Compassion Focused Therapists in Merced County, CA

Photo of Lydia Jordan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lydia Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95340
Hi! My name is Lydia Jordan, LMFT & Diplomate, A-CBT. I work with individuals hoping to improve how they feel, think, and act using compassion-focused and trauma-informed CBT, with a particular emphasis on Eating, Mood, and Anxiety disorder diagnoses. I am also sensitive to Women's Life-Span concerns (including pregnancy & per-menopause) and recovery from Religious Trauma.
Hi! My name is Lydia Jordan, LMFT & Diplomate, A-CBT. I work with individuals hoping to improve how they feel, think, and act using compassion-focused and trauma-informed CBT, with a particular emphasis on Eating, Mood, and Anxiety disorder diagnoses. I am also sensitive to Women's Life-Span concerns (including pregnancy & per-menopause) and recovery from Religious Trauma.
(209) 682-0410 View (209) 682-0410
Photo of Michele Richter, LPCC
Michele Richter
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Atwater, CA 95301
Hi, my name is Michele Richter, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing online/telehealth therapy to children, adolescents, young and older adults, and families. I focus in several areas including anger management, anxiety, coping skills, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma & PTSD, and stress, amongst others. My approach is compassion focused, culturally sensitive and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, and more.
Hi, my name is Michele Richter, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing online/telehealth therapy to children, adolescents, young and older adults, and families. I focus in several areas including anger management, anxiety, coping skills, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma & PTSD, and stress, amongst others. My approach is compassion focused, culturally sensitive and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, and more.
(916) 292-9641 View (916) 292-9641
Photo of Meghan Murphy Goode, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Murphy Goode
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95340
EMDR is one of the most effective methods to stimulate the brain and body’s natural ability towards healing. EMDR is an evidence-based modality that uses eye movement, tapping, or sound to help the brain heal from difficult life experiences. EMDR can help with the treatment of PTSD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. This therapy is rewarding, and it could bring strength to situations that may have seemed hopeless.
EMDR is one of the most effective methods to stimulate the brain and body’s natural ability towards healing. EMDR is an evidence-based modality that uses eye movement, tapping, or sound to help the brain heal from difficult life experiences. EMDR can help with the treatment of PTSD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. This therapy is rewarding, and it could bring strength to situations that may have seemed hopeless.
(209) 219-2173 View (209) 219-2173
Regina Battle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Banos, CA 93635
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Emotional Emancipation Circle Facilitator, and Christian Counselor. I have 12 years of experience working for county, private practice, and non-profit agencies. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will help you examine your interpersonal relationships for the purpose of achieving more satisfying and productive connections. My goal is to help you with the best care through compassionate, non-judgmental, and skilled therapy practices. Let's talk!
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Emotional Emancipation Circle Facilitator, and Christian Counselor. I have 12 years of experience working for county, private practice, and non-profit agencies. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will help you examine your interpersonal relationships for the purpose of achieving more satisfying and productive connections. My goal is to help you with the best care through compassionate, non-judgmental, and skilled therapy practices. Let's talk!
(209) 457-5469 View (209) 457-5469
Photo of Borina Nou Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Borina Nou Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95341
Hello I am Borina and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate in supporting my clients through healing and growth so they can live their best life. I show interest in clients who are experiencing life challenges and career change. I am also a bilingual and culturally competent therapist. I have over 30 years of experience in working with individual and families going through crisis situations and adversities in their lives. I have specific experience in child and adult trauma.
Hello I am Borina and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate in supporting my clients through healing and growth so they can live their best life. I show interest in clients who are experiencing life challenges and career change. I am also a bilingual and culturally competent therapist. I have over 30 years of experience in working with individual and families going through crisis situations and adversities in their lives. I have specific experience in child and adult trauma.
(209) 370-0024 View (209) 370-0024
Photo of Teri Consunji, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teri Consunji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atwater, CA 95301  (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2003. I have a M.S. in Clinical Counseling Psychology. I enjoy the outdoors and my two little Maltese Mix dogs. They will join us in session at times. Previously, I have provided therapy to traumatized children as well as adults in substance abuse and recovery. Today I am semi-retired and am continuing my career doing online therapy. I love what I do!
