Arab and Middle Eastern Therapists in Porter Ranch, CA
You hold it all together for everyone else but inside you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and exhausted. You overthink, second-guess yourself, struggle to set boundaries, and wonder why success still doesn't bring peace. If people-pleasing, perfectionism, relationship challenges, or burnout have left you feeling disconnected from yourself, you're not alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where we'll work together to heal the patterns beneath the surface so you can create healthier relationships, trust yourself, and feel more like you again.
You hold it all together for everyone else but inside you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and exhausted. You overthink, second-guess yourself, struggle to set boundaries, and wonder why success still doesn't bring peace. If people-pleasing, perfectionism, relationship challenges, or burnout have left you feeling disconnected from yourself, you're not alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where we'll work together to heal the patterns beneath the surface so you can create healthier relationships, trust yourself, and feel more like you again.
They say grief comes in waves, but you’re not riding waves—you’re being pulled under. You wake up gasping, memories slamming into you like concrete. You’re exhausted from pretending you’re okay, from people telling you to ‘move on’ while you’re barely holding it together. Whether you’re mourning a person, a relationship, or the life you thought you’d have—this pain is real. You keep moving forward, but nothing seems to be working. You don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can find air, even in the darkest waters.
They say grief comes in waves, but you’re not riding waves—you’re being pulled under. You wake up gasping, memories slamming into you like concrete. You’re exhausted from pretending you’re okay, from people telling you to ‘move on’ while you’re barely holding it together. Whether you’re mourning a person, a relationship, or the life you thought you’d have—this pain is real. You keep moving forward, but nothing seems to be working. You don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can find air, even in the darkest waters.
I work with people who process life's challenges differently learn differently and think differently. I will help you discover what works best for you to do better in school/college, work; life in general. Together we will uncover your how you heal best and your strengths. We will figure out how you learn or perform best. We will also work on your weaknesses (memory, attention, focus, anxiety, coping skills, etc.). Contact me if you feel like you could be achieving more in life, but something is holding you back, you feel like you are stuck or if your child/teen struggles in life and school with with everyday tasks and demands.
I work with people who process life's challenges differently learn differently and think differently. I will help you discover what works best for you to do better in school/college, work; life in general. Together we will uncover your how you heal best and your strengths. We will figure out how you learn or perform best. We will also work on your weaknesses (memory, attention, focus, anxiety, coping skills, etc.). Contact me if you feel like you could be achieving more in life, but something is holding you back, you feel like you are stuck or if your child/teen struggles in life and school with with everyday tasks and demands.
Hi there, I’m Michael! a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of clinical psychotherapy experience and more than 20 years in the behavioral and mental health field. I provide evidence-based, compassionate care for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, ADHD, ASD, and relationship issues. I also support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. As an immigrant, I understand the challenges of cultural transition and offer therapy in English, Kurdish, and Farsi. My approach is collaborative, culturally sensitive, and focused on personalized growth and healing.
Hi there, I’m Michael! a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of clinical psychotherapy experience and more than 20 years in the behavioral and mental health field. I provide evidence-based, compassionate care for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, ADHD, ASD, and relationship issues. I also support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. As an immigrant, I understand the challenges of cultural transition and offer therapy in English, Kurdish, and Farsi. My approach is collaborative, culturally sensitive, and focused on personalized growth and healing.
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Specializing in anxiety, overthinking, and high-functioning stress.
I work with individual cases only, adults who look like they’re “doing fine” on the outside but internally feel overwhelmed, overthinking, or emotionally exhausted. Many of my clients are high-functioning—managing work, relationships, and responsibilities—yet still feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, self-doubt, or burnout.
Therapy with me focuses on helping you slow down your thoughts, understand the patterns driving your stress, and build a more grounded internal experience—not just coping, but actually feeling different in your day-to-day life.
Specializing in anxiety, overthinking, and high-functioning stress.
I work with individual cases only, adults who look like they’re “doing fine” on the outside but internally feel overwhelmed, overthinking, or emotionally exhausted. Many of my clients are high-functioning—managing work, relationships, and responsibilities—yet still feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, self-doubt, or burnout.
Therapy with me focuses on helping you slow down your thoughts, understand the patterns driving your stress, and build a more grounded internal experience—not just coping, but actually feeling different in your day-to-day life.
It takes courage to take steps towards clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I use a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to create a safe and supportive environment that will help you develop inner strength. With this, you will be empowered with the tools to gain greater awareness into your past and take back control of your life.
It takes courage to take steps towards clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I use a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to create a safe and supportive environment that will help you develop inner strength. With this, you will be empowered with the tools to gain greater awareness into your past and take back control of your life.
Are you grappling with anxiety, addictions, or have experienced trauma and PTSD? Are you struggling with the aftermath of infidelity, lack of intimacy, separation, and lack of trust? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone! We know that these experiences are difficult to process or overcome, and may make you feel isolated, hopeless, or misunderstood. I can heIp you! We can explore break the patterns and ease painful emotions that may be impacting your life and relationships, empowering you to pursue a more fulfilling existence.
