Sharp Health Plan Therapists in California

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who practices in California. I am Latinx and fluent in Spanish, I have been in practice for over 15 years and have extensive experience in treating trauma, depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. I like to practice using a decolonized lens and to be creative with my interventions so that they include your values and worldview.

My name is Penny, and I have been in practice for 13+ years. I am here to help you grow and heal. I enjoy meeting a client where they are, and I take a client centered approach to treatment. My approach is rooted in respect, empathy and confidentiality. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and ensure clients are comfortable sharing their unique experiences.

Do you experience stress that can lead you to feeling overwhelmed? Does your stress cause you to isolate yourself from your family and friends? Are you struggling with thoughts that prevent you from being your 'true' self? I support individuals struggling with their thoughts and emotions to make sense of what challenges they face. Working together, we will explore current challenges, how your thoughts and emotions impact your efforts to make sense of these challenges and discover ways to empower yourself to resolve and flourish from these challenges. My role is to support you! Practicing as a psychotherapist for 18 years, I have extensive skills in mindfulness, support, and empowerment. In our sessions, I focus on providing a safe, comfortable space without judgment. I use compassion, genuine focus, and years of clinical training as a psychotherapist to support resolving your challenges.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Californi am a mental health specialist who has been in the private and non profit services for children and adolescents for over 25 years. I use a variety of healing modalities including expressive arts and experiential learning practices. I hold the belief that many of life’s challenges including mental health can become strengths and lead to deeper meaning and purpose.

Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for six 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.

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

Hi there, I am Hasya. I am a licensed therapist and I help people heal from trauma, resolve relationship issues and live balanced and healthy lives. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety and depression and suffer from low self esteem you are in the right place. I am here to help. Adverse childhood experiences can greatly impact our nervous system, relationships and sense of self. Therapy can help address those underlying issues and help you better cope. I would love to be your guide on this journey. It can be scary to take that first step but you are worth it! Give me a call and lets work together on creating the life you deserve. You can also visit my website for more in depth information about me and therapy. Find me at mywestcoasttherapy.com

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 Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist (LMFT) with a background in trauma and I understand the profound impact trauma can have on emotional well-being, relationships, and daily life. My therapeutic approach is integrative, blending techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavior Therapy), and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy). I received my Masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 15 years.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and life’s everyday challenges. I take a compassionate, client-centered approach and primarily use Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help you build awareness, reduce stress, and develop healthier coping skills. In our work together, you can expect a safe, supportive space where you’ll learn to manage difficult thoughts and emotions, stay grounded in the present moment, and reconnect with what matters most to you. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming feelings or looking to strengthen your emotional resilience, I'm here to walk alongside you on that journey.

Hi & Welcome. I am a proud Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the social service and mental health field. I specialize in working with transition aged youth, crisis support and working with those who have been incarcerated/ have loved ones incarcerated. I've been licensed in state of California since 2021. I began my calling as a licensed social worker in 2014 after completing my bachelors degree while living in Ohio and completing my masters at the University of Cincinnati. There, I discovered my calling to serve humanity and embarked on my pursuit of a Master of Social Work (MSW) at USC. Throughout the years I have gained valuable experiences working in a variety of settings such as clients homes, star run group homes, correctional settings, psychiatric hospitals, homeless shelters and outpatient settings. My approach is supportive and empathetic while empowering clients to live their best life. Together we will navigate life’s “curveballs” , heal from past situations and strive to get you to your desired future.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. With a passion for supporting individuals, couples, and families to navigate the complexities of relationships and personal growth, I've dedicated my career to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where my clients can explore challenges, heal, and thrive. My approach is grounded in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique dynamics and strengths. Whether addressing communication issues, conflict resolution, emotional intimacy, or personal development, I aim to empower my clients to achieve greater harmony, understanding, and fulfillment in their lives and relationships.

Hi. I’m Anupama. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD. Panic disorder. I have lots of experience with couples issues and domestic violence. I have also worked with parenting issues I have a calming and gentle approach I like to make my clients feel comfortable right away.

