Therapists in North Central, Pasadena, CA
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma? Maybe you’re navigating big life changes, complicated relationships, or working to heal after the painful impact of a narcissistic relationship. It can be hard to know where to start, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I work with adults who are exploring who they are, whether that’s making sense of past experiences, untangling relationship patterns, or finding clarity in the middle of life’s messiness.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma? Maybe you’re navigating big life changes, complicated relationships, or working to heal after the painful impact of a narcissistic relationship. It can be hard to know where to start, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I work with adults who are exploring who they are, whether that’s making sense of past experiences, untangling relationship patterns, or finding clarity in the middle of life’s messiness.
If you're exhausted from trying to fit into systems that weren't built for how you think or feel, you're not alone. Whether you're navigating neurodivergence on your own or within a relationship, you may find yourself stuck in cycles of burnout, shame, anxiety, or disconnection shaped by high expectations, masking, or a lifelong struggle to feel safe being yourself.
I work with neurodivergent individuals and couples including mixed neurotype relationships who are ready to stop performing and start healing. I offer a space where you can unmask, be authentic, and finally feel understood.
If you're exhausted from trying to fit into systems that weren't built for how you think or feel, you're not alone. Whether you're navigating neurodivergence on your own or within a relationship, you may find yourself stuck in cycles of burnout, shame, anxiety, or disconnection shaped by high expectations, masking, or a lifelong struggle to feel safe being yourself.
I work with neurodivergent individuals and couples including mixed neurotype relationships who are ready to stop performing and start healing. I offer a space where you can unmask, be authentic, and finally feel understood.
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
Ryleeanne Gutierrez
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
1 Endorsed
North Central, Pasadena, CA 91103
Are you a teen, young adult, or couple feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, relationship struggles, or life transitions? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that no longer serve you—like people-pleasing, self-doubt, or emotional shutdowns?
Are you longing for deeper connection, greater clarity, and practical tools to manage your emotions? Do you want to feel more confident in who you are, build healthier relationships, and navigate life with more ease and self-trust—but aren’t sure where to start?
Are you a teen, young adult, or couple feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, relationship struggles, or life transitions? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that no longer serve you—like people-pleasing, self-doubt, or emotional shutdowns?
Are you longing for deeper connection, greater clarity, and practical tools to manage your emotions? Do you want to feel more confident in who you are, build healthier relationships, and navigate life with more ease and self-trust—but aren’t sure where to start?
You always say “I’m fine”... even though deep down, you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You’re scared to reach out for help, worried that you’re broken or “crazy.” Though your childhood was great and things seem fine on paper, it feels like a dark cloud is hanging over you. You wonder, “Why can’t I just be happy?” Something meaningful in your life is not working. You want to feel happier, calmer, and more in control of your life. You are welcome here. As a therapist in Pasadena, California, I help adults, adolescents, families, and couples who are overwhelmed, anxious, or facing a major life transition.
You always say “I’m fine”... even though deep down, you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You’re scared to reach out for help, worried that you’re broken or “crazy.” Though your childhood was great and things seem fine on paper, it feels like a dark cloud is hanging over you. You wonder, “Why can’t I just be happy?” Something meaningful in your life is not working. You want to feel happier, calmer, and more in control of your life. You are welcome here. As a therapist in Pasadena, California, I help adults, adolescents, families, and couples who are overwhelmed, anxious, or facing a major life transition.
Do you ever feel like you’re caught in the same patterns, making progress only to slide back again? You work hard, care for others, and take on many responsibilities. But lately, keeping everything together feels exhausting. Between work, family, and relationships, it’s easy to feel stuck, drained, or disconnected from the life you truly want.
Finding balance isn’t always enough. You might be craving clarity, direction, and a sense of purpose. Therapy offers a space to explore what’s holding you back and build the confidence and tools to make choices that feel right for you.
Do you ever feel like you’re caught in the same patterns, making progress only to slide back again? You work hard, care for others, and take on many responsibilities. But lately, keeping everything together feels exhausting. Between work, family, and relationships, it’s easy to feel stuck, drained, or disconnected from the life you truly want.
