Suicidal Ideation Therapists in South Pasadena, CA

Photo of Dr. Tracy Ballardo, PsyD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Tracy Ballardo
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I am a licensed psychologist certified in suicide prevention counseling, am a member of International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, National Eating Disorder Association, Association for Play Therapy, and teach several college Psychology courses.
Making the decision to start therapy can come with apprehension. I believe your best judgement guided you to search for the right therapist. I have a direct and compassionate style of working with children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I assist clients in reducing anxiety and depression in order to feel confident, achieve a healthier sense of self, and live in accordance to their values. I believe honoring one's intuition is the key to healing- whether that be through play therapy, creative art interventions, or talk therapy. I enjoy helping others explore their identity and to accept various parts of themselves.
I am a licensed psychologist certified in suicide prevention counseling, am a member of International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, National Eating Disorder Association, Association for Play Therapy, and teach several college Psychology courses.
Making the decision to start therapy can come with apprehension. I believe your best judgement guided you to search for the right therapist. I have a direct and compassionate style of working with children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I assist clients in reducing anxiety and depression in order to feel confident, achieve a healthier sense of self, and live in accordance to their values. I believe honoring one's intuition is the key to healing- whether that be through play therapy, creative art interventions, or talk therapy. I enjoy helping others explore their identity and to accept various parts of themselves.
(323) 716-1322 View (323) 716-1322
Photo of Mila Renken, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mila Renken
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I have specialized training in Neurofeedback, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Domestic Violence, and Suicide Prevention.
These are difficult times & it is normal to feel anxious and out of control. I would like provide support and encouragement as you navigate your experience and feelings. I’ll listen carefully to you and provide a warm environment where you can feel safe exploring your concerns without judgement. I use an integrative therapeutic approach and will customize your treatment focusing on your individual needs using a variety of modalities. Tele-therapy is a regular part of my therapy practice, and I am confident that we can create an environment that feels comfortable for you. Be safe and I hope to hear from you.
I have specialized training in Neurofeedback, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Domestic Violence, and Suicide Prevention.
These are difficult times & it is normal to feel anxious and out of control. I would like provide support and encouragement as you navigate your experience and feelings. I’ll listen carefully to you and provide a warm environment where you can feel safe exploring your concerns without judgement. I use an integrative therapeutic approach and will customize your treatment focusing on your individual needs using a variety of modalities. Tele-therapy is a regular part of my therapy practice, and I am confident that we can create an environment that feels comfortable for you. Be safe and I hope to hear from you.
(626) 346-2994 View (626) 346-2994
Photo of Joshua Sullivan, ACSW , Pre-Licensed Professional
Joshua Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Courage is a powerful virtue. In fact, Maya Angelou claimed that courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently. I am passionate about supporting those finding the courage to do the hard things, whilst also healing the inner child. Lifelong growth, healing one's relationship with food and self, and providing a safe and comfortable space to explore are things I strive for in my sessions. I am direct, yet warm, empathy driven, collaborative, and curious - I truly just want to see you thrive and prosper through the therapeutic experience!
Courage is a powerful virtue. In fact, Maya Angelou claimed that courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently. I am passionate about supporting those finding the courage to do the hard things, whilst also healing the inner child. Lifelong growth, healing one's relationship with food and self, and providing a safe and comfortable space to explore are things I strive for in my sessions. I am direct, yet warm, empathy driven, collaborative, and curious - I truly just want to see you thrive and prosper through the therapeutic experience!
(323) 996-2964 View (323) 996-2964
Photo of Erica Tumbaga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Tumbaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030  (Online Only)
We are at a time where compassion towards self is more important than ever. Life is overwhelming and complicated. Maybe you "have it all" but feel like something is missing or you are having issues communicating your needs. Many struggle with the idea of having symptoms of depression and anxiety internalizing the symptoms with being "crazy". I am here to remove the labels and have individuals be more aware of the symptoms you experience (fear, poor sleep and appetite, nervousness, sadness, negative thoughts, etc.) and treat them with compassion, reframing and safe coping skills to better improve your life.
We are at a time where compassion towards self is more important than ever. Life is overwhelming and complicated. Maybe you "have it all" but feel like something is missing or you are having issues communicating your needs. Many struggle with the idea of having symptoms of depression and anxiety internalizing the symptoms with being "crazy". I am here to remove the labels and have individuals be more aware of the symptoms you experience (fear, poor sleep and appetite, nervousness, sadness, negative thoughts, etc.) and treat them with compassion, reframing and safe coping skills to better improve your life.
