Photo of Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
As an adoptive parent and an adoption focused therapist, I bring a unique understanding of the identity/developmental issues.
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
As an adoptive parent and an adoption focused therapist, I bring a unique understanding of the identity/developmental issues.
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
(323) 622-1987 View (323) 622-1987
Photo of Hazel Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Hazel Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90037
I have experience with adoption and foster care challenges.
Hi my name is Hazel Gonzalez and I am an LMFT. I have been working with children, teens, families and adult individuals over the last 20 years. I like to get to know my client(s) and determine what approach will best benefit them. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and other modalities that best serve the Client(s). I work with Client to best determine what issue they are wanting to work on. I encourage and motivate Client through to be as active as possible in their treatment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my treatment.I work with children, teens, families and individuals.
I have experience with adoption and foster care challenges.
Hi my name is Hazel Gonzalez and I am an LMFT. I have been working with children, teens, families and adult individuals over the last 20 years. I like to get to know my client(s) and determine what approach will best benefit them. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and other modalities that best serve the Client(s). I work with Client to best determine what issue they are wanting to work on. I encourage and motivate Client through to be as active as possible in their treatment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my treatment.I work with children, teens, families and individuals.
(818) 862-5499 View (818) 862-5499
Photo of Steven Laska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Steven Laska
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90047
My name is Steven Laska and am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I am currently working with clients via telehealth. For many years I have worked with adolescents and adults who have come from diverse sub-cultures of society who are experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, fertility, adoption, parenting, living/dying transitioning, and cross-cultural relationships. My clients have ranged in age from adolescents to seniors and have come from various backgrounds with a diversity of issues.
My name is Steven Laska and am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I am currently working with clients via telehealth. For many years I have worked with adolescents and adults who have come from diverse sub-cultures of society who are experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, fertility, adoption, parenting, living/dying transitioning, and cross-cultural relationships. My clients have ranged in age from adolescents to seniors and have come from various backgrounds with a diversity of issues.
(213) 348-7466 View (213) 348-7466
Photo of Michelle Urizar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Urizar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Achieving peace of mind is a worthwhile goal. When was the last time you put yourself first in the daily grind of taking care of, or doing things for, others? I personally tailor therapeutic strategies to your individual unique needs. I work from a trauma-responsive, strengths-based, and client-centered approach while balanced with practical strategies you can walk away with. I can help you navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, as well as employment and student stressors. I support in areas of maternal MH, foster care and adoption, and in an LGBTQ+ -affirming environment.
Achieving peace of mind is a worthwhile goal. When was the last time you put yourself first in the daily grind of taking care of, or doing things for, others? I personally tailor therapeutic strategies to your individual unique needs. I work from a trauma-responsive, strengths-based, and client-centered approach while balanced with practical strategies you can walk away with. I can help you navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, as well as employment and student stressors. I support in areas of maternal MH, foster care and adoption, and in an LGBTQ+ -affirming environment.
(424) 433-4496 View (424) 433-4496
Photo of Michelle Pack, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Pack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90002
Hello, I am Michelle Pack, LMFT. I focus on building positive relationships with my clients and reducing negative symptoms. I have many years of experience working with foster care and adoption and issues relating to trauma, grief/loss and adoption. I mostly work with individuals, from pre-teen to adult, and sometimes couples. I'm comfortable addressing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, work problems, grief/loss, adoption-related issues, difficulties of being a foster parent, relationship and parenting problems.
Hello, I am Michelle Pack, LMFT. I focus on building positive relationships with my clients and reducing negative symptoms. I have many years of experience working with foster care and adoption and issues relating to trauma, grief/loss and adoption. I mostly work with individuals, from pre-teen to adult, and sometimes couples. I'm comfortable addressing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, work problems, grief/loss, adoption-related issues, difficulties of being a foster parent, relationship and parenting problems.
(510) 953-4469 View (510) 953-4469
Photo of Michelle Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for connecting with my clients and providing a safe place for healing, and building a happy, hopeful future. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, Pre-marital, marital issues, parenting, adoption, relationship, addiction, and trauma. Although I am eclectic in my approach, my foundation is CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for connecting with my clients and providing a safe place for healing, and building a happy, hopeful future. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, Pre-marital, marital issues, parenting, adoption, relationship, addiction, and trauma. Although I am eclectic in my approach, my foundation is CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(657) 571-2185 View (657) 571-2185
Photo of Judy Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Judy Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Hi, I am Judy Goldman a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California with over 25 years’ experience in the mental health field. I specialize in life transitions which include loss, grief, adoption, families, children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety. Loss is not always obvious and can show up in so many aspects of our life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating elements of person-centered allowing the client to take more the lead in their sessions and in the process, to find their own solutions.
Hi, I am Judy Goldman a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California with over 25 years’ experience in the mental health field. I specialize in life transitions which include loss, grief, adoption, families, children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety. Loss is not always obvious and can show up in so many aspects of our life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating elements of person-centered allowing the client to take more the lead in their sessions and in the process, to find their own solutions.
