LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Cerritos, CA

Photo of Rodolfo Zuniga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rodolfo Zuniga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
My Name is Rodolfo Zuniga. I am a bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist with more than 24 years of experience working with individuals exposed to severe trauma. I have extended training and certifications in Evidence-Based Treatment Modalities, Certified Domestic Facilitator- Victims/Perpetrators, and Certified in Children, Adolescents, and Family Psychoanalytic Programs. Certified Yoga Teacher. Mental Health Professional. Specialized Trainings: Ethical Issues in Child & Family Therapy, issues of acculturation, Sexual Abuse, Cultural Competency: Working with LGBTQ population, HIV/AIDS, Grief and Loss Issues.
My Name is Rodolfo Zuniga. I am a bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist with more than 24 years of experience working with individuals exposed to severe trauma. I have extended training and certifications in Evidence-Based Treatment Modalities, Certified Domestic Facilitator- Victims/Perpetrators, and Certified in Children, Adolescents, and Family Psychoanalytic Programs. Certified Yoga Teacher. Mental Health Professional. Specialized Trainings: Ethical Issues in Child & Family Therapy, issues of acculturation, Sexual Abuse, Cultural Competency: Working with LGBTQ population, HIV/AIDS, Grief and Loss Issues.
(657) 837-1866 View (657) 837-1866
Photo of Corie Jones Duzsa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Corie Jones Duzsa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Hello my name is Corie Jones Duzsa. I am marriage and family therapist licensed in California with 20 years of experience. I have worked with children, teens, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting problems, family conflict, chronic pain, low self-esteem, and more. I have worked with many different types of clients that range from children to adults, LGBTQ clients, couples and families, and both men and women. I am currently working primarily with adults and older teens from 18 and up, individuals, and couples.
Hello my name is Corie Jones Duzsa. I am marriage and family therapist licensed in California with 20 years of experience. I have worked with children, teens, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting problems, family conflict, chronic pain, low self-esteem, and more. I have worked with many different types of clients that range from children to adults, LGBTQ clients, couples and families, and both men and women. I am currently working primarily with adults and older teens from 18 and up, individuals, and couples.
(951) 524-7268 View (951) 524-7268
Photo of Mike Valenzuela, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mike Valenzuela
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Hello, I'm Mike Valenzuela, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have experience working with a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Some of my clients include veterans, LGBTQ community, and individuals struggling with communication, relationship, goal setting, depression, and traumatic experiences. My approach is varied depending on the cl needs and goals and may include Gestalt, CBT, Solution Focused, IFS, DBT, Trauma Informed care and Attachment theory. My approach is eclectic and client centered approach. I can help you gain a different perspective into past emotional experiences that may be affecting you today.
Hello, I'm Mike Valenzuela, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have experience working with a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Some of my clients include veterans, LGBTQ community, and individuals struggling with communication, relationship, goal setting, depression, and traumatic experiences. My approach is varied depending on the cl needs and goals and may include Gestalt, CBT, Solution Focused, IFS, DBT, Trauma Informed care and Attachment theory. My approach is eclectic and client centered approach. I can help you gain a different perspective into past emotional experiences that may be affecting you today.
(951) 724-5979 View (951) 724-5979
Photo of Rosa Portillo, MA, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rosa Portillo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Welcome! I'm committed to guiding you through life's challenges and fostering resilience and wellness. Specializing in anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions, and self-esteem, I offer compassionate, evidence-based support for your growth. In addition to my focus areas, I also have extensive experience working with neurodiverse populations, and I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and have worked closely with BIPOC communities and am dedicated to fostering a non-judgmental therapy space.
Welcome! I'm committed to guiding you through life's challenges and fostering resilience and wellness. Specializing in anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions, and self-esteem, I offer compassionate, evidence-based support for your growth. In addition to my focus areas, I also have extensive experience working with neurodiverse populations, and I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and have worked closely with BIPOC communities and am dedicated to fostering a non-judgmental therapy space.