Are you grappling with anxiety, addictions, or have experienced trauma and PTSD? Are you struggling with the aftermath of infidelity, lack of intimacy, separation, and lack of trust? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone! We know that these experiences are difficult to process or overcome, and may make you feel isolated, hopeless, or misunderstood. I can heIp you! We can explore break the patterns and ease painful emotions that may be impacting your life and relationships, empowering you to pursue a more fulfilling existence.
You may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, lonely, hopeless, lost, or just "stuck." Still, I know that you can overcome your struggles and begin to live your best life. I help women of all ages and life stages rise up to meet life's many challenges. I help clients overcome their struggles with anxiety, depression, chronic stress, feelings of overwhelm, relationship issues, work challenges, and difficulties staying focused and making important decisions. I'm an active, engaging therapist with a supportive and collaborative approach.
You may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, lonely, hopeless, lost, or just "stuck." Still, I know that you can overcome your struggles and begin to live your best life. I help women of all ages and life stages rise up to meet life's many challenges. I help clients overcome their struggles with anxiety, depression, chronic stress, feelings of overwhelm, relationship issues, work challenges, and difficulties staying focused and making important decisions. I'm an active, engaging therapist with a supportive and collaborative approach.
Our lives are like pieces of a puzzle. How we choose to put them together is among the most important decisions we make. As a professional with years of experience, I am committed to helping my clients assemble these pieces as productively as possible, working towards goals of happiness, growth, success, and personal fulfillment. I obtained my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego.
Our lives are like pieces of a puzzle. How we choose to put them together is among the most important decisions we make. As a professional with years of experience, I am committed to helping my clients assemble these pieces as productively as possible, working towards goals of happiness, growth, success, and personal fulfillment. I obtained my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego.
Hello, I am Dr. Harel, and I commend you for taking the first step toward transformation and growth. Your acknowledgment of the need for change makes you into an excellent client. My clinical experience shows that we are our own biggest obstacle on the path toward the life we truly want, whether it is deeply fulfilling relationships and marriages, satisfying and exciting careers, vibrant health, etc. The moment we totally commit to our own well-being with intention to do whatever it takes to live our best life, we have completed 50% of the journey. It is that simple.
Hello, I am Dr. Harel, and I commend you for taking the first step toward transformation and growth. Your acknowledgment of the need for change makes you into an excellent client. My clinical experience shows that we are our own biggest obstacle on the path toward the life we truly want, whether it is deeply fulfilling relationships and marriages, satisfying and exciting careers, vibrant health, etc. The moment we totally commit to our own well-being with intention to do whatever it takes to live our best life, we have completed 50% of the journey. It is that simple.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, career stress and the effects of trauma. My approach is calm, grounded, and tailored to your needs. Together, we focus on understanding what’s behind your symptoms and building practical tools that support your daily life.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, career stress and the effects of trauma. My approach is calm, grounded, and tailored to your needs. Together, we focus on understanding what’s behind your symptoms and building practical tools that support your daily life.
I'm Melika, an Iranian immigrant, LMFT supervisor, and licensed therapist with 9+ years of experience.
I blend talk therapy with somatic healing, EMDR, & breathwork to help you reconnect with your body, your relationships, and yourself. My approach is trauma-informed and culturally responsive, because traditional mental health frameworks don't always reflect the full complexity of human experience, and you deserve care that sees all of you.
I'm Melika, an Iranian immigrant, LMFT supervisor, and licensed therapist with 9+ years of experience.
I blend talk therapy with somatic healing, EMDR, & breathwork to help you reconnect with your body, your relationships, and yourself. My approach is trauma-informed and culturally responsive, because traditional mental health frameworks don't always reflect the full complexity of human experience, and you deserve care that sees all of you.
I typically work with adults dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, stress management and life transitions. I am experienced in working with clients from diverse backgrounds and have a special interest in providing culturally competent therapy.
I typically work with adults dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, stress management and life transitions. I am experienced in working with clients from diverse backgrounds and have a special interest in providing culturally competent therapy.
“I hate my body.” If you’re struggling with an eating disorder, body dysmorphia, or disordered eating habits, these statements may sound familiar. A challenging relationship with food and body image can be debilitating and all-consuming. What you may be surprised to discover is that your obsession with weight, constant battle with eating, and urges to use self-destructive food behaviors are actually not about food or weight! They are, however, symptoms of deeper internal conflicts and emotional dysregulation - trauma, depression, anxiety, oppression, family turmoil, and low self-esteem. This is where I can help.
“I hate my body.” If you’re struggling with an eating disorder, body dysmorphia, or disordered eating habits, these statements may sound familiar. A challenging relationship with food and body image can be debilitating and all-consuming. What you may be surprised to discover is that your obsession with weight, constant battle with eating, and urges to use self-destructive food behaviors are actually not about food or weight! They are, however, symptoms of deeper internal conflicts and emotional dysregulation - trauma, depression, anxiety, oppression, family turmoil, and low self-esteem. This is where I can help.
