Photo of Jonathan Vera Monteverdi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Jonathan Vera Monteverdi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I have been trained in various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trial-Based Cognitive Therapy (TB-CT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Committement Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Addictions, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
From helping adolescents cope with big life situations and transitions, to facilitating individual/group mental health services for adults; helping people experience lasting change and true recovery with self and others are the core values in my psychotherapy practice.
I have been trained in various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trial-Based Cognitive Therapy (TB-CT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Committement Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Addictions, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
From helping adolescents cope with big life situations and transitions, to facilitating individual/group mental health services for adults; helping people experience lasting change and true recovery with self and others are the core values in my psychotherapy practice.
(805) 608-2872 View (805) 608-2872
Photo of Megan Stevens Talmo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Megan Stevens Talmo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, play therapy, solution focused therapy and EMDR.
In my practice, I strive to give you the best opportunity at self-reflection and growth. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with mood disorders and cognitive disabilities. I work with my clients to understand their stressors that come from living day to day life, fearing the unknown and not knowing the tools to curb emotional distress. I additionally specialize in working with trauma victims through EMDR therapy. With my experience in residential and lower levels of care, as well as group therapy settings, I strive to meet you where you are at therapeutically.
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, play therapy, solution focused therapy and EMDR.
In my practice, I strive to give you the best opportunity at self-reflection and growth. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with mood disorders and cognitive disabilities. I work with my clients to understand their stressors that come from living day to day life, fearing the unknown and not knowing the tools to curb emotional distress. I additionally specialize in working with trauma victims through EMDR therapy. With my experience in residential and lower levels of care, as well as group therapy settings, I strive to meet you where you are at therapeutically.
(661) 338-5793 View (661) 338-5793
Photo of Jhoana Sarabia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Jhoana Sarabia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
For those who are seeking support for on-going issues, Jhoana utilizes different approaches that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety and Interpersonal Psychology (IPT) among others.
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
For those who are seeking support for on-going issues, Jhoana utilizes different approaches that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety and Interpersonal Psychology (IPT) among others.
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
(310) 943-1244 View (310) 943-1244
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Westlake Village, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
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 Melissa Spina-Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Melissa Spina-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
I practice with several theoretical perspectives including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based practices.
I’m so glad you found my page! Although difficult at times, therapy is a rewarding journey. I am a client centered, strength-based therapist. I want to collaborate with you within your own value system and worldview. Together we will highlight your strengths and resources.
I practice with several theoretical perspectives including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based practices.
I’m so glad you found my page! Although difficult at times, therapy is a rewarding journey. I am a client centered, strength-based therapist. I want to collaborate with you within your own value system and worldview. Together we will highlight your strengths and resources.
(415) 825-7170 View (415) 825-7170
Photo of Cheri L McDonald, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Cheri L McDonald
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, PAPT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
I am Cheri McDonald Ph.D., LMFT, PATP, a creative visionary with a passion for healing individuals, families, and communities. Drawing from my 35-year private psychotherapy practice at A Place To Turn, I've cultivated wisdom and knowledge that form the foundation of my Holistic Integral Training (HIT). This modality leads to profound, long-lasting healing in the mind, body, and spirit. I stand as a holistic leader and mentor in the mental health realm. With the transformation of the world today and the increasing need to provide healing for the most complex times, I have founded Alternative Place 2 Turn, LLC..
I am Cheri McDonald Ph.D., LMFT, PATP, a creative visionary with a passion for healing individuals, families, and communities. Drawing from my 35-year private psychotherapy practice at A Place To Turn, I've cultivated wisdom and knowledge that form the foundation of my Holistic Integral Training (HIT). This modality leads to profound, long-lasting healing in the mind, body, and spirit. I stand as a holistic leader and mentor in the mental health realm. With the transformation of the world today and the increasing need to provide healing for the most complex times, I have founded Alternative Place 2 Turn, LLC..