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2003. I have a M.S. in Clinical Counseling Psychology. I enjoy the outdoors and my two little Maltese Mix dogs. They will join us in session at times. Previously, I have provided therapy to traumatized children as well as adults in substance abuse and recovery. Today I am semi-retired and am continuing my career doing online therapy. I love what I do!
(209) 309-3913 View (209) 309-3913
Photo of Danielle Louise Mumford, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Louise Mumford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95348  (Online Only)
Sometimes we all need someone to listen, validate, and hear our story. You may be experiencing emotional pain, suffering, uncontrollable worry, sadness, fatigue, troubled relationships and/ or grief. The reasons for these feelings and struggles may vary based on what has happened to YOU. I work with individuals and couples that feel lost and unsure of what is next for them. I help build and use skills that will support emotion regulation, decrease worried thoughts, and increase meaningful connections with self and others. You don’t have to work on these challenges alone. Allow me to be a part of your journey.
Sometimes we all need someone to listen, validate, and hear our story. You may be experiencing emotional pain, suffering, uncontrollable worry, sadness, fatigue, troubled relationships and/ or grief. The reasons for these feelings and struggles may vary based on what has happened to YOU. I work with individuals and couples that feel lost and unsure of what is next for them. I help build and use skills that will support emotion regulation, decrease worried thoughts, and increase meaningful connections with self and others. You don’t have to work on these challenges alone. Allow me to be a part of your journey.
(209) 257-6245 View (209) 257-6245
Photo of Susan Terris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Terris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95341
Susan C Terris, LMFT 34868. My approach to therapy is first to listen deeply to what a client's needs are, and to work collaboratively and non-judgmentally with them towards their goals. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to be an active participant in their own treatment. I have worked with clients successfully on depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, all types of anxiety (including trauma), grief and any type of adjustment to life changes, including relationships. I'm currently working with young adults and adults from 18 to 100. I enjoy working with many different types of conditions.
Susan C Terris, LMFT 34868. My approach to therapy is first to listen deeply to what a client's needs are, and to work collaboratively and non-judgmentally with them towards their goals. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to be an active participant in their own treatment. I have worked with clients successfully on depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, all types of anxiety (including trauma), grief and any type of adjustment to life changes, including relationships. I'm currently working with young adults and adults from 18 to 100. I enjoy working with many different types of conditions.
(209) 817-8359 View (209) 817-8359
Photo of Justen Vernon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justen Vernon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95340  (Online Only)
I welcome everyone! I've worked extensively with active and former military, older adults, geeks, gamers, lgbtq+ and theater kids on a variety of issues My areas of focus include: ADHD, depression/anxiety, religious trauma, PTSD, chronic pain and end of life issues. We'll explore ways in which to manage and identify stress and how we hold it in the body, work on identifying values, and using them to move forward in life with purpose. Because when our head aligns with our heart, amazing things can happen! Right now I am only accepting California clients. Thank you!
I welcome everyone! I've worked extensively with active and former military, older adults, geeks, gamers, lgbtq+ and theater kids on a variety of issues My areas of focus include: ADHD, depression/anxiety, religious trauma, PTSD, chronic pain and end of life issues. We'll explore ways in which to manage and identify stress and how we hold it in the body, work on identifying values, and using them to move forward in life with purpose. Because when our head aligns with our heart, amazing things can happen! Right now I am only accepting California clients. Thank you!
(209) 806-7133 View (209) 806-7133
Photo of Dr. Lyssabeth Mattoon, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Lyssabeth Mattoon
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atwater, CA 95301  (Online Only)
Whether a traumatic experience has turned your world upside down or you are struggling to balance being neurodivergent, a single parent, veteran, survivor of narcissistic abuse or foster parent of children with special needs, I see you, have been there and offer well-tested, therapeutic solutions that will help. I understand first-hand how lonely, misunderstood and frustrated these circumstances can make you feel, so I have spent my career as a trauma specialist, helping others harness their inner strength to conquer these challenges. Call for a free 15 minute check in if you're ready for someone to fight alongside of you.
