Arab and Middle Eastern Therapists in Los Gatos, CA
With over 25 years of clinical experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in helping adults and couples navigate the complexities of life, stop destructive patterns, and create a meaningful future.
I provide a safe space for couples to explore what's really happening beneath the surface- understanding patterns, rebuilding connection and making informed decisions about their future together.
The middle years of life often bring profound challenges and questions about identity, purpose and what comes next. I work with individuals who are ready to explore these questions deeply and create an authentic life.
With over 25 years of clinical experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in helping adults and couples navigate the complexities of life, stop destructive patterns, and create a meaningful future.
I provide a safe space for couples to explore what's really happening beneath the surface- understanding patterns, rebuilding connection and making informed decisions about their future together.
The middle years of life often bring profound challenges and questions about identity, purpose and what comes next. I work with individuals who are ready to explore these questions deeply and create an authentic life.
Humanistic Psychology. Clinical. Existential. Keeping clarity of mind can be a challenge. Yet if you know how to work with your mind using the tools of breath, it can totally change your life from havoc and stress to smooth happiness. You owe it to yourself to try the breath methods that insure stability in your life. I am a certified breath meditation trainer, with many years of personal, and teaching experience. I help persons of every age, having taught and counseled college, elementary, adolescents, high school ,and adults. My scope of knowledge is wide, and diverse in global cultures and methods.
Humanistic Psychology. Clinical. Existential. Keeping clarity of mind can be a challenge. Yet if you know how to work with your mind using the tools of breath, it can totally change your life from havoc and stress to smooth happiness. You owe it to yourself to try the breath methods that insure stability in your life. I am a certified breath meditation trainer, with many years of personal, and teaching experience. I help persons of every age, having taught and counseled college, elementary, adolescents, high school ,and adults. My scope of knowledge is wide, and diverse in global cultures and methods.
Are you struggling or feeling dissatisfied with your current relationships, career or social life? Wondering if these situations (or you?) can possibly feel better ? Do feel that you have made a lot of efforts but they either aren't working or people don't deem to recognize your efforts? Or maybe it's even worse and something bad has happened or you simply and you no longer feel like trying anymore and or not sure if you know what you want anymore....
Are you struggling or feeling dissatisfied with your current relationships, career or social life? Wondering if these situations (or you?) can possibly feel better ? Do feel that you have made a lot of efforts but they either aren't working or people don't deem to recognize your efforts? Or maybe it's even worse and something bad has happened or you simply and you no longer feel like trying anymore and or not sure if you know what you want anymore....
Are you someone who understands your patterns but still can’t seem to stop them? Maybe you replay conversations for hours, overthink every decision, or constantly second-guess yourself. You may feel emotionally overwhelmed or exhausted by your own thoughts, frustrated that even when you understand why you do it, the spiraling still doesn’t stop. Underneath it all, you might quietly carry the feeling that you’re “too much,” a burden to others, or never fully secure in yourself.
Are you someone who understands your patterns but still can’t seem to stop them? Maybe you replay conversations for hours, overthink every decision, or constantly second-guess yourself. You may feel emotionally overwhelmed or exhausted by your own thoughts, frustrated that even when you understand why you do it, the spiraling still doesn’t stop. Underneath it all, you might quietly carry the feeling that you’re “too much,” a burden to others, or never fully secure in yourself.
I understand that each and every one of us are unique individuals; complex and ever-changing, often affected by family, relationships, work, stress, and even spiritual dynamics. With this is mind, I do my best to create a treatment plan that is as unique as you are. If you feel like we could be a good fit, don’t hesitate to reach out!
I understand that each and every one of us are unique individuals; complex and ever-changing, often affected by family, relationships, work, stress, and even spiritual dynamics. With this is mind, I do my best to create a treatment plan that is as unique as you are. If you feel like we could be a good fit, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Another sleepless night… your mind pulling you in every direction and wonder why you’re not living your best life. Feeling off course because you’ve chosen or landed on the wrong path? Every day is another marathon on the hamster wheel, leaving you so exhausted that even the small things feel overwhelming. You’re tired and weary, but your commitment to bettering the lives of everyone else around you somehow keeps you going. You know you can’t go on like this much longer. You’re drifting further and further from your true self, and you can’t stay stuck in this life that doesn’t even feel like your own. Something’s got to give!
Another sleepless night… your mind pulling you in every direction and wonder why you’re not living your best life. Feeling off course because you’ve chosen or landed on the wrong path? Every day is another marathon on the hamster wheel, leaving you so exhausted that even the small things feel overwhelming. You’re tired and weary, but your commitment to bettering the lives of everyone else around you somehow keeps you going. You know you can’t go on like this much longer. You’re drifting further and further from your true self, and you can’t stay stuck in this life that doesn’t even feel like your own. Something’s got to give!
