Marcus is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor which is one of the new licenses governed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences and was has been practicing for several years in counseling services in different capacities. At the beginning of his career, Marcus worked as a School Psychologist for Los Angeles Unified School District and continues to a hold a Credential in School Psychology. After 10 years of service to the district, he began offering counseling services to at risk youth in the lower socioeconomic communities through specialized county programs funded by the Department of Mental Health.  Marcus is new to the Epiphany Counseling team providing individual, couples and family counseling to all populations.

I have over 10 years’ experience in the social services and mental health field. Counseling is not only what I do, but what I love. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana and my Master of Social Work with a concentration in Community Mental Health from California State University Dominguez Hills. I have worked in a variety of settings including but not limited to: a psychiatric facility for children and adolescents, private psychotherapy practices, an emergency shelter, after-school programs, a maternity home, dialysis clinics, a hospital, and community based therapy programs. I have trained employees and organizations on various mental health topics and helped develop programs that promote emotional/behavioral health.

I work with individuals from all walks of life, from children to seniors. I love what I do and enjoy helping others learn skills that improve their quality of life. I am here to work with you on the obstacles life can sometimes throw your way, in a healthy safe environment.

My specialties include:

– Anxiety
– Depression
– Teens/Adolescents
– Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
– Phase of Life changes
– Grief and Loss
– Trauma
– Mood Disorders
– Life Stressors
– Family conflict (Family therapy)

Tired of feeling unsure of who you are: your “purpose,” what sparks joy for you, whether you are living authentically or not? Are you ready to face areas of pain or darkness that you have long disregarded, buried, yet to grieve, or attempted to forget? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, shame, intense sadness, self-medication or debilitating negative thoughts? I can help you find your way through these unanswered questions, toward emotional healing, growth, and identity strengthening.

I received my B.A. in Psychology with a minor in African American Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. I also received my M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. For over three years, I’ve worked substantially with adult and adolescent clients at a community mental health clinic, where the majority of cases were court-mandated to therapy due to issues of substance abuse, child custody/DCFS cases, family/domestic violence, trauma, anger management issues, etc.

At ECCTS, I work with various ages ranging from children and adolescent individuals, adult individuals and couples, as well as families as a whole. My therapeutic approach is holistic, integrating 3 therapeutic modalities: 1) psychodynamic therapy looking into family history, parental and personal attachment styles, defense mechanisms, unconscious internal conflicts, etc.; 2) person-centered therapy, where I am congruent with my clients, providing empathy and unconditional positive regard that the “Client knows best;” and 3) strength-based therapy, where the focus is on client’s innate strengths and resilience, building confidence, self-esteem, and positive self-talk. I am no stranger to incorporating creative techniques with my clients, depending on their preferences, such as art therapy, play therapy, aromatherapy, guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, journaling, dream work, and more.

Allow me to provide you (or your child) the earnest human connection you may be seeking or lacking. In psychotherapy, my focus is your transformation. As your therapist, my objective is to genuinely listen to your concerns, compassionately mirror your experiences, support you through your personal goals, and sincerely confront your perspectives or defenses, which may no longer serve you. I am committed to catalyzing your growth and development into a healthier, more fulfilled you, based on your terms and on your timing. If you commit to looking inward and challenging yourself to evolve through your work in therapy with me, I commit to accompanying you and supporting you every step of the way.

My specialties include:
Self-Esteem
Identity Formation
Trauma / Abuse
Shame
Life Stressors / Transitions
Mindfulness
Positive Psychology
Relationship Issues / Domestic Violence
Anxiety
Depression
Grief / Loss
Substance/Alcohol Dependency

Supervised by Jennifer Camelot, LCSW

I’ve always had a passion for helping people get through the emotional challenges that come with being human. My mission is to create a safe, warm, nonjudgmental environment in which you can address these emotional challenges. I strive to instill hope no matter what problems are being faced. Whether you need coping skills to improve daily functioning or want to gain insight into deeper issues, my focus is on you and your goals. The therapeutic space is for you to explore and process whatever life has thrown your way. Therapy is not an easy road, but I intend to travel with you on the journey, no matter how difficult.