(818) 305-6249 View (818) 305-6249
Photo of Chelsie Silveira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Chelsie Silveira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
My clients typically come to me because they are struggling with anxiety or depression and they want to work on their ability to interact with others or improve relationships, complete tasks, sleep better or feel better about themselves. I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, Exposure Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions, Brainspotting and when indicated Behavioral Interventions. I work from a strengths-based perspective to find the best parts of you and/or your family and I work to build your strengths so you can grow and thrive on your own again.
My clients typically come to me because they are struggling with anxiety or depression and they want to work on their ability to interact with others or improve relationships, complete tasks, sleep better or feel better about themselves. I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, Exposure Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions, Brainspotting and when indicated Behavioral Interventions. I work from a strengths-based perspective to find the best parts of you and/or your family and I work to build your strengths so you can grow and thrive on your own again.
(805) 926-6995 View (805) 926-6995
Photo of Colin Keller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Colin Keller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
The clients I see in my practice range in age from 11-80. While each individual has their own story, there are common threads that seem to run through all of us. These threads include loneliness/isolation, anxiety about the future, addiction, the aftermath of heartbreak/loss, work/money stress, longing to understand one’s past, even worry over the ever-changing state of the world. These and other issues, while painful and often confusing, are actually the materials that create change and growth. This is the therapeutic process.
The clients I see in my practice range in age from 11-80. While each individual has their own story, there are common threads that seem to run through all of us. These threads include loneliness/isolation, anxiety about the future, addiction, the aftermath of heartbreak/loss, work/money stress, longing to understand one’s past, even worry over the ever-changing state of the world. These and other issues, while painful and often confusing, are actually the materials that create change and growth. This is the therapeutic process.
(805) 667-0560 View (805) 667-0560
Photo of Allison Welsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Allison Welsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Allison has experience providing individual, group, and family therapy to adolescents and adults suffering from a variety of challenges. Furthermore, she has extensive experience treating mood disorders, trauma, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and dual diagnoses in various acute treatment settings. As a former Director of the Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs with the adolescent population, she developed expertise in co-occurring disorders in the field of addiction and mental health utilizing a variety of evidence based practices.
Allison has experience providing individual, group, and family therapy to adolescents and adults suffering from a variety of challenges. Furthermore, she has extensive experience treating mood disorders, trauma, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and dual diagnoses in various acute treatment settings. As a former Director of the Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs with the adolescent population, she developed expertise in co-occurring disorders in the field of addiction and mental health utilizing a variety of evidence based practices.
(805) 669-9612 View (805) 669-9612
Photo of Leesa Varela, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Leesa Varela
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Compassionate, open-minded, strength-based care is Leesa’s goal for every client, in the environment that best meets your needs - In-office, Remote, or a combination of both. Leesa will support you to navigate difficult life stressors and address trauma wounds that can cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, acute or post-traumatic stress, addiction, relational conflict, employment/academic impairment, etc. She uses EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) and Family Systems interventions to create an individualized treatment plan that's ideal for you!
Compassionate, open-minded, strength-based care is Leesa’s goal for every client, in the environment that best meets your needs - In-office, Remote, or a combination of both. Leesa will support you to navigate difficult life stressors and address trauma wounds that can cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, acute or post-traumatic stress, addiction, relational conflict, employment/academic impairment, etc. She uses EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) and Family Systems interventions to create an individualized treatment plan that's ideal for you!
(805) 491-9256 View (805) 491-9256
Photo of Carla Korn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Carla Korn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
You've been struggling for far too long obsessing about food and your body. You are ready for a change. It's time. Maybe you've been stuck restricting, emotional eating, binging, or over-exercising. You work hard to stick to the plan, but you just feel like you can’t be trusted around food. On the outside, everything looks great. People think you “have it all” but inside it feels like you’re a total fraud. Each day, you're determined to do things differently, to finally get things “under control,” but you're trapped on this never-ending cycle. You know there's got to be a better way, but you have no idea where to start.
