Therapists in California

As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges, including relationship issues, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help clients develop coping strategies, improve communication. As well as Jungian Psychology in order to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. My goal is to support clients in finding healing, purpose, and inner peace in their lives.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience and currently hold a role at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. I previously served in various roles at a local non-profit including Clinical Director. I have participated in academic research and have presented at various national conferences on the topic of mental health. I work from a trauma-informed and multi-theoretical perspective and value providing LGBTQIA+ affirming care. I support women going through life transitions, people impacted by medical conditions, and healthcare workers. I provide psychotherapy as well as therapeutic yoga.

Hello and welcome, I'm Kristine! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. Do you feel like you haven't been enjoying your life the way you would like to - or even the way that you used to? Does it seem like there have been more worries than answers/solutions in your life? I empower high performers to manage depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship nuances. Together, we can identify what hasn't been working the way that it used to and find ways to sharpen what does work while adding new methods that can balance and bring hope back into your life. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or the cycles of life transitions - I'm here to help. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy so I look forward to supporting you in your journey of growth and transformation. You can expect to have a safe, nonjudgemental and empathetic space to feel seen and validated when working with me. When it comes to mental health, I follow a "No B.S." policy - No Blaming&Shaming! Together you and I will use an eclectic and flexible approach in therapy that fits your needs!

Hi, I’m Erin Robertson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Cozy Nest Counseling. I specialize in guiding women and families through the perinatal and postpartum seasons, including the profound grief of perinatal loss. My practice offers a compassionate, judgment-free space to process life’s most vulnerable transitions—where exhaustion, intrusive thoughts, identity shifts, and strained relationships often collide. I bring a holistic and heartfelt approach, combining clinical expertise with authenticity, to ensure you feel seen, supported, and gently empowered through every step of your healing.

My name is Wendy Bertram and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LISW) based out of Arizona with a Masters in Social Work from ASU. Currently I'm licensed in both Arizona and Iowa, providing both in-person and teleheatlh services. I use a client centered approach and multiple therapy models, depending on your needs. I am here to partner with you to work through the issues causing disruptions in your life and to help you meet your goals. Everyone’s experience is unique, and the therapeutic experience should reflect this. My expertise spans various areas, including life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem struggles, stress and worry, caregiver stress, and those struggling with the impacts of medical diagnoses. By employing a client-centered approach, I work to foster a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I employ evidence-based interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused therapy to promote personal insight, resilience, and coping skills for positive change.

My therapy framework is inspired by Black feminist sci-fi writer Octavia E. Butler who inspired my belief that healing helps us imagine and build worlds beyond the forces that dominate, dehumanize, and disconnect. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal, and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body. I draw from a number of therapeutic approaches that gently uncover without judgment deeply embedded coping strategies that were once necessary for survival but may no longer align with your current sense of self, desire for connection, and movements towards what makes you feel seen and heard. These practices also nurture emotional regulation and self-acceptance, deepen awareness of relational patterns and help you find meaning through creative expression and personal grounding practices such as art, music, time in nature, being with animal children and more that feel truly attuned to who you're becoming. Together, they help us tend to both the immediate and deeper layers of your experience—supporting clarity, connection, and a more compassionate relationship with yourself and others.

I am a licensed counselor, with 20 years of experience. I have a warm and interactive style. I believe that real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. My approach is to combine cognitive-behavioral, developmental and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Do you feel that life is more difficult than it should be? Are you feeling overburdened by worry or pulled down by hopelessness? These feelings are common and symptoms of anxiety and depression do a good job of making us feel pessimistic about getting past such struggles. If you're willing to be honest and have an idea of how you'd like your life to be different, therapy can help you overcome many personal challenges. It is normal to have many questions (Where do I start? What do I say?) and to feel overwhelmed by the thought of starting therapy. By far the best predictor of success is how comfortable a person feels when talking with their therapist. While there is no way to guarantee a person and a therapist are a good fit, it is best to keep this in mind throughout treatment.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University, Bachelors in Psychology from California State University, San Bernardino. I help adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, co-dependency, school issues, trauma, among other issues, to help them discover how to become a better version of themselves.