I received my M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and have been trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, LGBTQ-Affirmative Psychotherapy, and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy. I’ve worked with adolescents and adults in individual, couple, family, and group therapy contexts within nonprofit agencies, schools, and community mental health clinics. I’m committed to providing a safe space in which you can freely share your unique life experiences. I endeavor to empathically understand these experiences and how they’ve shaped your existence to best assist in reaching your goals. Please reach out if you are ready to embark on a voyage of healing and improvement, as an individual, couple, or family.

My specialties include:
• Depression
• Trauma
• Relationship Issues
• Sexual Identity
• Gender Identity
• Anxiety
• Family Conflict
• Grief/Loss
• Life Transitions
• Self-Esteem
• Self-Harming
• Stress
• Suicidality

For as long as I can remember I have had a passion for understanding human relationships, social interactions, and thought processes; literally — I was a member of the Conflict Resolution Team in elementary school! I have worked hard to hone those interests into skills and love working with individuals, children, couples, and families with an array of difficulties to assist them through their therapeutic journey, no matter how difficult. I have over seven years of experience working with a variety of clientele ranging from children on the Autism spectrum, court-mandated adults with domestic violence and substance related issues, and the homeless population in Long Beach. I hope to help client’s gain awareness in order to increase coping skills, help them better understand themselves, and grow their capacity for self-compassion. I also work as a team with my dog Jenga, who is a registered therapy dog, to instill hope and reignite joy in the life of my clients, should you choose to want him in session.

I received my B.A. in Psychology, and a minor in History with an emphasis in Race Relations from University of California, Davis. I received my M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and have loved almost every minute of my educational process. I love to learn and work to understand how things and people work. I am trained in: psychodynamic therapy, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, and behavioral modification.

My specialties include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma
- Grief/Loss
- Substance abuse
- Relational issues
- Troubled children

Please reach out should you want to engage in a dialogue about difficulties you might be having in your life in order to explore solutions in a nonjudgmental, culturally competent, and safe environment.

Supervised by: Crystle Olivo, LCSW 66044

I am very passionate about helping people improve the quality of their lives. I have over twenty years of experience working in various community and mental health settings, where I worked collaboratively with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
I have extensive experience working with individuals, children, adolescents and families who have experienced separation, loss and trauma. I enjoy working with clients to reach their goals and feel more satisfied with their life circumstances and relationships.
I received my Master of Social Work degree from California State University, Long Beach and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Women's Studies from California State University, Long Beach. My therapeutic approach is individualized depending on the needs of the client. I practice from a strength-based perspective and use Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness and Family Systems approaches.
Through the therapeutic relationship, it is my intention that clients will have the experience of exploring difficult life challenges in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

My specialties include:
Depression
Anxiety
Trauma
Grief and Loss
Relationship Issues
Self-Esteem
Life Transitions
Women’s Issues
LGBTQ
Parenting
Foster Care and Adoption

Sofia Subhan is a licensed Clinical Social Worker and received her Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Southern California.
Sofia has over 10 years of experience in the field of social services and mental health. She worked in various settings which include community outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, community shelters and residential facilities. Sofia has worked with individuals of all ages groups (children, adolescents, adults, older adults) from culturally diverse backgrounds.
Sofia creates a calm and nurturing atmosphere in therapy for individuals to feel safe and supported. She takes an empathetic approach to help identify individual’s strengths, resiliencies, and find meaning and purpose in their life.
Her specialties include:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Trauma
• Domestic Violence
• Eating Disorders
• Anger Management
• Life Stressors
• Relationship Issues
• Substance Abuse
• Grief and Loss.
Sofia is bilingual and can speak Hindi.
License Number: LCSW82821

