Therapists serving clients in San Rafael, CA

Hi, my name is Rika Lopez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families. I am currently a candidate for CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist) where I am learning tools and techniques to work with those who struggle with compulsive and repetitive behaviors such as pornography addiction, infidelity, "hook up" apps, and other sexually impulsive patterns. Not only do I work with individuals who struggle with these sexually acting out behaviors but also partners who have been betrayed or hurt in their romantic relationships/marriages. As a Christian therapist, I find it also of value to work with faith based clients who feel immense guilt and shame due to their sexual addictions. Sadly many churches do not offer a safe environment for people struggling with sexual addiction to be heard, noticed, or even counseled. This is such a tragic reality. My hope and prayer is that many spiritual communities will begin to expose themselves to real issues and start having difficult conversations with their congregation so people will not silently suffer and drown in their loneliness and isolation. There are tangible and practical resources to help you with your sexual addiction. Let's begin this new journey today! You are not alone in this. You are seen, you are noticed, you are heard. Allow me to walk alongside you so that we can begin to unfold your pain and hurt and get the help that you need! Aside from sex addiction clients, my work with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, and trauma have allowed me to gain further insight into their world which thus helped me become more effective in providing tools and techniques into their day to day functioning. Thru my approach of CBT, Attachment based, and Systems theory, let's get to the bottom of these cycles and patterns you are dealing with. Therapy is a process so there are no quick fixes or changes that happen over night but I guarantee you that as you stay focused and committed, you will begin to see incremental changes in your life. Let's do this already! ONE DAY AT A TIME!! I believe in you!

Hi there! I'm Chelsea! I'm so glad you're exploring therapy - I think everyone can benefit from processing things in life and learning more about themselves. It's important to feel comfortable and connected with your clinician, so I'd like to tell you a bit about myself to help you make an informed decision as to whether or not we'd be a good fit together! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. Previously, I worked as a social worker for Child Protective Services for 9 years, supporting children and families touched by foster care and adoption. As such, I am well versed in addressing core adoption issues, attachment, and identity concerns. Additionally, I have experience treating depression, anxiety, parenting, blended-families, teen concerns, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis, and adjustment. I've also worked at an in-patient psychiatric hospital, helping stabilize individuals short-term with bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-morbid disorders, suicidal ideations, self-injurious behaviors, and those encountering psychotic breaks triggered by stress. Equally important was my role in educating families about the diagnosis and ways to support their loved ones. I have since transitioned to the education sector and have been supporting students as a School Psychologist. In this role, I conduct psychoeducational assessments to identify students with autism, intellectual disabilities, AD/HD, and learning disabilities, among others. My assessments are then utilized to inform independent education plans. I also conduct Educationally Related Mental Health Service assessments and provide related counseling, serving students with higher mental health needs. Lastly, I would be remiss if I neglected my passion and experience serving the LGBTQ community. For a portion of my time as a social worker, I worked solely with LGBTQ parents and children, providing support to this community. In the school setting, I conducted my doctoral research focusing on LGBTQ student needs and facilitated a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club, supporting LGBTQ students and allies. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, though tend to draw primarily from a humanistic, person-centered approach. This dynamic in a therapeutic relationship means I attempt to “meet each client where they are.” This serves as a catalyst, allowing each individual to progress through their unique process of self-discovery. I also utilize principles from leading psychological modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic approaches. My role as a therapist is not to give you advice or change you. Rather, it is to be an understanding, empathic, and non-judgmental support to help guide you to your own choices, AT YOUR OWN PACE. Together, we can establish goals for therapy, and while I can help you gain insight, I will never push an agenda or risk rupturing our therapeutic relationship. I know it takes a lot of courage to seek support, and I am humbled by the opportunity to lend my strength during times when you are most vulnerable. My credentials include: - Bachelor of Arts in Social Science – California State University, San Marcos - Certificate in Parent Education and Training – University of California, Los Angeles - Certificate in Special Education Advocacy – University of San Diego - Master of Science in Research Psychology – University of Phoenix - Master of Arts in Counseling (Marriage & Family Therapy) – Mount Saint Mary’s College - PPS Credential in School Psychology – La Sierra University - Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology and Mental Health (in progress) – La Sierra University - Licensed by State of California Board of Behavioral Sciences (LMFT 116834) About me: I know it is difficult to share intimate details with someone, while not knowing any personal details about them. I also understand the desire for shared experiences, and feeling as though someone truly understands your pain. Thus, I tend to share some of my background with clients, while maintaining professional boundaries and focus. Growing up, my mother was a principal and my father was a chief of police. My older brother struggled with learning disabilities and drug addiction as a teen, eventually leading to crime and prison. Thus, as an adolescent, I was quickly exposed to internal conflict, fearing someone I loved, and grieving that relationship. As an adult, I became a single parent and sought my own therapy to manage the intense feelings of shame while learning to co-parent. I have since found a new partner and was recently married after postponing the wedding 4 times due to COVID.. I continue to navigate the challenges of having a blended family with my 6-year-old daughter and 6-year-old step son. I enjoy concerts, photography, soccer, and camping. I also use profanity a shitload more than I care to admit.