I am a Christian and Afro-Caribbean mom and forever learner. Psychology and healing deeply excite me. I dipped my toe into psychiatry for the first time as a high school student and am still furthering my education in clinical psychology today. I know there is a greater capacity for healing available to individuals who have always looked inward, fist-fought generational patterns, and still feel stuck in a world that says they need 15 more tasks completed by yesterday. I work to be a safe resting place for people who have moved from therapist to therapist, searching for someone who will truly see them for who they are rather than who the world has tried to mold them into. I desire to fill the Keturah-sized space in that wellness gap. I enjoy working side-by-side with clients to explore areas of possibility, rest, healing, and growth, and then provide the tools to make these things possible.

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California and have been practicing since 2017. I believe our therapeutic journey is a path to be walked on with a healing partner. I work with organic and eclectic therapeutic methods specifically tailored to meet your goals. I consider it a privilege to be given entrance into the lives and hearts of my clients.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's in 2014 and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults manage their stressors in life and help them reduce their symptoms to be successful in their own life. I have experience working with children from 4 years old to older adults of the age of 80 years old.

I’m proud to be part of a collaborative, affirming group practice committed to helping individuals and couples create meaningful change. While I bring years of experience and a passion for supporting emotional growth, I also work alongside a team of trusted clinicians who share the same core values, compassion, authenticity, and client-centered care. Together, we specialize in creating safe, supportive spaces where people can explore challenges, build on strengths, and move toward healing. Whether you're navigating anxiety, trauma, identity development, or relationship issues, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

Families often come to seek more information on how to establish and produce healthier habits that benefit their well-being and self-esteem. They learn that the healthier they are, it increases their happiness and in turn benefits relationships. Kendall helps families and individuals explore and identify who they are, their communication style and how to protect these realizations with healthy boundaries. After learning more about themselves, families often feel much more equipped to decrease or rid themselves of symptoms that prompt them to seek therapy initially. It's always an honor, privilege and a wonderful opportunity to process with families in their sacred spaces. Consider starting your journey to Optimum Wellness today by scheduling a Live Session with Kendall Bradford, LCSW and Associates. Love and Light! ** Therapy is an emotional process and we do not conduct sessions while family's are operating moterized vehicles. Please do not drive during sessions and if you must, we can schedule a time for you to park or find a safe space to have the session. Thank you! ** We love couples therapy and couples therapy is not covered through insurance at this private practice. The price is out of pocket for couples between $150-$180 (depending on sliding scale). Private Practice Website: www.OptimumHealing.org or Contact using Support@OptimumHealing.Org

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in Northern California for 20+ years. I believe everyone has inner wisdom that is often difficult to access when we have dealt with trauma, fear, shaming and abuse. My goal is to help clients access the parts of themselves that they feel disconnected from or would like to develop further. I believe very strongly that healing and change are possible at any age! I like to teach skills that help with finding the strong parts of each person, that may have been suppressed or cut off, due to life circumstances.

You’ve carried the weight of trauma for too long - quietly, often invisibly. Maybe you've learned to survive by staying busy, staying strong, or staying silent. But deep down you know; survival isn't the same as living. Welcome! I specialize in working with adult survivors of childhood trauma, PTSD, and military trauma who are ready to heal from the past and start living more fully in the present. If you're tired of feeling stuck, you're not alone - and you're not broken. There is hope for the possibility of feeling better than you do today.

Hi! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I have been practicing for over 16 years. I received my Master's Degree from Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology. My focus is to build on your strengths, while supporting your needs with research backed treatment methods. Our work would include supporting positive behavioral changes and improving your relationship to your thoughts and beliefs.

