Find a therapist in Atascadero, CA — covered by insurance

You show up every day: for your clients, your patients, your family, your team. But somewhere between all of that, showing up for yourself got lost. If you are a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or someone who has spent years keeping everything running, you may have noticed the anxiety, the exhaustion, or the low-grade stress that just will not lift. That is exactly who I work with. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional with more than 25 years in healthcare, including mental health crisis urgent care, inpatient and outpatient settings, and telehealth work with adults experiencing depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders, I bring clinical depth and a genuine understanding of what burnout does to the body and mind. I trained at Azusa Pacific University (BSN, Public Health Nursing) and Wilkes University (MSN, PMHNP), and my goal is to help high-functioning professionals and caregivers restore clarity, resilience, and balance.

As a therapist my goal is to break the stigma that comes with therapy. I strive to create a collaborative, nurturing therapeutic relationship that can help transform one's pain or uncertainties into one of healing. Life can be difficult and sometimes confusing therefore I want to create a corner where one can feel safe, understood, and free of judgement.

My work is grounded in behavioral therapy, and a firm belief that people can change. I prefer a flexible and collaborative approach that evolves as we work together. Though the foundation of my work is behavioral, I develop integrated treatment plans for each new client, drawing on other evidence-based modalities and new research.

Hi, I'm Sarah.

For more than 14 years, I've had the privilege of walking alongside people during some of life's most challenging and transformative moments. My career has taken me everywhere from neonatal care to hospice, giving me a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human experience at every stage of life.

Today, I specialize in working with young adults (ages 18–30) who are navigating life's many transitions—whether that's graduating, starting college, launching a career, building relationships, or simply trying to figure out who they are and where they're headed.

Originally from Colorado, I completed my education there before moving to California, where I earned my clinical social work license and continued developing my approach to therapy. My background has shaped me into a systems-oriented therapist, meaning I look beyond symptoms to understand how relationships, family dynamics, environment, and life experiences all influence your well-being.

I believe therapy should be a space where you feel heard, challenged, and supported. My goal isn't just to help you get through difficult moments—it's to help you build a life that feels meaningful, authentic, and sustainable.

When I'm not in the therapy room, you'll likely find me out for a run, cheering on the Seattle Mariners, spending time with my cats, or seeking out quirky places and new adventures. Those moments remind me that healing isn't only about working through hard things—it's also about making space for joy, connection, and curiosity.

I'm honored to do this work and would love the opportunity to be part of your journey.

Welcome! I'm glad you are taking this step towards your growth and healing. Are you challenged with relentless thoughts, communication, or quieting your critical voice? I enjoy helping others manage anxiety, build self-esteem, and foster emotional resilience.

I believe the best work happens when you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself—no pressure, no judgment, and no need to have everything figured out before you start. We’ll work together to explore what’s bringing you in, what matters most to you, and what you’d like to change or better understand.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Each person is different, so our work will be tailored to your needs, your goals, and your pace. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, going through a transition, or simply wanting to better understand yourself, I’m here to help you move forward in a way that feels manageable and authentic.

What I Bring to Our Work

• A welcoming, nonjudgmental space
• Thoughtful listening and honest, compassionate feedback
• A balance of insight and practical tools you can use outside of sessions
• Support that’s personalized to you, not a preset formula

If you’re looking for someone who is easy to talk to, genuinely supportive, and invested in your growth, I’d be glad to work with you and see if we’re a good fit.

I'm Setareh Sassani, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 151973), providing individual therapy in California via telehealth. I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, communication, and life transitions, helping clients build healthier relationships and live more fulfilling lives.

I help Gen Zers and Millennials to manage the overwhelming anxiety and stress that the fast-paced world of today causes. Whether the ever-evolving world is making it difficult for you to navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, parenthood, work pressures, romantic partnerships, emotional trauma, or interpersonal relationships, I am prepared to aid in rebuilding your confidence and developing a powerful toolkit for combatting mental health blocks.

As a proud Mexican woman, it’s important to me to provide a space for marginalized groups to feel understood and validated. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and deeply passionate about supporting the queer community with compassion and empathy. I am also sex-positive and have helped many of my clients overcome barriers and concerns regarding sex and physical intimacy.

I graduated from California State University Dominguez Hills with a Master’s Degree in Marital and Family Therapy in 2016. I began seeing clients in 2014, and in the years since, I have worked in substance abuse programs, behavioral health hospitals, intensive outpatient programs, and numerous group practices. Today, I enjoy managing my own practice and seeing my clients thrive as they tackle treatment goals. I am located in Los Angeles and am exclusively offering virtual therapy at this time, making it convenient for you to meet for your sessions in the comfort of your chosen space.

My name is Gerardo Salinas. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker and therapist for more than 13 years. I have worked with adults, youth, and families from varied life experiences. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds.

My goal is to provide a space that feels warm, non-judgmental and more importantly helpful. I work with adults, adolescents and adults who are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and many of the other effects and challenges.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, certified in Spiritual Guidance and Expressive Art, with a multi-cultural background. I bring a warm, person-centered approach to my practice. I have a passion for working with older adults, especially those navigating life transitions, and I offer therapy in Farsi, Turkish, and English. My focus is on creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood.

I am a board certified, doctoral prepared PMHNP. I completed my post graduate at National University in Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I earned my DNP from Azusa Pacific University and graduated from CSUSB MSN program. I have been a faculty at CSUSB since 2014. Extensively trained and a certified Trauma-Informed specialist. I diagnose and treat mental disorders including medication-assisted treatment along with counseling for chemical dependency and substance use disorders.