Licensed Therapist

Magena Ammen

I received my Bachelor’s degree at Humboldt State University where my studies focused on the field of psychology and went on to complete a Master’s level education in clinical psychology at Cal Poly University in San Luis Obispo. Working with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, families afflicted by trauma, and people suffering from addiction and co-occurring disorders has given me a wide range of experience.
My specialty is working with trauma. Trauma has been defined as any negative experience in life causing havoc in relationships and other aspects of daily life. Given this broad definition, it allows me to work with those affected by every day stress, anxiety, depression, addiction and other compulsive behaviors, relationship issues, codependency, co-occurring disorders, and more. I find great value in helping others locate an integrated and authentic self through the use of many different therapies, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Gottman Method couples therapy. Collaboration, creativity, and fun are integral to my work.

Pasadena Site Supervisor

Lizzete Banuelos, LMFT

Open to a directive approach in therapy? I help individuals and families work through their issues causing depression, anxiety, and relationship impairments with a directive approach in order to heal their emotional scars and find a deeper meaning in their relationships with others. After graduating from Pacific Oaks College and earning a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008, It has been my passion as a clinician providing therapy for those who have suffered sexual trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety of various populations from 2007 through 2013 at a non-profit organization. I transitioned into a private practice group setting in 2013.

Everyone has a time when facing a difficult period in their lives and “change” can be overwhelming when going about it on your own. Whether needing to heal the emotional wounds of your inner child, grieving a loss, feeling lost and unable to find a purpose in your life, or trying to understand triggers in dealing with sexual trauma. It would be my pleasure to help you begin your journey towards reaching your vision in life and begin the healing process.

Licensed Therapist

Victoria Carrillo

As your therapist I will help you understand the emotions that you may be dealing with, whether it be loneliness, pain, anger, happiness, fear, or if you are just unsure of your next move. I will work to build a trusting relationship that allows you to begin to reveal more of who you are, what you experience, and what you want. I work to help support the development of greater self-awareness and a clear, healthy, internal sense of what is best for you. I am also pro-active in pointing out perceptions and behaviors that may be contributing to your issues and sabotaging your success. I will challenge you to try new things within the session and well as in your day-to-day life between appointments.

I trained at McKinley Children’s Center where I provided therapy to children and adolescents who had mental disorders. I also provided therapy to the families of children and adolescents as they worked to adjust to life’s changes. I graduated from the University of La Verne with my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a member of CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists). I am registered with the Board of Behavioral Services as a LMFT

I have a special interest in working with individuals who need help with career counseling. Individuals dealing with autoimmune disorders. Equestrians and athletes. Children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional, developmental, or social difficulties. Families. Parenting Skills. Individuals dealing with trauma, grief and loss, stress, mood issues, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety issues. Women relationship issues and postpartum depression

Please contact me to schedule a free phone consultation.

San Marino Site Supervisor

Cristina Castrillon, LMFT

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide counseling services in both English and Spanish. I’ve worked in an array of settings from community counseling to psychiatric hospital settings. My approach is meeting the patient where they are and using an eclectic theoretical approach to work with what they need. We are all looking to obtain clarity and a sense of happiness and peace. Everyone is working from their experiences, feelings and views on life, making the best decisions based upon what they know to be true. Life can be challenging and at times confusing. Not only could we benefit from obtaining some support through that journey, but heightening our own awareness to ourselves and raising our consciousness to a healthier state of mind. I’m a believer that we all need a sense of purpose, fulfillment and connectivity. I welcome you in your decision to seek that for yourself.

Licensed Therapist

Tara Cavazos

We all need to feel connected and heard, and we each deserve a therapist that is truly interested in us and has our best interests at heart. I believe this is an essential component of therapy.
For the last 15 years, I have practiced in a variety of settings with children, adults and families. I have helped my clients with issues such as: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, family conflicts, life transitions, trauma, career/school issues, and addiction.
I use an eclectic approach to work most effectively with my clients. Every individual I work with is unique, so I pay careful attention to what therapeutic approaches and interventions are the best fit. My style is warm, interactive, focused and positive. I respect my clients and deeply enjoy my work as a therapist.
I am honored to have the opportunity to help you gain more freedom from your past experiences and develop, lasting and meaningful changes in your life.