Let’s face it—life can be challenging, and it often throws us curveballs we never saw coming. Hi, I’m Jennifer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Whether you’re navigating the painful journey of infertility, grieving the loss of a pregnancy, working to strengthen or repair your relationship with your significant other, or trying to balance your identity as a new parent, I’m here to help.

Hi. My name is Jody Evans and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for the past 10 years. I graduated from Pepperdine university top of my class. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety and addictions to learn coping skills to manage these disorders. I can provide individual, couples or family therapy. I have experience working with individuals who are going through divorce or any life transition.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Rutgers University. I have experience working with teens, and adult dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem, self -harm, ADHD, life changes and other challenges. I specialize in working with teens, women and men who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, negative self-image and trauma. I work with clients to help them discover their true self. I will meet you where you are in your journey, and will you facilitate the changes you need to reach your fullest potential. If your tired of your emotional rollercoaster consider coming to see me.

I was born and raised in the greater Fresno and attended CSU-Fresno for my undergraduate work in Criminology and my Master’s in Counseling-Marriage and Family Therapy. My clinical orientation is a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), client-centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and solution-focused therapeutic Modalities. I have extensive training and experience in working with people struggling with the criminal justice system (in and out of the legal system), post-traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety and Depression disorders, as well as with people seeking relief from addictive behaviors. I have worked for over 24 years in public service/various community mental health delivery systems. I thoroughly value meeting and forming therapeutic relationships with new patients and assisting the patient in discovering their ability to lead a life they want to live. I honor the time spent in session, as it is a time where hearts bare the pain, minds seek the “why?”, and bodies reflect the joy or sorrow of their memories.

Hi! My name is Ana Maria Di Sarli. I received my master's degree in social work from California State University of Long Beach. I have been practicing social work for the last 17 years. I have worked with adults going through depression and anxiety by providing support and discussing coping skills that can help them improve their mood, relationships and quality of life.

I am a licensed clinical social worker that has been practicing for the past 11 years. I have a back grown in advance DBT training and EMDR basic training. Although I consider myself as taking an eclectic approach to treatment I lean on DBT and EMDR in my individual work. I strive to make the time that we meet to be a safe, calm, and free from judgment place.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I offer therapy sessions online via video on weeknights and Saturday. I received my Master from the National University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety and depression to learn coping strategies so that they can become the better versions of themselves as well as an ability to regulate their mood.

Short-term counseling with an experienced professional to clarify thoughts and feelings, learn mental health management skills and plan for mental health and wellness. Possible topics include general mental health questions, improving mental health, goal setting, building cognitive and behavioral skills, dealing with life transitions, and clarifying thoughts and feelings. I am not licensed in treatment of substance abuse or addictions. I do not do court related work. Adults only.

Calai Brown, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with years of experience. I have developed a comprehensive set of skills to support individuals post-hospitalization, offering a compassionate and healing approach. I have a particular expertise in providing anxiety and depression support, helping clients navigate the challenges they may face in life. I also have extensive experience working with teenagers. My goal is to create a safe and understanding environment, assisting adolescents in navigating complex emotions and providing guidance as they transition into adulthood. In addition, I have worked extensively with geriatric clients, providing compassionate care and support for those facing challenges in their later years. My expertise includes offering bereavement support, children caring for parents with Dementia and hospice support. My goal is to help individuals and families navigate the difficult process of grieving. In all of my work, I take a personalized and client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet each person's unique needs and goals. My years of experience have taught me the importance of fostering an atmosphere of trust, warmth, and empathy. If you are seeking a dedicated and experienced LCSW who can provide post-hospitalization, anxiety support, depression support, teenage counseling, geriatric counseling, or bereavement support, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward growth and healing.

I'm credentialed by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and California. I'm a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), through the Pennsylvania Certification Board and Florida Certification Board. I work purposefully with those experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use, and trauma. "If you have come across my profile, chances are you may be at a crossroads in life. We've all been in this place at one time or another, and I can help you grow as you navigate through the process. The power lies in the process itself! Change requires a decision, coupled with the willingness to take action. As a seasoned therapist, I understand that counseling is a contact sport, requiring participation and teamwork. Therefore, I implore you to invest in yourself!

