South Pasadena Child & Family Center

South Pasadena Site Coordinator

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

Kate Bono

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LC67162) with ten years of experience working with individuals and families towards healing and empowerment. I enjoy working with clients across the life span, from school-age children and adolescents, to transitional-age youth and adults. Prior to joining private practice, I gained experience providing mental health treatment in settings including a transitional shelter for domestic violence survivors and their children in New York City, and a residential treatment facility for foster youth in Los Angeles. Through these roles my profound appreciation for human resiliency grew, and I developed the ability to support others through a diverse range of challenging life experiences.
Just as each individual is highly unique based on his or her personality and life experiences, I feel it is important for treatment to be equally as individualized. I collaborate with my clients to identify their own personal goals and develop a treatment plan that will best support their needs. Although I consider myself primarily a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I incorporate other theoretical orientations and treatment approaches including psychodynamic theory, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavior therapy, play therapy, attachment theory, and solution-focused treatment based on each client’s needs and developmental stage.

In my work with children and adolescents my areas of specialty include trauma (including but not limited to neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and loss), anxiety, depression, challenges with communication and emotional expression, attachment, aggression/emotional regulation, and adjustment to change. I enjoy working closely with parents and caregivers of the child in treatment by providing psychoeducation and collaborating to identify strategies that best support the child’s growth. My specialties with adults include experiences with childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting support, and navigating life transitions.

Whether you are looking for short-term, solution-focused treatment to address a current life challenge or more ongoing support towards healing, empowerment, and self-actualization, I am here to support you or your family towards your personal goals.

Licensed Therapist

Julianne Bull, LMFT, CAATP

As a therapist, I have been lucky enough to work with clients of all ages. My work with children has taught me that this is a critical time to aid in everything from attachment to creativity to healing. Children are so unique in their ability to change and grow, and addressing difficulties at such a critical age can mean a lot less work down the line! I have been amazed by children’s ability to be accepting and open to therapy, even unique interventions such as mindfulness. They often have a more open mind about therapy than even adults!

Right now, I also specialize in and am passionate about working with teens, especially those struggling with anxiety, depression, body image issues, sexuality issues, or low self-esteem. Based on my experience in high schools and college student programs, I really connect with this age group and believe their potential is limitless as long as they have the support they need during such a critical time.

I emphasize a client-centered, humanistic approach. This means I will work with you to help you create goals that feel right for you, so you have control of what you get out of therapy. I will utilize unique interventions catered to each individual in order to create a path of healing that actually works for you. Some of these interventions include mindfulness, writing, journaling, and more. I also work with elements of CBT and DBT for more practical interventions to help track progress.

I received my MMFT from the University of Southern California and became licensed in October of 2018 (LMFT #110185). I trained at Las Encinas Hospital where I worked with young adults as well as in the partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, working with adults and seniors in all different stages of functionality and healing. I believe anyone has the ability to heal and grow, and being brave enough to ask for help is often the hardest part!

CAATP, Certified Animal Assisted Therapy Professional

Licensed Therapist

Karla Diesto, LMFT

I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced in working with school aged children, adults and families. Through my work and own life experiences, I have gained an understanding of the impact of positive connection with others and its role in therapy. As I have listened to people’s stories and worked with them in treatment, I have developed an ability to meet the cultural and linguistic needs of my clients.

I believe that it is important to meet the client where they are and that treatment is a process. In this process I take joy in walking each client through a collaborative approach that engages the client in creative ways, and ultimately leads to healing. I particularly enjoy my work with young people, in assisting them develop positive coping skills they can utilize daily in order to manage current symptoms and behaviors. When clinically appropriate, I encourage parent and/or family involvement in order to address concerns.

In my work in mental health, I have learned to foster therapeutic relationships so that the individuals and/or families can work through trauma, depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, and challenging family dynamics. I have gained experience through working in community mental health agencies throughout Los Angeles County, both as an outpatient therapist and school based therapist.