Finding balance isn’t always enough. You might be craving clarity, direction, and a sense of purpose. Therapy offers a space to explore what’s holding you back and build the confidence and tools to make choices that feel right for you.
I have been using the Gottman Method in couples therapy to successfully transform romantic relationships for 11+ years. This method is based on extensive research on what tools "master couples" use to have successful relationships. I have seen this method turn around relationships again and again, even when the couple had lost all hope for a better future. I will ask you to work hard to achieve this success, but I will be there every step of the way to support you. I know taking this step can seem scary, but your relationship is worth it!
I have been using the Gottman Method in couples therapy to successfully transform romantic relationships for 11+ years. This method is based on extensive research on what tools "master couples" use to have successful relationships. I have seen this method turn around relationships again and again, even when the couple had lost all hope for a better future. I will ask you to work hard to achieve this success, but I will be there every step of the way to support you. I know taking this step can seem scary, but your relationship is worth it!
Sometimes life looks fine on the outside, but inside it feels confusing or heavy. You might feel disconnected from yourself, unsure of what you want, or tired of trying to be okay when you’re not. Many of the people I work with, especially Asian American adults and children of immigrants, carry quiet stories of pressure, loss, and longing. Others come in simply because life feels off and they’re ready to understand why. You don’t have to figure it out alone. As an Asian American therapist and child of immigrants, I understand the tension of moving between cultures, expectations, and different versions of yourself.
Sometimes life looks fine on the outside, but inside it feels confusing or heavy. You might feel disconnected from yourself, unsure of what you want, or tired of trying to be okay when you’re not. Many of the people I work with, especially Asian American adults and children of immigrants, carry quiet stories of pressure, loss, and longing. Others come in simply because life feels off and they’re ready to understand why. You don’t have to figure it out alone. As an Asian American therapist and child of immigrants, I understand the tension of moving between cultures, expectations, and different versions of yourself.
Does it feel like you've been hiding yourself from your closest people, yearning to be understood but feeling like nobody can? It feels hard to trust anyone can be there for you, which just drives the loneliness and isolation further. There's so much shame, it's paralyzing. You may even know your patterns but can't help repeating them. Ultimately, all you want is to be loved and connected with others, especially your loved ones.
Does it feel like you've been hiding yourself from your closest people, yearning to be understood but feeling like nobody can? It feels hard to trust anyone can be there for you, which just drives the loneliness and isolation further. There's so much shame, it's paralyzing. You may even know your patterns but can't help repeating them. Ultimately, all you want is to be loved and connected with others, especially your loved ones.
Have you ever been lost in a dark forest? You may have felt helpless, out of control, very scared, or confused. Perhaps you suffer from anxiety, depression, and grief. If so you need someone to hold your hand and walk with you until you get home safely. When you are going through very painful suffering, your brokenness can lead you to discover how your childhood wound might affect your self-esteem and your relationships.
Have you ever been lost in a dark forest? You may have felt helpless, out of control, very scared, or confused. Perhaps you suffer from anxiety, depression, and grief. If so you need someone to hold your hand and walk with you until you get home safely. When you are going through very painful suffering, your brokenness can lead you to discover how your childhood wound might affect your self-esteem and your relationships.
Today's world demands so much of us. The pressures to be everything, do everything, for everyone can cause stress, anxiety, and depression. We are human. And even the best of humans need support from time to time to bounce back from the challenges of life and live powerfully. It is time that you had a consistent partnership that focuses on your healing, growth, and emotional resilience.
Today's world demands so much of us. The pressures to be everything, do everything, for everyone can cause stress, anxiety, and depression. We are human. And even the best of humans need support from time to time to bounce back from the challenges of life and live powerfully. It is time that you had a consistent partnership that focuses on your healing, growth, and emotional resilience.
Some of my favorite populations to work with are:
- therapy first-timers
- therapists in training
- couples who would like to improve their communication, reduce conflict, and build lasting intimacy
- individuals looking for support during challenging or transitional times in their lives.
