Find a Therapist in Cerritos, CA

Constance (Connie) Shin is a compassionate Marriage & Family Therapist who believes that the core of most personal challenges lies in relational dynamics. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating a safe and trusted therapeutic relationship, where individuals can experience profound healing and personal transformation. Her therapeutic approach fosters inner freedom and self-awareness, allowing clients to heal and improve their relationships with themselves and others. Constance specializes in therapy for individuals and couples dealing with abuse, trauma—emotional, physical, sexual, spiritual, and racial—while also addressing issues surrounding racial identity, multiculturalism, spiritual growth, life transitions, parenting children with special needs, grief, loss, depression, and anxiety. With her integrative and trauma-focused methodologies, which include Emotionally Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she provides tailored support to meet the unique needs of her clients, ensuring genuine emotional healing and growth.

Lester Mindus is a dedicated psychologist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy for individuals, couples, and families. He accepts various insurances, including Medicare, and offers adjustable fees to accommodate clients facing financial hardships. In his couples counseling sessions, he emphasizes the importance of listening first, followed by being heard, creating a nurturing environment for open communication. For both individual and family counseling, he works collaboratively with clients to identify previously used strategies for problem-solving and enhancing their lives, exploring more effective alternatives. With a focus on healthy individuals encountering life's challenges, Lester addresses common issues such as communication, needs identification, and assertiveness. He is particularly adept at recognizing when a person's current solution may be the root of the problem, guiding them toward more viable options. Additionally, Lester has experience in supervisory roles and has served as an expert witness in various cases requiring psychological expertise.

Dr. Gordon Alexander St. Mary Jr. is a licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Psychology, specializing in helping individuals struggling with panic, anxiety, obsessions, and various fears. He understands that the physical effects of these crises can be debilitating and terrifying, and he is dedicated to guiding clients through these challenging experiences. With specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Neurolinguistic Programming, Dr. St. Mary has honed his skills under the mentorship of nationally recognized experts, Tad James and David Gordon, in treating major depression and anxiety-related disorders. His expertise extends to trauma, addiction, PTSD, and attachment disorders, making him well-equipped to assist those facing relationship difficulties, sexual identity confusion, and the residual effects of trauma and abuse. Furthermore, he has significant experience conducting pre-surgical evaluations for individuals suffering from chronic pain, obesity, eating disorders, and other related conditions. Dr. St. Mary’s compassionate approach and extensive training ensure that clients receive the support they need to navigate their emotional challenges and pursue a fulfilling life.

Umeko Allen, MS, LMFT, is a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist who creates a nurturing and healing environment, supporting her clients in aligning with their true values and cultivating authentic relationships with themselves, their loved ones, and the broader community. Through a compassionate collaborative journey, Umeko guides individuals towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life, one where boundaries are respected and needs are met. Clients experience a lighter emotional state, developing ease within themselves and their connections with others. Her person-centered approach ensures a deep understanding of her clients' unique worlds, allowing for tailored solutions that address their specific needs. With a trauma-informed, holistic, decolonized, and social justice oriented lens, Umeko addresses root causes and underlying issues, focusing on the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit to facilitate comprehensive healing. Whether clients are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, anger/impulse control, or relationship challenges, Umeko is ready to support them on their journey to live the authentic lives they deserve. Her expertise to assist adults and elders through various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches, empowers her clients to overcome feelings of being lost or stuck, assuring them they are not alone in their struggles.

So Cal Christian Counseling is led by Kathryn Holguin, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can freely express their thoughts and feelings. Acknowledging that many may feel apprehensive about entering therapy, she understands the importance of offering empathy, warmth, and a nonjudgmental attitude, empowering clients to take significant steps towards healing. Her approach emphasizes personal growth and self-awareness, utilizing various modalities, including psychodynamic therapy and trauma-focused techniques, to uncover the underlying motivations influencing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By recognizing the impact of past experiences on present challenges, So assists clients in navigating their journey towards a more fulfilling life. As a Christian therapist, Kathryn believes incorporating spirituality into therapy enhances the experience, recognizing that we are emotional, physical, and spiritual beings created by God. Her holistic and integrated perspective helps clients find lasting relief from their struggles, fostering a path towards hope and healing.

