Therapists in California

Welcome. My name is Tannaz Talasazan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I invite you into a supportive, collaborative space where feelings are processed, thoughts are heard, perspectives are respected, and meaningful change becomes possible. Life can present challenges that feel overwhelming, especially when we don’t always have the tools to navigate them. Reaching out for therapy is a powerful first step. Together, we will identify emotional patterns, relational dynamics, and internal obstacles that may be holding you back, while working toward insight, clarity, and lasting change. Over the past 13 years of training and clinical experience, I have worked with individuals, couples, women, families, adolescents, adults, and older adults, with a focus on relationship concerns, life transitions, conflict resolution, and crisis management. I especially enjoy supporting couples in strengthening communication and connection, helping women and individuals navigate personal growth and identity, and working with older adults as they process life transitions, relationships, and meaning. My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw from Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Narrative therapies, carefully matching each approach to support insight, emotional growth, and practical change.

Richard De La Garza is a licensed clinical social worker. His educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from San Jose State University and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Columbia University, and he is currently in pursuit of a Doctorate in Philosophy of Leadership from the University of San Diego. His research intersects multicultural facets of underrepresented first-generation, non-traditional, veteran, and disabled persons and is committed to social justice and culturally competent care. His experience includes working in a variety of settings including the US Army, as a direct commissioned officer for active-duty servicemen. Richard has provided consultation for a non-profit board of directors, case management for a community mental health clinic, and facilitated government partnerships across the military and Palo Alto VA. Richard aligns with a holistic therapeutic approach that is person-centered, psychodynamic, narrative, cognitive behavioral, solution-oriented, integrative systems, and storytelling. Richard's leadership style reflects traits like being bilingual, amiable, and tenacious. Richard strives to expand self-awareness to recognize everyone should be a learner who is capable of growth and redemption. Richard is also trained to provide EMDR therapy.

My practice is built on the belief that everyone possesses the capacity for meaningful change. I view therapy as a truly collaborative, reciprocal, and flexible alliance. My goal is to provide a steady, supportive space. Having navigated multiple career journeys, I experienced the challenges and rewards of professionally starting over. I help clients re-author their personal narratives to find lasting growth and purpose. I am grateful to be part of a healing profession that promotes self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal growth.

I am Brandy Stewart, a licensed clinical social worker in California with 19 years of clinical experience serving children, adolescents, transition age youth, adults and families. I help individuals who struggle with managing relationship issues resolve interpersonal conflicts to promote healthy overall functioning. I also help people manage emotional distress and conflict, as they heal from the past, in order to achieve a greater wellbeing.

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, my name is Ana Ruiz, I am a Licensed Marriage Family and Child therapist. My work focuses on trauma, attachment disorder, anxiety, depression, life transitioning and parenting. My priority is to offer a strength-based approach that works for you. My goal is to provide you with the tools necessary for you to transition from surviving to thriving and provide an environment where you feel heard and validated. I work with children and adults. I am bilingual in Spanish.

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

I am Anita M King, licensed marriage and family therapist #142542. I work collaboratively with clients to help you get where you want to go. I received my degree from Chapman University and have been working with clients since 2018. I am passionate about helping people define and live your values to achieve a more authentic life and to help create stronger relationships. Certified to treat the impact of Hormonal Shifts, PMS, PMDD, Postpartum, Perimenopause and Menopause. Postpartum Group https://www.anitamkinglmft.com/

My name is Jacqueline Aguilar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California with over 10 years of experience in both mental health and healthcare settings. As a therapist, I am especially passionate about helping individuals overcome their fear of travel—whether that involves flying, visiting a new country, or taking a first cruise. In addition to this focus, I support clients in managing anxiety disorders, depression, and OCD. I have found it deeply rewarding to help individuals build self-esteem, navigate life transitions such as divorce or breakups, and process grief related to the loss of a loved one or cherished pet. Ultimately, my goal is to support each person in reaching meaningful, lasting change. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies and have received training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) from the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania. I also draw from other approaches, including Motivational Interviewing, and remain committed to ongoing learning and growth in my practice. My approach is grounded in empathy, understanding, and genuine support. Together, we can work toward creating the version of yourself you aspire to be. I look forward to meeting you.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who understands that reaching out for support can feel vulnerable—especially when you are used to handling everything on your own. You may be feeling anxious, discouraged, overwhelmed, disconnected from yourself, or simply aware that something in your life needs to change. You do not need to have everything figured out before coming to therapy. My style is warm, honest, collaborative, and practical. Therapy is your journey, and you remain at the center of it. My role is to walk alongside you—offering a safe place to speak openly, meaningful insight, and practical support as you create lasting change and move toward a life that feels healthier, more connected, and authentically yours. .I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and attachment-based approaches, tailoring our work to your needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all method. Together, we can better understand what is keeping you stuck, recognize your strengths, and develop tools that help you feel more regulated and attuned.