(626) 508-1423 View (626) 508-1423
Photo of Tim Smyth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Tim Smyth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I actively address thinking errors such as cognitive distortions and work towards the adoption of more adaptive ways of thinking and behaving with the belief that this can also result in changes in feelings.
I am Tim Smyth. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I am a seasoned practitioner of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with 35 years of experience working with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and their families across various mental health and community settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders. I work with nearly all ages; primarily between ages 10 and 80. I typically work with people from a variety of backgrounds and socioeconomic strata. I have been under a wide range of conditions but tend to avoid dealing with court referrals.
I actively address thinking errors such as cognitive distortions and work towards the adoption of more adaptive ways of thinking and behaving with the belief that this can also result in changes in feelings.
I am Tim Smyth. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I am a seasoned practitioner of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with 35 years of experience working with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and their families across various mental health and community settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders. I work with nearly all ages; primarily between ages 10 and 80. I typically work with people from a variety of backgrounds and socioeconomic strata. I have been under a wide range of conditions but tend to avoid dealing with court referrals.
(951) 357-0550 View (951) 357-0550
Photo of Jessica Spangler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica Spangler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have had the privilege of working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples. During my 14 years as a therapist, I have seen clients with various issues, including grief and loss, adoption, infertility, anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have had the privilege of working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples. During my 14 years as a therapist, I have seen clients with various issues, including grief and loss, adoption, infertility, anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD.
(858) 780-5386 View (858) 780-5386
Photo of Melissa Erb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa Erb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
My name is Melissa Erb, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in managing anxiety, depression and life changes. I also specialize in the area of adoption and foster care. By using various treatment modalities such as Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, this helps in meeting my clients "where they are at." This also creates an approach for clients to begin at the pace they feel comfortable with.
My name is Melissa Erb, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in managing anxiety, depression and life changes. I also specialize in the area of adoption and foster care. By using various treatment modalities such as Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, this helps in meeting my clients "where they are at." This also creates an approach for clients to begin at the pace they feel comfortable with.
(657) 571-1145 View (657) 571-1145
Photo of Melissa O'Keefe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa O'Keefe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Hi there, I'm Melissa! I am here to listen and to offer support. I focus on strengthening self-esteem through fostering self-compassion. Many people struggle with balancing the demands of life. You don't need to suffer alone. I practice with a person-centered approach and have extensive education in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. I am trained in Attachment Theory and strive to create a secure and nurturing environment. I am kind and compassionate and offer guidance as I walk with you on your journey through life.
Hi there, I'm Melissa! I am here to listen and to offer support. I focus on strengthening self-esteem through fostering self-compassion. Many people struggle with balancing the demands of life. You don't need to suffer alone. I practice with a person-centered approach and have extensive education in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. I am trained in Attachment Theory and strive to create a secure and nurturing environment. I am kind and compassionate and offer guidance as I walk with you on your journey through life.
(424) 484-1909 View (424) 484-1909
Photo of Karen Zalner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Karen Zalner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Hello, I am Karen Zalner Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I have experience working with clients who have been involved with child protective services, anxiety, trauma and depression. Therapy varies based on the needs of each client and my approach of being calm and strength based is to work together to accomplish the therapy plan/goals. I have experience with children, teenagers and adults. I focus on work with young adults. CBT and Strength based main approach along with using calming techniques and journaling along the way.
Hello, I am Karen Zalner Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I have experience working with clients who have been involved with child protective services, anxiety, trauma and depression. Therapy varies based on the needs of each client and my approach of being calm and strength based is to work together to accomplish the therapy plan/goals. I have experience with children, teenagers and adults. I focus on work with young adults. CBT and Strength based main approach along with using calming techniques and journaling along the way.
(323) 924-3723 View (323) 924-3723
Photo of Courtney L Ransom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Courtney L Ransom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
Do you suffer from constant anxiety and or panic attacks? Do you have a history of loss, difficult relationships and other traumatic experiences that hurt when you think about them today? Well, you are not alone. Seeking counseling can be an anxious time for many people, yet I believe it can be the start to a positive and productive experience. I believe joining with my clients to create a therapy experience tailored to their individual needs is important. The therapy sessions will be a safe place to gain new skills to help you live a more prosperous and fulfilling life.
Do you suffer from constant anxiety and or panic attacks? Do you have a history of loss, difficult relationships and other traumatic experiences that hurt when you think about them today? Well, you are not alone. Seeking counseling can be an anxious time for many people, yet I believe it can be the start to a positive and productive experience. I believe joining with my clients to create a therapy experience tailored to their individual needs is important. The therapy sessions will be a safe place to gain new skills to help you live a more prosperous and fulfilling life.
(209) 340-9113 View (209) 340-9113
Photo of Baylee Griggs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Baylee Griggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90003
The journey of therapy may not be easy, but as a therapist I hope to provide you with the courage, support, and skills it takes to meet your therapeutic goals. I have experience working with children, young adults and families that have experienced trauma, relationship issues, parenting struggles, depression, and anxiety. To address these difficulties, I utilize an integrative practice approach as every individual has experienced life in their own unique way. I look forward to joining you through this process.
