Photo of Julie Colfax, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Julie Colfax
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Hello, I am Julie Pennington (previously Colfax) LMFT. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with people of all ages, levels of development, abilities, and stages of life. My focus is on you, your goals for yourself, and your family in the therapy space. The majority of the clients I see working to recover from trauma and minimize the impact or development of trauma responses (Acute Stress Disorder or PTSD), dealing with depression (bipolar or unipolar), anxiety, neuro-divergent and differently-abled, wanting to improve emotional management skills or work through substance use and addiction challenges.
Hello, I am Julie Pennington (previously Colfax) LMFT. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with people of all ages, levels of development, abilities, and stages of life. My focus is on you, your goals for yourself, and your family in the therapy space. The majority of the clients I see working to recover from trauma and minimize the impact or development of trauma responses (Acute Stress Disorder or PTSD), dealing with depression (bipolar or unipolar), anxiety, neuro-divergent and differently-abled, wanting to improve emotional management skills or work through substance use and addiction challenges.
(805) 600-8854 View (805) 600-8854
Photo of Allison Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Simi Valley, CA
Allison Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065
As a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working to heal from past traumas, managing daily stressors, and navigating overwhelming emotions.
Are you struggling to navigate the intricate emotions of life, grappling with relationship challenges, battling negative self-image, or just feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? If you're seeking a turning point toward a path to self-discovery and personal growth, therapy may be the next step in fostering meaningful insights, cultivating resilience, and building a foundation for positive change in your life.
As a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working to heal from past traumas, managing daily stressors, and navigating overwhelming emotions.
Are you struggling to navigate the intricate emotions of life, grappling with relationship challenges, battling negative self-image, or just feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? If you're seeking a turning point toward a path to self-discovery and personal growth, therapy may be the next step in fostering meaningful insights, cultivating resilience, and building a foundation for positive change in your life.
(424) 397-2619 View (424) 397-2619
Photo of Teri Tingey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Teri Tingey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Everyone goes through challenging situations and rough times in life. While you may have successfully navigated through previous difficulties, it's not uncommon to have heightened problems arise where extra support and guidance is needed. As a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Private Practice, I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, individuals, couples and families experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, behavioral and relational problems.
Everyone goes through challenging situations and rough times in life. While you may have successfully navigated through previous difficulties, it's not uncommon to have heightened problems arise where extra support and guidance is needed. As a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Private Practice, I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, individuals, couples and families experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, behavioral and relational problems.
(805) 918-5087 View (805) 918-5087
Photo of Jillian Zamora, Pre-Licensed Professional in Simi Valley, CA
Jillian Zamora
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063  (Online Only)
Life transitions and stressful events can cause us to feel anxious or isolated. We often realize in times of transition or high stress that unhealed pain from the past rises to the surface. This can be an ideal time to reach out for support and a safe place to process your feelings. I can help you cope with your present challenges and make sense of unresolved emotions from the past. Whether you are looking to enter therapy as an individual to find your own sense of peace, as a couple to reconnect or repair a relationship, or as a family to achieve harmony and understanding, it would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
Life transitions and stressful events can cause us to feel anxious or isolated. We often realize in times of transition or high stress that unhealed pain from the past rises to the surface. This can be an ideal time to reach out for support and a safe place to process your feelings. I can help you cope with your present challenges and make sense of unresolved emotions from the past. Whether you are looking to enter therapy as an individual to find your own sense of peace, as a couple to reconnect or repair a relationship, or as a family to achieve harmony and understanding, it would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
(805) 749-5395 View (805) 749-5395
Photo of Shari Balbien, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Shari Balbien
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Hi there! My name is Shari Balbien, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children as young as five years of age, adolescents, families, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, as well as issues related to trauma, self-esteem, and grief. I have found that my style and approach are a good match for young children, families, and couples, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication issues.
