Therapy hours: By appointment only
Our Team
Clinical Team
Meet our team of California licensed marriage & family therapist and licensed clinical social workers.
Click on each licensed professional to learn more about their specialties and background.
Tina Avila, LMFT, CEO
Founder/Clinical Director
and a Licensed marriage and family therapist
Are you struggling with work/life balance? You're a working professional who have everything but still feel empty and lack fulfillment in life.
Do you find yourself always giving and attending to other people's needs which leaves you feeling drained at the end of the day or week.
You have no time for yourself and so you think. If this sounds like you, I understand because I've been there.
I can help you find solutions, discover new ways to achieve more balance in your life, integrate your needs/wants in order to be more align with your core values and future goals.
I am a solution focused brief therapist who focuses on increasing hope, positive outcomes, desired change, empowering clients to be the best version of themselves despite experiencing problems or issues. I do not give advice or homework in the session.
I'll stand by you using my role as a therapist to equip you with skills, confidence, and strengths to bring out the best version that's already within you.
Services: Adults and Couples
Age: 25 - 50 years old
Specializations: depression, work stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, professional issues, career change, entrepreneurs, family issues, perfectionism, self-improvement, and marriage issues.
Education
Bachelors in clinical psychology; California State University, Los Angeles.
Masters in clinical psychology MFT; Pepperdine University
Graduate certification in applied behavior analysis
License and Certification
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #51769
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Languages spoken:
Thai
Hobbies:
When I'm not working, I like to travel, spend time with my son and husband, go on hikes, hang out at the beach, and workout at the gym.
and a Licensed marriage and family therapist
Are you struggling with work/life balance? You're a working professional who have everything but still feel empty and lack fulfillment in life.
Do you find yourself always giving and attending to other people's needs which leaves you feeling drained at the end of the day or week.
You have no time for yourself and so you think. If this sounds like you, I understand because I've been there.
I can help you find solutions, discover new ways to achieve more balance in your life, integrate your needs/wants in order to be more align with your core values and future goals.
I am a solution focused brief therapist who focuses on increasing hope, positive outcomes, desired change, empowering clients to be the best version of themselves despite experiencing problems or issues. I do not give advice or homework in the session.
I'll stand by you using my role as a therapist to equip you with skills, confidence, and strengths to bring out the best version that's already within you.
Services: Adults and Couples
Age: 25 - 50 years old
Specializations: depression, work stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, professional issues, career change, entrepreneurs, family issues, perfectionism, self-improvement, and marriage issues.
Education
Bachelors in clinical psychology; California State University, Los Angeles.
Masters in clinical psychology MFT; Pepperdine University
Graduate certification in applied behavior analysis
License and Certification
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #51769
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Languages spoken:
Thai
Hobbies:
When I'm not working, I like to travel, spend time with my son and husband, go on hikes, hang out at the beach, and workout at the gym.
Briana Perez, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Welcome to the search of finding the best fit therapist for your goals! I understand this process can sometimes feel overwhelming, taking this next step will be very rewarding as you move into this next season of your life.
My name is Briana, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW.
Strength Based support, mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Life has it’s guarantees of hardships and my goal is to support you in your pursuit of joy and stability. As bumps arise, I believe our mindset impacts how we react.
My goal is to support you in finding joy in solutions, and to embrace confidence in your life, and decisions.
Solution Focused Therapy: Sometimes the hardest part of the next move is acting.
I specialize in helping you identifying the best next step and executing it whether it’s finding a new job, creating a healthier relationship, or learning how to manage those day to day stressors.
Creating a plan and having follow through are two of the biggest secrets to life satisfaction.
I am an advocate for mental health. I have specialized experience with military communities, and chronic illness. I work with clients who have depression/ anxiety (diagnosed and undiagnosed), have struggles with coping in times of hardship and big life transitions, boundary concerns (people pleasers, self betrayal with fear of saying no), self confidence struggles (low self worth, preoccupation with body-image), and people who chronically self sabotage their dreams and goals (often due to unresolved trauma).
Let’s talk, I know you are ready to start the work of reimagining your life, your relationships, and the pursuit of a kinder, less critical internal dialogue.
Specializations:
Anxiety
Depression
Grief/loss
College stress
Work stress
Parenting issues
Relationship issues
Education
Bachelors in psychology from California State University Channel Islands
Masters in Social Work, California State University, Northridge
Licenses
Licensed Clinical Social Worker #102030
Hobbies
In my free time you can find me surfing in the early morning hours, spending time with my animals, reading a good book, or on an adventure to find the next best cup of iced coffee.