(562) 784-8056 View (562) 784-8056
Photo of Anxiety And Trauma Therapist Ryan Dalusag, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anxiety And Trauma Therapist Ryan Dalusag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Yes, emotions can suck sometimes. They can be unbearable and overwhelming but you're not alone - I am available to help you navigate through it. As a Filipino-American queer male, my practice is geared towards helping individuals that struggle with identity, lingering traumas, or anxiety/worry about their future especially those within the Asian-American Pacific Islander (AAPI) and LGBTQ+ communities. Seeking help and talking about some of our darkest and most difficult moments can be really challenging. Wherever you are in your journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
Yes, emotions can suck sometimes. They can be unbearable and overwhelming but you're not alone - I am available to help you navigate through it. As a Filipino-American queer male, my practice is geared towards helping individuals that struggle with identity, lingering traumas, or anxiety/worry about their future especially those within the Asian-American Pacific Islander (AAPI) and LGBTQ+ communities. Seeking help and talking about some of our darkest and most difficult moments can be really challenging. Wherever you are in your journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
(562) 684-6419 View (562) 684-6419
Photo of Kyra M Mendoza-James, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Kyra M Mendoza-James
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90701  (Online Only)
I am an experienced psychologist with over 12 years experience having worked with children, adults, families, couples, and LGBTQ individuals.
My mission in life and my personal passion as a Psychologist is to be of service to those navigating life’s most complex and difficult challenges in their day to day lives. That is why I am so excited about your decision to begin therapy. Sharing your life experiences is not made lightly and that is why I am always humbled to be apart of each new journey. We will work collaboratively throughout the process in navigating through the anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and other challenges keeping you from enjoying the life you envision.
I am an experienced psychologist with over 12 years experience having worked with children, adults, families, couples, and LGBTQ individuals.
My mission in life and my personal passion as a Psychologist is to be of service to those navigating life’s most complex and difficult challenges in their day to day lives. That is why I am so excited about your decision to begin therapy. Sharing your life experiences is not made lightly and that is why I am always humbled to be apart of each new journey. We will work collaboratively throughout the process in navigating through the anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and other challenges keeping you from enjoying the life you envision.
(562) 249-1757 View (562) 249-1757
Photo of Chirag Bharati, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chirag Bharati
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90701
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness." I believe that client care absolutely should be individualized (in collaboration with the individual), contain healthy coping skills, and help build a social support network that can help him/her/them progress towards a much happier future.
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness." I believe that client care absolutely should be individualized (in collaboration with the individual), contain healthy coping skills, and help build a social support network that can help him/her/them progress towards a much happier future.
(657) 845-3799 View (657) 845-3799
Photo of Constance (Connie) Shin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Constance (Connie) Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that the heart of most personal issues is relational in nature and that a safe, trusted relationship is needed in which to experience healing and transformation. My hope is that within the therapeutic relationship, inner freedom and growth in self-awareness will be experienced, as well as healing and transformation in your relationship with yourself and others.
I believe that the heart of most personal issues is relational in nature and that a safe, trusted relationship is needed in which to experience healing and transformation. My hope is that within the therapeutic relationship, inner freedom and growth in self-awareness will be experienced, as well as healing and transformation in your relationship with yourself and others.
(714) 793-0599 View (714) 793-0599
Photo of Mildred Ortiz - Buena Vibra Psychological Services, Inc. , PsyD, Psychologist
Buena Vibra Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Buena Vibra! We're a small group practice offering psychotherapy services in English/Spanish. We value the desires and needs of our clients to relate to others in healthy ways, while maintaining a sense of autonomy. We explore with our Clients how symptoms of anxiety and depression may result from inconsistent and poorly defined boundaries and expectations. Together we create healthy boundaries through effective communication strategies and consistent behavioral interventions, while taking great care in exploring, identifying and preserving cultural, traditional value systems within their relationships.
Buena Vibra! We're a small group practice offering psychotherapy services in English/Spanish. We value the desires and needs of our clients to relate to others in healthy ways, while maintaining a sense of autonomy. We explore with our Clients how symptoms of anxiety and depression may result from inconsistent and poorly defined boundaries and expectations. Together we create healthy boundaries through effective communication strategies and consistent behavioral interventions, while taking great care in exploring, identifying and preserving cultural, traditional value systems within their relationships.
(323) 688-6027 View (323) 688-6027
Photo of Nicole Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Is depression and anxiety keeping you from living the life you want? Are you that afraid your marriage won’t last? Do you feel like you don’t know your teens anymore and nervous that they are veering down a path they can’t come back from? Did something traumatic happen to you and now you find that you are angry, shut down, or blaming yourself? I can help. I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I take an integrative approach to therapy by matching evidence-based interventions to your needs so you can experience the best possible outcomes.
Is depression and anxiety keeping you from living the life you want? Are you that afraid your marriage won’t last? Do you feel like you don’t know your teens anymore and nervous that they are veering down a path they can’t come back from? Did something traumatic happen to you and now you find that you are angry, shut down, or blaming yourself? I can help. I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I take an integrative approach to therapy by matching evidence-based interventions to your needs so you can experience the best possible outcomes.