Licensed Therapist

Catherine Gruman

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EMDR trained. I integrate family systems with various evidenced based theories and modalities depending on the needs and goals of the client, whether it be brief solution focused or deeper and lengthy processing for insight and healing. As an EMDR trained therapist I have the privilege of integrating a robust approach to treating trauma.

I value the importance of client-therapist relationship in the process of healing – creating a safe space for a trusting client-therapist relationship creating opportunities to identify what is going on right here right now and move from there. Much of my inspiration and influence comes from Gestalt, Rogers, Adler, Satir, Bowen, Watzlawick – making connections between family patterns and our sense of selves, connectedness, taking responsibility for ourselves in the process of change, healing, and discovering more of who we are and how we want to live.

Licensed Therapist

Lisa Hernandez

Are you are going through a tough time right now? Experiencing fear, anxiety anger, sadness, depression? I am here for you. I listen with my heart, standing shoulder to shoulder, supporting you so you can get “unstuck” from your negative self-talk, trauma, or depression. I believe that feelings are meant to be felt, that is why they are called “feelings.” I am a devoted child centered play therapist. My deep belief is that with a healing heart all problems can be faced and overcome. No one is beyond the possibility of recovery, we can move passed our numbness and unwanted circumstances. I’ll create a safe space for you with no judgement. I will support you in the process of answering questions for yourself like “what is this condition trying to tell me?” Together we will explore and make sense of your emotional challenges and free you up to create a new future. You can move beyond your fears and learn to live with ease and joy. Let’s work together to discover your highest good and set you on the road to celebrate your life! Let’s talk soon at the Soultenders Child and Family Center in South Pasadena.

Psychologist

Kaitlyn Kuo, PsyD

“Good relationships keep us happier and healthier.” The conclusion of 75 year-long Harvard study has revealed the secret to living a happy life. I believe everyone, if given a warm, supportive, and secure space, can discover their inner-self and learn to appreciate who they genuinely are, which leads to improved relationships.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Taiwan with over 10 years of practice experience. I have helped diverse patient populations with a wide range of issues in a variety of settings, including a community mental health center, a college counseling center, a domestic violence women’s shelter, a re-entry program, an outpatient opiate treatment clinic, skilled nursing homes, a youth correctional counseling program, and an elementary school district. My training and experience have allowed me to help clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues, among many others.

While I have enjoying treating patients in all of these areas, my specialties are working with Asian-American children, as well as pre-teens and teenagers, women, and families. Emphasizing compassion, I assist my clients with their acculturation, ethnic identify, self-identify, family relationships, and issues facing immigrant families, including cross-cultural adjustment. My approach to psychotherapy is both integrative and collaborative. I can provide therapy in English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese.

My overarching mission with each client is help them to obtain a deeper insight into their interpersonal behaviors, to heal wounded relationships, and to bring positive changes into their lives.

Licensed Therapist

Therese Lee, LMFT

There are times where our lives and our experiences make us forget how wonderful we are as human beings.” You might have deep wounds that you carry on your shoulders. You might have certain beliefs about yourself- how you make sense in the world in which we live, and are troubled by them. You might be struggling with everyday life and need support in how to navigate it. Wherever you are in this Journey of life; I welcome you with an open heart and offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to heal and grow.

My therapy approach is Person centered, insight oriented, solution focused and with an understanding of family dynamics and origin. I have experience working with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Grief work, Family and Couples work. I specialize in aiding clients with spiritual development and incorporating it with their life transitions and individuation

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of California Irvine and my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University. I am a member of CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists). I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #118957) with the Board of Behavioral Sciences

Licensed Therapist

Jillian Luz

I am passionate about integrating visual art-making with traditional talk psychotherapy to encourage and support self-reflection, healing, and growth. Previous art experience is absolutely unnecessary to benefit from the therapeutic power that producing art inspires and nurtures. The process of making art supports tapping into deeper unconscious parts of the psyche, supporting opportunities for insight and self-awareness. Art therapy is not limited to children and adolescents, adults, and couples benefit greatly from this treatment modality.

I specialize in trauma-informed care and am also a grief and loss specialist. I have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and families seeking to resolve traumatic experiences, process grief and loss issues, decrease maladaptive or unhelpful behaviors or thought patterns, and improve communication and functioning. I have experience working with the LGBTQA communities as well as with individuals questioning their sexual orientation and gender identity.

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Art and Design from the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth and my Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy/Clinical Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University. I am a member of CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists) and AATA (American Art Therapy Association). I am registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and am a Registered Art Therapist.