Welcome to the search of finding the best fit therapist for your goals! I understand this process can sometimes feel overwhelming, taking this next step will be very rewarding as you move into this next season of your life.
My name is Briana, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW.
Strength Based support, mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Life has it’s guarantees of hardships and my goal is to support you in your pursuit of joy and stability. As bumps arise, I believe our mindset impacts how we react.
My goal is to support you in finding joy in solutions, and to embrace confidence in your life, and decisions.
Solution Focused Therapy: Sometimes the hardest part of the next move is acting.
I specialize in helping you identifying the best next step and executing it whether it’s finding a new job, creating a healthier relationship, or learning how to manage those day to day stressors.
Creating a plan and having follow through are two of the biggest secrets to life satisfaction.
I am an advocate for mental health. I have specialized experience with military communities, and chronic illness. I work with clients who have depression/ anxiety (diagnosed and undiagnosed), have struggles with coping in times of hardship and big life transitions, boundary concerns (people pleasers, self betrayal with fear of saying no), self confidence struggles (low self worth, preoccupation with body-image), and people who chronically self sabotage their dreams and goals (often due to unresolved trauma).
Let’s talk, I know you are ready to start the work of reimagining your life, your relationships, and the pursuit of a kinder, less critical internal dialogue.
Specializations:
Anxiety
Depression
Grief/loss
College stress
Work stress
Parenting issues
Relationship issues
Education
Bachelors in psychology from California State University Channel Islands
Masters in Social Work, California State University, Northridge
Licenses
Licensed Clinical Social Worker #102030
Hobbies
In my free time you can find me surfing in the early morning hours, spending time with my animals, reading a good book, or on an adventure to find the next best cup of iced coffee.
Zarina Jadwet, LCSW
Licensed clinical social worker
My name is Zarina Jadwet and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my Social Work degree from Azusa Pacific University in 2014 and have a wide range of experience. In the past I have worked with young children, school aged youth, adolescents, young adults, adults, older adults, and families.
I became a Therapist due to my own personal experiences. Initially it was very difficult for me to seek mental health support, however once I did, I found confidence and healing through therapy.
It was that positive experience that lead to me to pursue a career in this field. Through my work experiences I have gained skills to support my clients by building strong relationships, providing empathy and support, and creating a safe space.
I understand that everyone’s journey is different and unique and use an open minded approach to enable growth and mental well-being.
To do this, I utilize evidenced based practices and theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Solutions Focused and Psychodynamic modalities to support my clients.
Specialty: Depression, Anxiety, Life changes, Relationship difficulties, PTSD, Work/School Stress, and Family difficulties
Education
Bachelors of Science, University of California Irvine
Masters of Social Work, Azusa Pacific University
Pupil Personal Services Credential, San Jose State University
Insurance
Kaiser, Optum, United Healthcare
Licenses
Licensed clinical social worker # 92032
Hobbies
In my free time I enjoy watching game shows and playing board games. I also love to watch baking competitions and attempting to bake new things!
My name is Zarina Jadwet and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my Social Work degree from Azusa Pacific University in 2014 and have a wide range of experience. In the past I have worked with young children, school aged youth, adolescents, young adults, adults, older adults, and families.
I became a Therapist due to my own personal experiences. Initially it was very difficult for me to seek mental health support, however once I did, I found confidence and healing through therapy.
It was that positive experience that lead to me to pursue a career in this field. Through my work experiences I have gained skills to support my clients by building strong relationships, providing empathy and support, and creating a safe space.
I understand that everyone’s journey is different and unique and use an open minded approach to enable growth and mental well-being.
To do this, I utilize evidenced based practices and theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Solutions Focused and Psychodynamic modalities to support my clients.
Specialty: Depression, Anxiety, Life changes, Relationship difficulties, PTSD, Work/School Stress, and Family difficulties
Education
Bachelors of Science, University of California Irvine
Masters of Social Work, Azusa Pacific University
Pupil Personal Services Credential, San Jose State University
Insurance
Kaiser, Optum, United Healthcare
Licenses
Licensed clinical social worker # 92032
Hobbies
In my free time I enjoy watching game shows and playing board games. I also love to watch baking competitions and attempting to bake new things!
Brianna Vittitow, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
I enjoy working collaboratively with clients by building a strong therapeutic relationship using empathy, compassion, and personal and professional knowledge.
My experience is in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges with anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more.