Some of my favorite populations to work with are:
- therapy first-timers
- therapists in training
- couples who would like to improve their communication, reduce conflict, and build lasting intimacy
- individuals looking for support during challenging or transitional times in their lives.
Karen Gwaltney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
9 Endorsed
North Central, Pasadena, CA 91103
There's nothing quite like the security of close connections. When those connections are strained, so is your sense of safety. “Being yourself” may feel like a tall order if it threatens your relationships. You need a space with another human being whose job it is to know and understand you from a place of curiosity and compassion. A space where you can question your beliefs and get clear on who you are without the fear of being condemned.
There's nothing quite like the security of close connections. When those connections are strained, so is your sense of safety. “Being yourself” may feel like a tall order if it threatens your relationships. You need a space with another human being whose job it is to know and understand you from a place of curiosity and compassion. A space where you can question your beliefs and get clear on who you are without the fear of being condemned.
Alex Jordan Cedas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
North Central, Pasadena, CA 91103
Are you a BIPOC or Queer adult feeling overwhelmed by stress, family conflicts, or unresolved trauma? Maybe you grew up in a culture where mental health was a silent struggle and now carry the weight of navigating life’s challenges mostly on your own. You might be questioning who you are or facing grief, self-doubt, or a major life change that leaves you feeling lost. You want to feel understood, empowered, and supported in a space where your experiences are honored and your healing journey is prioritized. Hi! I'm Alex Cedas, a Latino therapist specializing in supporting BIPOC and Queer individuals.
Are you a BIPOC or Queer adult feeling overwhelmed by stress, family conflicts, or unresolved trauma? Maybe you grew up in a culture where mental health was a silent struggle and now carry the weight of navigating life’s challenges mostly on your own. You might be questioning who you are or facing grief, self-doubt, or a major life change that leaves you feeling lost. You want to feel understood, empowered, and supported in a space where your experiences are honored and your healing journey is prioritized. Hi! I'm Alex Cedas, a Latino therapist specializing in supporting BIPOC and Queer individuals.
My greatest gift is helping/supporting you to hear what’s hard to say. Let’s face your fears, hurts & unhappiness so you can take action for your joy. It’s not easy to ask, but you’re here for your happiness. You question what’s wrong with you. The better question is …what brings you fulfillment? What is it that you keep saying you’re going to “do” or “change” for your happiness & fulfillment but you keep focusing on others. Or you talk yourself out of it because “they” might get mad. Isn’t it time for your happiness, joy, appreciation? I think so.
My greatest gift is helping/supporting you to hear what’s hard to say. Let’s face your fears, hurts & unhappiness so you can take action for your joy. It’s not easy to ask, but you’re here for your happiness. You question what’s wrong with you. The better question is …what brings you fulfillment? What is it that you keep saying you’re going to “do” or “change” for your happiness & fulfillment but you keep focusing on others. Or you talk yourself out of it because “they” might get mad. Isn’t it time for your happiness, joy, appreciation? I think so.
Is life harder than it used to be? Is it time to make a big decision? Tired of taking care of others & feeling unappreciated. Lacking the quality love you desire. Maybe life has you nervous about what to do next, second-guessing. Your work balance is out of balance. Yet you carry it all within struggling with your hurts and desire for happiness. You long for a safe space to be heard, and discover solutions to feel more fulfilled/happy. What if your inner chatter could support you while your worry disappeared? What if you could feel seen for your value, not just heard but understood? What if you truly could feel happiness?
Is life harder than it used to be? Is it time to make a big decision? Tired of taking care of others & feeling unappreciated. Lacking the quality love you desire. Maybe life has you nervous about what to do next, second-guessing. Your work balance is out of balance. Yet you carry it all within struggling with your hurts and desire for happiness. You long for a safe space to be heard, and discover solutions to feel more fulfilled/happy. What if your inner chatter could support you while your worry disappeared? What if you could feel seen for your value, not just heard but understood? What if you truly could feel happiness?
