Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Van Nuys, CA

Photo of Sherrie Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherrie Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
My name is Dr. Sherrie D. Lee, and I am currently dually licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT86706) and a Licensed Psychologist (PSY33937). I am based in Southern California, providing therapy to adolescent and adult clients statewide via telehealth. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depressive disorders to empower clients and promote change. I believe in providing everyone with quality, culturally sensitive mental health treatment, from assessment to termination.
My name is Dr. Sherrie D. Lee, and I am currently dually licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT86706) and a Licensed Psychologist (PSY33937). I am based in Southern California, providing therapy to adolescent and adult clients statewide via telehealth. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depressive disorders to empower clients and promote change. I believe in providing everyone with quality, culturally sensitive mental health treatment, from assessment to termination.
(747) 281-2887 View (747) 281-2887
Photo of Sapatsanun Chitrakul, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sapatsanun Chitrakul
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91401
I am culturally sensitive and I am open to discuss any topic related to culture, ethnicity, religious/spiritual belief, and sexuality.
Hello, my name is Sapatsanun Chitrakul, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I can provide therapy in both English and Thai via telehealth. I work with adults presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, self-discovery, life transition, and overcoming unhealthy patterns.
I am culturally sensitive and I am open to discuss any topic related to culture, ethnicity, religious/spiritual belief, and sexuality.
Hello, my name is Sapatsanun Chitrakul, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I can provide therapy in both English and Thai via telehealth. I work with adults presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, self-discovery, life transition, and overcoming unhealthy patterns.
(747) 285-7061 View (747) 285-7061
Photo of Susan Burns, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
My name is Susan Burns, LCSW, and I have been in the mental health industry for over 24 years. My top specialties include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Relationship Issues, Job Stress, Grief, and Depression. My top modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Coaching, Culturally Sensitive, Strength Based, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I have worked with individuals ranging from mild behavioral health issues to severely impaired functioning. I am a caring clinician who has positively impacted and healed many lives. I look forward to helping you on your journey of self-discovery and self-awareness.
My name is Susan Burns, LCSW, and I have been in the mental health industry for over 24 years. My top specialties include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Relationship Issues, Job Stress, Grief, and Depression. My top modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Coaching, Culturally Sensitive, Strength Based, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I have worked with individuals ranging from mild behavioral health issues to severely impaired functioning. I am a caring clinician who has positively impacted and healed many lives. I look forward to helping you on your journey of self-discovery and self-awareness.
(951) 438-8289 View (951) 438-8289
Photo of Heather Bryant Bays, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Bryant Bays
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406  (Online Only)
So much of our happiness boils down to the relationships in our lives; it brings us our greatest joys or our most painful sorrows. Life transitions, both developmental (adolescence, young adults, mid-life) and experiential (cohabitating, marriage, parenting, divorce) can cause unexpected emotional and relational challenges and getting support through these transitions can be hugely beneficial. We all suffer from moments of shame, sadness, loss, confusion, anxiety, insecurity, and fear as we try to move through these developmental stages and life transitions, but you don't have to do it alone.
So much of our happiness boils down to the relationships in our lives; it brings us our greatest joys or our most painful sorrows. Life transitions, both developmental (adolescence, young adults, mid-life) and experiential (cohabitating, marriage, parenting, divorce) can cause unexpected emotional and relational challenges and getting support through these transitions can be hugely beneficial. We all suffer from moments of shame, sadness, loss, confusion, anxiety, insecurity, and fear as we try to move through these developmental stages and life transitions, but you don't have to do it alone.
(747) 234-2059 View (747) 234-2059
Photo of Gretchen Anne Cooper, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gretchen Anne Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91406  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a published writer int he field of psychology and adjunct professor. Beyond that, I have a private practice where I am committed to helping you feel happy and content in your life. I believe that we construct our own realities. Sometimes, these self-made realities dictate the trajectory of our lives; however, I know that you can re-write your story of despair into one of hope. I believe in treating the whole person and providing you with unconditional acceptance, kindness, non-judgment, and understanding.