I truly believe that we all hold the answers within ourselves, my role as a therapist is to walk alongside you in this journey we call life, and I am not the expert on your life..you are. I have over eight years of experience working with children and families in various settings. I am passionate about treating everyone as an individual, you are not just a number to me you are important and you have intrinsic value.

Hello, my name is Carol Metcalf-Roth, LMFT, and I have been working with clients for 21 years as a Licensed Marriage Therapist. My career history includes progressive experience as a Therapist, Director of Social Services, and Clinical Supervisor, working in agency services, hospitals and private practice. I am also a licensed Military Family Life Counselor.

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with 6 years of professional work experience. I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from California State University, Bakersfield. Over the past few years, I have had the privilege to support individuals who are experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety, guiding them on their journey of healing and empowerment. I also have experience working with transgender individuals and individuals from the LGBTQ+ community and I am an ally. As an immigrant myself, I enjoy working with individuals from different cultural backgrounds and have an understanding of their experience. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I have earned 4 degrees in psychology, a bachelor's & master's in counseling psychology from University of Missouri, MIZZOU and a master's and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from American School of Professional Psychology, Orange County, CA. I have been providing treatment addressing a wide range of mental health concerns for over 40 years. I help children, adolescents and adults.

Hello. My name is Brian Kaufman. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My commitment to you is to be by your side every step of the way. I believe there is goodness inside of everyone and I will be sure to point out to you where that goodness is inside of you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Life can bring us challenges that feel overwhelming. As a result, you may find yourself feeling anxious, irritable, or maybe even struggling in managing your day to day life activities. If you're looking to make some changes in your life, then therapy is the perfect place to start. As an integrative client-centered therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the needs of my client. You are unique and so is your journey toward healing. My job is to be flexible to your needs as we work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.

Deborah enjoys working together with her clients to form a strong therapeutic bond. She is motivated to help her clients live there best authentic lives. She has experience helping people develop strong coping skills to reduce, manage and or alleviate their anxiety, depression and work/relational stress. In her spare time Deborah enjoys spending time with her family and grandson, hiking, walking her dog, trying new recipes and planning for travel.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Berkeley California and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Masters in Integral Counseling from the California Institute of Integral Studies in 2019 and my Bachelors in Psychology from Reed College in 2010. I have over 16 years of experience in Community Mental Health and have been practicing as a therapist since 2018. I work holistically, integrating an eclectic blend of approaches including relational, trauma-informed, humanistic, psychodynamic, somatic, existential, gestalt, transpersonal, motivational interviewing, ACT, feminist, Polyvagal, somatic experiencing, narrative, and compassionate communication / NVC. I support people to find greater connection, safety, agency, meaning, authenticity, stillness and joy in their relationships with themselves, others and the world.

Hi! I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, CA. I received my master's from the University of Southern California in 2014 and have been practicing for just over 10 years. I help adults adjust to life changes, get unstuck and move closer to their personal and professional goals. I really love working with ADHD, low self-esteem, people pleasers, young adults, and parents.

Welcome! I truly believe that we can all feel better. Safer in this world, stronger within ourselves, connected to ourselves and others. As a licensed MFT in CA, I am most helpful working with folks feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, fearful and uncertain. Those wanting help w emotional self-regulation, emotional connection to self and others. Those struggling with substance challenges as a way to regulate and/or get needs met. Those feeling unlovable, flawed and unworthy. Negative inner voices, rumination, distorted thoughts. My style is interactive, sensitive and direct. Let's clarify what's happening for you and why, let's create a plan with sustainable steps. This is a collaboration and no one knows you better than you! Please take the time to read my specializations/profile. Let's talk! Thank you.

In my therapy practice, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals who are grappling with chronic stress, anxiety, and overwhelming feelings. I specialize in working with those who find it difficult to manage their daily responsibilities, often experiencing anxiety and depression. They yearn to reconnect with their authentic selves, regain motivation, and discover a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Understanding the needs of my clients is paramount to me. I recognize my client's longing for understanding, support, and guidance as they navigate their challenges. Together, we will work towards developing effective coping mechanisms to manage stress and overwhelming emotions. Exploring the root causes of their struggles, including unresolved issues from their past, is crucial in gaining clarity and insight.