As a psychology professional with extensive experience providing therapy and conducting psychological evaluations, I specialize in therapy services for depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, PTSD, and personality disorders, as well as diagnostic evaluations for many psychological conditions. My evaluations are thorough, individualized, and designed to provide meaningful answers, not just a diagnosis. Together, we explore your unique strengths, challenges, and patterns to develop a treatment plan that fits your life.
For therapy clients, I provide an integrative client-centered approach using science-based methods and modalities.
As a psychology professional with extensive experience providing therapy and conducting psychological evaluations, I specialize in therapy services for depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, PTSD, and personality disorders, as well as diagnostic evaluations for many psychological conditions. My evaluations are thorough, individualized, and designed to provide meaningful answers, not just a diagnosis. Together, we explore your unique strengths, challenges, and patterns to develop a treatment plan that fits your life.
For therapy clients, I provide an integrative client-centered approach using science-based methods and modalities.
Often, the wounds of our past, particularly those from childhood, can resurface in our lives, manifesting as isolation and fear. My goal is to create a safe space for you, a place where you can feel secure and understood, and equip you with the tools to heal these tender parts. I work with individual adults, teens, couples, and families, focusing on communication, conflict resolution, trauma, identity formation, anxiety, and depression. I also work with couples who are navigating fears and reservations around emotional and physical intimacy. I welcome clients who wish to incorporate Christian faith into their therapy.
Often, the wounds of our past, particularly those from childhood, can resurface in our lives, manifesting as isolation and fear. My goal is to create a safe space for you, a place where you can feel secure and understood, and equip you with the tools to heal these tender parts. I work with individual adults, teens, couples, and families, focusing on communication, conflict resolution, trauma, identity formation, anxiety, and depression. I also work with couples who are navigating fears and reservations around emotional and physical intimacy. I welcome clients who wish to incorporate Christian faith into their therapy.
More Therapists Nearby
Maybe you've spent so much of your life becoming who everyone else needed you to be that you've forgotten what it feels like to simply be yourself. You may look like you're holding it all together, yet something inside still feels disconnected, heavy, or missing.
Maybe you've spent so much of your life becoming who everyone else needed you to be that you've forgotten what it feels like to simply be yourself. You may look like you're holding it all together, yet something inside still feels disconnected, heavy, or missing.
My name is Jilla Lavian. I am a licensed clinical social worker based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I use a variety of approaches in my work depending on the needs of my clients including client-centered cognitive behavioral with psychodynamic perspective and mindfulness. I work with adults from ages 18 to 100 on a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I am also trained as a transformational life coach.
My name is Jilla Lavian. I am a licensed clinical social worker based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I use a variety of approaches in my work depending on the needs of my clients including client-centered cognitive behavioral with psychodynamic perspective and mindfulness. I work with adults from ages 18 to 100 on a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I am also trained as a transformational life coach.
Welcome to all of you. I am primarily trained in health psychology, working with those hoping to harmonize their body and mind benefiting from alternative and integrative initiatives. I am comfortable treating issues of dual realities: behaviors; bipolar disorder; death; hyphenated/intersectional identities; inter/multi-generational traumas; relationships (children/parents, couples, blended families, siblings); life transitions and personal journeys of assimilation, breakup, borders crossing, conversion, displacement, divorce, migration, sobriety and transitioning - all great examples of the incredible power of human transformation.
Welcome to all of you. I am primarily trained in health psychology, working with those hoping to harmonize their body and mind benefiting from alternative and integrative initiatives. I am comfortable treating issues of dual realities: behaviors; bipolar disorder; death; hyphenated/intersectional identities; inter/multi-generational traumas; relationships (children/parents, couples, blended families, siblings); life transitions and personal journeys of assimilation, breakup, borders crossing, conversion, displacement, divorce, migration, sobriety and transitioning - all great examples of the incredible power of human transformation.
My passion aligns with and is specialized towards individuals who are diagnosed with chronic illnesses, have health concerns, and/or receive life-altering diagnoses. I have experience working with many modalities. I am a health psychologist and completed my practicum, internship, and postdoctoral training in primary care psychology/health settings. I also have training and work experience as an oncology psychologist working with initial diagnosis, navigating chemotherapy, and fear of recurrence.
My passion aligns with and is specialized towards individuals who are diagnosed with chronic illnesses, have health concerns, and/or receive life-altering diagnoses. I have experience working with many modalities. I am a health psychologist and completed my practicum, internship, and postdoctoral training in primary care psychology/health settings. I also have training and work experience as an oncology psychologist working with initial diagnosis, navigating chemotherapy, and fear of recurrence.
