Psychodynamic Therapists in California

Photo of Stella Petros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stella Petros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Therapy with me is a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself without judgment. I bring warmth, compassion, and practical tools to help you manage stress, build healthier relationships, and feel more grounded. My style is caring and collaborative—I walk alongside you as we explore patterns that may be keeping you stuck while focusing on your strengths. Together we’ll set clear goals, track progress, and celebrate your growth so you leave each session feeling understood, supported, and more confident.
Therapy with me is a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself without judgment. I bring warmth, compassion, and practical tools to help you manage stress, build healthier relationships, and feel more grounded. My style is caring and collaborative—I walk alongside you as we explore patterns that may be keeping you stuck while focusing on your strengths. Together we’ll set clear goals, track progress, and celebrate your growth so you leave each session feeling understood, supported, and more confident.
(818) 798-9124 View (818) 798-9124
Photo of Starla Dean - Buddhist Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Buddhist Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
San Rafael, CA 94901
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
(415) 849-4108 View (415) 849-4108
Photo of Veronica Munguia-Guizar, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Veronica Munguia-Guizar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, I am Veronica Munguía, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in CA. My practice is grounded in social justice and intersectionality. Therefore I begin therapy focused on building a relationship with each client in which we explore and honor their lived experiences. I have over 5 years of experience in community-based mental health and providing trauma-informed care.
Hello, I am Veronica Munguía, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in CA. My practice is grounded in social justice and intersectionality. Therefore I begin therapy focused on building a relationship with each client in which we explore and honor their lived experiences. I have over 5 years of experience in community-based mental health and providing trauma-informed care.
(213) 786-2853 View (213) 786-2853
Photo of Caroline Scippa, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Caroline Scippa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I believe therapy should feel like a deep and rich conversation. I am not the type of therapist who only sits and listens. I support my clients in managing anxiety, perfectionism, and people-pleasing; navigating burnout and compassion fatigue; reevaluating unwanted habits and ways of coping; building communication skills and setting boundaries to help relationships thrive; and getting unstuck to make big life decisions. I believe therapy can help you build the self-awareness and self-compassion it takes to make different choices that move you toward balance.
I believe therapy should feel like a deep and rich conversation. I am not the type of therapist who only sits and listens. I support my clients in managing anxiety, perfectionism, and people-pleasing; navigating burnout and compassion fatigue; reevaluating unwanted habits and ways of coping; building communication skills and setting boundaries to help relationships thrive; and getting unstuck to make big life decisions. I believe therapy can help you build the self-awareness and self-compassion it takes to make different choices that move you toward balance.
(415) 594-4875 View (415) 594-4875
Photo of Allison Tabarracci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Allison Tabarracci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I help overwhelmed and burned-out adults navigate anxiety and major life transitions with a grounded, integrative approach to therapy. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience in the mental health field, I offer a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, reconnect, and feel understood. My work blends somatic awareness, mindfulness, and evidence-based therapy to help you regulate stress, restore balance, and build resilience.
I help overwhelmed and burned-out adults navigate anxiety and major life transitions with a grounded, integrative approach to therapy. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience in the mental health field, I offer a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, reconnect, and feel understood. My work blends somatic awareness, mindfulness, and evidence-based therapy to help you regulate stress, restore balance, and build resilience.
(442) 200-2599 View (442) 200-2599
Photo of Meleeya Schwartz, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT, CST, PMH-C
Meleeya Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT, CST, PMH-C
Online Only
I am dedicated to empowering women at every stage of life, with a particular passion for helping those who face challenges with sexual pleasure or struggle with sexual pain. I also support women during the prenatal and postnatal periods, guiding them through the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy and motherhood. In our sessions, you'll find a warm, collaborative environment where I blend coaching, empathy, and a touch of humor. My goal is to create a safe space for you to explore your needs and experiences. As your therapist, I’ll be here to validate, challenge, and guide you on your path to healing and self-discovery.
I am dedicated to empowering women at every stage of life, with a particular passion for helping those who face challenges with sexual pleasure or struggle with sexual pain. I also support women during the prenatal and postnatal periods, guiding them through the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy and motherhood. In our sessions, you'll find a warm, collaborative environment where I blend coaching, empathy, and a touch of humor. My goal is to create a safe space for you to explore your needs and experiences. As your therapist, I’ll be here to validate, challenge, and guide you on your path to healing and self-discovery.