I'm so glad you found your way here. Seeking treatment is an indication of being ready for change and having a new experience of life. I'm an insight oriented therapist meaning I assist clients in illuminating their inner workings and wounds that have created struggles in their lives. I work at a level of healing and empowering with the intention to offer guidance rather than to instruct. You are the expert of your life. Together we take a look at what needs to be addressed and resolved then move into recognizing one's own strengths, value, and worth. This allows individuals to move into greater appreciation and acceptance of self. I have worked for several years with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a strong focus on personal acceptance, self-compassion, and resolution of internal conflicts based in trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship strain, or lack of direction and focus in one’s life. I specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. Having been in recovery for 10 years myself, I understand the journey of ending the cycle of self destruction and moving to a place of healing and greater peace.

Let's talk. I too have had a therapist when life shows up. We all experience the human condition: depression, anxiety, isolation, unresolved grief and trauma, shame, people pleasing, toxic relationships and communication, anger, shame, low self-esteem, addiction, and compulsions. Do you listen to your inner critic’s lies too often? Are you a human in pain like I have been? Yes? Then you’ve found the right place. These topics and others are my specialty. I create a safe, fun, compassionate, private, and nonjudging space, using evidence-based approaches customized for each client; like Kim: "You’ve helped me see the world and myself so much better" "Thank you Clint! I have finally taken control of my emotions and like myself today" -Terry. I'm glad you've found the courage to ask for help. I teach clients to face the challenges that have plagued them for years. I'll share how to be more self-compassionate and change your core beliefs. Problems usually start with the relationship we have with ourselves; the core beliefs about ourselves, others, and our world can change. Let me show you how. "I really appreciate your help and feel so much better" -Ed. I help people overcome the issues listed above. Also, I help process the taboo: Alt Sex/Kink, suicidality, anger management, and the secrets you plan to die with. My clients constantly report that working together restores hope and that change is possible. Contact me to see how I can help you. "Now I have better ways of seeing and being in this world" Jay "Thank you for helping put our family back together" -Caroline.

I am a bilingual psychotherapist and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem issues. I approach therapy with empathy, compassion, and respect. I am passionate about utilizing evidence-based strategies to help clients successfully reach their treatment goals. I utilize a compassionate and client-centered approach, empowering and supporting clients toward healing and change. Let's talk about enhancing your emotional well-being and how I can support you in designing a life you love living!

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Art Therapist based in California. I have two masters degrees one from Notre Dame de Namur University in Counseling and Art Therapy, CA and an MA from Hunter in NYC. Most of my experience is with children, couples, families and severe mental illness, also PTSD, Military Trauma, Substance use and ( for children ) parental imprisonment. I have also worked extensively with teenagers and sexual abuse. My style is attachment based and i may use art therapy directives if this is something you would like to explore. Apart from Trauma and especially sexual trauma, sex addiction and substance use i am also well versed in Perinatal, Post Partum and Parenting.

Hello – Welcome to Insight Care Counseling! The beauty of this -our shared life’s journey- is that we can aspire to embody its greatest gifts: love, fulfillment, clarity and peace. And yet, at times, we encounter challenges and changes that bring forth feelings of stress, depression, anxiety -or numbness and disorientation. And it is often at these junctures that psychotherapy can help; for in essence, the therapeutic journey is about finding richness even while in the land of disenchantment … and healing even while walking through pain. I’m Jonathan, a California-based psychotherapist with broad experience in the field. My therapeutic style is warm and compassionate, active and engaged. Helping you navigate your wellness-growth journey in an effective and authentic way, is my calling and my passion! If you have any questions and/or need assistance in making an appointment, please contact our dedicated Grow Therapy intake team at: +1 (786) 755-1863 And/or via email: reception+Jonathan14167@growtherapy.com

There is nothing wrong with you! This is the first and possibly the most surprising thing you will learn from me. You will also learn that it is true, and that will be the most freeing thing you will ever learn from anyone. In our very first session, expect to be HEARD and SEEN. Clients often come in with diagnoses already tacked onto them. Depression, anxiety, and/or severe adjustment disorders are often part of the stories they tell me about themselves. I have tremendous compassion for you. I am not interested in the negative labels or self-defeating stories that you have been carrying around like heavy burdens. I am interested in going right through them and discovering who YOU are.

