Therapists serving clients in El Cajon, CA

Hi! My name is Katie Aab and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Riverside, California. I have over seven years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and in Private Practice. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University in 2013. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, substance use issues, and OCD. I have also worked with clients who struggle with stress, loss, abuse/neglect, and the frustrations of life. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational interviewing to help my clients set goals and objectives, work through their traumas, and feel empowered once they have met their goals. I enjoy helping people through challenging situations. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment, allowing us to better work together and reach your goals. Everyone deserves to have someone they can easily talk to; let me be that person for you. I look forward to working with you and guiding you in meeting your therapeutic goals as well.

Hello, I am Dr. Verda Bradley. I have over thirty years experience as a licensed clinical psychotherapist. My practice is dedicated to the alleviation of emotional suffering brought about by psycho-social stressors, trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse misuse/abuse and mental illness. I am a Certified NIDA Relapse Prevention counselor. I have experience in various mental health, child protection and family services, criminal justice agencies and recovery services. I have been facilitating a bereavement group twice a month for several years. I like helping people work through problems and improve the quality of life they are seeking. I enjoy establishing a trusting and client centered environment. Specialties Individual, stress, anxiety , depression Bereavement Marital /Family Conflict

Hello there! Welcome to the pages of better help, and welcome to my counselor profile. My name is Anke Kalaiah, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and it is my pleasure to be able to introduce myself to you. This year has been extremely tough for so many of us. Anxiety and depression seem to be on an all-time high. Every week or even every day seems to bring on some other uncertainty and challenge - from Pandemics to economic struggles, societal unrest, natural catastrophes like fires and storms, and questions about how to juggle all of our different responsibilities: working from home, caring for others and teaching our children. It seems to become more and more difficult to be able to find security and plan ahead, while at the same time self-care is becoming more important than ever before. All of these issues can feel very overwhelming, and it can feel like we have so many things on our plate that we do not even know where to start. Many people are experiencing sleeplessness, mood changes, stress related issues, relational stress and maybe even somatic symptoms like chronic headaches or pains brought on by the current circumstances. In this challenging situation having a counselor available to reach out and to connect with from the comfort and safety of your own home, 7 days per week can be extremely helpful. I congratulate you for having been brave enough to take the first step in reaching out for help, and I'm looking forward to getting in contact with you to learn more about your individual situation and to assess together and collaboratively with you how I might be able to be of assistance. I have a Bachelor degree in German and Socialpsychology from Ruhr University in Bochum (Germany,) and as an immigrant myself I am very familiar with issues related to immigration, expats, multicultural families and difficulties related to cultural assimilation. I completed my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University in CA in 2011, and I received my license as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2014. I have in total over 12 years of clinical experience with clients in a variety of clinical settings, and I have worked with a wide array of clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and all age groups. My focus within the last years has been Trauma and Abuse, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, as well as Family and Marital Conflict, Divorce, Coparenting Problems, Blended Families and Parenting Problems. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities to be able to provide my clients with tools and skills that they can use to be able to better master the challenges that they are facing. I work from a client centered perspective, which means that I believe that clients are the best experts on their own lives and should be able to determine the direction and depth of therapy. I utilize a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens to guide my clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation with the goal of moving clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. Please reach out to me any time. I am looking forward to working with you.

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in California in 2018. I am also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2014. I have worked in the field of Behavior Analysis for over 12 years, specializing in treatment for those diagnosed with Autism and other developmental delays. In addition, I have worked with adults with a variety of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, parenting challenges and life changes. My counseling style is warm, collaborative and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused and humanistic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe in focusing on the here and now and working together on solutions to improve your mental health and quality of life. Your therapy is a team effort and I am here for you. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Welcome! I am happy you are here and have chosen to reach out for support. I know it can be challenging to take that first step. That takes courage! My name is Dr. Sarah Golden, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of California and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Michigan. I am a National Certified Counselor. I earned my graduate degree in Counselor Education and my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. I have worked in the counseling profession in a variety of capacities as a counselor and a consultant. As we start working together, I hope to create a space where you can talk and feel heard. We will collaboratively help you navigate some of the challenges and feelings you've expressed and identify some goals you have for counseling. My style is to create a safe, collaborative, and warm environment for clients to explore their thoughts, experiences, and challenges while working toward their personal goals. My counseling approach is integrated and combines a person-centered, humanistic, CBT, mindfulness practices, and solution-focused approach. I look forward to starting this journey with you!