(323) 379-1345 View (323) 379-1345
Photo of Melanie A. Argo, Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Melanie A. Argo
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
2 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Seeking psychotherapy can be an exciting yet intimidating step to take in your life. It is difficult to know what to expect from the experience, from your therapist, or from yourself. Acknowledging these uncertainties and the often complex nature of psychotherapy, I approach the process with warmth, empathy, and professionalism.
Seeking psychotherapy can be an exciting yet intimidating step to take in your life. It is difficult to know what to expect from the experience, from your therapist, or from yourself. Acknowledging these uncertainties and the often complex nature of psychotherapy, I approach the process with warmth, empathy, and professionalism.
(424) 622-5676 View (424) 622-5676
Photo of Ali Pflaum, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ali Pflaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am trained in Pyschoanalytic/ Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, an evidence-based and trauma-informed practice focused on exploring aspects of the self, including relational patterns and ways of being, that may be causing distress.
I support people to live the life they desire. Many people find their way to my work simply because they feel a sense of “stuckness” or dissatisfaction. In our work together, I will serve as a collaborative and reliable thought-partner to help uncover emotional truths and work through obstacles that inhibit growth. I take pride in being a warm, approachable, and motivated fellow traveler, here to help support your process of moving towards a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
I am trained in Pyschoanalytic/ Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, an evidence-based and trauma-informed practice focused on exploring aspects of the self, including relational patterns and ways of being, that may be causing distress.
I support people to live the life they desire. Many people find their way to my work simply because they feel a sense of “stuckness” or dissatisfaction. In our work together, I will serve as a collaborative and reliable thought-partner to help uncover emotional truths and work through obstacles that inhibit growth. I take pride in being a warm, approachable, and motivated fellow traveler, here to help support your process of moving towards a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
(415) 496-0318 View (415) 496-0318
Photo of Bryon Cunningham, Psychologist, PsyD
Bryon Cunningham
Psychologist, PsyD
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Most people seek treatment because they are experiencing clinical symptoms or life problems. At the outset of therapy, perhaps the most important factor is an atmosphere of safety and calm, where you feel free from judgment. Under those conditions, you and I will collaborate to develop a shared understanding of the origins of your symptoms and problems. We will establish a treatment plan supported by both clinical experience and the available scientific evidence. The good news is that most people who seek treatment experience significant improvements.
Most people seek treatment because they are experiencing clinical symptoms or life problems. At the outset of therapy, perhaps the most important factor is an atmosphere of safety and calm, where you feel free from judgment. Under those conditions, you and I will collaborate to develop a shared understanding of the origins of your symptoms and problems. We will establish a treatment plan supported by both clinical experience and the available scientific evidence. The good news is that most people who seek treatment experience significant improvements.
(310) 435-5246 View (310) 435-5246
Photo of Mary Van Valkenburgh, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Mary Van Valkenburgh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Long Beach, CA 90808
Waitlist for new clients
For 45 years, I have been honored to facilitate transformative changes for a culturally diverse clientele dealing with the trauma of sexual assault, grief and loss, substance abuse, anxiety, and inappropriate expressions of anger. I work with teens and adults individually and in the context of their families. Parents who want help for their children may be called on to examine their own childhood and how it can affect current relationships with family members.
For 45 years, I have been honored to facilitate transformative changes for a culturally diverse clientele dealing with the trauma of sexual assault, grief and loss, substance abuse, anxiety, and inappropriate expressions of anger. I work with teens and adults individually and in the context of their families. Parents who want help for their children may be called on to examine their own childhood and how it can affect current relationships with family members.
(562) 846-1045 View (562) 846-1045
Photo of Alice Knutson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Alice Knutson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I work with individuals and couples in a variety of different areas, some of them include loss, anxiety, depression, and trauma. People often come in to work on a specific issue while others come in because something feels wrong, or because they want to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. My work with couples involves helping them work through areas in their relationship where they are struggling or feeling at a loss and we work together to help them gain new and lasting relational skills, often with a focus on communication.
I work with individuals and couples in a variety of different areas, some of them include loss, anxiety, depression, and trauma. People often come in to work on a specific issue while others come in because something feels wrong, or because they want to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. My work with couples involves helping them work through areas in their relationship where they are struggling or feeling at a loss and we work together to help them gain new and lasting relational skills, often with a focus on communication.
(415) 851-7047 View (415) 851-7047
Photo of Ludine Pierre, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPCMHSP
Ludine Pierre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPCMHSP
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize an integrative approach to healing using Somatic Theory, ACT, mindfulness-based skill building/DBT, relational psychodynamic techniques and have worked in all levels of care for eating disorder treatment.