Hello, I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California, I live in the Palm Springs area of Southern Cal and I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community. My goal in life is to assist others with their mental health challenges and provide them with tools and education that will help them successfully manage these challenges. I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions.

Hello! My name is Fidelia Onyejekwe. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with six years of experience working with individuals living with anxiety disorders, cultural issues, women's issues, depression, and stress management. I am here to provide services that will help support a better you. I offer telehealth services throughout the State of California. I offer talk therapy, life coaching and motivation, and support with identifying short and long term goals. I am currently accepting new clients! I am here to services your needs and be in allyship with you as you discover new way to cope and manage everyday life stressors.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 29 years of clinical experience. I have worked in County Mental, Substance Abuse, and Health Care settings with a wide range of individuals throughout the age spectrum. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. It takes courage and strength to reach out, yet it is the beginning of the healing process. I work from a client-centered whole-person approach that draws on your strengths to collaborate with you to bring about healing. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, struggle to stay focused, not being able to complete tasks, unable to find time to enjoy the things you like to do, and/or struggling with relationships; now is the time to take that step. Let's work together to create solutions to bring about a better quality of life. Today is the day to change your tomorrow.

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.

I am Jaron Haynes, an African American/Native American licensed therapist with 20 years of clinical experience which includes working with families, adolescents, the chronically mentally ill, those struggling with substance abuse and addiction, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, domestic violence, and personality disorders. As an expert in Marriage & Family Therapy he brings to the team a wealth of knowledge and vast experience to provide the highest quality of care and patience necessary for even those high conflict parenting clients. Jaron is a licensed professional that exhibits compassion and empathy. His passion to help those in need and his desire to give back to the community that helped shape him has led him to work with clients from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds.

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!"

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.

I truly want to understand and align with my clients, to provide a unique healing experience, and help my clients to gain insights that they may not have had or experienced before. I help my clients develop coping skills that are unique to them, setting them up for the best possible outcome, because the therapy is tailored to their needs.

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.

I specialize in helping clients break out of codependency and being stuck in repetitive cycles of behavior by addressing self-sabotage, low self-esteem, and developing self-sufficiency. I focus on helping you understand and manage your physical responses to the world, which leads to managing overstimulation and emotions. You'll develop a sense of control and understanding of your experiences, finding freedom from impulsivity and overwhelm so you can feel calmer and make more intentional, healthy choices. I work with individual adults (18+) only. I do not see couples, minors, or families. Specialties: -Individuation & identity development -Codependency & relationship patterns -Life transitions & life stage challenges -Boundaries, self-worth & people-pleasing -Self-discovery & personal growth -Anxiety related to change & uncertainty

I'm Tobey Allen, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience walking alongside through life's biggest transitions. My own path has included more than one reinvention, from a career in graphic design to becoming an art therapist, and that experience shapes how I support clients navigating change today. Whether you're facing a career shift, caring for aging parents, adjusting to chronic pain or illness, or working through grief, I bring both clinical training and lived experience reinventing my own path. I also spent years as a bereavement therapist in hospice care, so I understand grief deeply, both as a clinician and as someone who has sat with families through some of their hardest moments. My approach is warm, collaborative, and genuinely non-judgmental. Together we'll work to uncover the patterns keeping you stuck, whether in relationships, at work, within yourself, and build toward a life that feels more balanced and true to who you are.

Hi, my name is Miguel Soltero, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 11 years of experience as a mental health practitioner and 13 years total in the social service sector. I have earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California (USC) and have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults across diverse backgrounds. My clinical experience includes treating addiction, anxiety, mood disorders and psychotic disorders. I have worked in community mental health, program management, and high-acuity hospital settings, which has given me a strong foundation in supporting individuals through both everyday challenges and moments of emotional and psychosocial crisis. Currently, I have a part-time position at UCLA for the department of psychiatry BHS program and work as a therapist to serve both undergraduate and graduate students. Please visit my website www.calyxwill.com for more information on scheduling an appointment.