I bring many years of clinical experience, my personal life experiences, and professional training to my work with clients. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 18 years, working with clients from 17-70+ years of age, including individuals, families, couples (including same sex couples), and those from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The common denominator in my work with every client is the depth of my commitment to their healing and personal growth. Together we will define your objectives and goals. The kinds of problems that each individual brings into therapy are often complicated and not usually neatly categorized. Human beings are complex and though many areas of functioning may be impacted, the source of these often result from a core emotional or psychological injury, or a traumatic event. Sometimes dysfunctional family of origin dynamics have adversely impacted our ability to have healthy, high functioning relationships and we need to learn new skills. For some, therapy can help to improve performance with personal goals. Whatever it is that you are seeking help with, it is well understood that the first step toward changing anything is in identifying the problem. Whatever your objectives my be (even when these are not clearly identified or understood), I am confident that I can help you gain clarity and work towards achieving whatever your goals may be. Therapy has been described as the "talking" cure and sometimes the very act of talking or sharing of experience and feelings with an experienced professional can help...help in the moment to not feel so alone or crazy, and in the long run, to have the clarity, confidence and self-esteem to create a life by design. Studies have shown that there are two important factors in determining the success of therapy: 1) the client's perception of the therapists skills and knowledge and 2) the relationship, or therapeutic alliance, between therapist and client. I offer you my respect, compassion and acceptance. I have studied a variety therapy disciplines and blend traditions from the East (mindfulness, insight-oriented therapy) and West (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT), somatic body-mind centered, and psychodynamic approaches to effectively address individual needs and differences. I have successfully worked with: relationships, marital problems, self-esteem, communication skills, healthy boundaries, self-esteem and self-confidence, mood disorders, co-dependency, unresolved traumas, anxiety, changing counter-productive patterns, life transitions including loss of loved ones, divorce, blended families.

Welcome to my profile page! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of private practice experience. I graduated from Cal State East Bay with a Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology. I chose Marriage and Family Therapy and Career and Adult Development as my specialty areas of emphasis. My under graduate degree is from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. My counseling philosophy is supportive, collaborative and proactive. In other words, we get things done! I believe in the science of Biopsychology so I always accept you for who you are and help you explore who you want to become. Every human is made from a sum of their DNA and their life experiences and sometimes things go haywire. The result is confusion brought on by anxiety, depression, or a number of maladaptive coping mechanisms that waylay us from achieving our full potential. Sifting through our confusion can seem impossible and this is where therapy can help. Discovering how to categorize a problem by naming it allows us to fix the problem. I use theoretical modalities derived from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focus, and Family Systems Therapy. Working together I will listen, provide feedback, and partner with you to find peace by offering clarification, reframing, and goal setting. When I chose to become a therapist, I didn’t just choose a career, I chose a lifestyle. I am committed to healthy choices, mentally and physically. I believe that every human being is unique and deserves to have a quality life and fulfilling interpersonal relationships. Exploring the many dimensions of who you are exchanges old thoughts and behavior for new ideas and outcomes. I look forward to guiding you in this journey of self-discovery and healing.

You can read more about my background, education, experience, and therapy approach by clicking on my name above our messages. You are one step closer to keeping that promise to yourself about gaining control of your unwanted patterns or behaviors. Every client has a story to tell and specific needs that bring them to therapy. Together we will develop and focus on understanding the forces that drive the need for those patterns or behaviors. Everyone has struggles in their life and everyone needs help along the way. I hold an MS in Counseling Psychology, Addiction Specialist, and CCTP, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I myself have 35 years of recovery and have 30 years working in the field of counseling, Trauma, and Addiction. I use a collective approach which means I draw from all forms of therapy. I match and adjust to my client's needs. My passion in life is to instill hope in my clients that they may reach their goals of change. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and groups that are motivated towards regaining balance and change in one's life. Together we will develop strategies and coping skills to help you reach emotional and physical freedom. I am compassionate about this work and feel I was called to do this work and to help others experience the world as an individual and in a collective way.

You're here! Right here, right now! You may not be there yet, but you have already taken a step towards facing challenges with a strength you never knew you had. Besides, it doesn't hurt to get a little assistance on the way. I'm here to help you. Let me tell you something. Nothing is as remarkable as seeing positive change in my client! Helping you make even the smallest steps towards your goal every day brings me joy and I like to do these silly dances when I've noticed your progress. Even when they seem too small to notice, I'll notice! I can even tell a corny joke or two. You’ll be surprised how much a little positivity can help. I have been a counselor for almost a decade. I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified rehabilitation counselor with additional experience in helping individuals get back to work to attain the highest success possible after experiencing any life changing issues. I have helped people with almost everything you can think of. I have helped those with severe mental health concerns and those with mild ones. I have multicultural experience and have lived in and visited many different countries (experience does help!). I've learned a lot about cultural differences and appreciations. I respect the variation that we have as humans. I understand that there are times when struggles and challenges approach us and we need a little extra boost to help us work through it. I am here to help! When I counsel, my style is energetic, compassionate, and supportive. I praise your progressions, and I can show you how to be proud of your efforts and steps in the right direction. I am client-centered and I want to listen to you and be as helpful as is humanly possible. I am a firm believer in positive psychology, as I love highlighting your strengths! I love to empower my clients. I can't wait to meet you!

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience working with a wide range of clients including adults, teens, and children as young as 3. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My aim is to assist clients in developing the insights to make positive, healthy change in their lives and mental health. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in assisting clients with life stressors, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, low/no motivation, poor self-esteem and low/no confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges that you are facing. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. Welcome to behavioral health, where therapy and healing begin.