My approach is person-centered and strengths based, as well as utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness to help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Specialty: Anger, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship issues, and Stress management.
Education
Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology, California State University - East Bay
Master’s of Arts - Counseling with emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy, Saint Mary’s College of California
Licenses
Licensed marriage and family therapist #125617
Insurance
Kaiser, Optum, United Healthcare
Hobbies
During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and our dog Gus, camping, swimming, and exploring new places.
I enjoy working collaboratively with clients by building a strong therapeutic relationship using empathy, compassion, and personal and professional knowledge.
My experience is in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges with anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more.
My approach is person-centered and strengths based, as well as utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness to help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Specialty: Anger, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship issues, and Stress management.
Education
Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology, California State University - East Bay
Master’s of Arts - Counseling with emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy, Saint Mary’s College of California
Licenses
Licensed marriage and family therapist #125617
Insurance
Kaiser, Optum, United Healthcare
Hobbies
During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and our dog Gus, camping, swimming, and exploring new places.
Jamie Diamond, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
In my ten years of licensed practice, I’ve worked with adolescents, adults and families.
I’ve focused on lessening anxiety, depression, grief, loss, family difficulties, and the effects of trauma, or a recent crisis. As a trained and non-judgmental therapist, you will find me warm, compassionate and perceptive.
However, you feel, it’s okay to feel that way. That we connect may be as important as what we connect about. I believe that for people to make meaningful progress, it’s best to explore issues and solutions together and to arrive at treatment plans, goals and strategies that fit and move at your pace.
Some of the evidence-based practices I use include solution–focused brief therapy (a goal directed approach that focuses on solutions rather than problems) CBT (changing the way you think to change the way you feel), and motivational interviewing (exploring a person’s mixed feelings about changing a self-defeating behavior).
I know how hard it can be to confide in someone and share how you’re feeling. It would be an honor to work with you.
Education
Bachelors and Masters in English, New York University
Masters in Social Work, California State University, Los Angeles
Pupil Personnel Services Credential, California State University, Long Beach
Licenses
Licensed Clinical Social Worker # 86900
Hobbies
During my free time, I like to roller blade and walk my dog.
In my ten years of licensed practice, I’ve worked with adolescents, adults and families.
I’ve focused on lessening anxiety, depression, grief, loss, family difficulties, and the effects of trauma, or a recent crisis. As a trained and non-judgmental therapist, you will find me warm, compassionate and perceptive.
However, you feel, it’s okay to feel that way. That we connect may be as important as what we connect about. I believe that for people to make meaningful progress, it’s best to explore issues and solutions together and to arrive at treatment plans, goals and strategies that fit and move at your pace.
Some of the evidence-based practices I use include solution–focused brief therapy (a goal directed approach that focuses on solutions rather than problems) CBT (changing the way you think to change the way you feel), and motivational interviewing (exploring a person’s mixed feelings about changing a self-defeating behavior).
I know how hard it can be to confide in someone and share how you’re feeling. It would be an honor to work with you.
Education
Bachelors and Masters in English, New York University
Masters in Social Work, California State University, Los Angeles
Pupil Personnel Services Credential, California State University, Long Beach
Licenses
Licensed Clinical Social Worker # 86900
Hobbies
During my free time, I like to roller blade and walk my dog.
Catrina Flores, LCSW
I have more than 15 years in the health and human services field. I received my masters degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan and a bachelors degree in Collaborative Health and Humans Services from CSU Monterey Bay. While at CSUMB, I graduated and received 2 of the 5 graduating senior awards.
I also received the Social Justice Award and Alumni Vision Award for her work in Women's Services, Substance Use, Mental Health and HIV/AIDS field.
Specializations:
Stress
Anxiety
LGBTQ+
Trauma and abuse
Grief and loss
Depression
Trauma
Clinical approaches:
Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
I also received the Social Justice Award and Alumni Vision Award for her work in Women's Services, Substance Use, Mental Health and HIV/AIDS field.
Specializations:
Stress
Anxiety
LGBTQ+
Trauma and abuse
Grief and loss
Depression
Trauma
Clinical approaches:
Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
Antonia Allison, LMFT
I specialize in working with people who experience symptoms such as depression, anxiety, trouble with sleeping, ADD/ADHD, post partum, past trauma, and Perinatal mood disorders.
Together, we will increase your life energy and knowledge of how to identify feelings as feedback but not fact.
Why did you became a therapist?