I am interested in your story - where you have been and hope to go, what you have done and dream of doing, and who you are and have yet to become. My clients are often highly intuitive and high achieving adults, creatives in the art and entertainment industry, helpers, parentified adult children, entrepreneurs, executives, couples, Asian American professionals, and parents. Common issues include: relationship issues with loved ones, dissatisfaction with current life/direction, work/life balance stress, burnout, codependency, self-neglect, complex family dynamics, performance/creative blocks, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am interested in your story - where you have been and hope to go, what you have done and dream of doing, and who you are and have yet to become. My clients are often highly intuitive and high achieving adults, creatives in the art and entertainment industry, helpers, parentified adult children, entrepreneurs, executives, couples, Asian American professionals, and parents. Common issues include: relationship issues with loved ones, dissatisfaction with current life/direction, work/life balance stress, burnout, codependency, self-neglect, complex family dynamics, performance/creative blocks, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Elizabeth Yoshonis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
3 Endorsed
North Central, Pasadena, CA 91103
I help people reconnect with themselves and the people they love—especially when life starts to feel overwhelming or out of balance. My clients are individuals who shows up for everyone but themselves. They are often the caregivers, the dependable ones, the emotionally attuned partners or parents who carry a quiet weight of exhaustion, resentment, or self-doubt. On the outside, they appear “fine”—high-functioning, responsible, perhaps even admired. But internally, they’re overwhelmed, disconnected, and unsure of who they are beyond their roles.
I help people reconnect with themselves and the people they love—especially when life starts to feel overwhelming or out of balance. My clients are individuals who shows up for everyone but themselves. They are often the caregivers, the dependable ones, the emotionally attuned partners or parents who carry a quiet weight of exhaustion, resentment, or self-doubt. On the outside, they appear “fine”—high-functioning, responsible, perhaps even admired. But internally, they’re overwhelmed, disconnected, and unsure of who they are beyond their roles.
So many of the women I work with—helpers, high achievers, creatives, caregivers—are carrying the overlap of motherhood, career, relationships, and identity while quietly putting everyone else first. On the outside, you look like you have it together; inside, you feel like you’re slowly unraveling. You’re deeply capable and intuitive, yet tired, anxious, resentful at times, or disconnected from yourself. If that’s you, you’re not alone. Together, we’ll address the roots—trauma, nervous-system overwhelm, hormonal shifts—so change feels deep and sustainable, not just surface-level.
So many of the women I work with—helpers, high achievers, creatives, caregivers—are carrying the overlap of motherhood, career, relationships, and identity while quietly putting everyone else first. On the outside, you look like you have it together; inside, you feel like you’re slowly unraveling. You’re deeply capable and intuitive, yet tired, anxious, resentful at times, or disconnected from yourself. If that’s you, you’re not alone. Together, we’ll address the roots—trauma, nervous-system overwhelm, hormonal shifts—so change feels deep and sustainable, not just surface-level.
Alane Rosalind Parsons
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
1 Endorsed
North Central, Pasadena, CA 91103
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that therapy is a collaborative creative process, and that painful experiences, when explored with a trained professional, can offer secret gifts and opportunities. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, engaging cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care. I help clients to gain courage, insight, and confidence. Should you choose me, I can help you consider embracing changes that can lead to symptom reduction, more fulfilling life choices, deeper connection to loved ones and community, as desired. But it all starts with you feeling heard.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that therapy is a collaborative creative process, and that painful experiences, when explored with a trained professional, can offer secret gifts and opportunities. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, engaging cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care. I help clients to gain courage, insight, and confidence. Should you choose me, I can help you consider embracing changes that can lead to symptom reduction, more fulfilling life choices, deeper connection to loved ones and community, as desired. But it all starts with you feeling heard.
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Number of Therapists in North Central, Pasadena, CA
40+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in North Central, Pasadena, CA who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Depression |
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 91% | Relationship Issues |
| 70% | Life Transitions |
| 68% | Family Conflict |
| 68% | Coping Skills |
| 64% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 79% | Aetna |
| 64% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 54% | Optum |
How Therapists in North Central, Pasadena, CA see their clients
| 57% | In Person and Online | |
| 43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 86% | Female | |
| 14% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in North Central, 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.