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.

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!

Isabel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. She provides compassionate, culturally responsive therapy to children, adults, and families, with a strong background in crisis intervention and supporting clients through life’s most challenging moments. Beyond her clinical work, Isabel has led community mental health initiatives and continues to advocate for accessible resources and education, particularly within the Hispanic community.

With more than 12 years of experience in the field, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients in many different settings as they process challenges, explore new perspectives, and build meaningful tools for growth. My style blends evidence‑based methods with a grounded, human approach—and a sense of humor when it’s helpful. I meet clients where they are and work collaboratively toward their goals. I hold a master’s in Psychology from JFK University and a bachelor’s degree from Holy Names University. I have worked across diverse roles in the mental health field, helping clients unpack their experiences, process life’s challenges, and develop skills that support long‑term growth. I use a range of therapeutic methods, incorporate humor when appropriate, and tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs.

Hello, I'm David. Do you have a change you are facing and are unsure about which direction to go? Are you questioning your identity or aspects of who you are? Are you facing struggles that feel too large to conquer? Are stressors weighing you down? I help clients navigate these tough questions and work together to understand how to face these challenges. Exploring the choices together and discovering a path that resonates with you. I use a whole-person approach to unlock who you want to be and I will walk alongside as your journey unfolds. The challenges of today can become the strengths of tomorrow! Let’s work together to find that peace of mind you are looking for.

Hello...I'm Tina! I help you holistically and sustainably manage and recover from anxiety, depression, burnout, and narcissistic abuse. When you work with me, I will help you understand your nervous system better, so you can learn how to self-regulate and take care of it better. A bit about me - I have a background as an artist, health coach, and yoga instructor. I love to travel, read, write, listen to audiobooks and podcasts, do yoga, and I'm a big self-care nerd. I work well with other creatives. Looking forward to meeting you!

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

Hello my name is Virginia Myricks, LMFT and my goal is to encourage, challenge and empower you to uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I understand that every individual struggles with life challenges in their own unique way and it would be my pleasure to work with you on identifying your goals, offering treatment interventions that are best suited to your individual needs and to assist you in experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

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.

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.

Hello there, I'm Alma. I'm bilingual in English and Spanish. I have experience working with elementary-age children and young adults. I can help you manage anxiety to avoid burnout, and in children to avoid losing control of their emotions. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I integrate mindfulness to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with being overwhelmed, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety, I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to be heard, heal and grow.

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.

I’ve been licensed since March 2019, however I’ve been working in this field since 2013 (starting out in various schools: elementary, middle and high schools). I work with kids, teens, adults, couples and families. I enjoy helping people with symptoms of anxiety, depression and who are going through a life transition. I try to teach tools and empower clients to make the changes they need in their lives to have a quality and meaningful relationship with themselves and others. Therapy is a process and a journey and committing to this is the biggest and most rewarding step any human can take. I will be there to support the client through the stages of change (the ups and downs) and witness their transformation. Thank you for trusting me to be part of this process.

Hello, my name is Miaisha. Are you seeking a supportive space where you can be authentic and receive meaningful guidance? If so, you have come to the right place. I believe everyone deserves an environment where they feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported. I am a compassionate and culturally responsive Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life transitions, manage stressors, and develop greater self-awareness. I strive to create a safe, empathetic, and affirming space where your experiences are acknowledged and respected, while fostering growth in confidence, resilience, and meaningful, lasting change. I invite you to take the first step toward your well-being. You do not have to navigate this process alone. In our work together, you will be encouraged to take an active and empowered role in your therapeutic journey, while I provide guidance, clinical insight, and ongoing support. Together, we will develop a path forward that honors your unique experiences and aligns with your personal goals.

Hi, I'm Betty, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I'm passionate about helping people navigate life's challenges in a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. My practice is centered on building genuine connections and providing personalized care, empowering clients to better understand themselves, develop healthy coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change while fostering resilience, confidence, and hope for the future.

Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for eight years. I work with adults that struggle with depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have problems with substance use. I believe that you are the expert in your life. My role is to help you recognize your strengths and learn how to build on those strengths to help you become the best version of yourself.

Hi, I’m Daniela Rivas, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I provide a warm, compassionate, and judgment-free space for individuals navigating anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and major life transitions. I have specialized experience supporting women during the perinatal and postpartum periods, helping clients navigate the emotional changes, challenges, and transitions that can come with pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood. My approach is collaborative and practical, helping you feel more grounded, confident, and connected. You don’t have to navigate this chapter alone—I’m here to support you.