My clients tend to show up wondering why anything that isn't happening right now seems too overwhelming to plan, or keep feeling disappointed in their relationships, or maybe even sometimes feel disconnected from their identity because they've played the compromising and accommodating game for way too long. Our bodies are very wise and try to communicate what we need and how we are experiencing the world around us. Therapy can be one way to learn how to tune in. The reality is that whatever behavior it is that we're struggling with is showing up for a reason. Together we can discover what that reason is and lose the shame.
I utilize an integrative approach to healing using Somatic Theory, ACT, mindfulness-based skill building/DBT, relational psychodynamic techniques and have worked in all levels of care for eating disorder treatment.
My clients tend to show up wondering why anything that isn't happening right now seems too overwhelming to plan, or keep feeling disappointed in their relationships, or maybe even sometimes feel disconnected from their identity because they've played the compromising and accommodating game for way too long. Our bodies are very wise and try to communicate what we need and how we are experiencing the world around us. Therapy can be one way to learn how to tune in. The reality is that whatever behavior it is that we're struggling with is showing up for a reason. Together we can discover what that reason is and lose the shame.
(323) 792-1980 View (323) 792-1980
Photo of Jeff P Jones, Psychologist, PhD
Jeff P Jones
Psychologist, PhD
5 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Asking for help is often tough, especially for us as men. Who do you turn to in times of crisis or confusion? We are socialized to be independent and "do it myself." However, there are times where we all need some help. Someone to talk to that won't judge us or ridicule us. One of the most difficult things to do is to make that first phone call to someone you don't know, asking for help. You just hope to get someone trustworthy, compassionate and competent. These are my strongest traits, and I welcome your call today.
Asking for help is often tough, especially for us as men. Who do you turn to in times of crisis or confusion? We are socialized to be independent and "do it myself." However, there are times where we all need some help. Someone to talk to that won't judge us or ridicule us. One of the most difficult things to do is to make that first phone call to someone you don't know, asking for help. You just hope to get someone trustworthy, compassionate and competent. These are my strongest traits, and I welcome your call today.
(858) 215-1949 View (858) 215-1949
Photo of Daniella Basin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Daniella Basin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Daniella! I work with individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, addiction and recovery, body image concerns, and perfectionism, who may at times feel overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, or uncertain about how to move forward. My goal is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, breaking patterns that no longer serve you, and developing a robust toolkit of coping skills.
Hi, I’m Daniella! I work with individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, addiction and recovery, body image concerns, and perfectionism, who may at times feel overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, or uncertain about how to move forward. My goal is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, breaking patterns that no longer serve you, and developing a robust toolkit of coping skills.
(424) 203-4156 View (424) 203-4156
Photo of Arely Bruno, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Arely Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
My practice guides you with compassion as we explore strategies to manage symptoms, develop coping skills, and regain control of emotions for a more fulfilling life. I provide a uniquely supportive environment for first-generation and bilingual individuals, fostering identity exploration, healing, and hope. Specializing in trauma-informed care, I deeply understand the challenges you face. My goal is to create a non-judgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and valued.
My practice guides you with compassion as we explore strategies to manage symptoms, develop coping skills, and regain control of emotions for a more fulfilling life. I provide a uniquely supportive environment for first-generation and bilingual individuals, fostering identity exploration, healing, and hope. Specializing in trauma-informed care, I deeply understand the challenges you face. My goal is to create a non-judgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and valued.
(951) 498-7684 View (951) 498-7684
Photo of Debra L Martinez, Psychologist, PsyD, LEP
Debra L Martinez
Psychologist, PsyD, LEP
Online Only
I appreciate the ability of working as a member of a collaborative team to provide patients with the "best practices" of healthcare support. I have a strong commitment to my patients with a goal to honor the cultural diversity and individuality of each, recognizing that every person brings with them a unique spectrum of strengths and circumstances, concerns, emotions, and personal goals. My expertise has been acquired over 25 years within clinical and educational settings as a practicing Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Educational Psychologist. I look forward to meeting you and working with you and your family.
I appreciate the ability of working as a member of a collaborative team to provide patients with the "best practices" of healthcare support. I have a strong commitment to my patients with a goal to honor the cultural diversity and individuality of each, recognizing that every person brings with them a unique spectrum of strengths and circumstances, concerns, emotions, and personal goals. My expertise has been acquired over 25 years within clinical and educational settings as a practicing Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Educational Psychologist. I look forward to meeting you and working with you and your family.