Hello. Are you experiencing low energy, low motivation, trouble sleeping, irritability, poor concertation? or feeling sad, worried, anxious or stressed about your negative/intrusive thoughts? The truth is, that everyone experiences Anxiety or Depression at some point in their life, but these conditions are treatable and you do not have to go through them alone. I am here to help. My name is Tina. I am a Latina, a mother and a therapist with 20 years of experience treating children and adults with Anxiety and/or Depression. I also specialize in Maternal Mental Health and/or any other issue related to pregnancy and motherhood. I would love to help you find calmness, balance and a more positive approach to coping with life stressors that often create Anxiety and/or Depression.

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.

Hi my name is Mylan (Me-lawn) Allen. I approach therapy with authenticity and curiosity using person centered and cognitive based therapeutic modalities. My clients develop a deeper sense of self and understanding of their environment when working with me. I help my clients build their resilience by learning to challenge their thoughts, identify their feelings and recognize patterns and behaviors.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I have been working in mental health for over 35 years, and as a licensed professional for 14 years. My area of expertise is mental health and supporting clients to be able to adjust and cope better with a myriad of life stressors.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), licensed in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. I have a Master of Arts in psychology and have been practicing for 14 years. I help adults of all ages, who are struggling with symptoms relative to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other issues, to reduce their symptoms on their path towards mental wellness and the best version of themselves.

My name is Laurissa Miller. I am an LCSW that lives in Ventura County, California. I have 13 years of experience with kids, trauma, PTSD, and foster care. I have also worked with children with Autism and ADHD. My goal is always to meet my clients where they are at and work as a team to help them accomplish their goals. I look forward to working with you.

Hello! My name is Shyanne and I am an Art Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist living and working in San Diego. For more than 15 years, I've worked with young people, their families, and adults, offering support as they creatively engage their strengths to overcome obstacles and enhance their lives. Art making in therapy is a great way to support communication, growth, and resilience during times of personal challenge. I work from an inclusive, strengths based, and trauma informed lens. I look forward to getting to know you!

Providing psychotherapeutic services to those seeking emotional sustenance and healthy psychological support during these very stressful times. I have been working in this field for approximately 20 years now. My experience is with all school grade levels, as well as adults from all walks of life. I find that the ideal patient is open-minded (willing to look at things from different perspectives), consistent (with attendance/self-care/psychoeducation), and humble to learn. My patients have described me as kind, trustworthy, accepting, an excellent mentor, dependable, and down-to-earth. Short-term and long-term assistance provided for: Adults (18+) Individual Therapy Anxiety Depression Coping Skills ADHD Asperger’s Syndrome Autism Spectrum Disorder Codependency Developmental Disorders Intellectual Disability Life Transitions Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Spirituality Stress Women’s Issues Mood Disorders Thinking Disorders Trauma Certified

My journey towards becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist began in 2004 when I received my B.A. in Theater from Southern Connecticut State University. Knowing it was my passion to creatively help others, I began teaching children in diverse settings including preschools, elementary schools, community centers, homes, and camps. I was introduced to Drama Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy as an Early Childhood Educator and never looked back! As I continued working with children, families, and parents of all backgrounds over the years, I found myself becoming more intrigued with their social/emotional dynamics as opposed to the academics of the profession. My realization led me to The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where I pursued my M.A. in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Marital and Family Therapy. Since then, I’ve had many incredible opportunities to gain experience through the roles of a School Counselor, Program Therapist, Private Practice Owner, and Group Therapist. Through these experiences, I've grown immensely as a therapist by expanding the populations I work with and the specialties I’m able to offer.

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.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's from National University in California and have been in practice for 27 years. I specialize in several mental health issues. I'm additionally trained in women's issues such as menopause, empty nest, pre-menopause, post-menopause life transitions and grief. I'm also experienced in anxiety, depression, self-worth issues as well as trauma.