Hi there! My name is Shari Balbien, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children as young as five years of age, adolescents, families, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, as well as issues related to trauma, self-esteem, and grief. I have found that my style and approach are a good match for young children, families, and couples, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication issues.
(805) 855-1505 View (805) 855-1505
Photo of Laurel Drake Fraser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Laurel Drake Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
EMDR and IFS (Internal Family Systems) offer effective and often rapid relief from depression, anxiety, panic attacks, distressing memories, nightmares, etc.
It is my passion and privilege to assist my clients in feeling alive, connected and at peace in their relationships and within themselves. Every day I hear clients say that our work has truly transformed their lives - that they are no longer triggered by old patterns, that their confidence and happiness is greater than they have ever experienced. Changes such as these are possible through a collaborative exploration of past and present issues in an atmosphere of safety, compassion and respect - respect for the individual and respect for the mind's ability to heal.
EMDR and IFS (Internal Family Systems) offer effective and often rapid relief from depression, anxiety, panic attacks, distressing memories, nightmares, etc.
It is my passion and privilege to assist my clients in feeling alive, connected and at peace in their relationships and within themselves. Every day I hear clients say that our work has truly transformed their lives - that they are no longer triggered by old patterns, that their confidence and happiness is greater than they have ever experienced. Changes such as these are possible through a collaborative exploration of past and present issues in an atmosphere of safety, compassion and respect - respect for the individual and respect for the mind's ability to heal.
(805) 995-4643 View (805) 995-4643
Photo of Andre Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Andre Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Hello, my name is Andre Jackson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. The goal is to be empathetic and support growth. It is OK to rethink the purpose and make changes that we care to. I am a non-judgmental human being creating a supportive environment to promote mindfulness and understanding. My style is relational and engaging (and so humor healed the world). I strive to meet you where you are at. My focuses are Personal Growth, Building Esteem, Military Families, Trauma, Suicidal Ideation, Vocational Stress, Anxiety, Family, Teens
Hello, my name is Andre Jackson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. The goal is to be empathetic and support growth. It is OK to rethink the purpose and make changes that we care to. I am a non-judgmental human being creating a supportive environment to promote mindfulness and understanding. My style is relational and engaging (and so humor healed the world). I strive to meet you where you are at. My focuses are Personal Growth, Building Esteem, Military Families, Trauma, Suicidal Ideation, Vocational Stress, Anxiety, Family, Teens
(805) 262-9154 View (805) 262-9154
Photo of Bernie-Bernadine M Gleason, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Bernie-Bernadine M Gleason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93062
Is sharing your life with a stranger comfortable for you? It's not easy for anyone and yet from my own experience and from the testimony of others (clients/friends/family), therapy has proven to be a positive life-changing experience that I would want for you. I count it a privilege to be invited into your life and heart and I wouldn't take that lightly. My goals are to make therapy a "safe place" by welcoming you with empathy, validation, affirmation, assistance and tender care (the way we all want to be treated). Maybe you're suffering from trauma or loss or hurt or...please give me an opportunity to work with you to make your life a new and safe place. I also offer faith-based counseling.
Is sharing your life with a stranger comfortable for you? It's not easy for anyone and yet from my own experience and from the testimony of others (clients/friends/family), therapy has proven to be a positive life-changing experience that I would want for you. I count it a privilege to be invited into your life and heart and I wouldn't take that lightly. My goals are to make therapy a "safe place" by welcoming you with empathy, validation, affirmation, assistance and tender care (the way we all want to be treated). Maybe you're suffering from trauma or loss or hurt or...please give me an opportunity to work with you to make your life a new and safe place. I also offer faith-based counseling.
(661) 276-8826 View (661) 276-8826
Photo of Yashwanthi Mirji, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Yashwanthi Mirji
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Are you anxious, depressed or sad? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you finding yourself stuck in unhealthy patterns in your relationships/career ? Recognizing that you need help, can be difficult as well as intimidating. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have had extensive training and experience working with adults (individuals and couples), children and adolescents for over 10 years.