(626) 788-5357 View (626) 788-5357
Photo of Giselle L. Jones, LCSW, CMF, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Giselle L. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMF, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
To put it simply, I love people. And what inspires me as a therapist is the opportunity to serve others through authentic connection and collaborative insight into clients' thoughts, feelings and actions. While drawn to cognitive behavioral and Mindfulness interventions, for me, providing a safe, warm and open relational component is key. Whether working with couples, individual adults or adolescents, and issues ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, or sexuality, intimacy and interpersonal functioning, it is a privilege to hold your confidence and assist you in your journey towards integration and wellness.
To put it simply, I love people. And what inspires me as a therapist is the opportunity to serve others through authentic connection and collaborative insight into clients' thoughts, feelings and actions. While drawn to cognitive behavioral and Mindfulness interventions, for me, providing a safe, warm and open relational component is key. Whether working with couples, individual adults or adolescents, and issues ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, or sexuality, intimacy and interpersonal functioning, it is a privilege to hold your confidence and assist you in your journey towards integration and wellness.
(323) 870-8224 View (323) 870-8224
Photo of Patricia Gabriela Lamas Alvarez, LCSW, PACT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Gabriela Lamas Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PACT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030  (Online Only)
If you both are feeling disconnected, struggling to rebuild trust, or overwhelmed by recent life changes like the arrival of a new baby, you’re not alone. Many couples experience times when communication breaks down, intimacy fades, or they feel stuck in old patterns they can’t seem to break. It can be exhausting to navigate these challenges together, especially when solutions feel out of reach. You may be seeking a deeper connection, improved communication, or clarity about the next steps for your relationship. I’m here to help guide you towards co-creating a secure, fulfilling relationship.
If you both are feeling disconnected, struggling to rebuild trust, or overwhelmed by recent life changes like the arrival of a new baby, you’re not alone. Many couples experience times when communication breaks down, intimacy fades, or they feel stuck in old patterns they can’t seem to break. It can be exhausting to navigate these challenges together, especially when solutions feel out of reach. You may be seeking a deeper connection, improved communication, or clarity about the next steps for your relationship. I’m here to help guide you towards co-creating a secure, fulfilling relationship.
(626) 349-6783 View (626) 349-6783
Photo of Michelle Shin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030  (Online Only)
Hi, welcome! My name is Michelle and I am a 1.5 generation Korean-American Bilingual therapist. I want to help you cultivate a healthier relationship with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. Life can present challenging obstacles that might impact our emotional, physical, and mental well-being. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, tired, lost, or unfulfilled, I can help you understand the underlying reasons behind those feelings. I have experience working with diverse group of clientele navigate through depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, multicultural experiences and more.
Hi, welcome! My name is Michelle and I am a 1.5 generation Korean-American Bilingual therapist. I want to help you cultivate a healthier relationship with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. Life can present challenging obstacles that might impact our emotional, physical, and mental well-being. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, tired, lost, or unfulfilled, I can help you understand the underlying reasons behind those feelings. I have experience working with diverse group of clientele navigate through depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, multicultural experiences and more.
(714) 984-0069 View (714) 984-0069
Photo of Mae Ana Sefami, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mae Ana Sefami
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
(747) 200-8978 View (747) 200-8978
Photo of Dr. Tim Catalfo, PsyD
Dr. Tim Catalfo
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Confronting the secrets we can barely tell ourselves is difficult, and I am here to help you take the first step. Whether you are struggling with a debilitating depression or if you feel immobilized by anxiety, I aim to provide a space that can facilitate symptom relief. I work with individuals suffering from range of conditions. These include depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and relational difficulties.
Confronting the secrets we can barely tell ourselves is difficult, and I am here to help you take the first step. Whether you are struggling with a debilitating depression or if you feel immobilized by anxiety, I aim to provide a space that can facilitate symptom relief. I work with individuals suffering from range of conditions. These include depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and relational difficulties.
