Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Manhattan Beach, CA covered by United Healthcare

I am a triple board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry, family, and women's health, so have experience caring for a diverse client population. I've worked several years in each specialty and settled in psychiatry, where my passion lies. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and more. Because of my training in women's health, I am uniquely qualified in the psychiatric care of women during pregnancy and postpartum.

I always operate off of this model, "Everything I've gone through I have gotten through."

I am a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist who values creating a genuine, trusting connection with each client. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and able to be your authentic self.

I earned my Master of Arts from National University and completed doctoral-level training at Pacifica Graduate Institute. My clinical training and professional experience have provided me with a strong foundation in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

I have experience working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation settings, where I supported individuals navigating substance use, trauma, and related mental health challenges. I also have experience working with men’s mental health concerns, including emotional regulation, identity, and relationship issues.

I use an integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients understand both present challenges and underlying patterns. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, and life transitions, helping them build insight alongside practical tools for lasting change.

Outside of my work as a therapist, I value staying active and maintaining a strong mind-body connection. I spend much of my time weightlifting, boxing, practicing jiu-jitsu, and participating in CrossFit and Olympic lifting, and I also enjoy running. These practices help me stay grounded and bring a perspective of discipline, resilience, and balance into my work with clients.

Life can feel heavy sometimes—uncertain, overwhelming, and out of balance in ways that are hard to put into words. If you’ve been carrying a lot on your own, it makes sense that reaching out for support might feel difficult, even vulnerable. I want you to know that those feelings are understood, and you are not alone in them.

You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. I’m here to gently walk alongside you as you begin to take those first steps—at your pace, in your way. Whether you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply tired, this can be a space where you’re allowed to just be, without pressure or judgment.

I approach therapy with warmth, care, and deep respect for your unique story. Together, we’ll create a space where you can feel safe enough to express yourself openly, explore what’s been weighing on your heart, and begin to reconnect with yourself and the relationships that matter most to you.

With extensive experience working with adults, I tailor each session to your needs, honoring where you are while gently supporting where you want to go. Healing doesn’t have to happen all at once—and you don’t have to do it alone.

As a therapist I'm here for you. It seems brave to me make a decision to come to therapy. My part is to listen and without judgment or personal agenda and to be effective in your needs and wants. Of course, I also need to be aware of the legals and ethicals of therapy. I attended Sarah Lawrence College and Harvard University for my BA, and Phillips Graduate Institute for my MA.

I’m a licensed therapist who understands that life’s journey can be filled with both joy and challenges. With experience working with clients facing anxiety, depression, and identity struggles, I prioritize creating a safe, judgment-free space where you can feel heard and validated. My passion lies in guiding individuals through their emotional landscapes, helping them find purpose and self-confidence to handle life’s challenges.

We often seek therapy when we're ready for change and part of our life has become unbalanced. A feeling of discontent, depression, or anxiety may have lasted a lifetime, or may have been initiated by a transitional change, such as loss of a relationship or career, or a yearning to grow beyond where we have been stuck. I welcome all parts of you, and will meet you where you are at in the journey towards wholeness.

Hi, I'm Fanta—yes, like the soda (and yes, there's a story behind it, but of course it has nothing to do with soda!). With nearly 20 years in the mental health field and over a decade providing therapy, I've walked alongside children, families, couples, and adults as they’ve faced some of life’s toughest moments.

I truly believe that “the struggle you're in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow.” Life brings challenges, but how we respond to them shapes our path forward. I’ve been there too, and I know how important it is to feel supported as you find your way through.

My goal is to work with you—not for you or around you, but with you—as you build the tools and confidence to navigate whatever life throws your way. We’ll work together to recognize negative thought patterns, build self-compassion, and strengthen your connection with yourself and those around you.

More than anything, I’m here to create a space that feels safe, empathetic, and judgment-free. A space where you can be fully you, speak your truth, and start to heal.