For three decades I have been honored to be trusted mental health Coach . I have worked at private practice and mental health hospital. My skills ( education and experience) grounded in Science and Compassion. It is uncommon to feel frustration and hopeless about the way things are. Often Anxiety or Depression goes hand in hand with other emotions such as Anger , low self esteem , grief and not sleeping well. Together , we will explore supportive guidelines to thrive you in fulfillment of life.
For three decades I have been honored to be trusted mental health Coach . I have worked at private practice and mental health hospital. My skills ( education and experience) grounded in Science and Compassion. It is uncommon to feel frustration and hopeless about the way things are. Often Anxiety or Depression goes hand in hand with other emotions such as Anger , low self esteem , grief and not sleeping well. Together , we will explore supportive guidelines to thrive you in fulfillment of life.
Tubanur Celik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Waitlist for new clients
We all have strengths that make us unique, but at times, life’s challenges can cloud our ability to recognize them. Whether you're feeling stuck in relationships, struggling with self-worth, or healing from past wounds, it is possible to reconnect with your true self. I've experience working with couples and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds, including individuals from marginalized communities and those navigating the complexities of identity, belonging, and life transitions. I'm passionate about providing a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your emotions, gain clarity, and move toward healing.
We all have strengths that make us unique, but at times, life’s challenges can cloud our ability to recognize them. Whether you're feeling stuck in relationships, struggling with self-worth, or healing from past wounds, it is possible to reconnect with your true self. I've experience working with couples and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds, including individuals from marginalized communities and those navigating the complexities of identity, belonging, and life transitions. I'm passionate about providing a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your emotions, gain clarity, and move toward healing.
LIfe is challenging for anyone living on earth, emotional chaos, wanting to have a safe place to connect with each other and people around us, deal with partners, children, extended families, how to learn and hold on to enjoyment in life even with experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression or other illnesses.
LIfe is challenging for anyone living on earth, emotional chaos, wanting to have a safe place to connect with each other and people around us, deal with partners, children, extended families, how to learn and hold on to enjoyment in life even with experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression or other illnesses.
Feeling stuck with traditional therapy? Have you been in therapy for years with little progress? At Silvi Integrative Health, we believe true healing comes from treating the whole person. Our integrative psychotherapy approach addresses the body, mind, spirit, and social connections of every individual we work with. This holistic method often leads to quicker results and breakthroughs in achieving goals that seemed unattainable before. Our compassionate team of therapists is dedicated to helping you thrive and live your best life.
Feeling stuck with traditional therapy? Have you been in therapy for years with little progress? At Silvi Integrative Health, we believe true healing comes from treating the whole person. Our integrative psychotherapy approach addresses the body, mind, spirit, and social connections of every individual we work with. This holistic method often leads to quicker results and breakthroughs in achieving goals that seemed unattainable before. Our compassionate team of therapists is dedicated to helping you thrive and live your best life.
My name is Karam Skaf and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist )license number 150726). I have worked with school-based children ( K-12), Educated Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS), families, couples, groups, and individual clients. I have also worked with clients who struggle with addictions (substance and alcohol), depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. I would like to work with clients who are currently struggling with anxiety, and self-esteem issues, adolescents, couples, and the older population.
My name is Karam Skaf and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist )license number 150726). I have worked with school-based children ( K-12), Educated Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS), families, couples, groups, and individual clients. I have also worked with clients who struggle with addictions (substance and alcohol), depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. I would like to work with clients who are currently struggling with anxiety, and self-esteem issues, adolescents, couples, and the older population.
On the outside, you might look like you're doing well. You juggle work, responsibilities, and people in your life. But internally, you might be feeling anxious, burned out, overthinking, struggling with the same relationship issues over and over again.
Therapy is a place to slow down and figure out what’s going on. Together, we look at your patterns (how you think, react, and feel) and identify what’s helping and what’s getting in your way. Then we can get to work on practical changes so you feel more clear, intentional, and in control of your life.
On the outside, you might look like you're doing well. You juggle work, responsibilities, and people in your life. But internally, you might be feeling anxious, burned out, overthinking, struggling with the same relationship issues over and over again.
Therapy is a place to slow down and figure out what’s going on. Together, we look at your patterns (how you think, react, and feel) and identify what’s helping and what’s getting in your way. Then we can get to work on practical changes so you feel more clear, intentional, and in control of your life.