Dr. Chircop-Rollick is originally from the Maltese Islands in the Mediterranean near Italy. She has lived internationally including Munich, London, Paris, Rome, New York, New Jersey, Kentucky, Hawaii and California. Having been raised on an island, living in Oahu, Hawaii and spending time at the beaches in California, Dr Chircop-Rollick is a person who gets her energy from the ocean. She is a certified scuba diver, an avid swimmer, and played water polo in high school. She was on her high school’s gymnastics and soccer teams. She also studied classical ballet until moving to the United States in 1989. Dr Chircop-Rollick enjoys a balanced life and cherishes spending time with her family. She enjoys cooking homemade dinners, baking, live theater, hockey, and baseball games with her family. Dr Chircop-Rollick leads a healthy lifestyle and enjoys working out daily. Dr Chircop-Rollick loves spending time with her beloved English Bulldog Winston who upon patient request assists her in therapy. She is passionate about rehabilitating abused dogs or practically anything that has fur and has piloted programs in correctional settings that train suitable rescued dogs as service animals for veterans and active-duty disabled military service personnel. Dr Chircop-Rollick is an avid reader of historical novels and fiction and speaks English, Maltese, and Italian fluently.

I have been a licensed therapist for 19 years. I believe the most important part of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic relationship is formed in a collaboration between myself and my clients in an environment of mutual acceptance and respect. In addition to my education, training and experience as a therapist I rely on my innate skills as an active listener, my good memory and genuine caring to guide me in my approach to therapy.

I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist who specializes in working with children and families. My goal is to help them navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and thrive in their daily lives. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from various techniques to meet each family’s unique needs. Whether addressing trauma, behavioral concerns, parenting struggles, or family dynamics, I create a supportive and collaborative space where growth and healing can happen. My passion is empowering families with the tools and understanding they need to build strong, healthy connections

Hello! I'm Karen Weaver. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing for over 10 years. Life can be challenging at times and we can all benefit from some support. 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.

I began my LMFT career with completing my master's at University of Phoenix in 2009 and completed my full licensure in 2018. I have 7 years of experience in addiction treatment through methadone care and have been working in the most current 6 years at a VA hospital assisting veterans and their families/couples creating heathier communication and making their lives better.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) who is bilingual in Spanish and English, with a primary focus on conducting therapy in Spanish. As a woman, mother, and wife, I deeply believe in the inherent value, love, and potential of each individual. I hold a strong belief in the infinite love of God for all of us, and I am a firm advocate for the possibility of change. I have witnessed the transformative journeys of my clients and recognize the power within each person to grow and thrive.

My name is Nick Davis I'm a 34-year-old, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), based in San Diego, California working with clients throughout California via telehealth. I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in a variety of areas including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, impulsivity, relationship concerns, and suicidal ideation. My approach to therapy is eclectic, meaning it is based on the needs of the client. I believe in a collaborative approach to help the client identify their primary needs and tailor therapeutic interventions to meet those needs. I specialize in several modalities however I most commonly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California and I received my Master’s Degree at California State University, Stanislaus. I have been practicing for about five years and work with a diverse population. I help people who struggle with daily life stressors to adjust and learn how to not only improve their overall functioning but to maintain a stable and balanced lifestyle. I come from a spiritual background and will emphasize the importance of spirituality as an anchor in life.

Hello and welcome to GROW therapy! Are you currently finding challenge in managing your relationships, career, transitions in lifestyle and have discovered the need for support. If you are having a difficult time identifying ways to cope with life stressors you may find that my empathic and warm approach to be a good fit. If you are interested in learning new ways of approaching impairing symptoms like lack of interest in enjoyable activities and low motivation to complete small task book your session today. I enjoy creating a comfortable and professional environment for my patients. My goal is to offer a client-centered approach to foster a strong therapeutic alliance from start to finish. I welcome 25 and older clients, all genders, backgrounds and look forward to meeting you soon. Book your session today!

