Therapists for Children in California

Photo of Stephanie Fuller, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Stephanie Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Templeton, CA 93465
I work with adults, adolescents and children ages 6 and up.
I see clients in person at my office in Templeton, CA, as well as on-line. My approach to therapy is based on the premise that everyone’s life experiences and circumstances are unique. My role as your therapist is to understand the details and complications of your concerns so that I can help you achieve your goals. My strengths are that I am open and accepting, and that I push for insight and growth in a way that feels safe and offers hope for positive change. You will develop alternative, constructive ways to view yourself and interact with others that fit your personality and lifestyle.
I work with adults, adolescents and children ages 6 and up.
I see clients in person at my office in Templeton, CA, as well as on-line. My approach to therapy is based on the premise that everyone’s life experiences and circumstances are unique. My role as your therapist is to understand the details and complications of your concerns so that I can help you achieve your goals. My strengths are that I am open and accepting, and that I push for insight and growth in a way that feels safe and offers hope for positive change. You will develop alternative, constructive ways to view yourself and interact with others that fit your personality and lifestyle.
(805) 590-7302 View (805) 590-7302
Photo of Karen Lee Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Karen Lee Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Westlake Village, CA 91362
I strive to create a warm, supportive and challenging environment where clients feel safe to work through difficult emotions, past experiences, complicated family dynamics, relationship issues and changes in the seasons of life that create opportunities for growth and a chance to be innovative and become more resilient. I frequently collaborate with other professions with my clients’ permission to coordinate care and facilitate the best possible outcomes.
I strive to create a warm, supportive and challenging environment where clients feel safe to work through difficult emotions, past experiences, complicated family dynamics, relationship issues and changes in the seasons of life that create opportunities for growth and a chance to be innovative and become more resilient. I frequently collaborate with other professions with my clients’ permission to coordinate care and facilitate the best possible outcomes.
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Photo of Melissa Kadel, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Melissa Kadel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Bakersfield, CA 93301
My ideal client is someone who recognizes they are struggling—whether with anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, relationship conflict, past trauma, or life transitions—and is ready to make meaningful changes. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, and they want support in understanding their patterns, strengthening their coping skills, and improving their relationships. Their goal is to experience more balance, clarity, and confidence in their daily life. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer a compassionate, individualized approach to therapy. While cognitive behavioral therapy is a central modality,
My ideal client is someone who recognizes they are struggling—whether with anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, relationship conflict, past trauma, or life transitions—and is ready to make meaningful changes. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, and they want support in understanding their patterns, strengthening their coping skills, and improving their relationships. Their goal is to experience more balance, clarity, and confidence in their daily life. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer a compassionate, individualized approach to therapy. While cognitive behavioral therapy is a central modality,
(661) 493-8551 View (661) 493-8551
Photo of Victoria Elena Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Victoria Elena Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Kids, teens and young adults today face a lot of anxiety, trauma, family changes, school stress, and relationship challenges.
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and a Strength Based approach to meet each client where they are. My goal is to help youth understand their emotions, improve communication, and strengthen relationships at home and beyond.
Kids, teens and young adults today face a lot of anxiety, trauma, family changes, school stress, and relationship challenges.
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and a Strength Based approach to meet each client where they are. My goal is to help youth understand their emotions, improve communication, and strengthen relationships at home and beyond.
(619) 673-9846 View (619) 673-9846
Photo of Melissa Perez, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Melissa Perez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Chula Vista, CA 91914
Life has a way of throwing us off course—whether through the slow burn of anxiety, the heaviness of depression, or the disorientation that comes with major life changes. You might be doing all the “right” things & still feel like something’s missing, like you’re just going through the motions. I offer a space where you can drop the pressure to perform & start exploring what’s really going on beneath the surface. I earned my MS in Counseling with a focus on Multicultural Community Counseling from San Diego State University in 2016, & I specialize in working with individuals facing depression, anxiety, & adjustment-related challenges.
Life has a way of throwing us off course—whether through the slow burn of anxiety, the heaviness of depression, or the disorientation that comes with major life changes. You might be doing all the “right” things & still feel like something’s missing, like you’re just going through the motions. I offer a space where you can drop the pressure to perform & start exploring what’s really going on beneath the surface. I earned my MS in Counseling with a focus on Multicultural Community Counseling from San Diego State University in 2016, & I specialize in working with individuals facing depression, anxiety, & adjustment-related challenges.