I have a BA in Psychology and MS in Counseling: Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling which I received in 2013 from California State University, Los Angeles. Additionally, I hold a Pupil Personnel Services Credential which has allowed me to gain experience in the school setting working closely with families in navigating services and advocating for their children.

Licensed Therapist

Guadalupe Guerrero, LMFT

Hello and Welcome. My name is Guadalupe Guerrero, I have been a practicing therapist for 10 years. Throughout the course of my career I have gained an amplitude of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families. I am a psychotherapist with a specialty and passion for working with individuals struggling with a wide variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, adolescent struggles, parenting, relationship issues, trauma, self-esteem and more. I know taking the first step and seeking help may be challenging for some, for that reason I believe in the essence of meeting people where they are. Life is constantly changing around us, the fluidities of life may cause life challenges and obstacles that may result in anxiety, depression, conflict within relationships and/or living inauthentically.

I am committed to establishing a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental atmosphere. Together we can explore and process your current life challenges, and develop effective strategies to allow you to heal, prosper and continue growing as you carry on to face life changes. My goal is to teach you to heal in order live authentically the life you envision.

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.

Licensed Therapist

Kati Kelleher

(She/Her/Ella)

Let’s check in first. How are you feeling today?

It is so important to feel heard and validated when reaching into your psyche to unearth your deep experiences and emotions. Whether you’re a teen or adult encountering anxiety, depression, postpartum, codependency, life transitions, communication challenges, or Latinx issues (culture, families); connecting with someone that can assist you with gaining insight and understanding helps free you from any stress and heaviness you’re feeling. We all experience periods in our lives where we can use some extra support on our journey through self-discovery and growth.

Everyone’s journey is different! 

Set goals for your new path, and identify what you would like to change and overcome. I am EMDR trained, and also incorporate various therapeutic approaches such as: psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, client-centered, attachment, family systems, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. I will accompany you in your discovery of new ways to solve problems, develop healthier behavior patterns and improve communication skills.

I am a bilingual/bicultural Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#93621) and L.A. native. I received a Bachelor’s in Social Work from CSULA in 2011 and a Master’s in Social Work from USC in 2013. My own experience with pregnancy and postpartum inspired me to complete the advanced perinatal mental health training through Postpartum Support International to specialize in supporting parents with the adjustment to parenthood and all the joys and challenges that it entails. I have experience working with different populations across various areas of Los Angeles, with an emphasis on the Latino community and POC. I understand the importance of connecting with someone who is culturally affirming; y también se ofrecen servicios en español.

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.

Liz Madrigal

My work with people in the past couple of years has brought a newfound appreciation for the human experience and has deepened my desire to provide everyone with a space to be seen. I have been fortunate enough to work with people of all ages, and it has taught me that when given the opportunity, each person is able to step into the best version of themselves even when their circumstances are difficult. At the core of our being, we all long to be connected, whether that is with others in relationships or with ourselves.

My experience has allowed me to work predominantly with teens, families, and adults who have experienced trauma (including various forms of abuse and violence), adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety. Part of my training has also prepared me to work with children under five who have experienced trauma early in the lifespan. My primary focus after assessment will be to create goals that are specific, attainable, and measurable so that you will be able to recognize your progress within our work. My approach to therapy is client-centered and I aim to always provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to encourage and invite expression through art, writing, and other creative outlets.

I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 2014 and have been practicing as an intern/associate in the outpatient, home, and school settings before becoming licensed in February 2020. I look forward to joining you as you embrace the gift that is therapy.

Licensed Therapist

Andrea Medina, LCSW

Asking for help can be challenging, especially asking for help outside of your community, from 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 a Licensed Clinical Social Worker #99958.

Laura O’Connor, Psy.D.

Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in the provision of assessment and psychotherapy services. I am passionate about melding neuroscience with interpersonal therapy to help individuals across the lifespan heal, grow, and enrich their lives. I decided to name my private practice The Brain-Heart Connection to reflect my guiding philosophy: As I like to think of it, the mind is where the brain and heart connect. The brain and body are our internal physiology, while the “heart” represents our relationships with others and the outside world. Where these two forces come together is the mind – that indefinable place that creates a sense of identity and meaning that is all our own. The mind is the core of our mental life, and in order to achieve true wellness or “mental health,” our brain and heart must be well-integrated, or working in good balance. To this end, I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to improve how they think, feel, learn, and interact with others. I also offer neuropsychological assessments as a medium to help my clients gain deeper personal insight into their strengths and challenges and to use this knowledge to optimize their daily functioning.

I began my career as a Marriage and Family Therapists working to bring stability and emotional wellness to at-risk youth and their families. I later became board certified as a Behavior Analyst, expanding my work to include helping individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, and autism spectrum disorders. I completed my postdoctoral training as an assessment fellow at the Reiss-Davis Child Study Center, where I conducted psychoeducational evaluations with children and adolescents, and as a psychological assistant as the Pasadena Rehabilitation Institute, where I provided neurocognitive testing to adults and seniors. Prior to this, I completed a one-year externship in neuropsychology with the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health and a one-year predoctoral internship in substance addiction at Tarzana Treatment Centers.

I previously served as an assessment psychologist for the Masonic Center for Youth and Families and as a clinical manager overseeing psychotherapeutic services at SSG/Occupational Therapy Training Program. I have also worked as a therapist and/or clinical supervisor at several local organizations, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Miracle Mile Community Practice, and the Southern California Counseling Center. I received my doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I hold a B.A. in English from UCLA, an M.A. in Print Journalism from the University of Southern California, and an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. I happily serve clients seeking individual, family, or couples therapy. I also provide psychological, neurocognitive, academic, and vocational assessments, with a special emphasis on children, adolescents, and young adults.

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

Beth Reisler, LCSW

Hi! My name is Beth and I’m a licensed clinical social worker. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages. Participating in therapy is a unique opportunity to develop insight and discover your own strength and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. Whether you have experienced or are currently facing stressful life transitions, family conflict, trauma, depression, anxiety, feelings of low self-esteem, school/work challenges or difficulty managing feelings of anger, my hope is to help you feel understood and to support you as you find healing. 

I earned a BA in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from California State University Long Beach. My training and experience working in community mental health has led me to a person-centered approach to therapy and I highly value client collaboration and input in the therapeutic process. Given that all individuals are unique and complex, I draw from a variety of treatment modalities and interventions (i.e. CBT, mindfulness). I look forward to getting to know you and coming alongside you on this journey. 

Licensed Therapist

Elena Sanchez

At some point in our lives, we could all use support to deal with feelings, people or issues. I believe therapy is a very helpful tool that can teach skills in a variety of ways such as healing from trauma, rebuilding relationships and changing negative patterns. It is my role as a therapist to provide an environment where you are comfortable setting goals that best suit your needs and work collaboratively to achieve them. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, and families. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley and then earned a Master’s of Social Work from the University of California, Los Angeles. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (License #79902) with experience in the following areas: anxiety, adjustment disorders, child abuse, depression, domestic violence/intimate partner violence, family conflict, grief, loss, oppositional/disruptive behavior, parenting, sexual abuse, substance abuse and trauma. I look forward to working with you!

Licensed Therapist

Lauren Small, LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (license# 69393) with experience helping individuals, couples and families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, medical illness, grief, adjustment, life transitions, trauma and feeling “stuck”. Through my work I am passionate about creating a safe and open space to help people reduce their distress, become more aware and comfortable with themselves and learn tools to cope with current and future struggles. Every individual and situation is unique, therefore, I use a variety of treatment methods that are suited to your specific needs including CBT, solution focused, psychodynamic and relaxation training.

I received my Masters in Social Work from Boston University. After graduation, I worked supporting patients and their families at Cancer Centers in Boston and Los Angeles, on phase 1 clinical trials and in the community mental health setting. This variety of work has helped prepare me to work with individuals and families from many different backgrounds who are struggling with a variety of issues.

Licensed Therapist

Monique Soderstrom, LMFT