You've been struggling for far too long obsessing about food and your body. You are ready for a change. It's time. Maybe you've been stuck restricting, emotional eating, binging, or over-exercising. You work hard to stick to the plan, but you just feel like you can’t be trusted around food. On the outside, everything looks great. People think you “have it all” but inside it feels like you’re a total fraud. Each day, you're determined to do things differently, to finally get things “under control,” but you're trapped on this never-ending cycle. You know there's got to be a better way, but you have no idea where to start.
(818) 584-1021 View (818) 584-1021
Photo of Savannah Varela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Savannah Varela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
As a queer, bi-ethnic EMDR-trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) clinician, I broadly apply a social justice, sex-positive, feminist, and psychodynamic approach to help my clients get “unstuck” by moving through trauma and finding clarity within the context of the world we live in. I received my Master’s degree in Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley and have extensive experience working in community mental health. My current practice is informed by my years of experience as a public servant.
As a queer, bi-ethnic EMDR-trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) clinician, I broadly apply a social justice, sex-positive, feminist, and psychodynamic approach to help my clients get “unstuck” by moving through trauma and finding clarity within the context of the world we live in. I received my Master’s degree in Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley and have extensive experience working in community mental health. My current practice is informed by my years of experience as a public servant.
(818) 650-9994 View (818) 650-9994
Photo of Mallory Hepp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Mallory Hepp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Welcome! Are you struggling with your food, weight or body image? Are your relationships strained? I believe that transformation is possible. Even the toughest problems can be improved as we explore challenges in the context of a safe, therapeutic relationship. I believe that in order to make and sustain meaningful changes, we need a non-judgmental environment where one feels understood. My goal is to work with you to explore your hopes and desires, to honor your efforts and accomplishments, to sit with you in discomfort and pain, and to help you create a path that brings meaning, depth and connection to your life.
Welcome! Are you struggling with your food, weight or body image? Are your relationships strained? I believe that transformation is possible. Even the toughest problems can be improved as we explore challenges in the context of a safe, therapeutic relationship. I believe that in order to make and sustain meaningful changes, we need a non-judgmental environment where one feels understood. My goal is to work with you to explore your hopes and desires, to honor your efforts and accomplishments, to sit with you in discomfort and pain, and to help you create a path that brings meaning, depth and connection to your life.
(747) 246-7912 View (747) 246-7912
Photo of Janessa Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Westlake Village, CA
Janessa Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
My therapeutic approach stems from the belief that at some point in our lives, we all could benefit from speaking to a professional to help us navigate through whatever issues are holding us back. For some, the desire to seek support happens early in life and for others it happens later. Whether issues stem from life changes, mental health disorders, or external stressors, I believe now is always the right time to start working towards a greater understanding of yourself and your needs. Through working in collaboration with my clients, I hope to help them heal and become the best version of themselves that they've ever known.
My therapeutic approach stems from the belief that at some point in our lives, we all could benefit from speaking to a professional to help us navigate through whatever issues are holding us back. For some, the desire to seek support happens early in life and for others it happens later. Whether issues stem from life changes, mental health disorders, or external stressors, I believe now is always the right time to start working towards a greater understanding of yourself and your needs. Through working in collaboration with my clients, I hope to help them heal and become the best version of themselves that they've ever known.
(805) 600-5055 View (805) 600-5055
Photo of Kelsey Waesche, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Westlake Village, CA
Kelsey Waesche
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
As a biracial therapist, I offer a unique perspective to the therapeutic process, integrating diverse cultural understanding and experiences into my practice. My background enriches my ability to connect with clients from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a deeper sense of trust and understanding the therapeutic relationship. I specialize in working with children, young adults, and adults grappling with overwhelming anxiety, profound loss, or complex relationships.
As a biracial therapist, I offer a unique perspective to the therapeutic process, integrating diverse cultural understanding and experiences into my practice. My background enriches my ability to connect with clients from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a deeper sense of trust and understanding the therapeutic relationship. I specialize in working with children, young adults, and adults grappling with overwhelming anxiety, profound loss, or complex relationships.