Hello there! I'm so excited to connect with you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize a collaborative approach that requires working in partnership together to create positive change. I want to get to know you and your world and believe I bring compassion, humor, kindness, and curiosity into each session. Let’s work together in helping you make conscious choices instead of having unconscious reactions so you can live a more satisfying and fulfilling life!

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 am a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than 19 years experience working with children, adults, and families, the last 10 years in Teletherapy. I received my masters degree in psychology with a focus in marriage and family therapy in 2011, and I have completed certification training to be a functional family therapy supervisor. I'm a military veteran and have worked with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as well as provided supervision to interns. I also provide cognitive processing therapy for trauma, a gold standard evidence-based psychotherapy.

Hello and welcome. Entering therapy is not always easy, but an important step towards change. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process that both my clients and I work on as a team. Trust, empathy, experience, and education are key components to successful treatment that produces long term sustainable results. I hold a B.S. in psychology with an emphasis in law and criminal behavior, a M.S. in clinical psychology, and a Psy. D. I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in California and in Arizona. My training and experience in forensic, hospital, inpatient, and private practice settings allows for a wide range of therapeutic experiences that allows for a wide range of treatment interventions with my clients. I am CBT (cognitive- behavioral) and DBT(dialectical- behavioral), and ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment) trained. I believe in evidence based treatments that will provide long term change. I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in California and in Arizona. I have been in practice for over 15 years with my practice focusing on Addiction, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD.

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

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.

Hello, I have been a therapist for my whole life, or so it would seem. I feel as though I have always been a good listener and have been there for friends, family and people that need somebody to listen. I have learned a lot about what people have gone through, from working with adults in jail and/or teens trying to understand themselves. Life is complicated, maybe you just need somebody to listen.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Originally from Taiwan, I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Columbia University. Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse range of individuals and communities, including children and families, adolescents, transitional-age youth, young adults, older adults, men, women, couples, LGBTQ+ individuals, and justice-involved populations. I am fluent in English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese. I understand that our cultural backgrounds, family experiences, and life circumstances can shape who we are and influence the way we see ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. My clinical experience has given me a broad understanding of the unique challenges people face at different stages of life. I strive to create a respectful and supportive environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. In today's fast-paced world, many people find themselves overwhelmed by daily responsibilities and may be disconnected from what brings meaning and fulfillment to their lives. It is common to push aside difficult thoughts and emotions simply to get through the day. Over time, however, this can leave us feeling stuck, isolated, or uncertain about how to move forward. I want to assure you that it is okay to reach out and talk it out. Whether you are navigating a major life transition, experiencing relationship difficulties, seeking greater self-understanding, or simply looking for a safe space to process your experiences, therapy can provide an opportunity to gain insight and perspective. My approach is direct yet empathic, collaborative, and solution-focused, while remaining grounded in genuine compassion and practical feedback. Together, I can help you explore the challenges you are facing, identify patterns that may be holding you back, build upon your strengths, and work toward meaningful, positive, and lasting change.

I am an LCSW (License Clinical Social Worker) with over 19 years of experience in the field of mental health and I have been licensed since 2010. I have worked in crisis behavioral health hospitals with both adults and adolescents, outpatient community mental health clinics and in hospice. I have also worked at the University of Michigan counseling center with undergraduate and graduate students. I have extensive experience in relationship/communication issues, trauma work, infertility and miscarriage counseling, parenting, grief work, life transitions, depression and anxiety. I studied social work at the University of Michigan and completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Washington.

Hi there, I'm Denise. Do you feel anxious, worried, or depressed and overwhelmed with your life? Are you struggling to feel happy? Do you feel past trauma is affecting your ability to heal? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or to tell yourself that you are doing all that you can? Together, we can build a safe place so that we can find what's not working for you and get you back to a place where your mind, body, and spirit feel at ease. We'll use a mindfulness approach and identify those negative thoughts and come up with a balanced adaptive thought that can help you feel better. I integrate mindfulness and an Eye Movement Desensitization Approach (EMDR), along with Cognitive Behavioral Theory and several other approaches to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. All of this comes from a strength based, trauma informed, culturally informed perspective where we will identify your strengths and your plan to help yourself heal. I'm here to help and understand that seeking therapy can feel overwhelming and scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the thoughts and habits holding you back.

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.