(619) 304-8673 View (619) 304-8673
Photo of Amanda Flaig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Amanda Flaig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
When it comes to dealing with pain or struggle in your life, you are not alone. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, family issues, anger or the lingering impacts of trauma, it’s never too late to make a significant change to your mental wellbeing. I provide therapy for people of all ages to help them cope with life stress, break free from negative patterns of thinking and acting, and become the best possible versions of themselves. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques—CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and others—I will work with you to better understand your issues and help you reach your goal.
When it comes to dealing with pain or struggle in your life, you are not alone. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, family issues, anger or the lingering impacts of trauma, it’s never too late to make a significant change to your mental wellbeing. I provide therapy for people of all ages to help them cope with life stress, break free from negative patterns of thinking and acting, and become the best possible versions of themselves. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques—CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and others—I will work with you to better understand your issues and help you reach your goal.
(747) 281-3792 View (747) 281-3792
Photo of Jessica Musgrove-Ortiz, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Jessica Musgrove-Ortiz
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Napa, CA 94559
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or unsure how to move forward. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, identity shifts, or relationship struggles, therapy can be a space to gain clarity and reconnect with yourself. You may be seeking relief, deeper self-understanding, or meaningful change. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your story with curiosity and care—so you don’t have to hold it all alone.
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or unsure how to move forward. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, identity shifts, or relationship struggles, therapy can be a space to gain clarity and reconnect with yourself. You may be seeking relief, deeper self-understanding, or meaningful change. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your story with curiosity and care—so you don’t have to hold it all alone.
(707) 629-5817 View (707) 629-5817
Photo of Elsie D Ramirez, EdS, LEP
Elsie D Ramirez
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP, 4731) and School Psychologist with over seven years in school-based settings, I work with children, teens, and young adults facing anxiety, stress, or challenges that affect school performance.
I specialize in helping children and teens manage school-related anxiety, emotional regulation, and behavioral challenges that impact learning. I provide virtual counseling, consultation, and executive functioning support to help students develop skills for academic and personal success.
As a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP, 4731) and School Psychologist with over seven years in school-based settings, I work with children, teens, and young adults facing anxiety, stress, or challenges that affect school performance.
I specialize in helping children and teens manage school-related anxiety, emotional regulation, and behavioral challenges that impact learning. I provide virtual counseling, consultation, and executive functioning support to help students develop skills for academic and personal success.
(909) 403-7412 View (909) 403-7412
Photo of Laura Melendez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Laura Melendez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting.
There are so many challenges and pressure that life can present. These stressors create depression, anxiety, and the inability of parents to help children navigate life. I help my clients slow down and take a look at where they want to be. I help provide them with the tools and psychoeducation that help them feel better and thrive.
I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting.
There are so many challenges and pressure that life can present. These stressors create depression, anxiety, and the inability of parents to help children navigate life. I help my clients slow down and take a look at where they want to be. I help provide them with the tools and psychoeducation that help them feel better and thrive.
(657) 837-5009 View (657) 837-5009
Photo of Daniel Kerruish, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Daniel Kerruish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Mendocino, CA 95460
I work with individuals, children, couples and families.
At times we are thrown in to an experience of life that calls for a new way of responding. Thumped by unrelenting negative self-judgment, stuck in swamps of depression, seized by insecurities, paralyzing uncertainty, anxiety, panic, or held in the unforgiving clutches of recurring memories (trauma, grief, regret), the world can seem vast, uncaring, and harsh. And, in that world we may feel disconnected, alone, even fearful. Psychotherapy with me includes deeply confidential, trustworthy, empathic, accepting, sacred space in which I deeply listen, you explore, and come to understand your unique experience in pursuit of symptom reduction, increased self-reliance, and personal transformation.
I work with individuals, children, couples and families.
At times we are thrown in to an experience of life that calls for a new way of responding. Thumped by unrelenting negative self-judgment, stuck in swamps of depression, seized by insecurities, paralyzing uncertainty, anxiety, panic, or held in the unforgiving clutches of recurring memories (trauma, grief, regret), the world can seem vast, uncaring, and harsh. And, in that world we may feel disconnected, alone, even fearful. Psychotherapy with me includes deeply confidential, trustworthy, empathic, accepting, sacred space in which I deeply listen, you explore, and come to understand your unique experience in pursuit of symptom reduction, increased self-reliance, and personal transformation.
(707) 669-4765 View (707) 669-4765
Photo of Mashaal Khan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Mashaal Khan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello! I’m glad you’re here—think of me as your mental health GPS, guiding you through life's twists and turns with compassion and clarity. At my practice, we believe every mind deserves a little extra care and a lot of empowerment, because your mental wellness isn't just a destination—it's the journey. Let's navigate it together with a dash of humor and a whole lot of heart!
