work with clients residing in Arizona. I have experience working in a healthcare setting, school campuses, domestic violence shelters, and with substance abuse.

Hello and thank you for taking the time to read about me. My name is Emily Cortez and I am an LMFT in CA. It is my hope to connect with you in a warm, supportive space to help process and tackle the many challenges that life throws at us. I have been practicing in the field going on 5 years now and have experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjustment/life transitions, trauma, and grief/loss.

Hello! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been working with individuals, couples and families for twenty three years. I use interventions based on cognitive behavioral techniques to help you reach your goals and overcome patterns of behavior that are not working well for you. I believe you are the expert in your own life and strive to work with you to understand and move forward toward your goals.

Hello, I'm Evelyn, an LCSW working with GROW, exclusively with online clients. If you are experiencing sadness, anxiety or frustration with your relationships, it's time to get the support you need. If you are seeking a therapist who creates a safe and supportive space for change, I think we might work well together. My background encompasses not only experience in clinical social work but also in the fields of nursing and music. I enjoy being inclusive and open in both my personal and professional life. I look forward to learning about you and working collaboratively to effect positive change in your life.

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.

I am a lantinx female Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who enjoys hearing others stories and helping people discover their strength and authentic selves. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. As a compassionate-client centered therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgemental space where we will work together to uncover your inner wisdom, build your unique strengths, and collaboratively navigate a path towards growth, healing and balance. My work is primarily working with people who have some level of neuro-diversity (ADHD, Anxiety, ASD) themselves or love and care for a person who is neurodivergent.

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in sunny southern California, living with my partner, of many years, John, and our three cats, three dogs, and tortoise, who by the way, is currently hibernating...and don't we all wish we could do that at times? I have many years of experience working with individuals, and with a varied range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationship challenges. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings with many ethnic populations. My style is down-to-earth, relatable, at times, direct, and always with a touch of humor. I love what I do and consider it an honor to help you resolve whatever it might be that is holding you back. I look forward to working with you! By the way, a former client recently said: "I am so grateful to have worked with you, you are truly gifted, and I have learned so much!"

Hello and welcome. If you are reading this, it means you are experiencing thoughts or feelings that have compelled you to take action toward healing—and I want to acknowledge your courage in taking this first step. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the heavy weights of anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and substance use or addiction. Together, we will also work through challenges surrounding self-confidence, relationship or family dynamics, and the emotional toll of chronic medical problems. My practice is deeply dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and fiercely affirming space for the LGBTQI+ community, offering compassionate support for those exploring gender identity and sexual orientation. Operating entirely via telehealth across the state of California, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are. I don't just want to help you manage your pain; I want to help you discover through the therapueitc process that brings clarity and understanding of that ah ha moment that brings you the clarity, courage, and confidence that you can that you have the power to build a life of true purpose and meaning.

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

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

I am a 10 year veteran therapist who believes in the uniqueness of every person I help to realize their special potential. I know people have the capacity to make meaningful changes in their lives that contribute to greater happiness and fulfillment. I never give up even on the most daunting issues that plaque my client's well being. I stand as a strong support of what is right for the client and help to reveal the fastest courses to achieve personal goals. Together we work magic in altering the most perplexing of realities.

I believe that you already possess the resilience and wisdom needed to navigate life’s challenges; sometimes, you just need a dedicated space to reconnect with those inner resources. My approach is rooted in a supportive, strength-based perspective, blending mindful awareness with practical tools to help you move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling grounded. Together, we will work to quiet the noise of "autopilot" living and cultivate a compassionate, present-focused path toward the life you want to lead.

I am a Certified Clinical Forensic Counselor, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I graduated with a Masters degree in Professional Counseling at Grand Canyon University. I have 5 years of working for Los Angeles County DMH where I provide many therapeutic skills and specialties to treat individuals. I currently have been approved by the National Association of Forensic Counselors as a Clinically Certified Forensic Counselor. I am passionate and dedicated in guiding individuals to reach their life goals and their best potential in life.

Warm Welcome! I’m Dr. Nancy – Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Taking the first step toward therapy can feel difficult, and finding the right fit matters. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based work, and trauma-informed care to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and patterns in relationships. I focus on creating a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, build coping skills, and develop more secure and meaningful connections. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families, including those navigating complex relational dynamics. As a Certified Anger Management Specialist and Certified Breakthrough Parenting provider, I offer practical tools alongside deeper emotional work to support lasting change. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, empowered, and capable of handling life’s challenges with clarity and confidence.