Associate Therapist

Megan McGrath, AMFT

Feeling stuck in a job? In a relationship? In your own life? Are there things bothering you but you have found that it is hard to put your thoughts into words, or find someone to talk to?

I help individuals, couples, and families address issues related to relationships, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, stressful or traumatic events and work toward their goals of becoming healthier, happier, and enjoying a more fulfilling life.

My goal in therapy is to foster a collaborative and non-judgmental relationship that allows you to safely explore whatever is troubling you, and to build on the strengths and resources you already possess. I utilize a variety of evidence-based therapeutic interventions including EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy and dialectical and cognitive behavioral techniques to aid you in exploring your specific concerns and achieving self-awareness, balance, and connection.

I completed my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in 2017. Prior to joining Soultenders, I worked with veterans struggling with issues of homelessness, addiction, and trauma. I completed my EMDR training in July 2017 and am a member of CAMFT and EMDRIA. I am supervised by Maureen Leigh, LMFT.

Licensed Therapist

Carolina Miranda

WHITTIER OFFICE

Claremont Site Supervisor

Christina Olivera, LMFT

We all yearn to feel heard, safe and supported as we journey through life. I invite you into this space where together we can explore life’s challenges, discover your strengths and feed your passions to pursue a fulfilled life. As individuals, I believe it is important for us to learn from our past, have a hope for the future and be able to live in the present. Therapy can provide a safe space and a timeout from a busy world in order to gain insight and skills to live a life with intention.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 6 years of experience working with individuals, families and children (3 to 18 years old) in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Childhood Behavioral Difficulties, Relationship Conflicts, Loss, Divorce/Co- Parenting and Life Transitions. I am trained in the following evidenced based practices: Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, Positive Parenting Pathways, Depression Treatment Quality Improvement for Teens, Managing and Adapting Practice (for anxiety, depression and disruptive behavior) and Military FOCUS.

I completed my undergraduate studies at California State University, Fullerton and graduate studies at California Polytechnic University, Pomona where I received a M.S. in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (License 96690) with the California State Board of Behavioral Sciences and a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

Licensed Therapist

Cecilia Penailillo

I am an EMDR Certified Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about my work and a firm believer that inner strength, determination and hope can lead to balance, healing and growth. I continue to work with adults, teens and young adults who deal with a wide range of behavioral and emotional problems; such as Trauma (past or recent), PTSD, Depression and Anxiety.

I was born and raised in South America. Therefore, I understand the challenges of raising a family abroad. Taking a supportive stand & learning effective communication will help you increase the chances of overcoming cultural challenges personally or within the family.

I received my MA in Counseling Psychology 15 years ago. I have experience providing individual and family therapy.

Prior to my work as a LMFT, I spent almost 11 years working as a behavioral consultant who provided behavioral support trainings to parents as well as school consultations to teachers. My work focus also included presentations and workshops on Behavior Modification Theory; especially targeting children and adults with developmental disabilities. I have helped many families to navigate the challenges of raising healthy individuals with developmental disabilities. Currently, I continue to conduct Behavioral Modification Workshops several times per year at a local Regional Center.

ANNOUNCEMENT: I currently work with immigration attorneys/law corporations, conducting Mental Health Assessments for applicants who are seeking legal status in the US through U-Visas & Provisional Waivers. Immigration evaluations are professional, comprehensive and contain all the information required by the US Department of Homeland Security.

If you think you may need support, I would love to help you find your own path towards meaningful living. Call or email me if you have any questions.

Monrovia Site Supervisor

Jennifer Pruitt, PsyD

I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Southern California and a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Guidance at Louisiana Tech University. I completed my Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology at California School of Professional Psychology. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY 24215) with the California State Board of Psychology. I am a member of the American Psychological Association and the Pasadena Mental Health Advisory Committee.

Therapy does not involve a therapist giving advice and simple solutions. I guide my clients towards gaining insight and awareness to help them problem solve, make healthy life choices, and establish healthy and meaningful relationships. Therapy can be the supportive environment people need to help make life changes necessary to enhance their lives and futures.

I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I have experience working with various issues including Depression, Anxiety, relationship conflict or end of relationships, life transitions, abuse, and trauma. In addition, as a Licensed Psychologist, I also have experience completing Psychological Testing with children, adolescents, and adults. As a Psychologist, I enjoy providing therapeutic services and Psychological Assessment services to provide thorough assessment and treatment to individuals.