I am a Licensed Clincal Social Worker with over 22 years of experience in working with children, youth and adults. My goal is to foster hope and healing through supporting my clients in dealing with depression, anxiety and trauma. My hope is to help my clients develop insight into their thoughts, feelings and behaviors, to be able to reflect on their lives and identify ways to fulfill their dreams and live a more peaceful and productive life.

Do you feel like things just aren't working right in your life and/or relationships? I could be of help. In my more than 23-year career as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist I’ve helped hundreds of individuals and couples. As an individual your relationship(s) may not be what’s getting in your way. It could be you getting in the way of your relationships or what’s bothering you may have nothing to do with relationships with others. Our relationship with ourselves can get in the way of success, too. If you’re in a nontraditional relationship or an individual that doesn’t fit the general heterosexual, monogamous, and/or dual gender model no problem. I’ve worked with you all. With an educational background in life span development, I can help you understand how your experiences and life situations have interacted with you to create who you are now, your behaviors, your beliefs and how you interact with the world. From there we’ll be able to create a way to change things. It may sound like a big ask but I’m up for it. Are you?

Marjorie is a Spanish language Bilingual Psychotherapist from South America and has been practicing in the USA since 2008. Marjorie graduated with both a bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in social work from California State University Los Angeles. Marjorie works both in her own private practice -focusing on women’s issues and minority populations - and as a Psychiatric Social Worker for a large managed care organization, helping clients with diverse psychosocial stressors or chronic mood disorders. Marjorie has extensive experience in social work, advocacy, case management and mental health services for over 15 years. Marjorie has provided psychotherapy services for adults and children from various cultural backgrounds, she’s sensitive to the linguistic needs of the clients served (Spanish/English). Areas of focus: Assessment and diagnosis formulation, treatment planning, counseling (short term specific or situational issues), psychotherapy (long term broader range for mental illness) and crisis intervention.

My values as a therapist include openness, non-judgment, empathy, cultural humility, strength based, and unconditional positive regard. My approach is integrative and centers the needs of my clients; I utilize active interventions involving cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused-therapy, motivational interviewing, grief and loss, to name a few. I aspire to cultivate a trusting, safe and empowering space for the people I serve. I place a lot of emphasis on building a therapeutic relationship with patients that allows for authentic self-expression.

Hi There. My name is Mimi. I am a licensed Psychotherapist. I am here to help you grow, identify and resolve emotional and psychological obstacles that are preventing you from achieving the quality of life you deserve and desire. My integrative approach to therapy combines a variety of techniques to accommodate different individual needs to assist you in making choices that will help you achieve a fuller and happier life in a non judgmental, compassionate, warm, and safe environment where you will be heard and accepted. You may feel lost, empty, anxious, alone, with no place to turn to, but as we work together, I will lead you to explore those wounds and emotions that are creating the pain you feel. Clinging to old patterns and emotions is familiar and safe, but it does not serve us well. However, as we walk together, your life will begin to have the purpose you are seeking and deserve as you let go of old emotions and experiences. Taking the first step to self understanding can be intimidating and it takes courage to embark on a journey for change where you will be in control of your life and to all issues overwhelming you with anxious feelings and overwhelming thoughts. You are not alone, you can do it, and I will support you all the way as we work together!

I am a professional counselor with a combined 10 years of experience in educational counseling, psychotherapy, severe mental illness and psychiatric evaluations. Overall, I am a counselor, but as a person, my life experiences are what have influenced the different areas of counseling that I am involved in. I immigrated to this country at a young age and the experiences that I had as a student led me down the path of school counseling. I wanted children who were bilingual to have a positive experience in which they didn’t feel that their language barrier was equated to their general educational abilities. I grew up in an area that was plagued with poverty, drugs, homelessness. Where high school dropout rates, teenage pregnancy and early death due to gangs were amongst some of the many challenges that were faced daily. I became intrigued by the power of the mind and the resiliency that we as humans have. Wanting to understand people's behavior led me to study psychology and work in severe mental health. I had a desire not only to help, but to understand how we can be affected by our environment and overcome it, to know where our human resilience came from.