I am an LPCC in California and an LPC in Texas. My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master's in clinical counseling, and a Master's in Addictions. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a certified addictions counselor. My past clinical experience includes working for a crisis center where the majority of clients experienced issues related to suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and child and elder abuse. These issues impact people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. I have also worked for a county-based permanent assisted housing development where all of the clients have experienced episodes of homelessness, and have been significantly impacted by issues of trauma, depression, addictions, domestic violence, and child abuse.

I have been privileged being a therapist for over 40 years. I have worked as a probation officer, child protection worker and directer of various treatment programs. I have also been in therapy which gives me a perspective of the the value of therapy as both a client and therapist. I enjoy working with folks in the recovery community, first responders and those who had traumatic childhoods. I respect the courage it takes to ask for help. I treat your courage with honor and dignity.

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

I offer support-based services utilizing both faith-based and secular perspectives to help guide clients to determine their best short and long-term personalized goals and objectives. We will create a client plan to help you achieve your personal goals and objectives in the most advantageous time frame possible. I am non-judgmental and try to meet my clients where they are in their life journey and transition to desired future outcomes and refinements. I work with mild, moderate and severe mental health clients who may be in a current crisis with their marriage, stage of life issues, or self-improvement. I work with adults of all ages, gender and sexual orientations. I have experience in counseling in faith-based, as well as secular perspectives and believe that each person has gifts and passions to offer to themselves, their families and their communities. We often need empathy, support and feedback to fulfill our expectations and goals in life.

I’m a licensed therapist with a focus on helping adults navigate stress, anxiety, and life transitions. I integrate evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT to help clients build practical skills for managing emotions, improving relationships, and creating meaningful change. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and centered on helping clients gain clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of balance in their lives.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from San Francisco State University with an M.S. in Counseling Psychology. I am certified by the Cognitive Behavioral Institute to offer ERPT (Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for OCD). I have over 25 years of experience working with a very diverse range of folks (women, men, the LGBTQ community, those living with HIV,People of Color, those dealing with substance use issues). I enjoy working with people who are seeking a caring, compassionate, understanding person who listens and offers a hand up while they battle back against depression and anxiety. I also enjoy supporting people who are struggling with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and employ a powerful tool (Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy) that is clinically shown to greatly reduce OCD symptoms.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over three decades of experience in mental health and clinical experience. I draw from 63 years of my own life experience as a gay man, educational (MSW from the University of Connecticut) and practical knowledge. Thus I understand what it’s like to be marginalized, and feel different like you don’t belong. I use a compassionate, non- judgmental, understanding, strength based approach by acknowledging and welcoming your whole person, body, mind, and spirit. I can help one understand who they are? where they've been? and how they can move forward in their life.

My goal in my counseling is to help my clients live deeply fulfilling lives. I help clients increase their psychological flexibility through various tools and approaches including evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to change their thought patterns. I use experiential approaches including Hypnotherapy to work with subconscious minds and remove blocks that are deep in their psyche. I also provide mindfulness training, which is one of the key techniques for the clients to be more present and accepting in their lives, rather than react reflexively. Each individual's struggles are complex and tied to many factors including their social environment, their physical health, the phases of their lives, skills they already possess, etc. In other words, change can happen in a variety of ways and that's what counseling can help with, pointing out the direction and even the next steps that can help the client to get to their goals and intentions. I work with clients experiencing sleep disorders, chronic pain, anxiety, mood issues, ADHD, career counseling, and those who simply need a tune-up.

I am a licensed MFT clinician in California with 7 years of eclectic psychotherapy work experience. I thrive on collaborating/working with clients to help them process and manage stress, interpersonal issues, symptoms of anxiety and depression, a distorted sense of self, trauma from individual/familial abuse as well as the systemic factors therein, schizophrenia spectrum challenges/symptoms, and personality disorders (e.g., antisocial personality disorder and borderline personality disorder). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion while maintaining strong/healthy boundaries. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs as we work through what you desire to focus on. I have worked with a variety of clients in different mental health organizations and schools throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles County. I am comfortable and have experience working with trauma-related stress disorders, isolation/loneliness and suicidal thoughts. I treat both adults and older teens (18 and over) through individual psychotherapy. I ask (Socratic) questions based on therapeutic timing and will provide evidence-based psychoeducation when needed, always moving the session with clinical intuition as the process unfolds.