Hello! I am a published writer int he field of psychology and adjunct professor. Beyond that, I have a private practice where I am committed to helping you feel happy and content in your life. I believe that we construct our own realities. Sometimes, these self-made realities dictate the trajectory of our lives; however, I know that you can re-write your story of despair into one of hope. I believe in treating the whole person and providing you with unconditional acceptance, kindness, non-judgment, and understanding.
(818) 651-8649 View (818) 651-8649
Photo of Kelly Smarkel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Smarkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91401
My name is Kelly Smarkel, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, California, and I work with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. I utilize Talk Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients gain greater insight and understanding to make progress toward their goals and start to feel better. Through my educational background and lived experience, I can relate to many issues that often take the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and feeling lost or hopeless.
My name is Kelly Smarkel, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, California, and I work with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. I utilize Talk Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients gain greater insight and understanding to make progress toward their goals and start to feel better. Through my educational background and lived experience, I can relate to many issues that often take the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and feeling lost or hopeless.
(818) 293-1813 View (818) 293-1813
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, ASW, DBT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Huck
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(323) 612-1661 View (323) 612-1661
Photo of Anik Janjughazyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anik Janjughazyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406
You are here–seeking answers, hoping to find a safe place where you feel truly heard and guided within a professional setting. A place where the client can explore unresolved conflicts, past traumas, fears and frustrations. Gaining a sense of relief, through a better understanding of the issues they face . In time, and with your permission, we will do the collaborative work to improve our quality of life and strengthen our relationships with others and ourselves.
You are here–seeking answers, hoping to find a safe place where you feel truly heard and guided within a professional setting. A place where the client can explore unresolved conflicts, past traumas, fears and frustrations. Gaining a sense of relief, through a better understanding of the issues they face . In time, and with your permission, we will do the collaborative work to improve our quality of life and strengthen our relationships with others and ourselves.
(818) 308-1652 View (818) 308-1652
Photo of Estela Posternak, MBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Estela Posternak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91401  (Online Only)
Ms. Posternak through her training and knowledge, provides clinical services to help people empower themselves to live a fuller life; managing feelings of depression, anxiety, worry, loss, anger, having a better understanding of themselves, increasing their self confidence by learning new tools including problem solving, assertiveness, effective communication, relaxation techniques and anger management skills to enhance daily functioning. "Life is not about surviving the storm, but learning how to dance in the rain..."
Ms. Posternak through her training and knowledge, provides clinical services to help people empower themselves to live a fuller life; managing feelings of depression, anxiety, worry, loss, anger, having a better understanding of themselves, increasing their self confidence by learning new tools including problem solving, assertiveness, effective communication, relaxation techniques and anger management skills to enhance daily functioning. "Life is not about surviving the storm, but learning how to dance in the rain..."
(213) 293-1395 View (213) 293-1395
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, APCC, Counselor
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(323) 917-8794 View (323) 917-8794
Photo of Melanie Maddox, ASW, EMDR
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(323) 375-2483 View (323) 375-2483
Photo of Brittney Green, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(323) 458-5391 View (323) 458-5391
Photo of Dr. Jose E. Corena, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Dr. Jose E. Corena
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91401
I am licensed as a Clinical Psychologist and as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also certified in EMDR. I have many years of experience providing individual, group, and family therapy in different settings. This education, training, and experience has provided the foundation for my clinical work: deep understanding of the problem and underlying issues, accurate assessment, and effective treatment planning using evidence-based treatment practices. Therefore, in my practice, you will experience commitment, caring, and confidence.
I am licensed as a Clinical Psychologist and as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also certified in EMDR. I have many years of experience providing individual, group, and family therapy in different settings. This education, training, and experience has provided the foundation for my clinical work: deep understanding of the problem and underlying issues, accurate assessment, and effective treatment planning using evidence-based treatment practices. Therefore, in my practice, you will experience commitment, caring, and confidence.