Whether a traumatic experience has turned your world upside down or you are struggling to balance being neurodivergent, a single parent, veteran, survivor of narcissistic abuse or foster parent of children with special needs, I see you, have been there and offer well-tested, therapeutic solutions that will help. I understand first-hand how lonely, misunderstood and frustrated these circumstances can make you feel, so I have spent my career as a trauma specialist, helping others harness their inner strength to conquer these challenges. Call for a free 15 minute check in if you're ready for someone to fight alongside of you.
(209) 307-7116 View (209) 307-7116
Photo of Cristina Vigil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristina Vigil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95348
Hello, my name is Cristina Vigil (she/ella) and I am a LCSW. Over the past decade, I've dedicated myself to supporting gender-expansive and LGBTQ+ children, adolescents, and their parents/families/caregivers. I provide a safe haven where individuals of all ages are not just acknowledged but embraced and assisted in their journey of self-discovery. One of the main modalities that I use in my practice is CBT, where we explore how your thoughts affect your emotions. During treatment, you will learn how to question and push back against those thoughts and notice how your feelings reflect this inquiry.
Hello, my name is Cristina Vigil (she/ella) and I am a LCSW. Over the past decade, I've dedicated myself to supporting gender-expansive and LGBTQ+ children, adolescents, and their parents/families/caregivers. I provide a safe haven where individuals of all ages are not just acknowledged but embraced and assisted in their journey of self-discovery. One of the main modalities that I use in my practice is CBT, where we explore how your thoughts affect your emotions. During treatment, you will learn how to question and push back against those thoughts and notice how your feelings reflect this inquiry.
(209) 553-4477 View (209) 553-4477
Photo of Kimberly Ignacio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Ignacio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95348
Hi, my name is Kimberly Ignacio and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working professionally in the fields of mental health and social services for 10+ years. The work and personal experiences encountered have helped me to empathize with my clients in hopes to build understanding and point out alternative perspectives to be observed. I apply an integrative approach compromised of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, and is Client Centered.
Hi, my name is Kimberly Ignacio and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working professionally in the fields of mental health and social services for 10+ years. The work and personal experiences encountered have helped me to empathize with my clients in hopes to build understanding and point out alternative perspectives to be observed. I apply an integrative approach compromised of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, and is Client Centered.
(209) 299-4423 View (209) 299-4423
Photo of Jessica Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Banos, CA 93635
When I meet with my clients, I truly want to understand their issues from the onset to the present. This allows me to trust within the therapeutic relationship and also me to see my clients as whole persons, not a person that is divided into pieces. My approach with my clients is compassionate, strength-based, and supportive. While I also practice other modalities, I enjoy focusing on the ones mentioned to serve my clients better.
When I meet with my clients, I truly want to understand their issues from the onset to the present. This allows me to trust within the therapeutic relationship and also me to see my clients as whole persons, not a person that is divided into pieces. My approach with my clients is compassionate, strength-based, and supportive. While I also practice other modalities, I enjoy focusing on the ones mentioned to serve my clients better.
(209) 643-4559 View (209) 643-4559
Photo of Leticia Guillen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leticia Guillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merced, CA 95341  (Online Only)
My approach to every person is to be respectful of every person I meet. I listen with an open heart and truly value the dignity and worth of every individual that I meet with. I will do my best to help you better understand that your thoughts, feelings and behaviors are all connected. Most of the time, I find that we need to work backwards and see what the problem behaviors are, then identify those feelings affecting us and finally get to the thoughts and limiting beliefs that are the root cause of the disturbance. Overall, I am an empathic listener, I have great insight for patterns and I love helping people feel better.
My approach to every person is to be respectful of every person I meet. I listen with an open heart and truly value the dignity and worth of every individual that I meet with. I will do my best to help you better understand that your thoughts, feelings and behaviors are all connected. Most of the time, I find that we need to work backwards and see what the problem behaviors are, then identify those feelings affecting us and finally get to the thoughts and limiting beliefs that are the root cause of the disturbance. Overall, I am an empathic listener, I have great insight for patterns and I love helping people feel better.