I believe therapy is a collaborative journey where you bring your experiences and I provide tools, guidance, and a safe, non-judgmental space. I work with clients seeking support through evidence-based approaches such as CBT and mindfulness, and for those who desire it, I integrate Biblical, Christ-centered care through prayer, scripture, and faith reflection. My style is warm, compassionate, and practical—I listen deeply, encourage growth, and offer gentle honesty to help you feel heard, supported, and equipped to move forward with peace.
I believe therapy is a collaborative journey where you bring your experiences and I provide tools, guidance, and a safe, non-judgmental space. I work with clients seeking support through evidence-based approaches such as CBT and mindfulness, and for those who desire it, I integrate Biblical, Christ-centered care through prayer, scripture, and faith reflection. My style is warm, compassionate, and practical—I listen deeply, encourage growth, and offer gentle honesty to help you feel heard, supported, and equipped to move forward with peace.
Thank you for making the decision to be here. You are taking an important step toward healing, growth, and reclaiming your life. I am here to truly listen to your story in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My ideal client is someone who feels stuck in overwhelming emotions like anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship stress, or cultural adjustment challenges. They seek relief, self-understanding, healthier relationships, and hope. Deep down, they believe life can be different, and together, we will work toward healing, empowerment, and lasting change.
Thank you for making the decision to be here. You are taking an important step toward healing, growth, and reclaiming your life. I am here to truly listen to your story in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My ideal client is someone who feels stuck in overwhelming emotions like anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship stress, or cultural adjustment challenges. They seek relief, self-understanding, healthier relationships, and hope. Deep down, they believe life can be different, and together, we will work toward healing, empowerment, and lasting change.
As a trans and queer neurodivergent Arab immigrant, I recognize how social identities can greatly impact someone's mental health.
I specialize in gender and sexuality. I also help people identify and work through unhealthy patterns impacted by past experiences, trauma, and family upbringing. I have experience working through a psychodynamic, trauma-focused, strength-based approach, and have utilized DBT, CBT and ACT throughout my work with clients.
As a trans and queer neurodivergent Arab immigrant, I recognize how social identities can greatly impact someone's mental health.
I specialize in gender and sexuality. I also help people identify and work through unhealthy patterns impacted by past experiences, trauma, and family upbringing. I have experience working through a psychodynamic, trauma-focused, strength-based approach, and have utilized DBT, CBT and ACT throughout my work with clients.
Hi, I'm a clinical psychotherapist specializing in teletherapy for individuals experiencing anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and the stress of medical diagnoses (and am board-certified in CA and MA). As I work with clients who are anxious or engage in rigid thinking, I strive to grow a capacity for openness, curiosity, calm, and joy. I have extensive experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which considers the roots of our emotions and how we may engage in patterns that don’t serve us; cognitive-behavioral therapy, which provides tools to use in everyday life; and mindfulness, to help you experience life more fully.
Hi, I'm a clinical psychotherapist specializing in teletherapy for individuals experiencing anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and the stress of medical diagnoses (and am board-certified in CA and MA). As I work with clients who are anxious or engage in rigid thinking, I strive to grow a capacity for openness, curiosity, calm, and joy. I have extensive experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which considers the roots of our emotions and how we may engage in patterns that don’t serve us; cognitive-behavioral therapy, which provides tools to use in everyday life; and mindfulness, to help you experience life more fully.
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to why your child is struggling in school, you are in the right place! At Psyched4Success we provide IQ/academic testing, counseling, coaching, and advocacy. The ‘4’ in Psyched4Success represents the four key areas tested - cognitive (IQ), academic, social-emotional and behavioral functioning. The assessment is comprehensive, meaning it evaluates all areas that could impact educational performance. A comprehensive evaluation is necessary to diagnose learning disabilities like Dyslexia, as well as ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, etc.
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to why your child is struggling in school, you are in the right place! At Psyched4Success we provide IQ/academic testing, counseling, coaching, and advocacy. The ‘4’ in Psyched4Success represents the four key areas tested - cognitive (IQ), academic, social-emotional and behavioral functioning. The assessment is comprehensive, meaning it evaluates all areas that could impact educational performance. A comprehensive evaluation is necessary to diagnose learning disabilities like Dyslexia, as well as ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, etc.
Every person’s story is unique, and I believe therapy should reflect that. I provide a compassionate and supportive space where children, adolescents, and adults feel seen, heard, and empowered. I work with couples, including those navigating long-distance relationships and fidelity. I utilize an integrative approach, using evidence-based modalities I am trained in: CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic and Somatic Therapy, EFT & Projective Psychology. I support culturally diverse and first-generation families as they navigate intergenerational and cross-cultural dynamics by fostering familial cohesion through understanding and healing.
Every person’s story is unique, and I believe therapy should reflect that. I provide a compassionate and supportive space where children, adolescents, and adults feel seen, heard, and empowered. I work with couples, including those navigating long-distance relationships and fidelity. I utilize an integrative approach, using evidence-based modalities I am trained in: CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic and Somatic Therapy, EFT & Projective Psychology. I support culturally diverse and first-generation families as they navigate intergenerational and cross-cultural dynamics by fostering familial cohesion through understanding and healing.
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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.