Welcome! My name is Marissa Dominguez, I am a Professional Clinical Counselor Intern. I am passionate about helping people grow, change, and ultimately feel their best. I use an empathic and compassionate approach in helping guide clients throughout their therapeutic process. I have 6+ years working with different types of individuals with different needs. I specialize in providing Play Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Modification for children, teens & families, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

By using evidenced-based models in a non-judgmental environment, I help clients identify their strengths through behavioral and emotional changes and work on increasing their self-confidence, we also work to build a stronger relationship between the child/teen and parent(s). Together, we build a foundation through communication and realistic goals & expectations.

I attend Missouri Valley for my Bachelors degree in Science. I received my double masters at Grand Canyon University in Master of Science Psychology with an Emphasis in General Psychology and my masters in Professional Counseling with an emphasis in Health Psychology. I am currently finishing my Doctorate at the Calfornia Southern University in Clinical Psychology specializing in Sports Psychology and Psychological Testing.

Marissa Dominguez, APCC

Supervised by Crystal Olivo, LCSW - LCSW 66044

I have a passion for helping others. I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field in different settings. I love working in all settings ranging from the mental health hospitals, emergency group home shelters for adolescents, schools, and even the clients’ home. The age range of clients I have worked with extends from ages 2 years old to 65 years of age. I have worked with youth, adults, parents, school personnel and have facilitated various therapy groups.
I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University of Long Beach. After graduating, I pursued my master’s degree in psychology from University of Phoenix. I am a student at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where I am pursuing another master’s degree in forensic psychology while simultaneously working on my doctoral degree in the same field. I am also a registered Psychological Assistant with the California Board of Psychology.
My therapeutic approach is customized to meet the needs of my clients. I am skilled in Client-Centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Behavior Modification techniques.
My specialties include:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective
• Autism
• ADHD
• Bipolar
• Substance Abuse
• Bullying
• Behavior and Environmental Modification
• Serious Emotionally Disturbed
• Parenting
• Trauma
• Family Conflict
• Eating Disorders
• Self-Esteem
• Domestic Violence
• Social and Life Skills
• Anger Management
• Oppositional and Defiant Behaviors
Currently supervised by Dr. Teri Davis, PhD. (PSY 29799)

Life is a journey and therapy with a knowledgeable and caring professional can make a significant impact upon your overall happiness and satisfaction in life. While it is inevitable that we all may experience emotional pain at some point, I invite you explore healing through the dynamic process of psychotherapy.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist with over a decade of experience in providing psychotherapeutic services to children, adolescents, families, individuals, military veterans and couples, I have witnessed dramatic changes in their lives through engaging in the therapeutic process. I believe that the therapeutic process is one where both the client and therapist work together to allow light to shine which creates clarity and with this, we may live the existence that we want.

My background includes working in private practice, clinics, homes, community-based settings, and school-based services. I hold a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy as well as Ph.D., in clinical psychology. Additionally, I proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for 8 years. I believe that my diverse life experiences enhance my ability to relate and be of aid to people from multiple cultures and experiences. Therapy can be once of the most empowering and rewarding experiences in your life and through my collaborate approach, I will aid you in living the kind of life which you desire.

Specialties
• Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder/ADHD
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Depressive/Mood Disorders
• Anxiety Disorders
• Domestic Violence
• Grief
• Substance/Alcohol Disorders

Treatment Modalities
• Play/Art/Music Therapy
• Solution-Focused Therapy
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Psychodynamic Therapy
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
• Seeking Safety

Treatment of
• Children/Adolescents: 3 years old and up
• Individuals
• Families
• Couples
• Military veterans/families

Licensed MFT # 84706
Registered Psychological Assistant # 94024744

Katie specializes in working with adolescents, individuals, and couples. She believes that mental health and lasting change require a holistic approach including emotional, physical, psychological, and social well-being. Katie’s background as a certified yoga instructor allows her to incorporate techniques that increase awareness in relationships and highlight negative thought and behavior patterns. Through her dynamic, goal-directed treatment plan she facilitates a safe environment where you can discover what is holding you back from living a balanced life and create long-term positive change.