Are you anxious, depressed or sad? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you finding yourself stuck in unhealthy patterns in your relationships/career ? Recognizing that you need help, can be difficult as well as intimidating. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have had extensive training and experience working with adults (individuals and couples), children and adolescents for over 10 years.
(805) 262-9147 View (805) 262-9147
Photo of Oreet Daniella Schrader, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Oreet Daniella Schrader
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, person centered therapy and emotion focused therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Are you struggling to gain control in life? Perhaps you are trying to manage a better relationship with food. Or it could be a daily challenge to maintain your sobriety. Maybe you find yourself in a relationship that lacks the sexual intimacy you crave. I have successfully helped many people like you overcome the obstacles that keep them trapped in cycles that are ineffective. I provide a safe and empathetic environment in which you can discuss things that are painful, challenging and personal.
This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, person centered therapy and emotion focused therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Are you struggling to gain control in life? Perhaps you are trying to manage a better relationship with food. Or it could be a daily challenge to maintain your sobriety. Maybe you find yourself in a relationship that lacks the sexual intimacy you crave. I have successfully helped many people like you overcome the obstacles that keep them trapped in cycles that are ineffective. I provide a safe and empathetic environment in which you can discuss things that are painful, challenging and personal.
(818) 435-8363 View (818) 435-8363
Photo of Avrille Birnbaum, Psychologist in Simi Valley, CA
Avrille Birnbaum
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
I have clients who are processing issues related to societal microaggressions due to gender, gender expression, being part of a non-dominant culture, non-traditional family/partner structures, and being part of the BDSM/kink community.
Hi, I'm Avrille Birnbaum! I'm a Clinical Psychologist, practicing therapy via video for clients who are in need but might not be able to take time off weekly to come to an office. I am a believer in doing what I can to make self-care accessible and relevant for each client, and I strive to make each person feel that they are having a conversation in which they feel supported, heard, and receive tools to use in their daily lives. Most often, my clients come to me struggling with issues regarding neurodivergence, depression, social anxiety, living with bipolar disorder, chronic pain, and autoimmune disorders.
I have clients who are processing issues related to societal microaggressions due to gender, gender expression, being part of a non-dominant culture, non-traditional family/partner structures, and being part of the BDSM/kink community.
Hi, I'm Avrille Birnbaum! I'm a Clinical Psychologist, practicing therapy via video for clients who are in need but might not be able to take time off weekly to come to an office. I am a believer in doing what I can to make self-care accessible and relevant for each client, and I strive to make each person feel that they are having a conversation in which they feel supported, heard, and receive tools to use in their daily lives. Most often, my clients come to me struggling with issues regarding neurodivergence, depression, social anxiety, living with bipolar disorder, chronic pain, and autoimmune disorders.
(805) 360-4291 View (805) 360-4291
Photo of Melissa Sanderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Melissa Sanderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063  (Online Only)
I am trained in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, mood changes, and other mental health difficulties, including addiction and dual diagnoses and often work w/clients who are struggling in their relationships and dealing with difficult life events. I have a specialization in family mediation, as it pertains to varied nuclear family structures, which may include the family court system. I am passionate about providing a comprehensive, multi-culturally competent, and LGBTQ+ affirming environment. I enjoy working with COUPLES & FAMILIES (high conflict or otherwise), including Discernment Couples Therapy.
I am trained in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, mood changes, and other mental health difficulties, including addiction and dual diagnoses and often work w/clients who are struggling in their relationships and dealing with difficult life events. I have a specialization in family mediation, as it pertains to varied nuclear family structures, which may include the family court system. I am passionate about providing a comprehensive, multi-culturally competent, and LGBTQ+ affirming environment. I enjoy working with COUPLES & FAMILIES (high conflict or otherwise), including Discernment Couples Therapy.