(562) 222-5286 View (562) 222-5286
Photo of Mavi Martin, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mavi Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Waitlist for new clients
I want to acknowledge your courage for taking this first step of prioritizing your mental health. I understand the fear and anxiety of beginning this journey of the unknown as I, too, have experienced the process. So whether this is a small or big step for you, I’m glad you’re here. You may have lived through life’s stressors by having to go on survival mode, causing you to cope in ways that don’t really benefit you in the long term. This can look like isolation, overstepping your boundaries, invalidation of self, or a self-written destructive narrative that fulfills cultural and societal expectations.
I want to acknowledge your courage for taking this first step of prioritizing your mental health. I understand the fear and anxiety of beginning this journey of the unknown as I, too, have experienced the process. So whether this is a small or big step for you, I’m glad you’re here. You may have lived through life’s stressors by having to go on survival mode, causing you to cope in ways that don’t really benefit you in the long term. This can look like isolation, overstepping your boundaries, invalidation of self, or a self-written destructive narrative that fulfills cultural and societal expectations.
(562) 632-5360 View (562) 632-5360
Photo of Diana Chavez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
My therapy practice is dedicated to working with people who are feeling stagnate within their lives and looking to break free of a negative mindset, unhealthy patterns of thinking, lack of boundaries, chronic feelings of low self-esteem or not knowing your worth associated with unhappy, unfulfilling relationships. For the past 15 years I have specialized in working with adults and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, and relationship problems. I am a culturally sensitive therapist that specializes in an array of modalities.
My therapy practice is dedicated to working with people who are feeling stagnate within their lives and looking to break free of a negative mindset, unhealthy patterns of thinking, lack of boundaries, chronic feelings of low self-esteem or not knowing your worth associated with unhappy, unfulfilling relationships. For the past 15 years I have specialized in working with adults and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, and relationship problems. I am a culturally sensitive therapist that specializes in an array of modalities.
(562) 620-4860 View (562) 620-4860
Photo of Umeko Allen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Umeko Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As your therapist, I am committed to cultivating a healing environment to compassionately support you in being able to align with your true values and learn to be in authentic relationship with yourself, your loved ones and within your community. We’ll take a healing journey together towards a path of a more meaningful and fulfilling life. A life where you will be able to set boundaries and know how to have your needs met. A life that will feel lighter and you’d feel more at ease with others and with yourself. A life in which it’s comfortable to truly be who you are.
As your therapist, I am committed to cultivating a healing environment to compassionately support you in being able to align with your true values and learn to be in authentic relationship with yourself, your loved ones and within your community. We’ll take a healing journey together towards a path of a more meaningful and fulfilling life. A life where you will be able to set boundaries and know how to have your needs met. A life that will feel lighter and you’d feel more at ease with others and with yourself. A life in which it’s comfortable to truly be who you are.
(562) 553-0952 View (562) 553-0952
Photo of Darshawn Hooker - Darshawn Hooker, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darshawn Hooker, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Are you looking for a safe, bias free space to find tools to enhance the quality of your relationships and life? Seeking guidance to maneuver through changes with your career, relationships or life in general? Want someone that will focus on your strengths to help you fortify your sense of self? I'd love to partner with you on your healing journey. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and we simply need someone to help us navigate the feelings that come up. Allow me an opportunity to provide you a unique therapeutic relationship that strengthens you.
Are you looking for a safe, bias free space to find tools to enhance the quality of your relationships and life? Seeking guidance to maneuver through changes with your career, relationships or life in general? Want someone that will focus on your strengths to help you fortify your sense of self? I'd love to partner with you on your healing journey. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and we simply need someone to help us navigate the feelings that come up. Allow me an opportunity to provide you a unique therapeutic relationship that strengthens you.
(323) 613-3850 View (323) 613-3850
Photo of Mona Pritchett, MSW, ASW
Mona Pritchett
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Life is not easy. We inevitably experience obstacles that interfere with relationships and ability to take care of our responsibilities. At these times, it can be tremendously valuable to find a safe place to ally in self-exploration with a trusted individual who can offer new perspectives. The right therapeutic relationship built on mutual trust and transparency is powerfully transformative. This takes courage, and I honor your willingness to take this step.
Life is not easy. We inevitably experience obstacles that interfere with relationships and ability to take care of our responsibilities. At these times, it can be tremendously valuable to find a safe place to ally in self-exploration with a trusted individual who can offer new perspectives. The right therapeutic relationship built on mutual trust and transparency is powerfully transformative. This takes courage, and I honor your willingness to take this step.