I became a therapist because it’s exciting to know I can assist with challenges that sidetrack clients. You can be back on the road of life soon.
How does your client describe you?
They can tell I don’t judge their missteps. I tell them healing cannot happen in a judgmental environment. Therapy is a healing tool.
Together, we will increase your life energy and knowledge of how to identify feelings as feedback but not fact.
Why did you became a therapist?
I became a therapist because it’s exciting to know I can assist with challenges that sidetrack clients. You can be back on the road of life soon.
How does your client describe you?
They can tell I don’t judge their missteps. I tell them healing cannot happen in a judgmental environment. Therapy is a healing tool.
Jessica Ochoa, ACSW
* Accepting new clients
My name is Jessica Ochoa, born and raised in South Central Los Angeles in a low income community.
I am African American and Mexican American and earned my B.A. of Psychology at California State University Northridge and my Masters of Social Work at University of Southern California.
My passion grew for therapy as I began to notice and understand the dynamics of my culture and how children are taught to be seen and not heard.
As a young adult I started to understand how childhood trauma could lead to a life full of pain and confusion.
My ultimate goal would be to assist you in exploring and processing childhood trauma and developing effective and healthy coping skills in a space where you feel safe to speak your truth.
Specializations:
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Trauma and PTSD
* College stress
* Work stress
* Relationship issues
* Family Therapy
Treatment Approach:
Psychotherapy, Dialectical Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Hobbies:
Spending time with my family, Hiking, Exploring different restaurants, Music Festivals
Associate clinical social worker supervised by Antonia Allison, LMFT
My name is Jessica Ochoa, born and raised in South Central Los Angeles in a low income community.
I am African American and Mexican American and earned my B.A. of Psychology at California State University Northridge and my Masters of Social Work at University of Southern California.
My passion grew for therapy as I began to notice and understand the dynamics of my culture and how children are taught to be seen and not heard.
As a young adult I started to understand how childhood trauma could lead to a life full of pain and confusion.
My ultimate goal would be to assist you in exploring and processing childhood trauma and developing effective and healthy coping skills in a space where you feel safe to speak your truth.
Specializations:
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Trauma and PTSD
* College stress
* Work stress
* Relationship issues
* Family Therapy
Treatment Approach:
Psychotherapy, Dialectical Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Hobbies:
Spending time with my family, Hiking, Exploring different restaurants, Music Festivals
Associate clinical social worker supervised by Antonia Allison, LMFT
Natalia Manzary, LCSW
*Accepting New Clients
My name is Natalia Manzary and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Born and raised in Hawthorne, CA, I embarked on my career in Social Work in 2016.
I have experience working with families and individuals of all ages (young children, adolescents, young adults, and adults).
Growing up, the topic of mental health was a discussion that was frowned upon.
At a young age, I noticed the cycles of trauma and fear to express oneself were continuously passed on, which essentially creates a limited environment for a person to thrive and grow.
My passion for therapy grew as I learned about the stigmas in mental health. Through personal and professional experiences, I am able to assist my clients with navigating the different spaces and people that one encounters in life.
My goal is to explore childhood and trauma, eliminating maladaptive coping by learning and acquiring an array of skills, focusing on strengths, and developing strong communication skills in order to maintain self- respect and advocating for your needs.
Therapy Approaches:
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,
Specializations:
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Trauma
* College Stress
* Work Stress
* Grief/Loss
* Parenting issues
Hobbies:
Cooking, Traveling, Spending time with family, Exercising, Attending concerts/ Music Festivals.
Supervised by Antonia Allison, LMFT
My name is Natalia Manzary and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Born and raised in Hawthorne, CA, I embarked on my career in Social Work in 2016.
I have experience working with families and individuals of all ages (young children, adolescents, young adults, and adults).
Growing up, the topic of mental health was a discussion that was frowned upon.
At a young age, I noticed the cycles of trauma and fear to express oneself were continuously passed on, which essentially creates a limited environment for a person to thrive and grow.
My passion for therapy grew as I learned about the stigmas in mental health. Through personal and professional experiences, I am able to assist my clients with navigating the different spaces and people that one encounters in life.
My goal is to explore childhood and trauma, eliminating maladaptive coping by learning and acquiring an array of skills, focusing on strengths, and developing strong communication skills in order to maintain self- respect and advocating for your needs.
Therapy Approaches:
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,
Specializations:
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Trauma
* College Stress
* Work Stress
* Grief/Loss
* Parenting issues
Hobbies:
Cooking, Traveling, Spending time with family, Exercising, Attending concerts/ Music Festivals.