Hello! I’m glad you’re here—think of me as your mental health GPS, guiding you through life's twists and turns with compassion and clarity. At my practice, we believe every mind deserves a little extra care and a lot of empowerment, because your mental wellness isn't just a destination—it's the journey. Let's navigate it together with a dash of humor and a whole lot of heart!
(341) 234-3071 View (341) 234-3071
Photo of Yi-Ju Lin, Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Yi-Ju Lin
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Los Altos, CA 94024
I always believe psychotherapy is the best gift that one can give to oneself. When you come to my office or meet virtually for psychotherapy, it means you are ready to open up and discuss the challenges you have encountered with a professional partner. After getting to know you, I will work with you collaboratively to achieve the mutual goals that we agree on. Everyone is a unique individual in the process. I encourage you to keep tracking your progress. It is my honor to be a support in this process.
I always believe psychotherapy is the best gift that one can give to oneself. When you come to my office or meet virtually for psychotherapy, it means you are ready to open up and discuss the challenges you have encountered with a professional partner. After getting to know you, I will work with you collaboratively to achieve the mutual goals that we agree on. Everyone is a unique individual in the process. I encourage you to keep tracking your progress. It is my honor to be a support in this process.
(650) 613-5727 View (650) 613-5727
Photo of Joe Vivo, Psychologist, PsyD
Joe Vivo
Psychologist, PsyD
Arcadia, CA 91006
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change within the individual and the family system. With over 23 years of experience in youth mental health and 9 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct challenges, family conflict, and autism.
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change within the individual and the family system. With over 23 years of experience in youth mental health and 9 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct challenges, family conflict, and autism.
(626) 283-5591 View (626) 283-5591
Photo of Kirsten M Bauer, Psychologist, PsyD
Kirsten M Bauer
Psychologist, PsyD
San Francisco, CA 94118
As a child and adult therapist I am fortunate to witness the entire developmental span.
I also specialize in working with children on the Autistic Spectrum, using a developmental, individualized, relationship model know as the DIR model. I have trained and practiced this model for the last 10 years and have over 25 years experience with typically developing children first as a preschool teacher and then as a clinician.
As a child and adult therapist I am fortunate to witness the entire developmental span.
I also specialize in working with children on the Autistic Spectrum, using a developmental, individualized, relationship model know as the DIR model. I have trained and practiced this model for the last 10 years and have over 25 years experience with typically developing children first as a preschool teacher and then as a clinician.
(415) 304-8860 View (415) 304-8860
Photo of Marcy Lynn Stempler, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ADTR
Marcy Lynn Stempler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ADTR
Tarzana, CA 91356
In addition to verbal therapy, I offer expressive arts therapy, mindfulness, inner child work and somatic therapy as tools for self-awareness and resources for helping mange daily life stressors
Each one of us has a unique narrative that has been woven together by our life's experiences. I am committed to helping support you in giving a voice to the parts of yourself that have been silent and are ready for self expression. Working collaboratively, we will explore your goals by connecting through compassion and empathy, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, or culture. I hope to help encourage you to become authentically true to yourself in a safe, creative and non-judgmental environment. Therapy is learning to embrace all parts of yourself.
In addition to verbal therapy, I offer expressive arts therapy, mindfulness, inner child work and somatic therapy as tools for self-awareness and resources for helping mange daily life stressors
Each one of us has a unique narrative that has been woven together by our life's experiences. I am committed to helping support you in giving a voice to the parts of yourself that have been silent and are ready for self expression. Working collaboratively, we will explore your goals by connecting through compassion and empathy, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, or culture. I hope to help encourage you to become authentically true to yourself in a safe, creative and non-judgmental environment. Therapy is learning to embrace all parts of yourself.
(818) 835-0208 View (818) 835-0208
Photo of Michelle Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Michelle Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Perhaps you are encountering roadblocks of a happier and more satisfying life. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and dissatisfaction as well as relationship difficulties, can leave us feeling frustrated and confused. I extend my help in a safe and supportive way. Together, we can explore your experiences to create meaning and movement towards fulfillment. Our earlier life events may have influenced us to establish unhelpful patterns in how we regard ourselves and relate to others.
Perhaps you are encountering roadblocks of a happier and more satisfying life. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and dissatisfaction as well as relationship difficulties, can leave us feeling frustrated and confused. I extend my help in a safe and supportive way. Together, we can explore your experiences to create meaning and movement towards fulfillment. Our earlier life events may have influenced us to establish unhelpful patterns in how we regard ourselves and relate to others.