(323) 688-3648 View (323) 688-3648
Photo of Courtenay Patlin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtenay Patlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Carl Rogers once said, "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change" meaning once someone can sense that a relationship is safe, the opportunities for self-exploration and change appear. I believe that once a person is truly seen, it is then that they can blossom into their truest self. My approach with each session is a warm, curious, and open attitude in the hopes that, ultimately, you arrive at a place of self-understanding and peace. I am direct but kind, and offer you alternative ways of viewing difficult situations in your life.
Carl Rogers once said, "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change" meaning once someone can sense that a relationship is safe, the opportunities for self-exploration and change appear. I believe that once a person is truly seen, it is then that they can blossom into their truest self. My approach with each session is a warm, curious, and open attitude in the hopes that, ultimately, you arrive at a place of self-understanding and peace. I am direct but kind, and offer you alternative ways of viewing difficult situations in your life.
(818) 654-4051 View (818) 654-4051
Photo of Melody M. Zhang, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melody M. Zhang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Most of my clients find me when they’re feeling overwhelmed by the needs and expectations of others and are seeking space to explore their own story—their current challenges, past pain, and desire to envision a better future. Many are seeking a compassionate space to explore intergenerational dynamics in their families of origin, the impact of race and culture on their life experiences, and to integrate faith and spirituality. My clients include teens, high-achieving professionals, people in ministry, ‘helper’ types, creatives, and couples, and I offer therapy in English and Mandarin Chinese.
Most of my clients find me when they’re feeling overwhelmed by the needs and expectations of others and are seeking space to explore their own story—their current challenges, past pain, and desire to envision a better future. Many are seeking a compassionate space to explore intergenerational dynamics in their families of origin, the impact of race and culture on their life experiences, and to integrate faith and spirituality. My clients include teens, high-achieving professionals, people in ministry, ‘helper’ types, creatives, and couples, and I offer therapy in English and Mandarin Chinese.
(626) 654-3898 View (626) 654-3898
Photo of Olga Aguilar - Arroyo Seco Family Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Olga Aguilar - Arroyo Seco Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward creating change. My motto is "Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light." This can only be accomplished by shedding burdens that weigh you down. I aim to create a compassionate and nurturing environment for personal exploration and healing. I enjoy working with clients who may be apprehensive of mental health services or have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward creating change. My motto is "Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light." This can only be accomplished by shedding burdens that weigh you down. I aim to create a compassionate and nurturing environment for personal exploration and healing. I enjoy working with clients who may be apprehensive of mental health services or have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
(626) 421-7750 View (626) 421-7750
Photo of Rikki Rothenberg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rikki Rothenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91031  (Online Only)
Have you felt broken? Or like you're "too much" for other people? Do you have a history of choosing people romantically or in friendships who just aren't the right fit? Did you have a traumatic or chaotic childhood filled with fear, loneliness, an overwhelm? If so - please know, you are not alone - you are welcome here! It is possible to find self-acceptance and healing, identify your wants and needs, learn how to set healthy boundaries, develop the capacity to communicate compassionately and directly. And most of all live a free and vibrant life! Please be in touch to set up a free phone call and we can talk about this together.
Have you felt broken? Or like you're "too much" for other people? Do you have a history of choosing people romantically or in friendships who just aren't the right fit? Did you have a traumatic or chaotic childhood filled with fear, loneliness, an overwhelm? If so - please know, you are not alone - you are welcome here! It is possible to find self-acceptance and healing, identify your wants and needs, learn how to set healthy boundaries, develop the capacity to communicate compassionately and directly. And most of all live a free and vibrant life! Please be in touch to set up a free phone call and we can talk about this together.
(818) 869-6601 View (818) 869-6601
Photo of Alma E Smith, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alma E Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
We are a result of every single experience in life, good or bad. Over the course of a lifetime, we developed habits and perspectives that helped us to cope with suffering. However, when those old methods no longer serve, it is time to let another person to walk alongside in order to examine and discover new ways for dealing with life's challenges. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental and empathetic environment that fosters self reflection in order to encourage personal transformation and learning what works for you. Taking the first step might be difficult, but you will be glad you did it. Hablo Espa˜ñol.
We are a result of every single experience in life, good or bad. Over the course of a lifetime, we developed habits and perspectives that helped us to cope with suffering. However, when those old methods no longer serve, it is time to let another person to walk alongside in order to examine and discover new ways for dealing with life's challenges. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental and empathetic environment that fosters self reflection in order to encourage personal transformation and learning what works for you. Taking the first step might be difficult, but you will be glad you did it. Hablo Espa˜ñol.
