Transgender Therapists in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
![Photo of Amber Robison, LCSW, PPSC, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e933355-1623-44cf-be9c-960f6840d8d2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MS
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275 (Online Only)
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
![Photo of Kayleigh Soto, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/415190fb-33b8-40d9-9aa2-8f7729fc1e61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayleigh Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Ramona Benner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31d8db40-d348-45d1-b31e-16c5bebd2d7e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ramona Benner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
![Photo of Charlene K. Hecker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/decf80b5-460d-4d3a-9acf-1ad9b60a3b1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlene K. Hecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychotherapist in California. I have experience working with individuals contending with stress, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, women's issues, problematic relationships, parenting, grief and loss, life transitions, and end of life issues. My personal approach is warm, open, non-judgmental, and I am committed to providing a safe environment where you can freely explore your interests, determine your goals, realize your strengths and resources, grow into your most authentic self, and lead a more fulfilling, joyful life.
I am a licensed psychotherapist in California. I have experience working with individuals contending with stress, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, women's issues, problematic relationships, parenting, grief and loss, life transitions, and end of life issues. My personal approach is warm, open, non-judgmental, and I am committed to providing a safe environment where you can freely explore your interests, determine your goals, realize your strengths and resources, grow into your most authentic self, and lead a more fulfilling, joyful life.
![Photo of Lauren Matern, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0779275b-c638-4a2c-a30a-3e78a0fcc744/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Matern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Seeking Feminist, body-neutral, LGBTQIA+ celebrating depth therapy? You’ve come to a point where you know old narratives aren’t serving you: they're playing out in your relationships, career, family, internal narrative & you want to create more joy, freedom & ease in your day to day. Culture, race, ethnicity, gender, sex, & sexuality all impact the stories we are told about who we can be, should be & are. These narratives affect how we think about ourselves & require time, attention & care to unpack, process & heal. The feminist LGBTQIA+ affirming & celebrating lens can foster healing, empowerment & liberation for all!
Seeking Feminist, body-neutral, LGBTQIA+ celebrating depth therapy? You’ve come to a point where you know old narratives aren’t serving you: they're playing out in your relationships, career, family, internal narrative & you want to create more joy, freedom & ease in your day to day. Culture, race, ethnicity, gender, sex, & sexuality all impact the stories we are told about who we can be, should be & are. These narratives affect how we think about ourselves & require time, attention & care to unpack, process & heal. The feminist LGBTQIA+ affirming & celebrating lens can foster healing, empowerment & liberation for all!
![Photo of Morgan Mizell, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c9bff2f-0598-47b0-8d67-16b2ec574c00/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe you are doing the best you can. I also know that a lifetime of numerous external factors have a way of shifting and molding your perspective and abilities. Upon this realization, however it manifests, is when it becomes an excellent time to reach out and draw in help from someone who is unbiased, nonjudgmental, understands human nature, and has done their own inner work. That's where I come in. I believe that psychotherapy acts as a path towards self-discovery. When you truly understand your own patterns, motivations, and wounds, you have a divine offer to evolve into the healthiest version of yourself.
I believe you are doing the best you can. I also know that a lifetime of numerous external factors have a way of shifting and molding your perspective and abilities. Upon this realization, however it manifests, is when it becomes an excellent time to reach out and draw in help from someone who is unbiased, nonjudgmental, understands human nature, and has done their own inner work. That's where I come in. I believe that psychotherapy acts as a path towards self-discovery. When you truly understand your own patterns, motivations, and wounds, you have a divine offer to evolve into the healthiest version of yourself.
![Photo of Linda Thompson - Dr. Linda Thompson, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41841fcc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
![Photo of Cinnamon Howard, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d46fd5a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cinnamon Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Starting therapy can feel daunting. Whether you know exactly what the issue is - anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, codependency - or you're not quite sure what's bothering you, I am committed to working collaboratively to identify the issues & find what helps. Maybe you need a big resolution or just a little support. Either way, it's important to feel a comfortable connection with a therapist. My clients tell me they appreciate how engaged and direct I am, but also how I use humor, compassion & patience in our work. My intention is to create an environment of safety, non-judgment & understanding; my goal is for you to get relief.