(209) 316-6521 View (209) 316-6521
Photo of Susana Ochoa-Valle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susana Ochoa-Valle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atwater, CA 95301  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I use a person-centered, holistic, and integrative approach to address the mind, body, and spirit. I come into the therapeutic relationship with curiosity and compassion to support my clients to improve their well-being by reconnecting to themselves. I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals of all ages with diverse backgrounds – primarily focused on the Latinx community.
Hi! I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I use a person-centered, holistic, and integrative approach to address the mind, body, and spirit. I come into the therapeutic relationship with curiosity and compassion to support my clients to improve their well-being by reconnecting to themselves. I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals of all ages with diverse backgrounds – primarily focused on the Latinx community.
(213) 513-6118 View (213) 513-6118
Photo of Navpreet Brar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Navpreet Brar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95341
Hello, I am Preet Brar an LCSW. I am your gateway to transformative healing and mental well-being. As the founder of my virtual online services, I bring you a unique blend of compassion, expertise, and innovation to the realm of mental wellness. With a passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth, I offer a safe and empowering space for you to embark on a transformative dialogue.
Hello, I am Preet Brar an LCSW. I am your gateway to transformative healing and mental well-being. As the founder of my virtual online services, I bring you a unique blend of compassion, expertise, and innovation to the realm of mental wellness. With a passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth, I offer a safe and empowering space for you to embark on a transformative dialogue.
(442) 276-3818 View (442) 276-3818
Photo of Ashley Prueitt, LCP, Psychologist
Ashley Prueitt
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Atwater, CA 95301
Hello! I'm Ashley Prueitt and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. In therapy, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic, and rational emotive behavior therapy to focus on building a strong rapport in a safe and supportive environment.
Hello! I'm Ashley Prueitt and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. In therapy, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic, and rational emotive behavior therapy to focus on building a strong rapport in a safe and supportive environment.
(916) 304-1559 View (916) 304-1559
Photo of Brett McGillivray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brett McGillivray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atwater, CA 95301
I am Brett McGillivray, LCSW. In summary, i have been an LCSW since 2005, and have a variety of clinical and life experiences to meet you where you are, assess your needs and create a treatment plan for you. I am empathic, direct and supportive. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing as these modalities help me and the client develop a shared understanding of their current reality and allow us to work together to build a path forward.
I am Brett McGillivray, LCSW. In summary, i have been an LCSW since 2005, and have a variety of clinical and life experiences to meet you where you are, assess your needs and create a treatment plan for you. I am empathic, direct and supportive. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing as these modalities help me and the client develop a shared understanding of their current reality and allow us to work together to build a path forward.
(213) 784-9367 View (213) 784-9367
Photo of Theppharack Sounthala, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theppharack Sounthala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merced, CA 95340
Hello! I'm Theppharack Sounthala, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a Master of Social Work from the California State University of Stanislaus. I have over 20 years of diverse experience with adults who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, and Loss. I also have experience working with refugee clients, and am a refugee myself. I speak English, Laotian, and Thai, and provide services via teletherapy. Some of my most used modalities are CBT, Cognitive Processing, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength-Based, and more.
Hello! I'm Theppharack Sounthala, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a Master of Social Work from the California State University of Stanislaus. I have over 20 years of diverse experience with adults who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, and Loss. I also have experience working with refugee clients, and am a refugee myself. I speak English, Laotian, and Thai, and provide services via teletherapy. Some of my most used modalities are CBT, Cognitive Processing, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength-Based, and more.
(209) 554-2031 View (209) 554-2031
Photo of Lindsey Garber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atwater, CA 95301
Hi! I'm Lindsey Garber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in a variety of different settings to help individuals work through life's challenges while providing support and empathy. I feel truly privileged to be able to provide a safe space to work with you through whatever it is that brings you to therapy! I enjoy working with adult clients in varying life stages with a variety of needs.
Hi! I'm Lindsey Garber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in a variety of different settings to help individuals work through life's challenges while providing support and empathy. I feel truly privileged to be able to provide a safe space to work with you through whatever it is that brings you to therapy! I enjoy working with adult clients in varying life stages with a variety of needs.
(714) 640-6412 View (714) 640-6412
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Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.