(805) 364-0252 View (805) 364-0252
Photo of Susan Tschudi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Susan Tschudi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
My focus is to assist individuals, couples, and families in understanding how their thoughts affect their feelings and behavior. By using this approach, problems in every-day living (including but not limited to depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder [especially in adults and adolescents] eating disorders, post-partum concerns, couple conflict, and teen/family problems) are addressed and resources are mobilized to provide effective change. Also, in an effort to strengthen marriage and families, I have created a comprehensive pre-marital program and effective parenting course.
My focus is to assist individuals, couples, and families in understanding how their thoughts affect their feelings and behavior. By using this approach, problems in every-day living (including but not limited to depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder [especially in adults and adolescents] eating disorders, post-partum concerns, couple conflict, and teen/family problems) are addressed and resources are mobilized to provide effective change. Also, in an effort to strengthen marriage and families, I have created a comprehensive pre-marital program and effective parenting course.
(805) 419-3936 View (805) 419-3936
Photo of Alex Steric, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Alex Steric
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Do you find yourself worried, stressed, or not feeling good enough? Maybe you are a new mom feeling overwhelmed, feeling like you are failing, or missing your old life and old self and you're wondering if you will ever feel like you again. I believe that with the right tools and support, you can feel like yourself again, reconnect with yourself and your relationships, and live life on your terms. Whether you are facing a new challenge, difficulties within relationships, are pregnant, or are a new parent trying to adjust to life with a baby, I provide a safe, warm place and direct approach to help guide you along the path to healing.
Do you find yourself worried, stressed, or not feeling good enough? Maybe you are a new mom feeling overwhelmed, feeling like you are failing, or missing your old life and old self and you're wondering if you will ever feel like you again. I believe that with the right tools and support, you can feel like yourself again, reconnect with yourself and your relationships, and live life on your terms. Whether you are facing a new challenge, difficulties within relationships, are pregnant, or are a new parent trying to adjust to life with a baby, I provide a safe, warm place and direct approach to help guide you along the path to healing.
(805) 628-4116 View (805) 628-4116
Photo of Marissa L. Long, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Marissa L. Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who is passionate about the process of healing and transformation. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, substance use, & mood disorders, we will navigate the complexities of your experience with sensitivity, curiosity, & optimism. My practice is rooted in a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between trauma, relationships, and the transformative power of the therapeutic alliance. With humility, respect, and empathy, I strive to create a safe and collaborative space where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who is passionate about the process of healing and transformation. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, substance use, & mood disorders, we will navigate the complexities of your experience with sensitivity, curiosity, & optimism. My practice is rooted in a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between trauma, relationships, and the transformative power of the therapeutic alliance. With humility, respect, and empathy, I strive to create a safe and collaborative space where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
(805) 622-2134 View (805) 622-2134
Photo of Elena Rybko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westlake Village, CA
Elena Rybko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
You've known that some issues have been always holding you back from reaching your full potential in life, career, and relationships. You realize that these unresolved and unattended issues do not serve your life, and keep sabotaging your happiness on different levels... Perhaps, you even tried working through some of them on your own, but deep down you know you need some external help and guidance to heal from them. You would like to reach some peace, let go of pain, learn how to accept and love yourself better, learn some real tools and skills to be more resilient, feel strong and confident, and be able to enjoy life.
You've known that some issues have been always holding you back from reaching your full potential in life, career, and relationships. You realize that these unresolved and unattended issues do not serve your life, and keep sabotaging your happiness on different levels... Perhaps, you even tried working through some of them on your own, but deep down you know you need some external help and guidance to heal from them. You would like to reach some peace, let go of pain, learn how to accept and love yourself better, learn some real tools and skills to be more resilient, feel strong and confident, and be able to enjoy life.
(805) 464-3058 View (805) 464-3058
Photo of Elizabeth Finnerty, Psychologist in Westlake Village, CA
Elizabeth Finnerty
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
(805) 243-2209 View (805) 243-2209

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Motivational Interviewing Therapists

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathizes, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviors in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behavior.