(714) 769-6984 View (714) 769-6984
Photo of Gary D Pearle, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Gary D Pearle
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
Good therapy is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. It’s informative, it's amusing, and now and then it's downright breathtaking—in those moments when the pieces fall into place and suddenly things get clearer, more workable. At the beginning though, it’s usually a tangle. A relationship isn’t right, or your work isn’t what you hoped it would be. Maybe you’re nervous or depressed. Something new may be trying to enter your life, but it’s doing so in a very uncomfortable way. That’s when it’s worth finding someone who has a feel for the possibilities—some of them quite surprising—that may lie just around the corner.
Good therapy is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. It’s informative, it's amusing, and now and then it's downright breathtaking—in those moments when the pieces fall into place and suddenly things get clearer, more workable. At the beginning though, it’s usually a tangle. A relationship isn’t right, or your work isn’t what you hoped it would be. Maybe you’re nervous or depressed. Something new may be trying to enter your life, but it’s doing so in a very uncomfortable way. That’s when it’s worth finding someone who has a feel for the possibilities—some of them quite surprising—that may lie just around the corner.
(747) 233-2528 View (747) 233-2528
Photo of Sandra Zuazo, Psychologist, PsyD
Sandra Zuazo
Psychologist, PsyD
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you the problem solver in your family, but when you need help, no one is around? Was your homelife unpredictable, and did you find yourself taking on adult responsibilities? Or did you grow up hearing criticism, leading you to doubt your choices or feel less confident as an adult? Many who grew up this way find it hard to trust others or can be too hard on themselves. Please know that healing is possible. Your relationships can feel safer and connected by learning about your patterns, values, and emotional needs. Together, we’ll create a plan to build your self esteem, navigate relationship issues, and process any past traumas.
Are you the problem solver in your family, but when you need help, no one is around? Was your homelife unpredictable, and did you find yourself taking on adult responsibilities? Or did you grow up hearing criticism, leading you to doubt your choices or feel less confident as an adult? Many who grew up this way find it hard to trust others or can be too hard on themselves. Please know that healing is possible. Your relationships can feel safer and connected by learning about your patterns, values, and emotional needs. Together, we’ll create a plan to build your self esteem, navigate relationship issues, and process any past traumas.
(626) 380-8685 View (626) 380-8685
Photo of Kate Leahy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kate Leahy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Hayward, CA 94541
My integrative approach draws from evidence-based and experiential modalities, including: • Psychodynamic and Attachment-based therapy • Somatic and Systemic interventions • CBT, ACT, and EMDR • Parts Work and Constellations • Eco-therapy and Equine-assisted therapy
I believe that every wound, trauma, and life transition holds the potential for transformation. In our work together, we’ll navigate your inner landscape to release anxiety, depression, and limiting patterns, restoring your vitality and uncovering new possibilities. As you grow and change, your relationships and the world around you naturally shift as well.
My integrative approach draws from evidence-based and experiential modalities, including: • Psychodynamic and Attachment-based therapy • Somatic and Systemic interventions • CBT, ACT, and EMDR • Parts Work and Constellations • Eco-therapy and Equine-assisted therapy
I believe that every wound, trauma, and life transition holds the potential for transformation. In our work together, we’ll navigate your inner landscape to release anxiety, depression, and limiting patterns, restoring your vitality and uncovering new possibilities. As you grow and change, your relationships and the world around you naturally shift as well.
(510) 863-1821 View (510) 863-1821
Photo of Panayiotis Frangos, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Panayiotis Frangos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Mateo, CA 94402
I am licensed from the Board of Behavioral Sciences as a Marriage Family Therapist.  I graduated from Notre Dame de Namur with a Master's in Science Clinical Psychology MFT.  I was born in Greece and moved to the United States as a child, and have been a California Bay Area native ever since.  Growing up in a Greek household, I am able to speak Greek fluently and I am proficient in Spanish.  In my spare time, I am also learning Mandarin Chinese as languages are a passion of mine.
I am licensed from the Board of Behavioral Sciences as a Marriage Family Therapist.  I graduated from Notre Dame de Namur with a Master's in Science Clinical Psychology MFT.  I was born in Greece and moved to the United States as a child, and have been a California Bay Area native ever since.  Growing up in a Greek household, I am able to speak Greek fluently and I am proficient in Spanish.  In my spare time, I am also learning Mandarin Chinese as languages are a passion of mine.
(650) 525-2494 View (650) 525-2494

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