Philip Ruddy, LMFT

I specialize in helping creative adults (writers, comedians, performers, producers, directors, film, TV and media professionals) manage and transcend stress, anxiety, depression, emotional blocks, relationship issues, trauma, and life transitions.

My background includes an M.A. in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute, and, prior to becoming a therapist, 15 years working in film and television production, so I’m finely attuned to the unique stressors of the industry.

I tailor my practice to meet each client’s needs, using CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Talk Therapy) and Depth Therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental setting where warmth and humor is encouraged. I also offer EMDR Therapy when appropriate, to help reduce the effects of trauma.

Licensed Therapist

Holly Smith, LCSW

Whether you need support through a life transition, or you’d like to address recent and/or past trauma, I will bring an engaged, empathic, non-judgmental attitude to our work together. I am attachment focused, and draw from Psychodynamic theory, Gestalt, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and have been honored to witness powerful shifts in my clients’ symptoms and experience through EMDR. My therapeutic approach varies depending on the needs of my clients.

Prior to entering private practice, I spent 12 years working with teens, school aged children, and adults in outpatient clinics, correctional settings, and in residential treatment centers. My specializations include childhood and attachment trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety disorders, and depression. I have experience working with and treating Oppositional Defiant behavior, ADHD, abusive/unhealthy relationships, and substance abuse issues. Additionally, I have training in perinatal mood disorders and enjoy working with women and men making the transition to parenthood.

I am LGBTQIA allied. I enjoy working with people with beliefs, customs, and traditions different from my own, and I take pleasure in learning more about cultures with which I don’t have as much familiarity. I speak and understand Spanish; however, since I am not completely fluent, I do not facilitate therapy in Spanish.

Whatever your current circumstances are, I look forward to joining you on your path.

Psychologist

Jennifer Stinson, Ph.D.

For me, therapy is a balance of art and science. The science includes understanding research about mental health, human development, and how the brain works. The art is finding creative ways to make use of the research in the context of each new and different therapy experience. For example, as a therapist, I might ask myself, “How can I use my understanding of treatments for anxiety disorders to help this particular person in my office in a way that makes sense in their life right now?” The answer to that question lies in the therapeutic relationship. I take great care to learn about each client’s unique experiences, feelings, beliefs, values and goals. My favorite thing about being a therapist is when the art and science come together in a way that is both illuminating and emotionally meaningful for the person I am working with. This is the process by which, I believe, positive change occurs.

After graduating from the University of Oregon, I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 2004 from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant University. Since then, I have provided therapy to children, adolescents and adults who have sought help for various issues, including anxiety, depression, family conflict, anger problems and recovering from trauma. I have also provided supervision to many therapists as they worked toward obtaining their licenses. I am licensed with the California Board of Psychology (PSY 20997) and am an active member of the San Gabriel Valley Psychological Association. Additionally, I have a background in working with adults with developmental disabilities, such as mental retardation and autism. I have conducted research, given presentations and co-authored several articles related to issues for women with disabilities.

Licensed Therapist

Irina Strekalova

Who I am and how I work

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #44632) in a private practice in Arcadia, CA. I work with individuals, couples and families. I assist children and adults through life’s transitions and challenges that can potentially lead to depression, anxiety, low self-image, decreased self-confidence, or behaviors they would like to change. I work with couples who want to improve their relationships and those considering marriage or separation. We will work together to figure out where you are, where you want to be, and how you can get there. I provide childhood and relationship trauma treatment if necessary to help individuals heal and move on in life.I find that cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapy in conjunction with mindfulness, behavior modification, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), TRM (trauma resiliency model) works well for most people. My approach is integrative and tailored to each individual or couple. My goal is to assist you in developing skills and strategies that you can use to bring about realistic and positive changes in your life.

My background

I grew up in Ukraine, then studied and lived in Moscow, Russia, before moving to the USA in 1994. I have two master degrees in psychology: one from Moscow State University, another from New York University. I started practicing psychotherapy in 1999 in Houston, TX, with individuals who suffered chronic pain. Since 2004 I work in Los Angeles, CA, with children, adolescents, and adults.

Professional affiliations

Trauma Resource Institute, EMDR International Association, Tourette Association of America, California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT), and San Gabriel Chapter of CAMFT.