(747) 240-3616 View (747) 240-3616
Photo of Cheryl A. Kempinsky, Psychologist, PhD
Cheryl A. Kempinsky
Psychologist, PhD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Welcome! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. My training and professional experience have guided me toward a philosophical outlook towards therapy. I believe that a therapeutic relationship must be mutually engaging, and, as such, involves active participation by both the patient and the clinician. My desire is to help you reach your goals in life, particularly in the context of your values and beliefs, facilitating growth and reaching for a fulfilling life worth living.
Welcome! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. My training and professional experience have guided me toward a philosophical outlook towards therapy. I believe that a therapeutic relationship must be mutually engaging, and, as such, involves active participation by both the patient and the clinician. My desire is to help you reach your goals in life, particularly in the context of your values and beliefs, facilitating growth and reaching for a fulfilling life worth living.
(424) 216-5847 View (424) 216-5847
Photo of Shelly Marie Sarkisian, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 113490
Shelly Marie Sarkisian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 113490
Campbell, CA 95008
I have worked with children of all ages and their families in the areas of depression, domestic violence and PTSD.
Are you lonely, feeling depressed and hopeless thinking that life has passed you by? Are you struggling with a transition in your life: empty nest, divorce, newly married, or the loss of a loved one or a new job? I have worked with individuals, couples and families struggling with these issues. I help clients acquire direction and tools to move beyond old "non working"patterns in their lives. I work to see your growth through empowerment, direction and education.
I have worked with children of all ages and their families in the areas of depression, domestic violence and PTSD.
Are you lonely, feeling depressed and hopeless thinking that life has passed you by? Are you struggling with a transition in your life: empty nest, divorce, newly married, or the loss of a loved one or a new job? I have worked with individuals, couples and families struggling with these issues. I help clients acquire direction and tools to move beyond old "non working"patterns in their lives. I work to see your growth through empowerment, direction and education.
(408) 550-7967 View (408) 550-7967
Photo of Julia Meyers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Julia Meyers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
13 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
If you feel everything deeply, have been called “too sensitive,” or your mind never turns off, you’re in the right place. You may have spent so much time understanding others, holding space, and making sense of the world around you... but rarely feel that same depth of understanding reflected back to you. As a Highly Sensitive Person, I meet your depth with care, so you don't have to navigate your inner world alone. Our work focuses on helping you untangle what’s going on beneath the surface so you can better understand your emotions, trust your instincts, and move through life with more clarity, steadiness, and confidence.
If you feel everything deeply, have been called “too sensitive,” or your mind never turns off, you’re in the right place. You may have spent so much time understanding others, holding space, and making sense of the world around you... but rarely feel that same depth of understanding reflected back to you. As a Highly Sensitive Person, I meet your depth with care, so you don't have to navigate your inner world alone. Our work focuses on helping you untangle what’s going on beneath the surface so you can better understand your emotions, trust your instincts, and move through life with more clarity, steadiness, and confidence.
(949) 519-4851 View (949) 519-4851
Photo of Kelly Ann Riley, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RPT-S
Kelly Ann Riley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RPT-S
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, parents, and families.
With couples, I use the renowned Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy which are both designed to strengthen and enhance emotional intimacy. With a commitment to fostering healthy partnerships, I provides a safe and supportive environment where couples can explore their challenges, improve communication, and deepen their communication.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, parents, and families.
With couples, I use the renowned Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy which are both designed to strengthen and enhance emotional intimacy. With a commitment to fostering healthy partnerships, I provides a safe and supportive environment where couples can explore their challenges, improve communication, and deepen their communication.
(619) 796-5950 View (619) 796-5950

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FAQ - About Child Therapy
When does a child need to see a therapist?
Children naturally experience emotional ups and downs. Sometimes, though, they need support from a professional. A child may benefit from therapy if their emotions or behaviors change significantly within a short period of time. For example, if a child usually spends time with friends after school but begins isolating in their room, further inquiry is warranted. Other areas for concern include altered sleep patterns, lack of appetite, intense anger, irritability, or hopelessness, or developmental regression in young children (bedwetting, thumb-sucking).

What can a child therapist help with?
A therapist can help with any difficult experience a child may encounter growing up, including learning problems or anxiety related to school, relationship challenges with friends or parents, bullying, intense emotions or phobias, divorce and family dynamics, or the death of a pet or loved one. A therapist can help children process their experience and develop coping skills in an age-appropriate way

What therapy types are most suitable for children?
Children can benefit from different forms of therapy, including family therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and exposure therapy, depending on their condition. Play therapy is a great option for younger children who may not be able to fully articulate their feelings. In this approach, kids play with toys and games while a therapist observes and helps the child express their emotions and develop coping skills.

Do I need to attend therapy with my child?
Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.

How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?
A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.