Perinatal Mental Health Certified Therapist. Thank you for taking the brave step to seek help during this challenging time. It takes courage to reach out, and I’m here to support you with compassion and care as you navigate this journey. My name is Terri and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of California dedicated to supporting individuals and their families during life’s transitions. In addition to providing therapy services with Thrive with Thistle Therapy, I am a mother of two young children and I serve as a clinical social worker on the mother-baby units of a hospital. I have experience providing care and support to patients and their families navigating challenges including: pregnancy complications, baby blues, difficulty adjusting postpartum, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), birth trauma, NICU admission for their baby, adoption, surrogacy, infertility, pregnancy and newborn loss, and first time parents. ​ I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Southern California (USC) and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Chapman University. In an effort to better serve my clients, I obtained a Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) from Postpartum Support International to equip me with specialized knowledge and skills to support individuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #135129. I received a Master of Art in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, where I specialized in the Psychology of Trauma. I support individuals of all ages in processing a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, substance use disorder and various patterns of addiction, intimate partner issues, trauma, both current and past involving families and work environments, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.

I am a California licensed clinician (LMFT) with over 30 years of experience. I am a solution-focused therapist who creates a warm, empathic, non-judgmental environment to help you feel safe and cared for. I have extensive experience working with adults across multiple issues, leveraging various clinical tools and training to help get you "unstuck", take better care of yourself, and live your best life. During my career, I have worked as a corporate executive, consultant, coach, trainer, and clinician. I am finishing my doctorate in clinical psychology with a research focus on loneliness and social connection.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 14 years of experience. I take an eclectic, client-centered approach—drawing from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic, and depth psychology to meet each client’s unique needs. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and PTSD, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I blend techniques from Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Theory, Mindfulness, and Depth Psychology. This flexible style allows us to work on both immediate relief and lasting transformation—always with your unique needs at the center. I believe therapy should feel safe, supportive, and empowering. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard, understood, and encouraged to grow at your own pace. Let’s discover what healing can look like for you.

Kaiser client you need a referral from Kaiser first then Kaiser will send you a link to book a session with me. I specialized in treating grief, anxiety depression, anger issues, relationship issues, and behavioral disorders. Are you experiencing anxiety? Is this impacting your relationships and overall happiness? Depression manifests various forms but is among the most common issues faced by individuals today. If you do find a time in your schedule, please contact me to see if I can adjust my availability

Welcome! I'm Patricia Soto, a compassionate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist committed to guiding individuals towards mental well-being and empowerment though all seasons in life. With a focus on addressing depression, self-esteem, anxiety, grief, life transitions, work-related stress, and challenges within relationships and families, I'm dedicated to helping you harness your innate strengths and work on your journey to healing and happiness.

Are you a highly sensitive person who struggles to be understood? Do you often suffer and struggle with anxiety, low self-worth, and feelings of discomfort? Do fears of being judged keep you from feeling free to be your authentic self? I can help you manage anxiety before it becomes debilitating. My role is to provide you the emotional support you deserve and help you develop the skills you need in order to get through difficult times in your life and to help guide you in reaching your full potential. In therapy, we can work collaboratively on strengthening your personal boundaries, identify healthy coping mechanisms, and improve your relationships. During our session we will collaborate and strategize on how to maximize your strengths and increase your resiliency. I strongly believe that no one should have to suffer and struggle alone.

Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW) based in California. I would like to be of support to you. Life can be filled with challenging and painful experiences making it difficult to hold hope for a better future. I believe we all have the courage and strength to overcome these experiences. I am here to help you start building the hope to do so. Therapy can be overwhelming and yet stimulating and warm. It can lead to honest conversations that can change your outlook on your past, present and future. My goal is to create a safe space where you can work towards your needs and goals with my support. I have been a health care provider for almost 20 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families of diverse backgrounds. My clinical interests are anxiety, trauma, depression, children behavioral issues, immigration, relationship and marital issues, family issues, parenting support, motherhood and perinatal wellness.

Hi I am Dr. Teyhou Smyth and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor #11450 and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#115137) in California Originally from the United Kingdom, I earned an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy at the California School of Professional Psychology and hold a doctorate degree in Education. I place a high value on personal development and allowing for the achievement of one’s full potential so that they may become the best version of themselves. I focus on relationships and attachment issues using Emotion Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy working from an attachment-based model.

Hello and welcome! My name is Pamuela Halliwell (she/her) and I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I’ve been working in the mental health field for the past 10 years, largely working with folx that identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, especially trans/nonbinary folx, military members, both active duty and transitioning out, and other marginalized communities such as African American, BIPOC, folx seeking asylum, and folx impacted by trauma. As a Black trans woman that has had to navigate her own transition, I incorporate lived and professional experience to help folx tap into their own strength and resilience and become improved versions of themselves. Treatment modalities that I use include TFCBT, CBT, EMDR, Solution Focused, Schema Therapy and elements of Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Narrative Therapy.

I am a licensed MFT who has been in practice for over 15 years. I have extensive experience treating a wide variety of issues and psychological disorders from the most mild to the most severe. I work with adults and adolescents. My approach is warm, positive and compassionate. I can help you to achieve your personal goals, more effectively manage your emotions and stressors and develop strategies that will promote positive self-growth and lead you to and a more satisfying life. I have worked in a wide variety of settings in addition to my private practice including schools, residential homes and outpatient treatment facilities. My specialties include anxiety and depressive disorders, stress management, crisis counseling, grief counseling, and relationships.

I was inspired to become a therapist as a young child, with the value of wanting to help others. I realized I wanted to help people believe in themselves and to see their own possibilities. Validation is one of the most important tools I value as a therapist and as a person. I teach clients to self validate, to know what you experienced is true and real. I value the process of creating this safe space where one can see themselves just as they are. I ask for feedback to see if how I respond through validation fits for the client, if they felt heard and validated.

I utilize a positive theoretical orientation which assumes that all individuals possess an innate desire for well-balanced emotional/mental health. I believe a person enters therapy with a strong wish, whether conscious or unconscious, to overcome obstacles and free themselves from constraints that are holding them back. I find that everyone needs a slightly different approach to accomplish these goals, so I adjust in technique for each specific challenge. I truly enjoy the experience of guiding my clients through this process and consider it a privilege to play such an important role in a person's life. “Crying does not indicate that you are weak. Since birth, it has always been a sign that you are alive.” ― Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

I started out as a kid from Queens, NY who volunteered on the weekends working with individuals with autism while I was in high school. That propelled me into the world of social services. From there, I worked with individuals with severe psychiatric concerns, to families in need throughout NYC, the shelter system, students in higher education, residential group homes for system impacted adolescence and community mental health in the Southern California region. I believe we all have our stories from lived experiences that play a direct role in our daily struggles. This is why I utilize a psychodynamic & mindfulness approach that helps folks to understand what factors of their past feeds the stressors of their present and how to live more freely in the “now”.

Here's a hard truth about mental health: Even with all the different approaches to psychotherapy out there, it rarely results in lasting positive change for those that seek it. Ouch. That's why I specialize in intensive short-term psychotherapy. It has been shown to help people find the roots of their emotional difficulties, and work through them in briefer time frames. Why wait years for greater peace of mind if you don't have to?