Personal

I like to travel, read, hike, dance, and paint in watercolor. I speak Russian and Ukrainian.

South Pasadena Site Supervisor

Lauren Stockly, LCSW, RPT-S

Lauren Stockly, LCSW, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor/RPT-S, ECMHS, PPSC

I am a licensed therapist with a passion for supporting youth and their families through the ups and downs of life. I honor the uniqueness of each client and will partner with you to tailor my treatment to their specific needs, goals and strengths. I provide a compassionate, creative, non-judgmental and engaging space for your child/teen to explore their feelings while learning to manage their emotions, behaviors and relationships.
For children, self-expression and communication occur most naturally through play. While adults tend to process thoughts and feelings verbally, children engage in play to show us their inner worlds. This is why I specialize in Play Therapy, a model that uses the therapeutic powers of play to help clients resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development. My practice integrates this invaluable technique with insight-oriented and evidence-based practices including Neurosequential Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Sand Tray, Trauma-Focused CBT, PCIT, Theraplay and Mindfulness.

I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from UC Irvine before pursuing a Masters in Social Work from UCLA. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (License # 71707), am a member of the Executive Board of the California Association for Play Therapy. I also have a background in school-based mental health and hold a Pupil Services Credential (PPSC), which has provided me with the training necessary to help you communicate your child’s needs to their school and navigate the special education process. I am the Site Supervisor of the Soultenders Child and Family Center in South Pasadena, where we aim to provide high quality, specialized mental health services for children and families.

I have experience working with children, adolescents and families in a range of areas including: trauma, grief, anxiety, LGBTQA/gender identity, depression, emotional regulation/anger management, school issues, parenting, relationship conflicts, giftedness, life transitions, attachment issues, divorce, selective mutism, domestic abuse, child welfare, and adoption. I am a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) and main passion is for treating childhood trauma and helping clients to reconnect with themselves as they process their experiences at their own pace. I feel honored to be part of each client’s personal journey through recovery as they begin to regain control over their lives.

I also work with Transitional Age Youth (adults 18-25) dealing with childhood trauma and former clients who are now adults and would like to return to therapy. I do not typically accept referrals for adults outside of these circumstances.

Licensed Therapist

Robyn R Ramsay LPCC

As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), I’m well acquainted and experienced in individual, couples and family therapy. I’m trained in EMDR and certified as a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). I also hold a California certificate in Pupil Personnel Services and served 20 years as a high school academic, career, and personal issues counselor.

Passionate about my work as a therapist, I take great care to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to meet you where ever you are on your journey. I believe a touch of humor and healthy laughter at the right moment can be as helpful to healing as the evidenced-based therapeutic methods from which I draw. I welcome your questions and offer a complimentary 15 minute consultation call to talk about your needs.

The following list includes the main evidence-based theories and approaches I use, depending on each client’s individual needs:

• EMDR
• Attachment Theory
• Cognitive Behavioral Theory
• Gottman’s Relationship Theory for Couples
• Dialectical Behavioral Theory
• Acceptance and Commitment Theory
• Internal Family Systems
• Solution Focused Brief Therapy

Licensed Therapist

Pam Pudewa

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor. I received my Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy in 2014 from California State University Dominguez Hills.My therapeutic approach is based in Solution-Focused interventions, and my theoretical orientation is Psychodynamic to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges.I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families, and have extensive experience working with addictions of all types, adolescents, and the LGBTQA community.I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.I approach my own life as a great adventure full of amazing and interesting people, and I absolutely insist on enjoying life. I would like to help you be able to do the same.I look forward to meeting you at the Cerritos location.

Associate Therapist

Douglas Tu, ACSW

I have worked with a diverse array of populations such as domestic violence-survivors, undocumented immigrants, individuals struggling with major depression and anxiety, the elderly, teenagers and transitional-age youth. I am experienced in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and grief counseling.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from UC Santa Barbara, where I also minored in Applied Psychology. I studied how intersections of gender, race and class influence individuals in a variety of different ways. Particularly, I studied how cultural norms affected mental health services available to the Asian American community. I then received my Masters in Social Work from CSU Los Angeles where I studied how socioeconomic factors influence father involvement. I am registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences as an Associate Clinical Social Worker (#83802), and I am supervised by Kristine Adamian, LCSW.