Hello! My name is Autumn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: private practice, outpatient, and school-based. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, life transitions, family conflicts, and relationship challenges. I was born and raised in Orange County, California, and currently reside in Nashville, Tennessee. I received an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I use a client-centered approach. This means that I begin where you are and view you as the experts on your life. It also means that you determine the direction and depth of therapy. I primarily use evidenced-based techniques, including: cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. However, based on your needs/presenting problems, I may also incorporate attachment-based therapy and psychodynamic therapy. I would describe my style as warm, real, and supportive. For me, the therapeutic relationship is important. I want you to not only feel comfortable with me but also to trust me. Therapy requires one to be vulnerable, which doesn’t happen if there isn’t a good rapport and therapeutic alliance. Collaboration is also important. Together we will work on establishing goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy playing soccer, watching sports, reading, cooking, spending time with my husband and children, and traveling to new places. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me! I look forward to helping you in any way I can!

Hello my name is Amy Shafer, I hold degrees in Psychology and Human Development from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo 1989, a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University specializing in Clinical work 1991, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 1994. I have worked extensively over the past 30 years with all age groups. I have most recently specialized in adult and geriatric individuals and families with a number of different issues including depression, anxiety, stress, family conflict, trauma/abuse, adjusting to stages of life and grief and loss issues. I consider it a privilege to be apart of a support system for individuals and families who are competently seeking professional help to address challenges in their lives. My contemporary work focuses on family systems, relationships, interpersonal recovery, trauma loss, and problem solving life's stressors. Decades of experience with all age groups and in many settings has provided me with an ability to have an open mind and an ability to provide many tools to assist you with.

I am a strength based, client centered, solution focused therapist who believes in your innate capacity to heal. My experience includes 13 years working with individuals, couples, families, children, and teens; juvenile, family, and court-ordered cases and LGBTQIA issues (such as coming out and acceptance). In my work with clients, I use a strength-based lens and combine evidence-based practices with somatic-based modalities. Making the decision to seek help with relationship issues, life changes, or inner conflict can be difficult. I respect your courage to seek help and will support you as you take the steps toward healing and change. As we know life can be challenging at best, so I believe it is important to be authentic and bring humor into my work with clients when appropriate.

Welcome! My name is Matthew Tapia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Arizona and California. In my life, I’ve seen many people with a broad spectrum of challenges. I’ve also seen that hope and relief are possible. I offer a unique perspective in getting you that help. I enjoy seeing individuals and families solve problems and feel closer together. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for kids, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues including anxiety, autism, Asperger's syndrome, depression, stress, relationship and family issues, life transitions, parenting, and caregiving issues in a variety of settings. My approach and therapy style draws influence from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is important that you and I work together as a team using a collaborative approach and that I meet you where you are. Previously, I worked in a private practice as a clinician, consultant, and supervisor. I have also worked at a nonprofit mental health clinic as a clinician, supervisor, consultant, and trainer. This background gave me the opportunity to work with individuals, families, and couples with a wide variety of presenting issues. I have supported those dealing with autism, Asperger's syndrome, anger issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, young adult issues, life transitions, men's issues, parenting, caregiving, substance abuse and at-risk adolescent behavior. I also assist crisis response and first responders through their difficult experiences. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from San Jose State University. I am also certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and licensed as a Licensed Behavior Analyst in Arizona. Early in my career, I had the privilege of working with a young couple who were facing significant challenges in their relationship. They had been together for several years but found themselves constantly caught in arguments and unable to communicate effectively. Their frustration and despair were palpable during our initial sessions. As we began our journey together, I witnessed their commitment to each other and their genuine desire to rebuild their connection. Over time, we delved into the underlying issues contributing to their conflicts, exploring patterns of communication, past experiences, and individual needs. One memorable session stands out vividly in my mind. It was a breakthrough moment when they both expressed vulnerability and shared their deepest fears and insecurities. In that moment of raw honesty, walls crumbled, and empathy flourished. It was a turning point in their relationship as they discovered newfound understanding and compassion for each other. Through dedication and hard work, they gradually transformed their relationship into one characterized by mutual respect, open communication, and genuine intimacy. Witnessing their growth and resilience was incredibly rewarding, and it reinforced my belief in the transformative power of therapy and the resilience of the human spirit. This experience deeply informs my approach to therapy, emphasizing the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges, discover their strengths, and embark on a journey of healing and growth together.

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.