The journey of therapy may not be easy, but as a therapist I hope to provide you with the courage, support, and skills it takes to meet your therapeutic goals. I have experience working with children, young adults and families that have experienced trauma, relationship issues, parenting struggles, depression, and anxiety. To address these difficulties, I utilize an integrative practice approach as every individual has experienced life in their own unique way. I look forward to joining you through this process.
(661) 443-3193 View (661) 443-3193
Photo of Marylee (Mary) Sheppard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Marylee (Mary) Sheppard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
My name is Mary Sheppard and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My overall approach to therapy is person centered, and I believe all individuals are unique and have their own personal values and ideals that can support self fulfillment. My therapeutic approach is heavily influenced by a humanistic theoretical framework. I also work in an integrated systems approach that is solution focused with a heavy emphasis on trauma, adverse childhood experiences, grief and loss and families with inter generational trauma.
My name is Mary Sheppard and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My overall approach to therapy is person centered, and I believe all individuals are unique and have their own personal values and ideals that can support self fulfillment. My therapeutic approach is heavily influenced by a humanistic theoretical framework. I also work in an integrated systems approach that is solution focused with a heavy emphasis on trauma, adverse childhood experiences, grief and loss and families with inter generational trauma.
(323) 406-7386 View (323) 406-7386
Photo of Rachelle Fernandez LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rachelle Fernandez LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90001  (Online Only)
As a therapist I believe in collaborating with clients to help them find their happiness and true self while conquering their mental health in a safe space. My specialties include adoptees, parents of foster/adoptees, early childhood trauma, trauma, depression and anxiety. I use eclectic interventions best suited for you.
As a therapist I believe in collaborating with clients to help them find their happiness and true self while conquering their mental health in a safe space. My specialties include adoptees, parents of foster/adoptees, early childhood trauma, trauma, depression and anxiety. I use eclectic interventions best suited for you.
(909) 317-1301 View (909) 317-1301
Photo of Carol Chung, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Carol Chung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Hello, I’m Carol Chung, and I am a 2nd generation Korean- American. I am fluent in Korean, conversational in Spanish, and learning French. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. I studied abroad at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, and recently earned a certificate from the UCLA Social Emotional Arts Program.
Hello, I’m Carol Chung, and I am a 2nd generation Korean- American. I am fluent in Korean, conversational in Spanish, and learning French. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. I studied abroad at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, and recently earned a certificate from the UCLA Social Emotional Arts Program.
(530) 625-7481 View (530) 625-7481
Photo of Jason Claros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jason Claros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Hi there. My name is Jason Claros. I'm a licensed clinical social worker and I provide tangible clinical intervention and education to anyone looking to achieve social-emotional freedom. In my adult life I've been a pizza delivery guy, collegiate/pro baseball player, marathon runner, wedding singer, social worker, foster care analyst, child abuse investigator, school counselor, olympic weightlifter/coach, CrossFit coach, dog dad, dog uncle ("duncle"), and my greatest achievement this far, a husband.
Hi there. My name is Jason Claros. I'm a licensed clinical social worker and I provide tangible clinical intervention and education to anyone looking to achieve social-emotional freedom. In my adult life I've been a pizza delivery guy, collegiate/pro baseball player, marathon runner, wedding singer, social worker, foster care analyst, child abuse investigator, school counselor, olympic weightlifter/coach, CrossFit coach, dog dad, dog uncle ("duncle"), and my greatest achievement this far, a husband.
(442) 239-4977 View (442) 239-4977
Photo of Colleen Riedell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Colleen Riedell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90008
My name is Colleen Riedell, and I am a marriage and family therapist and I’ve been in practice for over 20 years. I see therapy as an opportunity to have a compassionate ear to listen to and support exploring things you want to change or struggle with. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and the concepts of attachment, addiction, and trauma recovery. I work with couples and individuals. I treat folks struggling with relationship issues, and mood disorders including depression and anxiety, trauma and addiction, and family dysfunction.
My name is Colleen Riedell, and I am a marriage and family therapist and I’ve been in practice for over 20 years. I see therapy as an opportunity to have a compassionate ear to listen to and support exploring things you want to change or struggle with. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and the concepts of attachment, addiction, and trauma recovery. I work with couples and individuals. I treat folks struggling with relationship issues, and mood disorders including depression and anxiety, trauma and addiction, and family dysfunction.
(323) 973-2289 View (323) 973-2289
Photo of Julie Borden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Julie Borden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90023
My name is Julie Borden and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth. My main areas of focus include anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, trauma, stress management, parenting challenges, depression, and communication in relationships.My style and approach are a good fit for adults of all ages who are facing both internal and external challenges. I enjoy helping people with social anxiety build confidence and face the world with greater ease, strategizing with my ADHD clients to improve their focus and conquer overwhelm.
My name is Julie Borden and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth. My main areas of focus include anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, trauma, stress management, parenting challenges, depression, and communication in relationships.My style and approach are a good fit for adults of all ages who are facing both internal and external challenges. I enjoy helping people with social anxiety build confidence and face the world with greater ease, strategizing with my ADHD clients to improve their focus and conquer overwhelm.
(323) 918-4974 View (323) 918-4974

Adoption Therapists

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.