I’m Dr. Abu-Rus, a clinical psychologist available to see patients anywhere in California. I know reaching out for therapy can feel strange—like acknowledging something’s wrong when you’ve spent so much energy trying to hold it together. As a mom, USAF Veteran, and psychologist, I work with people navigating trauma, new parenthood, or depression that doesn’t always make sense on the surface. You might feel irritable, numb, anxious, or unsure of who you are anymore. You’re not too much. You’re not broken. And you don’t have to carry this alone. Updated as of 08/13/26
I’m Dr. Abu-Rus, a clinical psychologist available to see patients anywhere in California. I know reaching out for therapy can feel strange—like acknowledging something’s wrong when you’ve spent so much energy trying to hold it together. As a mom, USAF Veteran, and psychologist, I work with people navigating trauma, new parenthood, or depression that doesn’t always make sense on the surface. You might feel irritable, numb, anxious, or unsure of who you are anymore. You’re not too much. You’re not broken. And you don’t have to carry this alone. Updated as of 08/13/26
My name is Beyza, my pronouns are she/her. As the eldest daughter in an immigrant family, I understand the quiet exhaustion of being “the responsible one.” The one who held it all together, translated between parents and siblings, kept the peace, got the grades, and rarely disappointed anyone—even when it cost you connection with yourself. Many of my clients grew up being the mediator, the caretaker, or the achiever, only to find that their needs were overlooked and their anger misunderstood. Beneath the calm exterior, they often carry deep grief and unspoken rage that no one seems to notice.
My name is Beyza, my pronouns are she/her. As the eldest daughter in an immigrant family, I understand the quiet exhaustion of being “the responsible one.” The one who held it all together, translated between parents and siblings, kept the peace, got the grades, and rarely disappointed anyone—even when it cost you connection with yourself. Many of my clients grew up being the mediator, the caretaker, or the achiever, only to find that their needs were overlooked and their anger misunderstood. Beneath the calm exterior, they often carry deep grief and unspoken rage that no one seems to notice.
See more therapy options for Los Gatos
Nearby Arab and Middle Eastern Therapists Searches for Los Gatos
- Atherton
- Campbell
- Cupertino
- Fremont
- Los Altos
- Menlo Park
- Mountain View
- Palo Alto
- San Jose
- Santa Clara
- Santa Cruz
- Sunnyvale
FAQ - Arab and Middle Eastern Counseling
What can an Arab and Middle Eastern therapist help with?
An Arab and Middle Eastern therapist can support clients with a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief, and major life transitions. However, what may make their approach unique is their ability to integrate an understanding of the cultural, family, and social factors that may be shaping your mental health concerns. If you identify with a Middle Eastern background, such as Arab, North African, Lebanese, Syrian, Iraqi, or Palestinian, working with a therapist who is familiar with values surrounding family loyalty, community expectations, religion, marriage, and caregiving responsibilities can help reduce the need to explain yourself in sessions and better support your healing in the context of your background.
How does cultural background influence the therapy experience?
A therapist who personally identifies as Arab or Middle Eastern may offer a deeper understanding of cultural norms, family dynamics, religious beliefs, migration experiences, and the stigma that may surround mental health in some communities. This shared cultural framework can make it easier to build trust and focus more directly on healing. It is also important to note that a therapist does not have to share your background to provide effective therapy. In some cases, finding a culturally competent therapist may be just as important as finding one who shares your background.
What role can language play in therapy?
Language plays a central role in how people process and express emotions. Even for individuals who are fluent in English, certain feelings, memories, or experiences may be easier to describe in the language they grew up speaking or thinking in, such as Arabic, Farsi, Hebrew, Kurdish, or Turkish. Clients may feel more comfortable expressing themselves without having to translate their thoughts, which can reduce the risk of losing meaning or nuance. For many Arab and Middle Eastern clients, language is also closely tied to family relationships. Being able to move between English and your native language in therapy can help reflect real-life dynamics, such as communicating with family members in one language and navigating work or school in another. This flexibility to move between languages in sessions can make therapy feel more natural and relevant to daily life.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience with Arab and Middle Eastern clients?
If cultural background is important to you in therapy, it can be helpful to ask a prospective therapist whether they have experience working with Arab and Middle Eastern clients. In initial conversations with potential therapists, you might ask whether they have worked with concerns related to cultural identity, immigration, family expectations, intergenerational conflict, discrimination, or stigma around mental health. As sessions begin, it can be helpful to notice how the therapist responds to your concerns. A strong therapeutic alliance does not necessarily require a therapist to share your background, but they should respond to your concerns with respect and cultural humility. If you feel dismissed, misunderstood, or find yourself having to explain your background constantly, it may be worth considering another therapist.
Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Arab and Middle Eastern therapists?
The directory of Arab and Middle Eastern therapists includes professionals who have shared their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profiles, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists who have personally identified as Arab or Middle Eastern is limited, the directory may also show therapists with experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.


