Therapists in Pasadena, CA
I’m an LMFT and Art Therapist who believes real change begins with understanding yourself more fully—your emotions, experiences, and the patterns that shape your life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected from yourself/others, I’ll help you untangle what’s going on and guide you back toward a sense of clarity and alignment. I specialize in working with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Autism, chronic illness, and addiction.
I’m an LMFT and Art Therapist who believes real change begins with understanding yourself more fully—your emotions, experiences, and the patterns that shape your life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected from yourself/others, I’ll help you untangle what’s going on and guide you back toward a sense of clarity and alignment. I specialize in working with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Autism, chronic illness, and addiction.
Life can be extremely challenging. In response, we develop coping mechanisms that work in the moment, but that ultimately hinder our ability to connect with ourselves and others in a healthy way. With my clients, we identify destructive/productive learned behaviors. We practice new ways of interacting and work through past and present struggles, regaining the ability to feel calm, love, and joy! Some of the issues I treat are anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, addiction, and narcissism (stemming from trauma). I work with adults and couples in various stages of life (marriage, new parents, divorce, midlife, etc.).
Life can be extremely challenging. In response, we develop coping mechanisms that work in the moment, but that ultimately hinder our ability to connect with ourselves and others in a healthy way. With my clients, we identify destructive/productive learned behaviors. We practice new ways of interacting and work through past and present struggles, regaining the ability to feel calm, love, and joy! Some of the issues I treat are anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, addiction, and narcissism (stemming from trauma). I work with adults and couples in various stages of life (marriage, new parents, divorce, midlife, etc.).
Are you or a loved one struggling to cope with ongoing life stressors? Does your brain sometimes feel overwhelmed, like it’s moving a million miles a minute and you just can’t seem to slow it down? Maybe you’ve felt like you’re not enough and/or too much, and have had difficulty feeling fully connected with others at times. Maybe you’ve also struggled with things like perfectionism, people-pleasing, and/or feeling frozen in action despite wanting so badly to get things done. If any of this sounds familiar, you are not alone, and I’m here to help guide you in your healing journey in a safe, collaborative, and compassionate space.
Are you or a loved one struggling to cope with ongoing life stressors? Does your brain sometimes feel overwhelmed, like it’s moving a million miles a minute and you just can’t seem to slow it down? Maybe you’ve felt like you’re not enough and/or too much, and have had difficulty feeling fully connected with others at times. Maybe you’ve also struggled with things like perfectionism, people-pleasing, and/or feeling frozen in action despite wanting so badly to get things done. If any of this sounds familiar, you are not alone, and I’m here to help guide you in your healing journey in a safe, collaborative, and compassionate space.
From the outside, it may look like you have everything together—but inside, you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stretched too thin. I work with high-achieving professionals and parents juggling demanding careers, putting others first, and relationship stress. You may feel constantly “on,” disconnected from your loved ones, or wondering why success still feels empty.
As a former attorney and recovering perfectionist, I understand burnout. Therapy with me is a space where we can slow things down, understand the patterns keeping you stuck, and help you feel more grounded, present, and connected in your daily life.
From the outside, it may look like you have everything together—but inside, you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stretched too thin. I work with high-achieving professionals and parents juggling demanding careers, putting others first, and relationship stress. You may feel constantly “on,” disconnected from your loved ones, or wondering why success still feels empty.
As a former attorney and recovering perfectionist, I understand burnout. Therapy with me is a space where we can slow things down, understand the patterns keeping you stuck, and help you feel more grounded, present, and connected in your daily life.
Significant events—both past and present—can influence our sense of safety and narrow choices we believe we have. If you’re feeling stuck or wanting to move beyond familiar patterns, we can take the time to explore alternative pathways and possibilities.
I view therapy as a vehicle for making meaningful changes and a space to explore your thoughts and feelings with support. By understanding your history and gently examining the thoughts, habits, and emotional patterns that no longer serve you, we can work together to cultivate new ways of navigating challenging circumstances and emotions.
Significant events—both past and present—can influence our sense of safety and narrow choices we believe we have. If you’re feeling stuck or wanting to move beyond familiar patterns, we can take the time to explore alternative pathways and possibilities.
I view therapy as a vehicle for making meaningful changes and a space to explore your thoughts and feelings with support. By understanding your history and gently examining the thoughts, habits, and emotional patterns that no longer serve you, we can work together to cultivate new ways of navigating challenging circumstances and emotions.
Are you longing for more freedom — in your own skin and in your relationships?
Maybe you’re caught in a cycle of striving for “better” and “more,” yet still feeling like you’re not quite enough. Or you find yourself constantly putting others first, only to end up anxious and empty.
These patterns often have deep roots. Many of us learned early on how to keep the peace, earn love, or stay safe in our families — and those survival strategies made sense at the time. But what once protected us can quietly run our lives well into adulthood, showing up as anxiety, burnout, people pleasing, and a yearning for change.
Are you longing for more freedom — in your own skin and in your relationships?
Maybe you’re caught in a cycle of striving for “better” and “more,” yet still feeling like you’re not quite enough. Or you find yourself constantly putting others first, only to end up anxious and empty.