While Katie’s training allows her to work with a diverse population, she has special interest and expertise helping individuals and couples in the following areas:

Chronic stress
Life transitions
Self-esteem
Body image
Eating disorders
Addiction
Addictive relationships
Anxiety
Depression

I earned my Master of Social Work degree from California State University, Long Beach. I have been working in the social services field since 2001.  Throughout the years, I have worked with children, youth and adults. My background includes working with community-based mental health organizations and programs, collaborating with county systems (Department of Probation, Department of Child and Family Services, and Department of Mental Health). Through my many years of educational and professional experience, I have worked with individuals who have battled depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, PTSD/trauma, grief/loss, family conflict and self-esteem issues.

I believe that part of helping anyone to overcome obstacles and heal, is to first meet the person where he/she is, and just be "present". I love to use strength-based approaches and hearing that person's story....We all have one.

Supervised by Miyume McKinley, LCSW ( LCSW 64555)

Hello! My name is David Hernandez and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with a B.A. in Psychology from The University of California, Los Angeles and a Masters in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. I have over eighteen years of professional experience in the field of Mental Health. I am passionate about helping hearts heal. I believe that it is an amazing first step in your healing when making the decision to invest in therapy, and I consider it an honor to support you along your journey. My Client-Centered approach to therapy is rooted in my desire to help you discover purpose and self-worth. Additionally, I have also provided therapeutic services for homeless veterans at a local community agency, People Assisting The Homeless (PATH). Currently, I provide individual and family therapy in a variety of settings and for diverse groups.

Specialties Include:

- Teens/Adolescents
-
- Family and Romantic Relationships

- Depression

- Anxiety

- Self Esteem

- Trauma

- Life Stressors

- Anger Management

- Grief and Loss

Supervised by Miyume McKinley, LCSW

For over 15 years, I have had the honor of supporting individuals and their loved ones in various settings (schools, community centers, group homes, medical hospitals, government facilities, homes, detentions centers, summer camps, etc.). The amazing and resilient clients I have supported have come from a wide variety of backgrounds and circumstances. I provide my clients with genuine human regard and skilled clinical services and meet them where they are to help them arrive to a place of healing with a renewed outlook on their life.

I utilize a whole-person, eclectic, humanistic approach with cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. I received a Bachelor’s Degree from Tuskegee University in Social Work, a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Youth and Family Services and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential from California State University – Long Beach, and hold a License in Clinical Social Work. I am a lifelong learner and continue to receive trainings several times a year.

My specialties include:
– Anxiety
– Depression (including postpartum)
– Adolescents
– End of Life
– Parenting concerns
– Grief and loss
– LGBTQIAPK+
– Foster youth/ kinship care
– Sickle Cell Disease patients/ caregivers and other hereditary diseases
– ADHD/ADD

Vanessa Volpicelli, LMFT, earned her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. Vanessa has received post-graduate, specialized training in treatment modalities aimed at strengthening parent-child interaction. As a certified yoga instructor, she incorporates proven techniques that foster inner healing and relaxation offering instant comfort and lasting benefits for her clients. With a nurturing approach, Vanessa is confident in the ability of therapy to reveal what is already within you to revive your sense of purpose and your own ability to feel good.

Vanessa is passionate and skilled in the treatment areas of reuniting families, enhancing individual self-worth, and inspiring personal growth through discovering, encouraging, and implementing practical solutions. Her areas of focus include children with oppositional behaviors and ADHD, teens suffering from anxiety and/or depression, and clients of all ages processing trauma and grief. Vanessa is also trained in parent, child, interaction therapy (PCIT) for children ages 0-5.

Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, Los Angeles. Prior to his graduate studies, Dr. Nelson earned his B.A. in Psychology from Chapman University in Orange, California.

Before enrolling in his doctoral program, Dr. Nelson worked in the non-profit mental health sector in Orange County, CA as a Therapeutic Behavioral Specialist (TBS). In this capacity, he acquired crucial skills in working with children and adolescents whose severe behaviors put them at risk of being placed in group homes or other more restrictive levels of care. During graduate study, he identified psychological testing and assessment as his primary area of professional interest, and actively pursued training opportunities that emphasized development of those skills.

Since that time, Dr. Nelson has performed outpatient psychological assessments, as well as individual and family therapy, for South Coast Children’s Society, Providence Community Services, and the Neurobehavioral Testing Unit at the Orange County Health Care Agency. Dr. Nelson completed his post-doctoral training by conducting psychological assessment and psychotherapy in private practice settings, with locations in Newport Beach and at Peninsula Family Wellness Center in San Pedro. While testing and assessment remains his primary area of activity, Dr. Nelson also sees adults, children, and adolescents for individual and family therapy.

Dr. Nelson also has expertise in the subject of cults, and the unethical processes of psychological coercion and undue influence used by cultic groups and other manipulators. He offers private consultations and conducts professional training workshops on this topic.

Professional affiliations include service on the Executive Committee for the Orange County Psychological Association (OCPA) as 2015-16 Secretary and 2016 Graduate Student/Early Career committee chair; Dr. Nelson served previously as 2013-14 OCPA Treasurer. He is also a member of the California Psychological Association (CPA).

I have spent over 20 years working with individuals, couples, small groups, and large groups on concepts that build intimacy, communication skills, conflict resolution, forgiveness, and reconciliation. My greatest quality is that I am a great listener. My compassionate approach allows my clients to trust me and provides me opportunities to assist them in finding solutions to some of life’s most challenging issues.

I am ideally suited to give Relational Counseling. I offer insight, options, and tools for couples to apply immediately, and hopefully change their lives. For those not married, I go through a series of classes that help them determine their suitability for marriage and the discovery of self.

The factors that make my practice unique, is that I use metaphors, illustrations, and handouts to fortify the concepts that I am trying to build within my clients. I am able to establish a genuine rapport and trust with my clients, and therefore can move a lot sooner towards solutions.

My specialties include:

– Relationship Issues
– Family Conflicts
– Anger Management
– Anxiety
– Depression
– Stress
– Sexual Addiction
– Impulse Control

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Art’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology. I’m deeply passionate about both empowering and helping others to heal and grow.

I like to work from a trauma focused lens of care as I am trained in EMDR and Trauma-Focused CBT, but also utilize various holistic approaches to include Mindfulness Meditation, Breathwork, and Somatic Body Movement.

I have extensive experience working with at-risk children and transitional aged youth in the home, school and community settings, however I also enjoy working with adults of all ages. I’m all about honoring my client’s healing process and meeting them where they are.

I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for all of my clients and work collaboratively to assist them with processing some of life’s most stressful and traumatic issues/events. I want my clients to have the important human experience of being heard, understood and validated, while ultimately encouraging each individual to be their best, most authentic, higher-self. I truly look forward to hopefully having the privilege of working closely with you and being a part of your life’s journey.

Specialities:
Trauma
Depression
Mood Disorders
Emotional Disturbance
Anger Management
ADHD
Anxiety/Stress
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Racial Identity
Self Esteem
Self-Harm
Sexual Abuse
Suicidal Ideation
Women’s Issues

My name is Crystle Olivo, LCSW. I have a BA in Psychology and Social behavior from University of California, Irvine and a Masters in Social Work from University of Southern California. I have over 8 years’ experience in working individually with children (ages 5+) and adults, dealing with anxiety and depression, trauma, physical/sexual abuse, domestic violence, and adjustment issues.

