Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Modesto, CA

I have been on my own healing journey for 40+ years and so I know personally how much courage and effort it can take to heal and grow. I also know how amazing life and relationships can get as a part of that healing process; I wish that experience for everyone.

I work with people who are thoughtful, self-aware, and a little tired of the usual answers. My practice draws from existential therapy, Buddhist psychology, and Gestalt three traditions that share one core idea: that lasting change comes from understanding yourself more deeply, not managing yourself more efficiently. I wrote a book about this, Growing Through Crisis, because I believe that the moments that crack us open are often the ones that matter most. I work with individuals and couples, including those navigating LGBTQ+ identities, non-traditional relationships, and kink or sex-positive lifestyles. I hold a trauma professional certification and bring that lens into grief work, relationship ruptures, and major life transitions.

Therapy is a way of showing up for yourself, a path of self discovery where you can reconnect with who you are today and the life you truly want. I’ve supported people navigating addiction, trauma, depression, and anxiety, and I believe deeply in meeting you exactly where you are and wherever you feel ready to begin. Together, our sessions become a collaborative journey, with me holding safe, steady space for you as you grow into the person you’ve always had it within you to become.

Hi and Welcome! My names is Jessica Ambroz and I am a therapist & licensed clinical social worker. My background includes working with trauma, child abuse, anxiety and depression. I have extensive work in the foster care system, parenting and working with substance abuse and mental health challenges. I am a doctorate candidate at the University of Tennessee Knoxville and my focus of study is strength and experiences impact functioning.

I believe everyone has the capacity to heal, grow, and thrive—with the right support. My role as a therapist is to walk alongside you with curiosity, compassion, and care as we work toward meaningful change. I stay engaged with the latest developments in the mental health field and bring an open, grounded approach to understanding your unique experiences. Therapy with me is collaborative, human, and always centered on your goals.

I’m Meghan Smith, LCSW, and I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, and acute stress. I use EMDR, CBT, ACT, and DBT within a trauma-informed framework — tailoring every treatment plan to you. Therapy with me is collaborative, grounded, and at a pace that feels safe. I’m here to walk alongside you, not push you.