These patterns often have deep roots. Many of us learned early on how to keep the peace, earn love, or stay safe in our families — and those survival strategies made sense at the time. But what once protected us can quietly run our lives well into adulthood, showing up as anxiety, burnout, people pleasing, and a yearning for change.
Do you find yourself struggling after experiencing a loss? You may feel you will never be ok again. Or are you facing a difficult life transition and feel stuck or overwhelmed? Oftentimes, an internal conflict is at play, where your heart and head are not aligned. We often know something must change in our lives but don't know where to start. I can help you through these uncertain times, with the goal of not just getting though, but even thriving on the other side. I want to help you access the strengths, resilience, and coping skills needed to overcome losses and experience personal growth in times of change.
Do you find yourself struggling after experiencing a loss? You may feel you will never be ok again. Or are you facing a difficult life transition and feel stuck or overwhelmed? Oftentimes, an internal conflict is at play, where your heart and head are not aligned. We often know something must change in our lives but don't know where to start. I can help you through these uncertain times, with the goal of not just getting though, but even thriving on the other side. I want to help you access the strengths, resilience, and coping skills needed to overcome losses and experience personal growth in times of change.
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
Sometimes life can leave you feeling depressed, anxious, confused, or stuck. You're doing the best you can and you don't know what else to do. You are not alone. I am here to help you. Therapy is my passion, and a way for you to explore and better connect with your authentic self. I am committed to supporting you in achieving your goals and empowering you in achieving a fulfilled and meaningful quality of life.
Sometimes life can leave you feeling depressed, anxious, confused, or stuck. You're doing the best you can and you don't know what else to do. You are not alone. I am here to help you. Therapy is my passion, and a way for you to explore and better connect with your authentic self. I am committed to supporting you in achieving your goals and empowering you in achieving a fulfilled and meaningful quality of life.
I bring to the treatment setting over thirty years of experience as a licensed psychotherapist , first working with families and children who have experienced trauma, then as a graduate psychoanalyst with expertise in recognizing and treating unconscious patterns that play out in current relationships and behaviors. Every situation is unique, and difficult problems must be deeply understood to effect lasting change. Together we will identify and work through the underlying dynamics that contribute to your current concerns. Psychodynamic work is beneficial for those who have an interest in, and a capacity for, self-reflection and personal growth.
I bring to the treatment setting over thirty years of experience as a licensed psychotherapist , first working with families and children who have experienced trauma, then as a graduate psychoanalyst with expertise in recognizing and treating unconscious patterns that play out in current relationships and behaviors. Every situation is unique, and difficult problems must be deeply understood to effect lasting change. Together we will identify and work through the underlying dynamics that contribute to your current concerns. Psychodynamic work is beneficial for those who have an interest in, and a capacity for, self-reflection and personal growth.
My ideal client faces challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive, empathetic environment to openly discuss their feelings. Their goals include developing coping strategies, improving mental health, and building stronger relationships. They want to feel more positive and empowered, equipped with tools to manage emotions and navigate life's challenges. They seek therapy for personal growth, emotional stability, and compassionate guidance to achieve their therapy goals.
My ideal client faces challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive, empathetic environment to openly discuss their feelings. Their goals include developing coping strategies, improving mental health, and building stronger relationships. They want to feel more positive and empowered, equipped with tools to manage emotions and navigate life's challenges. They seek therapy for personal growth, emotional stability, and compassionate guidance to achieve their therapy goals.
Robin Starkey Harpster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Pasadena, CA 91101
Not accepting new clients
Along the journey of life we encounter many challenges, transitions, and unexpected circumstances. Sometimes we handle these bumps and detours with ease and grace, and others we experience overwhelming sadness, pain, loss, and anger. Other times we feel stuck and dissatisfied, but too crippled by fear to move forward. It is my belief that hidden among these dark and difficult times, lie beautiful gifts of insight and possibility. Psychotherapy is a tool that can assist you in confronting the discomfort to open the door to a lifetime of satisfaction and joy.
Along the journey of life we encounter many challenges, transitions, and unexpected circumstances. Sometimes we handle these bumps and detours with ease and grace, and others we experience overwhelming sadness, pain, loss, and anger. Other times we feel stuck and dissatisfied, but too crippled by fear to move forward. It is my belief that hidden among these dark and difficult times, lie beautiful gifts of insight and possibility. Psychotherapy is a tool that can assist you in confronting the discomfort to open the door to a lifetime of satisfaction and joy.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples usually on a once a week meeting schedule. Although twice a week is available, as well as emergency meetings. I treat depression, anxiety, couples communication, high functioning Autism, conflict resolution and others.
My frame of reference is both Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, whichever or both, that will lead to the client becoming their authentic self. This usually entails integrating the individual’s goals and aspirations with the issues that limit progress toward those goals.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples usually on a once a week meeting schedule. Although twice a week is available, as well as emergency meetings. I treat depression, anxiety, couples communication, high functioning Autism, conflict resolution and others.