I provide a safe, supportive environment in which you can explore areas of your life where you feel less than satisfied. I use a combination of Mindfulness, Psychodynamic therapies and cognitive behavior therapy to help you have a more balanced fulfilling life.
I believe that healing occurs in the present moment. I also help you develop a kind and caring experience of yourself and life circumstances.

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in the field and have worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children in a variety of settings including community counseling centers, schools, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I received a B.A. in Psychology from Westminster College (PA), and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University.

In a safe, empathetic environment, I use well-researched and effective cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, mindfulness, and strength-based interventions to help you begin to feel better, reach your goals, and live a more fulfilling life.

My specialties include:

- Social Anxiety and other anxiety disorders

- Chronic Stress

- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

- Depression and other Mood Disorders

- Grief & Loss

- Relationship issues

About Me ☺

I’d first like to acknowledge your courage in reaching out, and thank you for taking a chance in living a happier and more fulfilled life. Hello, I am Alma Nicole Duarte, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 6 years of experience in working with at-risk teens, adults, and families in a variety of situations from foster care, human trafficking, addictions, and homelessness.

I believe in the power of relationships and how a therapeutic relationship can help you overcome many obstacles. I will meet you where you are at emotionally, and wait for the change to happen on your own terms. My approach is client-centered, genuine, nonjudgmental, and with an unconditional positive regard. I am here to listen to you and help you make a change in your life through an objective lens.

When you are ready to have someone listen, reach out, and there are people waiting to help you. I am here waiting patiently to help ☺

My specialties include:

Teens/ Adolescents
Emotional, Physical, and Sexual Abuse
Trauma/ PTSD
Phase of Life Changes
Life Stressors
Grief and Loss
Anger Issues
Depression
Anxiety
Relationship Issues
Youth Adults
Adults
Mood Disorders
Education

University of California, Davis- Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Development & Minor in Chicano/a Studies

Argosy University, Orange County- Masters of Art in Counseling Psychology/ Marriage and Family Therapy

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #97017

Spanish Version

Acerca de Mi ☺

Educación Primero, me gustaría reconocer tu valentía en buscar ayuda y darte las gracias por querer vivir una vida feliz y plena. Hola, soy Alma Nicole Duarte, una Terapeuta Matrimonial y Familiar licenciada en California con más de 6 años de experiencia trabajando con adolescentes, adultos y familias en varias situaciones. Desde familias en crianza temporaria hasta sobrevivientes de la trata de personas, adicciones y falta de vivienda.

Creo en el poder de la comunicacion y como una relación terapéutica puede ayudarnos a superar varios obstáculos. Estoy aquí para ayudarle y esperar pacientemente a que usted haga los cambios que guste ver en su vida. Mi enfoque está centrado en el cliente: genuino, sin prejuicios, e incondicional. Estoy aquí para escuchar, y con mi experiencia y perspectiva objetiva ayudar hacer un cambio en su vida. He trabajado con traumas, abuso emocional, abuso físico y sexual, problemas de ira, depresión, ansiedad, dolor y pérdida, problemas de relación, trastorno de estrés postraumático, trastorno de la conducta y trastornos del estado de ánimo.

Cuando esté listo para que alguien lo escuche, busca ha esa persona, porque ahí personas esperando para ayudarle. Yo aquí estoy esperando pacientemente para ayudar ☺

I always wanted to assist those in the community with overcoming emotional challenges. I have over 16 years’ experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I’ve worked with El Nido Family Centers for 16 years providing psychotherapy and case management services. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I obtained my Master’s degree from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I look forward to meeting with you to talk and develop new ways of overcoming life’s challenges.

