Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Northridge, CA

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! I provide a welcoming environment that is safe, nurturing, and judgment-free.

My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him). I have been working as a mental health therapist for over five years. My practice has primarily been specialized in working with LGBTQ+ youth. However, I have worked with couples, families, emerging adults, and adults from all backgrounds. I am a client-centered therapist who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals.

I’ve helped people work through trauma, burnout, ADHD, Bipolar mood concerns, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and others, in ways that honor their pace and their story. Our work together is grounded in honesty, humor, and compassion.

As a therapist in Fresno and online in CA, I help people whose minds and bodies are tired of being on high alert. You might notice every possible threat around you, feel constantly on edge, or struggle to relax even in moments that should feel safe. You may carry guilt or shame from the ways you react when overwhelmed.

As therapy continues, you begin to notice small but real shifts. The mornings feel a bit lighter. You catch yourself laughing without effort. You start to sleep better. You find it easier to connect with family or friends, to be present, to breathe. These small moments build into something bigger

— a sense of belonging in your own life again.

I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves. In my spare time, I work as an outdoor educator and manage my own private practice and guide Outdoor Retreats

I believe it is helpful and important to translate what is discussed in session and in telehealth meetings into lived experience and real change.

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Aurora, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

As you begin your therapy journey, I’d love to share a little about my therapeutic style so you can get a sense of who I am and whether we might be a good clinical fit.

As a Latina therapist, I believe culture plays an important role in the therapy room. Our cultural backgrounds, family experiences, relationships, and identities can all shape the way we understand ourselves and navigate the world. Both my personal and professional experiences have deeply influenced my approach to therapy.

I especially enjoy working with individuals and families navigating multigenerational patterns, family dynamics, and trauma. My goal is to create a warm, compassionate, and culturally responsive space where you feel seen, understood, and supported as you work toward meaningful change.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about providing compassionate, supportive, and individualized mental health care. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma-related concerns, or life stressors.

I am a graduate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where I earned my Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology and minored in Sociology.

Obtained my Master’s Degree (MA) in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy at California State University-Long Beach.

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have worked at a variety of clinical settings My background includes but not limited to: working with children, teenagers, addiction, couples, adults, families, and trauma. I am a trained EMDR therapist. Also, extensive experience in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

I'm a therapist based in the Coachella Valley with a broad scope. I work with individuals, couples, families, and children navigating some of life's most difficult terrain: trauma and PTSD, anxiety and depression, substance use and addiction, family conflict, grief, anger, and the particular pressures that come with being a man in a culture that rarely teaches men how to ask for help.

I offer both in-person sessions in the valley and telehealth appointments throughout California. My approach is direct but never harsh, structured but never rigid. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all therapy, I meet you where you actually are.