(530) 625-7390 View (530) 625-7390
Photo of Nichelle Harton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nichelle Harton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Are you feeling that your life is unmanageable? Have your personal or professional relationships been affected? Your efforts to seek help symbolizes hope for improving your situation. You are not alone. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 15+years, I have specialized in treating many of the issues that hinder success in those important areas of life. My goal is to assist clients to improve their ability cope with challenges and help them develop skills to manage life beyond therapy.
Are you feeling that your life is unmanageable? Have your personal or professional relationships been affected? Your efforts to seek help symbolizes hope for improving your situation. You are not alone. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 15+years, I have specialized in treating many of the issues that hinder success in those important areas of life. My goal is to assist clients to improve their ability cope with challenges and help them develop skills to manage life beyond therapy.
(562) 568-8267 View (562) 568-8267
Photo of Amy La, PhD, MBA, Psychologist
Amy La
Psychologist, PhD, MBA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Are you feeling stuck? Are your problems interfering with your life, your health, and/or your work? Are you having relationship problems with your partner, family members, friends or colleagues? Are you dealing with loss? Do you want to explore your racial/cultural identities? I can help. I personalize treatment based on your individual needs and goals. I acknowledge your courage to invest in yourself and prioritize your wellness. In a supportive and safe environment, we will explore and address your issues and experiences. I will assist you in reaching your goals that align with your values.
Are you feeling stuck? Are your problems interfering with your life, your health, and/or your work? Are you having relationship problems with your partner, family members, friends or colleagues? Are you dealing with loss? Do you want to explore your racial/cultural identities? I can help. I personalize treatment based on your individual needs and goals. I acknowledge your courage to invest in yourself and prioritize your wellness. In a supportive and safe environment, we will explore and address your issues and experiences. I will assist you in reaching your goals that align with your values.
(562) 561-2985 View (562) 561-2985
Photo of Saqib Iqbal (Saqi), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Saqib Iqbal (Saqi)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
My passion for mental health stems from my recovery story. I fell in love with the people and organizations that helped me. And, when I starting helping others on the path of personal growth, I knew what I was put on this planet to do. So, I got out of the job I hated to pursue a Master's Degree in Social Work at USC. My approach to psychotherapy focuses on learning about the journey my clients have experienced. Followed by a solution-focused orientation that encourages forward progress and goal achievement. I believe that with love, support, and honesty anything is possible.
My passion for mental health stems from my recovery story. I fell in love with the people and organizations that helped me. And, when I starting helping others on the path of personal growth, I knew what I was put on this planet to do. So, I got out of the job I hated to pursue a Master's Degree in Social Work at USC. My approach to psychotherapy focuses on learning about the journey my clients have experienced. Followed by a solution-focused orientation that encourages forward progress and goal achievement. I believe that with love, support, and honesty anything is possible.
(562) 526-1964 View (562) 526-1964
Photo of Dr. Alex Ballan, EdD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Alex Ballan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
“Sometimes, life seems like a deep-dark hole, but really it’s a tunnel, and if we walk together, we’ll reach one end or the other.” Fr. G. Boyle, Homeboy Industries. We live in challenging times; it may help to talk with someone to try and make sense of it all. I’ve experienced the positive effects of having a trained professional in my corner. My hope is to pay that forward and support you in reconnecting to your genuine strengths. I believe each person has the key to their own wellness and success. So ask yourself, if life could be different tomorrow, what would it look like?
“Sometimes, life seems like a deep-dark hole, but really it’s a tunnel, and if we walk together, we’ll reach one end or the other.” Fr. G. Boyle, Homeboy Industries. We live in challenging times; it may help to talk with someone to try and make sense of it all. I’ve experienced the positive effects of having a trained professional in my corner. My hope is to pay that forward and support you in reconnecting to your genuine strengths. I believe each person has the key to their own wellness and success. So ask yourself, if life could be different tomorrow, what would it look like?
(562) 379-6646 View (562) 379-6646
Photo of Carly Chan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Carly Chan takes a holistic approach toward personalized treatment for adults. She specializes in anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. She uses EMDR and incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills into treatment. She will work with you to heal and process while also helping you recognize and grow your natural strengths and resilience.
Carly Chan takes a holistic approach toward personalized treatment for adults. She specializes in anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. She uses EMDR and incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills into treatment. She will work with you to heal and process while also helping you recognize and grow your natural strengths and resilience.
(562) 479-7287 View (562) 479-7287
LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.