(805) 947-0770 View (805) 947-0770
Photo of Jaayda Ellingham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Jaayda Ellingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
I provide weekly individual, couple, and family psychotherapy to adolescents and adults to assist clients in managing challenges related to feeling "stuck," anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relational issues, and trauma-related content.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or feel you've hit a wall to progress, these states can create stress and disconnection, making personal fulfillment in career and relationships challenging. As we understand that physical exercise builds and strengthens our physical endurance, psychotherapy is a process of building and strengthening the mind's capacity to endure and respond. The therapeutic process is rooted in connection, transparency, and authenticity. I work from a collaborative and mindfulness approach to help guide my clients in understanding the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and actions to effect change.
I provide weekly individual, couple, and family psychotherapy to adolescents and adults to assist clients in managing challenges related to feeling "stuck," anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relational issues, and trauma-related content.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or feel you've hit a wall to progress, these states can create stress and disconnection, making personal fulfillment in career and relationships challenging. As we understand that physical exercise builds and strengthens our physical endurance, psychotherapy is a process of building and strengthening the mind's capacity to endure and respond. The therapeutic process is rooted in connection, transparency, and authenticity. I work from a collaborative and mindfulness approach to help guide my clients in understanding the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and actions to effect change.
(747) 229-0207 View (747) 229-0207
Photo of Jose Mejia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Jose Mejia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
My name is Jose Mejia I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT 134857. My approach towards therapy is empowering the client and exposing their strengths. I am the client center meaning the client is the expert of their lives and should be the one in control of their treatment. I'm an expert working with adolescents and families. However, I do work with people ages 12 and up. Most of all I am an expert working with families that exclusively speak Spanish.
My name is Jose Mejia I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT 134857. My approach towards therapy is empowering the client and exposing their strengths. I am the client center meaning the client is the expert of their lives and should be the one in control of their treatment. I'm an expert working with adolescents and families. However, I do work with people ages 12 and up. Most of all I am an expert working with families that exclusively speak Spanish.
(805) 977-5866 View (805) 977-5866
Photo of Claudia Ulwelling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Claudia Ulwelling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
My name is Claudia Ulwelling, MA, LMFT. My approach to therapy is to offer a safe and welcoming space for you to explore life challenges that you feel may be holding you back from your goals. I have experience treating clients with family conflict, grief/loss, life transitions, personal growth and transformation, spirituality, stress and trauma. My therapeutic approaches are dependent on clients individual needs. Solution Focused and Person Centered Therapies are two modalities I have found to promote increased well-being.
My name is Claudia Ulwelling, MA, LMFT. My approach to therapy is to offer a safe and welcoming space for you to explore life challenges that you feel may be holding you back from your goals. I have experience treating clients with family conflict, grief/loss, life transitions, personal growth and transformation, spirituality, stress and trauma. My therapeutic approaches are dependent on clients individual needs. Solution Focused and Person Centered Therapies are two modalities I have found to promote increased well-being.
(805) 222-7806 View (805) 222-7806
Photo of Wendy Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Wendy Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
The New Year is here, which can be a time of setting goals and making changes in your life. Getting support can make all the difference! I work with people with gender identity issues, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, addiction, neurodiversity and family of origin trauma and/or abuse. I look forward to hearing your story and assisting to create positive change in your life. I am currently accepting new telehealth clients and accept Venmo/Zelle for payment (I am NOT on any insurance panels, but I do provide super bills). I am also licensed for telehealth in Florida. Reach out for a free 15 minute consultation.
The New Year is here, which can be a time of setting goals and making changes in your life. Getting support can make all the difference! I work with people with gender identity issues, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, addiction, neurodiversity and family of origin trauma and/or abuse. I look forward to hearing your story and assisting to create positive change in your life. I am currently accepting new telehealth clients and accept Venmo/Zelle for payment (I am NOT on any insurance panels, but I do provide super bills). I am also licensed for telehealth in Florida. Reach out for a free 15 minute consultation.
