Soultenders Leadership

Director

Wendy Ludecke Selevitch, PhD

I graduated from Pacifica Graduate Institute with a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I am a member of CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists), CPA (California Psychological Association) and the APA (American Psychological Association). I am a Licensed Clinical  Psychologist (PSY 22818) with the State Board of Psychology and a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (License Number MFC 38430) with the California State Board of Behavioral Sciences.

I have a special interest in working with couples and families and I am very interested in doing Dream Work with my individual clients. Much of the therapeutic work I do is based on the theories of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, James Hillman, and other psychologists having a Depth Psychology perspective. However, I do balance my practice using other therapeutic techniques from other theorists as well. It is not so important for me to apply a certain theory or my own beliefs on a client but instead it is my intention to really understand my clients’ own personal beliefs and expectations of therapy. This aids in personalizing each individuals’ therapy sessions in order to create a comfortable environment in which my clients feel they can express themselves.

Competent therapists do not offer solutions or take sides. They help clients work out solutions according to individual values and lifestyles. Seeking professional assistance is a sign of courage and a willingness to deal with life’s many changes.

Manager and Arcadia Site Supervisor

Maureen Leigh, LMFT

As individuals we all yearn to connect and be part of a relationship. We are products of our families, never learning the necessary tools to be in a healthy relationship. Our blocks prevent us to grow. All relationships are not perfect but if we do not take the time to learn about ourselves, we will go into a relationship less whole than when we were alone. Therapy takes time and having a safe place to allow that process to unfold is just as crucial as the desire to change.

Having over 10 years of training working with domestic violence / anger management for Court ordered offenders and victims of abuse, I have seen firsthand how the dynamics of relationships operate. One cannot change until they are able to take responsibility for oneself and the choices they make in their lives. Sometimes it becomes blurred in terms of how one expresses their individuality and the roles become entangled that we get lost in an unhealthy relationship. We can’t grow until we take the time to learn about ourselves. My approach comes from an insight oriented, awareness of one’s family of origin dynamics, and how we carry forth and repeat patterns in our current day. Without the chance to reflect, we accept how we are without challenging it, but therapy opens up the mind to go beyond and become who we fully are capable of being.

In addition to working with domestic violence, my experience also extends towards child abuse (physical and sexual abuse). I am certified in the Systematic Training for Effective Parenting approach. Currently I provide parenting classes and have a weekly, ongoing women’s Divorce support group. I am specifically interested in couples work and marital therapy, following the works of John Gottman, Ellyn Bader and Peter Pearson.

I completed my undergraduate work in psychology at the University of Southern California and then went on to pursue my graduate training at California State University, Los Angeles. I hold a Marriage & Family Therapist license (License Number MFC# 38671) with the California State Board of Behavioral Sciences and a member of the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists.

Burbank Site Supervisors

Kristine Adamian, LMFT

I am a bilingual therapist, fluent in Armenian in addition to English, with over 7 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families with a variety of needs and concerns. I specialize in tailoring the treatment to your specific and unique needs; understanding that each person is different and, as a result, their way of coping with issues is also going to be different. My approach is warm, thoughtful, informative and non-judgmental. I am committed to helping you determine what goals you want to meet in your life and what ways to best meet them. I support you in gaining the self-awareness to understand your goals, identifying obstacles hindering your progress, and feeling empowered to make necessary changes for a healthier and happier life.

My mission is to create a safe, therapeutic environment to facilitate exploration and resolution of underlying conflicts that can lead to stagnancy, confusion, depression, complacency, anxiety, and anger. I have experience in the following areas: Adjustment, Aging, Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Bullying, Blended Family Needs, Child/Adolescents, Codependency, Communication Problems, Couples, Depression, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Irritability, Isolation, Multicultural Concerns, Oppositional Behaviors, Phobias, and Traumas.

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of California, Los Angeles and went on to receive my graduate degree from the University of Southern California. In 2009, I graduated from USC with my Master’s in Social Work, emphasizing in clinical work. In 2014, I received my licensure through the California State Board of Behavioral Sciences, becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Being certified in new therapeutic approaches, I am more fully connected to innovative practices and trends to best serve my clients and their specific needs. I believe that gaining insight in the context of a supportive relationship with one’s therapist will lead to authentic expression, lasting change, and true happiness.

Cerritos Site Supervisor

Cristina Aviles, LMFT

As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (License Number MFC #99960), I am committed to supporting you by providing a safe space filled with compassion, empathy, and non-judgment. One of the hardest things anyone can do is simply asking for help, therefore, I applaud you already for taking this step toward healing and improving the quality of your life.

I graduated from California State University, Long Beach in 2012 with my Master’s in Counseling, and have extensive experience working with children & families, individuals, couples, adolescents, and adults. My areas of specialty are trauma, chemical dependency, domestic violence issues, and grief & loss.

I believe it is essential to develop a strong, therapeutic relationship, and I offer a tailored approach to meet your individualized treatment goals as you are unique. I am also Bilingual in English and Spanish, and have a passion for working with the Latino community as many carry the belief that seeking “professional help” is unacceptable, and definitely still a taboo. I can assure you that I will remain sensitive to these and all cultural issues, and provide you a platform to explore them freely.

I definitely look forward to meeting you, and collaborating on your personal journey to healing, change & growth.

Hablo Español. Whittier Location

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.

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.

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.

Whittier Site Supervisor

Irma Lopez, LMFT

Each of us has a story of something we have been through and how it has impacted our lives. Throughout our journey, we experience some of life’s difficult moments, which can affect our relationships and quality of life. I invite you to share your story with me. I have a gentle and patient approach. I will work with you at your speed, so that we learn together what your purpose in seeking therapy is and what you would like to learn or heal from. I enjoy helping clients find their strengths and provide support for their growth.

I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist. I have 10 years of experience working with children, adults, and families in the following areas: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Selective Mutism, Life Transitions/Changes, Relationship Conflicts, Communication Difficulties, LGBTQ community and needs, Special Needs Children and impact on families, Divorce/Co-parenting, Adolescents and Suicidal Ideation, Children/Teens and difficulties at school (Academic/Relational Impairments), Children and Teen Victims of Bullying, Positive Parenting, and Narrative Therapy. I enjoy using creative methods such as photography, art, music, literature, and guided imagery.

I graduated in 2006, with a Master’s in Science of Psychology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. In 2010, I received my Marriage and Family Therapist License from the Board of Behavioral Sciences. Since 2010, I have been trained in Evidence-Based Practices, including Seeking Safety, Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), Positive Parenting Program (Triple P), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Crisis Oriented Recovery Services (CORS). I am a member of the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists.

Whittier Location

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.

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.