(747) 246-7795 View (747) 246-7795
Photo of Sterling Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(323) 970-2667 View (323) 970-2667
Photo of Alexandra Park, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexandra Park
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Are you experiencing relationship issues with your partner or family members? I’m passionate about helping people have healthier relationships within themselves and with others. I work with couples and families who are stuck in conflict, seeking better communication, healing from past wounds, bridging cultural gaps, or adjusting to life transitions. I also provide individual therapy to support those affected by relational issues. We can work on managing anxiety, processing trauma, overcoming people-pleasing habits, improving emotional regulation, working through codependency, and embarking on a journey of healing and well-being.
Are you experiencing relationship issues with your partner or family members? I’m passionate about helping people have healthier relationships within themselves and with others. I work with couples and families who are stuck in conflict, seeking better communication, healing from past wounds, bridging cultural gaps, or adjusting to life transitions. I also provide individual therapy to support those affected by relational issues. We can work on managing anxiety, processing trauma, overcoming people-pleasing habits, improving emotional regulation, working through codependency, and embarking on a journey of healing and well-being.
(323) 677-2998 View (323) 677-2998
Photo of Jin Yi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jin Yi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91401  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked with people experiencing opioid addiction and helped those who struggled with substance use and their maladaptive coping strategies. In addition, I have had rich experiences working with older adults for many years. In life’s journey, people face many barriers facing mountains to climb and oceans to cross. I wish to help people to break those barriers and develop healthy coping skills to live a successful life. I'm fluent in Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked with people experiencing opioid addiction and helped those who struggled with substance use and their maladaptive coping strategies. In addition, I have had rich experiences working with older adults for many years. In life’s journey, people face many barriers facing mountains to climb and oceans to cross. I wish to help people to break those barriers and develop healthy coping skills to live a successful life. I'm fluent in Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
(626) 790-7448 View (626) 790-7448
Photo of Chantal Daley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
(323) 675-2907 View (323) 675-2907
Photo of Sierra Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406
Hi, I’m Sierra! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I’m constantly evolving in this field to ensure I provide the most safe and supportive environment for my clients. I have extensive training and experience working with a multitude of diagnoses and life problems, my focus is being a tool to help you along your healing journey. I’ve worked with teens, young and older adults that struggle with symptoms of depression, anxiety, mania, trauma, and substance use.
Hi, I’m Sierra! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I’m constantly evolving in this field to ensure I provide the most safe and supportive environment for my clients. I have extensive training and experience working with a multitude of diagnoses and life problems, my focus is being a tool to help you along your healing journey. I’ve worked with teens, young and older adults that struggle with symptoms of depression, anxiety, mania, trauma, and substance use.
(747) 318-5096 View (747) 318-5096
Photo of Amber Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of Clark Atlanta University Social Work graduate program with a focus on mental health.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of Clark Atlanta University Social Work graduate program with a focus on mental health.
(747) 318-4502 View (747) 318-4502
Photo of Camesha Marie Harper, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camesha Marie Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406
Hi, my name is Camesha Harper, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Through your therapeutic journey, I will meet you exactly where you are. Therapy can be scary and filled with uncertainty. We will work on the goals that you identify and together develop a plan of action. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced traumas in life, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, mood disorders, dysregulation, and BIPOC stressors.
Hi, my name is Camesha Harper, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Through your therapeutic journey, I will meet you exactly where you are. Therapy can be scary and filled with uncertainty. We will work on the goals that you identify and together develop a plan of action. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced traumas in life, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, mood disorders, dysregulation, and BIPOC stressors.
(747) 319-4763 View (747) 319-4763
Culturally Sensitive Therapists

How does culturally sensitive therapy work?

A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.

How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?

Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?

While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.

Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?

Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.