Starting therapy can feel daunting. Whether you know exactly what the issue is - anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, codependency - or you're not quite sure what's bothering you, I am committed to working collaboratively to identify the issues & find what helps. Maybe you need a big resolution or just a little support. Either way, it's important to feel a comfortable connection with a therapist. My clients tell me they appreciate how engaged and direct I am, but also how I use humor, compassion & patience in our work. My intention is to create an environment of safety, non-judgment & understanding; my goal is for you to get relief.
![Photo of Beverly Jean Scott - Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor, BS, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c090bf9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
![Photo of Sharon Carrigg Bailey, MA, MS, MFT, LEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c302f93-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Carrigg Bailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT, LEP
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
With 32 years of working with individuals and families, I specialize in helping people make changes/progress with depression, anxiety, marital discord, parenting, and other life challenges. As a therapist, I take a nonjudgemental approach in helping people take control of their lives. Some things to ask yourself: Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, or another life challenge? Does your child/adolescent need assistance in expressing feelings? Does your child/adolescent push the limits? Have you and your spouse grown apart? Becoming stronger as an individual/family and strengthening boundaries and roles are my number one goals.
With 32 years of working with individuals and families, I specialize in helping people make changes/progress with depression, anxiety, marital discord, parenting, and other life challenges. As a therapist, I take a nonjudgemental approach in helping people take control of their lives. Some things to ask yourself: Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, or another life challenge? Does your child/adolescent need assistance in expressing feelings? Does your child/adolescent push the limits? Have you and your spouse grown apart? Becoming stronger as an individual/family and strengthening boundaries and roles are my number one goals.
![Photo of For More Information - Crossroads Institute, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5f055c-bcd6-494a-b2af-3522e3b84c65/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
![Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling for Couples & Families, PsyD, MFCC, CHT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca388cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling for Couples & Families
Psychologist, PsyD, MFCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
![Photo of Lysa Eastman, PhD, LEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0901aa6-af46-4b15-99b4-0dffd82270de/4/320x400.png)
Welcome! Finding the right therapist can be challenging. I work to establish a collaborative relationship with each of my clients that is accepting and non-judgmental. Building a connection that is supportive, authentic and collaborative can provide a space for you to understand the habits and patterns that make you feel hopeless and stuck. Together, we can find hope, growth and change.
Welcome! Finding the right therapist can be challenging. I work to establish a collaborative relationship with each of my clients that is accepting and non-judgmental. Building a connection that is supportive, authentic and collaborative can provide a space for you to understand the habits and patterns that make you feel hopeless and stuck. Together, we can find hope, growth and change.
![Photo of Pat Alford-Keating, PhD, ABPP, CGP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca5cca4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
As a culturally competent psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with a broad range of clients, suffering from a wide spectrum of problems. When people are confronted with life challenges, there is an opportunity to grow, constructively face them, and overcome. I endeavor to provide a comfortable, supportive environment where clients can explore and work through problems. I also build on client strengths and resilience. My goal is to help clients thrive, creating fulfilling, productive lives, and satisfying relationships. I deeply value my clients and am sensitive to and respectful of every form of human diversity.
As a culturally competent psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with a broad range of clients, suffering from a wide spectrum of problems. When people are confronted with life challenges, there is an opportunity to grow, constructively face them, and overcome. I endeavor to provide a comfortable, supportive environment where clients can explore and work through problems. I also build on client strengths and resilience. My goal is to help clients thrive, creating fulfilling, productive lives, and satisfying relationships. I deeply value my clients and am sensitive to and respectful of every form of human diversity.
![Photo of Lindsy Grace, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d93665c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsy Grace
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, EMDR
Not Verified Not Verified
5 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Feeling overwhelmed? Life's stressors can sneak up on us, creating a sense of constant overwhelm or even shutdown. I specialize in working with individuals using EMDR as well as other therapies. In therapy with me you will be fully listened to, valued and respected. I will be real and connect with you, giving you honest feedback and guidance.