(626) 727-9868 View (626) 727-9868
Photo of Kathleen Telser - Kathleen Telser, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Telser, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Emotional and physical trauma, when unresolved, can leave us feeling alone, misunderstood, disconnected and sometimes shamed. It can keep us from forming the relationships we seek and alienate us from the intimacy we might desire. In a non-judgmental way, I engage my clients to help them find meaning and growth through a combination of deep understanding and emotional presence. My approach is attachment-based and focuses on attunement and self-acceptance. When working with couples as well as individuals, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Emotional and physical trauma, when unresolved, can leave us feeling alone, misunderstood, disconnected and sometimes shamed. It can keep us from forming the relationships we seek and alienate us from the intimacy we might desire. In a non-judgmental way, I engage my clients to help them find meaning and growth through a combination of deep understanding and emotional presence. My approach is attachment-based and focuses on attunement and self-acceptance. When working with couples as well as individuals, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
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Photo of Jordyn Serwin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordyn Serwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91031  (Online Only)
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As a LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As a LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
(818) 938-8213 View (818) 938-8213
Photo of Peter Schou, PhD, Psychologist
Peter Schou
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Psychotherapy is a pathway to understanding, insight and change. In my work, I focus on helping my patients to develop a greater ability to reflect on oneself, that is, "connect the dots", and a greater ability to feel and to act in the world. I believe that an understanding of a persons's relationships with others, both historically and currently, is central to the process of change. I strive to develop this understanding collaboratively in an atmosphere of openness, safety, honesty and curiosity.
Psychotherapy is a pathway to understanding, insight and change. In my work, I focus on helping my patients to develop a greater ability to reflect on oneself, that is, "connect the dots", and a greater ability to feel and to act in the world. I believe that an understanding of a persons's relationships with others, both historically and currently, is central to the process of change. I strive to develop this understanding collaboratively in an atmosphere of openness, safety, honesty and curiosity.
(323) 934-9628 View (323) 934-9628
Photo of Emi Iijima, PsyD, Psychologist
Emi Iijima
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are you struggling with emotional turmoil? My practice specializes in helping young and older adults manage stressful situations to find a harmonious balance within themselves.
Are you struggling with emotional turmoil? My practice specializes in helping young and older adults manage stressful situations to find a harmonious balance within themselves.
(323) 498-1370 View (323) 498-1370
Photo of Jordyn Olivia Serwin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordyn Olivia Serwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91031  (Online Only)
“I don’t like how that made me feel.” It’s one thing to realize when someone makes us feel badly about ourselves. And yet, it’s so much more challenging to know what to do next. Let alone if that person is a parent, boss, or authority figure. Or even a friend, partner, sibling, or loved one. Maybe you don’t want to disrupt things with them too much. But you also know what happened wasn’t okay. And you don’t want them to continue treating you that way. Or keep feeling the thoughts, feelings, and emotions that come up when they do. Your needs matter too. You have a right to feel affirmed, supported, and understood.
“I don’t like how that made me feel.” It’s one thing to realize when someone makes us feel badly about ourselves. And yet, it’s so much more challenging to know what to do next. Let alone if that person is a parent, boss, or authority figure. Or even a friend, partner, sibling, or loved one. Maybe you don’t want to disrupt things with them too much. But you also know what happened wasn’t okay. And you don’t want them to continue treating you that way. Or keep feeling the thoughts, feelings, and emotions that come up when they do. Your needs matter too. You have a right to feel affirmed, supported, and understood.
(747) 266-1265 View (747) 266-1265
Photo of Sam Urena, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sam Urena
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Therapy can be a weekly reminder to slow down and listen. If we’re in a great deal of pain, it can be a place to tend to our wounds. If we’re in a place of confusion, it can be a place to remember who we are and who we are not — or discover ourselves for what feels like the first time. Therapy, over time, can teach us how to live and how to live well.
Therapy can be a weekly reminder to slow down and listen. If we’re in a great deal of pain, it can be a place to tend to our wounds. If we’re in a place of confusion, it can be a place to remember who we are and who we are not — or discover ourselves for what feels like the first time. Therapy, over time, can teach us how to live and how to live well.
(805) 500-7628 View (805) 500-7628
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Suicidal Ideation Therapists

How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?

Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?

Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?

The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.