Therapy may be a journey towards healing but it is not always easy, especially when one is implored to dig deep into what has made them the person they are today. As a therapist who takes a strengths-based approach to clients, I will offer nothing less than my unconditional positive regard. However I am not afraid to challenge clients to become the great people they are always meant to be. With enough hard work and dedication, I believe all human beings have the capacity to perform great feats.

“A future is not given to you. It is something you must take for yourself.” -Unknown

Arcadia Site Supervisor

Kyle Ballentine, LMFT

I use a variety of theories in therapy as needed but focus on Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and a Humanistic approach.  I strive to provide an extremely accepting environment with all my clients.  That’s what I love about therapy; nothing is taboo and it’s a place we can discuss anything in our lives. It’s important to be understood and heard, so I hope I can provide that for you while we find some practical steps to improve how you cope with life.

Personal interests include animals, art, comedy, games, science, and how our weird brains work.

Licensed Therapist

Christopher Ruffin, LCSW

Life is a journey that should enhance who we are and should help us grow personally and professionally. I truly believe that events in life ‘‘happen for you, not to you.’’ When we adapt that mentality, we are able to utilize the obstacle in our lives as opportunities to grow and enhance our existence. I based my practice in two fundamental theories which are psycho-dynamic and attachment theory. In treatment I help my clients process past events that occurred in their lives in order for them to understand how those events affected their lives and shaped their existence. I helped my clients understand any unconscious defense mechanisms they are engaging that could be bringing harm to their lives. I help my clients understand their attachment style that was created in early childhood and how they currently attach to others based on early childhood interactions. I help my client’s explore their core beliefs and inner dialogue in order to break any manipulative pattern of thinking and behaviors and help enhance their lives. I believe the pain that is created by events that happened in the past or trauma is limited to time. Pain lasts years after trauma due to the narrative we tell ourselves about those events. I use cognitive reconstructing, the Socratic method, free association in conjunction with other strategies in order to break down those narratives and create new narratives to enhance your existence.

I graduated from the University of California Los Angeles with an undergraduate degree and obtained my Master’s from the University of Southern California. I’m licensed in the state of California as an LCSW and have 9 years of experiences. My clinical background is in trauma with children, teenage and adults.   

Associate Therapist

Andrea Medina, ACSW

Asking for help can be challenging, especially asking for help outside of your community, being friends, family, neighbors, etc. Especially the use of therapy as a help seeking tool can in itself be taboo, scary, or simply just something unknown. Personally, coming from a family where dusting yourself off and getting over it was the advice given, it is ironic that I have pursued a career in a therapeutic setting. My role as a clinician is to provide a welcoming and safe environment where feelings are validated.

I have experience working with children, adolescent and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA/gender identity, emotional regulation, anger management, relationship conflicts, and life transitions. I also have experience working in school-based counseling, as well as with individuals experiencing homelessness. While I work with a wide range of individuals, I am passionate about working with youth. Helping youth realize their strengths and aiding them in realizing they are enough.

I received my Masters in Social Work from UCLA. I am registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences as an Associate Clinical Social Worker #84732, and I am supervised by Lauren Stockly, LCSW.

Licensed Therapist

Kati Kelleher

Mayflower Site Supervisor

Adriana Avila, LMFT

I graduated from the University of La Verne in 2013 with an M.S, and I have been doing work in the mental health field since 2010. My experience started at Project Sister where I assisted survivors of sexual abuse (children, males, females, transgender, and other populations). I have also obtained experience through community mental health at Foothill Family where I had the opportunity to help those with substance use, PTSD, depression, anxiety, parenting skills, grandparents, transgender youth, foster youth, probation youth, self-harm behaviors, disruptive behaviors, and children and adolescents in the school and home setting. I have also gained experience working in intensive services, known as Wraparound and FSP; which allowed me to further gain experience in treating those in immediate crisis situations (i.e., suicidality). I believe in individualizing treatment to fit the needs of the individual and their families, and helping through the healing process. I speak Spanish, and would love to utilize my skill with those in need of a Spanish speaking therapist. I also love working with children, and providing them a safe environment to process their feelings, along with their parents.

I love learning, and on my spare time I enjoy doing research, and volunteering in school settings with elementary students in first grade, second grade, and special education students. I aspire to be a doctor in Clinical Psychology, and as such I continuously expand my knowledge by attending trainings, doing research at local universities, and attend conferences. I look forward to providing my clients a safe environment, and provide the support needed.