My specialties include:

-Trauma and PTSD
-Behavioral Issues
-Anger Management
-Anxiety
-Coping Skills
-Depression
-Domestic Violence
-Family Conflict
-Grief
-Parenting
-School Issues
-Self Esteem
-Self-Harm

“Life is not what it’s supposed to be. It’s what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.”
~ Virginia Satir

No two people are alike, therefore no two treatment plans are alike. I believe each individual should have a treatment plan created specifically to meet his or her needs. Whether you are struggling with Depression, Anxiety, self-esteem, parenting, and/or you are having occupational and/or educational stressors, I can help! Together, we will work collaboratively to help you identify triggers to your negative thoughts and feelings, obstacles, and self-limiting beliefs and identify therapeutic techniques you could use to manage, cope, and minimize what you may feel is standing in your way.

I work with children, adolescence, teenagers, adults, individuals, families and couples utilizing systemic therapy. The forms of systemic therapy I specialize in include Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I have extensive experience with children/adolescents/teenagers/adults with Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Anxiety. I am also experienced in areas including major depression, life coaching, parenting, substance abuse, marital separation and divorce, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bereavement, and post traumatic stress disorder.

A little about me: My name is Dr. Nina Ashrafzadeh, Psy.D. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Life Coach, and Certified Parenting Instructor, with an extensive background in Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine. I went on to receive the degree of Doctor of Psychology in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University – California School of Professional Psychology.

Psychotherapy is important to salvage ones mind and body; when your mind is happy so is your body.

In my 18 years’ experience in the social services and mental health field, my practice has focused on helping teens, families, and individuals work through various issues associated with trauma and loss. My trauma informed approach incorporates not only understanding of the current triggering event(s), but also the family, cultural, and historical elements that can contribute layers of complexity and multi­-generational components.

I am trained in depth oriented and family psychotherapy. I received My Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University of Dominguez Hills, Master of Arts degree in Community Psychology from Antioch University of Los Angeles and My Doctorate from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California. I have worked with various populations such as severely emotional disturbed children, adolescents and families, as well as providing gang intervention therapy. My vast experience also includes private practice, addiction therapy, and community based therapy clinics.

I have provided therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, groups and families. Further more, my research in trauma has lead to me leading a multitude of in-service trainings pertaining to trauma, child abuse, and elder abuse with clients as young as two years, through the elder years. I most enjoy my work with all ages and populations in relation to mental wellness, mindset, and positive psychology. My goal for my clients is for them to reach their fullest potential based on their own values.

My specialties include:
– Trauma
– Anxiety
– Depression
– Teens/Adolescents
– Positive Psychology
– Couples Therapy
– Addiction
– Grief / Loss
– Mindset
– Life Stressors
– Family conflict (Family therapy)

Currently Supervised by Miyume McKinley, LCSW

Esther Jou, AMFT, APCC
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #99997
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor #3990

Most of us want to live a happy and meaningful life where we can enjoy what we do, feel valued and supported, and look forward to the future. Sometimes there are challenges that might make you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or helpless. I want to be there for you and support you in finding ways to overcome these obstacles. I will provide a secure space for you to feel comfortable being your true self, and together we will work collaboratively on processing the challenges you face and developing skills to manage and overcome these hindrances.

I work with a wide range of clients; from children, adolescents, and their families to adult individuals and couples. I have a client-centered counseling style where I provide my clients with empathy and unconditional positive regard to help facilitate genuine change.

I want to empower you and help you realize your true potential so you can live the life you want.

I am also fluent in Mandarin Chinese and have experience with acculturation issues, cultural identity, as well as generational gaps between immigrant parents and their children.

I have a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology (Marriage & Family Therapy) from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). I am a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT).

*Currently Supervised by Crystal Olivo, LCSW
我的心理治療方式以個人中心治療為主(Person-Centered Therapy). 我注重人的正面成長和發展，並且以提供治療師我本身的真誠(Genuineness)、無條件尊重(Unconditional Positive Regard)和同理心(Empathy)來幫助提高你的獨立性與自我實現的能力.

我對於移民家庭在美國的文化適應,涵化(acculturation), 文化認知, 家人之間的代溝…等, 有相關經驗, 能幫助協調溝通及認知調整.