Supervised by Antonia Allison, LMFT
Dean Rody, LCSW
My name is Dean Rody and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of Social Work and five years of experience as a therapist.
Anyone who has experienced trauma or severe life stressors can tell you that the impact of those events can make life feel like it is unraveling.
My passion in life is to help people who are experiencing trauma, relationship issues, stress, anxiety and depression find hope and a path forward.
I will help you identify your own strengths so that you can discover a healthy perception of themselves, improve relationships, and find a sense of being complete and at peace.
Choosing to seek therapy is a difficult but important decision.
You deserve to have a safe, warm and caring environment in which to explore the concerns that are confronting you and rediscover your own center and sense of purpose.
No single approach to therapy is right for everyone.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative Therapy.
I will work with you to identify the right approach that meets your needs and allows for the best opportunity to thrive.
Education:
B.A. in Social Work, Goshen College in Goshen, IN
Masters of Social Work, University of North Dakota
Specialties:
*Depression
*Anxiety
*Trauma / PTSD
*Grief
*Relationship issues
*Work / School Stress
*Family Conflict
License:
Licensed Clinical Social Worker #103777
Insurance accepted:
Aetna
Optum
United Healthcare
Oxford
Cigna
Oscar Health
Kaiser
Hobbies:
In my spare time, I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible, taking photographs of nature and cityscapes, or spending time with family.
Anyone who has experienced trauma or severe life stressors can tell you that the impact of those events can make life feel like it is unraveling.
My passion in life is to help people who are experiencing trauma, relationship issues, stress, anxiety and depression find hope and a path forward.
I will help you identify your own strengths so that you can discover a healthy perception of themselves, improve relationships, and find a sense of being complete and at peace.
Choosing to seek therapy is a difficult but important decision.
You deserve to have a safe, warm and caring environment in which to explore the concerns that are confronting you and rediscover your own center and sense of purpose.
No single approach to therapy is right for everyone.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative Therapy.
I will work with you to identify the right approach that meets your needs and allows for the best opportunity to thrive.
Education:
B.A. in Social Work, Goshen College in Goshen, IN
Masters of Social Work, University of North Dakota
Specialties:
*Depression
*Anxiety
*Trauma / PTSD
*Grief
*Relationship issues
*Work / School Stress
*Family Conflict
License:
Licensed Clinical Social Worker #103777
Insurance accepted:
Aetna
Optum
United Healthcare
Oxford
Cigna
Oscar Health
Kaiser
Hobbies:
In my spare time, I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible, taking photographs of nature and cityscapes, or spending time with family.
Stephanie Chmelik, LCSW
Hi, my name is Stephanie. I have 12 years of experience and I’ve worked with people from all walks of life.
My aim is to be by your side and support you in navigating all of life’s challenges.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a negative place that’s not serving you, I’d love to talk with you about how we could work together to help you not just feel better but live better.
I specialize in supporting people to decrease and better manage anxiety, reduce depression, find a better work-life balance, and improve self-esteem.
I know not everyone may identify with these specific challenges but my experience allows me to work with a wide variety of unique needs.
I’m trained in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and believe in a compassionate, non-judgmental yet direct approach.
Education:
B.A. in Social Work, St. Cloud State University, MN
Masters of Social Work, University of Minnesota, MN
Specialties:
*Depression
*Anxiety
*Self-Esteem
*Adjustment issues
*Work / School Stress
*Stress management
License:
Licensed Clinical Social Worker #61759
Insurance accepted:
Aetna
Optum
United Healthcare
Oxford
Cigna
Oscar Health
My aim is to be by your side and support you in navigating all of life’s challenges.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a negative place that’s not serving you, I’d love to talk with you about how we could work together to help you not just feel better but live better.
I specialize in supporting people to decrease and better manage anxiety, reduce depression, find a better work-life balance, and improve self-esteem.
I know not everyone may identify with these specific challenges but my experience allows me to work with a wide variety of unique needs.
I’m trained in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and believe in a compassionate, non-judgmental yet direct approach.
Education:
B.A. in Social Work, St. Cloud State University, MN
Masters of Social Work, University of Minnesota, MN
Specialties:
*Depression
*Anxiety
*Self-Esteem
*Adjustment issues
*Work / School Stress
*Stress management
License:
Licensed Clinical Social Worker #61759
Insurance accepted:
Aetna
Optum
United Healthcare
Oxford
Cigna
Oscar Health