(805) 719-7526 View (805) 719-7526
Sue White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
I offer practical, down to earth counseling using primarily cognitive behavioral and family systems therapy. My main areas of focus are in the treatment of anxiety, depression, loss and grief and relationships. I treat adults with the majority of my referrals coming from previous clients, insurance companies and the church community. I am a graduate of Pepperdine University with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling.
I offer practical, down to earth counseling using primarily cognitive behavioral and family systems therapy. My main areas of focus are in the treatment of anxiety, depression, loss and grief and relationships. I treat adults with the majority of my referrals coming from previous clients, insurance companies and the church community. I am a graduate of Pepperdine University with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling.
(805) 765-2428 View (805) 765-2428
Photo of Kristie Meyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Simi Valley, CA
Kristie Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
I have been a psychotherapist for 38 years, working with anxiety and depression, trauma, marital and family conflict, grief and loss, sexuality and sexual orientation issues, and finding passion and meaning in life.
Do you feel like you're not living your life to its fullest? The decision to seek therapy often comes after a painful process of self-evaluation. The realization that your life may be lacking in vitality can be upsetting but may provide the opening for something new and more hopeful to emerge. I believe that when we choose to experience our suffering willingly and openly, we create the opportunity for personal transformation. I can facilitate this process of change to help you find greater meaning in your life.
I have been a psychotherapist for 38 years, working with anxiety and depression, trauma, marital and family conflict, grief and loss, sexuality and sexual orientation issues, and finding passion and meaning in life.
Do you feel like you're not living your life to its fullest? The decision to seek therapy often comes after a painful process of self-evaluation. The realization that your life may be lacking in vitality can be upsetting but may provide the opening for something new and more hopeful to emerge. I believe that when we choose to experience our suffering willingly and openly, we create the opportunity for personal transformation. I can facilitate this process of change to help you find greater meaning in your life.
(714) 804-0905 View (714) 804-0905
Photo of Simi Psychological Group in Simi Valley, CA
Simi Psychological Group
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
It’s incredibly frustrating to know you, your child, or your family is on the wrong path but are unsure how to get on the right one. Even though you’re invested in bringing about real transformation in you or your family’s lives, you still can’t find a way to make the changes that are going to help you. We know you or your family can see things from a new perspective, learn to trust yourselves, and experience long-lasting change that each of you has control of.
It’s incredibly frustrating to know you, your child, or your family is on the wrong path but are unsure how to get on the right one. Even though you’re invested in bringing about real transformation in you or your family’s lives, you still can’t find a way to make the changes that are going to help you. We know you or your family can see things from a new perspective, learn to trust yourselves, and experience long-lasting change that each of you has control of.
(805) 429-4654 x1 View (805) 429-4654 x1
Photo of Elizabeth Hope Sorenson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Simi Valley, CA
Elizabeth Hope Sorenson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
Welcome! Getting started in therapy can be challenging as you may find you are looking for a space to really feel understood. Our journey toward authenticity often requires an integration of self that a professional can provide the feedback needed to get on the path that works best for you. Often we believe things about ourselves that can get in the way of how we want to navigate our lives. These beliefs are often conditioned by trauma, society, and inexperience. Who we are is the key to finding where we belong. I would be honored to explore with you a new path that works specifically for you as an individual, couple, or family.
Welcome! Getting started in therapy can be challenging as you may find you are looking for a space to really feel understood. Our journey toward authenticity often requires an integration of self that a professional can provide the feedback needed to get on the path that works best for you. Often we believe things about ourselves that can get in the way of how we want to navigate our lives. These beliefs are often conditioned by trauma, society, and inexperience. Who we are is the key to finding where we belong. I would be honored to explore with you a new path that works specifically for you as an individual, couple, or family.
(661) 215-8212 View (661) 215-8212

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.