My frame of reference is both Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, whichever or both, that will lead to the client becoming their authentic self. This usually entails integrating the individual’s goals and aspirations with the issues that limit progress toward those goals.
My work is grounded in understanding how our past affects the way we show up in the world today, specifically in our connection with others. Whether you’re struggling with communication in your relationships, dealing with the impact of past trauma, or just feeling disconnected from yourself, I’m here to help.
My work is grounded in understanding how our past affects the way we show up in the world today, specifically in our connection with others. Whether you’re struggling with communication in your relationships, dealing with the impact of past trauma, or just feeling disconnected from yourself, I’m here to help.
You've listened to podcasts and read the self-help books, but something feels missing. You're looking for a space to connect what you've learned with your lived experiences, and to get unstuck, and lead a life of intention and values. You'd like to improve the relationships in your life, and feel better about yourself as you understand and choose patterns of responding to stressors and thoughts and feelings in your day to day life. Welcome to my page!
You've listened to podcasts and read the self-help books, but something feels missing. You're looking for a space to connect what you've learned with your lived experiences, and to get unstuck, and lead a life of intention and values. You'd like to improve the relationships in your life, and feel better about yourself as you understand and choose patterns of responding to stressors and thoughts and feelings in your day to day life. Welcome to my page!
As a therapist, I am centered on you. I want to understand what you’re going through so we can work through it together. I take a kind but firm approach, acknowledging the difficulties while expressing confidence in your ability to overcome them. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, based on your preferences.
As a therapist, I am centered on you. I want to understand what you’re going through so we can work through it together. I take a kind but firm approach, acknowledging the difficulties while expressing confidence in your ability to overcome them. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, based on your preferences.
With over 20 years clinical experience, I specialize in providing treatment tailored for individuals and couples who recognize that there is something interfering with their ability to function or enjoy their daily life. Utilizing a variety of techniques, I help my patients identify their immediate needs and their long-term goals. I work with both the first-time therapy patient as well as with those that have experience in the therapeutic process. I believe that we desire purpose and connection. I assist in exploring life's choices to improve clarity, relationships and an overall state of well-being.
With over 20 years clinical experience, I specialize in providing treatment tailored for individuals and couples who recognize that there is something interfering with their ability to function or enjoy their daily life. Utilizing a variety of techniques, I help my patients identify their immediate needs and their long-term goals. I work with both the first-time therapy patient as well as with those that have experience in the therapeutic process. I believe that we desire purpose and connection. I assist in exploring life's choices to improve clarity, relationships and an overall state of well-being.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just tired of carrying things the same way, and not fully sure why. A lot of people come in thinking they are doing something wrong, when there is usually an underlying pattern that actually makes sense. I work with individuals, teens, and families navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, and long-standing emotional patterns. My role is to help you understand what is happening underneath the surface, so things begin to make more sense and feel more manageable.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just tired of carrying things the same way, and not fully sure why. A lot of people come in thinking they are doing something wrong, when there is usually an underlying pattern that actually makes sense. I work with individuals, teens, and families navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, and long-standing emotional patterns. My role is to help you understand what is happening underneath the surface, so things begin to make more sense and feel more manageable.
Kelli Nielsen, LPCC, helps children, teens, and adults across California navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and emotional balance. At LifeStance Health, she provides individual therapy for individuals facing anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns. Kelli approaches therapy as a collaborative and supportive process, creating a safe space where clients feel heard while working toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Kelli Nielsen, LPCC, helps children, teens, and adults across California navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and emotional balance. At LifeStance Health, she provides individual therapy for individuals facing anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns. Kelli approaches therapy as a collaborative and supportive process, creating a safe space where clients feel heard while working toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Entering therapy can feel vulnerable, but it is also a meaningful step toward lasting emotional ease. When relationships, life circumstances, or ongoing responsibilities leave you feeling off balance, it may show up as anxiety, exhaustion, loneliness, or a sense of disconnection from yourself and others. Outwardly, your life may appear successful and well managed, yet privately you may be carrying burdens that few people see. Together, we can make sense of what lies beneath the surface and find relief from persistent inner tension.
Entering therapy can feel vulnerable, but it is also a meaningful step toward lasting emotional ease. When relationships, life circumstances, or ongoing responsibilities leave you feeling off balance, it may show up as anxiety, exhaustion, loneliness, or a sense of disconnection from yourself and others. Outwardly, your life may appear successful and well managed, yet privately you may be carrying burdens that few people see. Together, we can make sense of what lies beneath the surface and find relief from persistent inner tension.
See more therapy options for Pasadena
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Pasadena, CA
2,000+
Average cost per session
$181
Therapists in Pasadena, CA who prioritize treating:
| 91% | Anxiety |
| 91% | Social Anxiety |
| 91% | Health Anxiety |
| 91% | Driving Anxiety |
| 85% | Depression |
| 75% | Relationship Issues |
| 72% | Relationship Anxiety |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 88% | Aetna |
| 68% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 57% | Anthem |
How Therapists in Pasadena, CA see their clients
| 54% | In Person and Online | |
| 46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 78% | Female | |
| 21% | Male | |
| 1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Pasadena?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.