Feeling overwhelmed? Life's stressors can sneak up on us, creating a sense of constant overwhelm or even shutdown. I specialize in working with individuals using EMDR as well as other therapies. In therapy with me you will be fully listened to, valued and respected. I will be real and connect with you, giving you honest feedback and guidance.
![Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca3c1ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
![Photo of Dale Stuart, PhD, ScD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3badee9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
FRUSTRATED with the SLOW PACE of others? Having difficulty COMMUNICATING with loved ones? Can't understand IRRATIONAL behavior by a partner or colleagues? Are you accused of being TOO INTENSE, COMPLEX or DRIVEN? These are all ways that intellectually gifted individuals may feel, without understanding what's causing it. Gifted individuals possess an intellectual complexity and emotional intensity that can lead them to experience life in ways qualitatively different from the norm. This can lead to challenges in COUPLES relationships or PROFESSIONAL settings. I have spent over 30 years working with gifted individuals, and am a CERTIFIED EFT COUPLES Therapist.
FRUSTRATED with the SLOW PACE of others? Having difficulty COMMUNICATING with loved ones? Can't understand IRRATIONAL behavior by a partner or colleagues? Are you accused of being TOO INTENSE, COMPLEX or DRIVEN? These are all ways that intellectually gifted individuals may feel, without understanding what's causing it. Gifted individuals possess an intellectual complexity and emotional intensity that can lead them to experience life in ways qualitatively different from the norm. This can lead to challenges in COUPLES relationships or PROFESSIONAL settings. I have spent over 30 years working with gifted individuals, and am a CERTIFIED EFT COUPLES Therapist.
![Photo of Heidi Bacani, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd2c2d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a child, adolescent or adult having difficulty functioning at work, school, or in relationships? Sometimes a history of trauma, self defeating and limiting belief systems interfere with our ability to love, work and play. I can help when old ways of adapting to stressors no longer work. Change is necessary at the mind, body and spiritual level for adaptation to occur. We will work together through your transformation. You can learn new ways to tolerate what has been overwhelming and you can develop new, healthier coping skills to help you manage what was formerly intolerable about daily living.
Are you a child, adolescent or adult having difficulty functioning at work, school, or in relationships? Sometimes a history of trauma, self defeating and limiting belief systems interfere with our ability to love, work and play. I can help when old ways of adapting to stressors no longer work. Change is necessary at the mind, body and spiritual level for adaptation to occur. We will work together through your transformation. You can learn new ways to tolerate what has been overwhelming and you can develop new, healthier coping skills to help you manage what was formerly intolerable about daily living.
![Photo of Patricia Rayas-Tabares - Hillside Counseling Center, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cd92a7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hillside Counseling Center, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
![Photo of Robyn Shapiro - Robyn Shapiro, LMFT, RN, MA, LMFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bbbafc0-19c4-4486-8dca-360f160cdb5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robyn Shapiro, LMFT, RN
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Does anxiety affect your ability to concentrate? Do you struggle with negative self-talk, self-criticism, regret for what you should or shouldn’t have done? Do you frequently compare yourself to others, & come up short? The stress of day-to-day life can become overwhelming & lead us to feel anxious & disconnected from ourselves, & our most essential relationships. We become exhausted, trying to manage work, family, friendships; only to find that we’ve neglected ourselves and our own needs. Let's work together to heal your past unresolved trauma, old wounds, gain clarity, achieve a sense of calm, & the confidence for you to thrive.
Does anxiety affect your ability to concentrate? Do you struggle with negative self-talk, self-criticism, regret for what you should or shouldn’t have done? Do you frequently compare yourself to others, & come up short? The stress of day-to-day life can become overwhelming & lead us to feel anxious & disconnected from ourselves, & our most essential relationships. We become exhausted, trying to manage work, family, friendships; only to find that we’ve neglected ourselves and our own needs. Let's work together to heal your past unresolved trauma, old wounds, gain clarity, achieve a sense of calm, & the confidence for you to thrive.
See more therapy options for Palos Verdes Estates
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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.