Darshawn Hooker, a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist (MA, LMFT), creates a safe and bias-free environment for individuals seeking to enhance the quality of their relationships and overall life. He adeptly guides clients through transitions in their careers, relationships, and personal lives, focusing on their unique strengths to help fortify their sense of self. With experience working extensively with families facing challenges of caring for children with special needs, as well as assisting those navigating grief and trauma, Darshawn is equipped to provide a unique therapeutic relationship designed to empower clients. He offers couples counseling to promote mutual understanding and support, alongside family and individual therapy for all ages, addressing issues such as depression and anxiety. Darshawn partners with individuals from diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, bringing years of experience with children on the Autism spectrum and those with ADHD, along with supporting teens facing self-esteem and identity challenges. He also assists adults grappling with significant life changes, including bereavement and sudden trauma. Some in-home sessions are available to accommodate various needs.

Sandra Kaumaya is a compassionate and dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist, holding an MS and LMFT credential, as well as ARFA certification. Having graduated from USCLB in 1978, she brings decades of experience to her practice. Sandra works with a wide-ranging clientele that includes preteens, children, teens, adults, and elders. She specializes in guiding individuals through complex challenges such as depression, behavioral issues, and relationship difficulties. Her expertise extends to various mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, addiction, and issues surrounding self-esteem and emotional disturbance. Utilizing a blend of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and family systems approaches, Sandra tailors her techniques to fit the unique needs of each individual or family. With a warm and inviting demeanor, she fosters a safe space for her clients, empowering them on their journey toward healing and growth. Whether navigating life transitions, managing grief, or improving communication within relationships, Sandra's insightful guidance supports clients in achieving their personal goals and enhancing their well-being.

John Avitabile, a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with an MBA and MA, understands that each individual navigates life’s journey in a uniquely personal way, weaving their experiences into a tapestry that reflects their unique story. He recognizes that this journey can often be accompanied by challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger, regret, and disappointment. With a wealth of education and life experience, John strives to help his clients reconnect with their hopes, dreams, and goals, tapping into their hidden strengths and natural resilience. Together, they explore practical strategies aimed at revitalizing a sense of meaning and fulfillment in life. John's approach to therapy is highly adaptable; he believes in employing flexible treatment modalities tailored to the distinct needs of each client, whether through mindfulness-based techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or family systems approaches. His commitment to understanding each client's individual circumstances ensures that the therapeutic process is dynamic and responsive. By choosing to embark on this journey toward a happier and healthier life, clients have already taken a vital step. John values the trusting bond between client and therapist, recognizing it as the cornerstone of successful therapy.

Jon Oneal is a compassionate marriage and family therapist (MFT) with over 25 years of experience, dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate the stresses of life. He specializes in guiding those who are experiencing challenges in various areas, including relationships and personal well-being. Jon understands that major lifestyle changes can be overwhelming and often require support and understanding. With a wealth of real-life experience, he has positively impacted thousands of lives, learning from each patient along the way. Jon is committed to providing a caring, comfortable, safe, and private environment where clients can feel supported during difficult times. His approachable nature makes the therapeutic process welcoming, as he looks forward to helping clients embark on their pathways to healing.

Mildred Ortiz, PsyD, is a California Licensed Clinical Psychologist who excels in a private practice setting. With a specialization in PostPartum Mental Health Conditions and Women's Issues, she provides clinical services for individuals navigating overwhelming life stressors, trauma, anxiety, and depression. She is particularly attuned to those facing challenges related to recent life transitions, grief and loss, employment difficulties, and relationship issues that involve intimacy and communication. Dr. Ortiz is dedicated to assisting her clients in identifying unhealthy patterns while bolstering their strengths. Utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities informed by cultural sensitivity, she adopts a strength-based lens tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Her approach to psychotherapy fosters opportunities for self-growth, empowering clients through the learning and practice of healthy, adaptive coping strategies vital for personal development. Mildred looks forward to building a strong therapeutic alliance and equipping clients with the tools necessary for meaningful change, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

Dr. Tanisha L. Pitre, a dedicated psychologist with a PsyD, understands that many individuals may feel overwhelmed during significant life transitions, such as difficult divorces or breakups. She wants potential clients to know that they are not alone and that help is readily available. Specializing in guiding individuals through challenging circumstances, Dr. Pitre provides the support necessary to find direction, gain clarity, and harness personal strengths. Through her expertise in Cognitive-Behavioral interventions, clients will learn effective coping skills that empower them to achieve their goals, process their experiences, and craft new plans for a fulfilling life ahead. Dr. Pitre is eager to accompany individuals on their journey towards healing and growth.