Book a therapist or psychiatrist in San Rafael, CA covered by Aetna

Hi! I'm Dr. Charla and I am a licensed therapist (est. 2014) specializing in identity and authentic self-expression. Holding a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, I integrate clinical expertise with holistic certifications in EMDR and Hypnotherapy. My eclectic approach meets clients at the intersection of traditional psychology and alternative healing.

I am dedicated hispanic female immigrant with over 10 years of nursing experience and specialized training as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

I find it effective to connect by phone for a consultation first; it's a way to ease into therapy and build a relationship. Everyone needs something different, whether they’re dealing with relationships, personal growth, or trauma, and I have to be amenable to my clients’ needs. If they need homework, I will assign it. If they need direct communication, I will give it. I meet my clients where they are, not where I want them to be. I get to do that with kids, adults, couples, and families.

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 believe meaningful change begins with feeling genuinely seen, heard, and understood. As a queer therapist, I recognize the importance of having a space where you can show up authentically, without fear of judgment. My goal is to create a warm, affirming, and collaborative environment where you feel comfortable exploring your experiences, navigating challenges, and discovering new ways of understanding yourself.

I enjoy working with individuals navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, identity exploration, self-esteem, and significant life transitions. I am especially passionate about creating an affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals and others who may have struggled to feel fully understood or accepted.

My academic background combines neuroscience, which I studied during my undergraduate education, with my graduate education in clinical psychology. This foundation has shaped my curiosity about the connections between the brain, emotions, behavior, and the experiences that make us who we are. I bring this perspective into my work, balancing an understanding of the science behind mental health with an appreciation for the complexity of each person's individual story.

Above all, I believe therapy is a partnership. You are the expert on your own experiences, and my role is to walk alongside you with empathy, insight, and genuine curiosity as we work toward greater self-understanding, emotional well-being, and a life that feels more authentic, aligned, and fulfilling.

Sometimes the hardest part isn't the struggle itself. It's finding someone who will actually understand the world you're living in. I'm Pia, a psychotherapist with many years of experience working with adults and seniors through anxiety, trauma, grief, identity questions, relationship strain, and major life transitions. I work with individuals and couples from a wide range of backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ communities, new and expecting mothers, and people from diverse cultural and ethnic origins who have sometimes found mainstream therapy less than welcoming. I listen closely, and I work hard to make sure you feel genuinely seen from the very first session.

Hello and thank you taking the steps to start your healing journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that will walk alongside you to provide a caring, nonjudgemental space.

Are you struggling to have harmony in your relationships? Does having ease in your life seem like a far-fetched dream? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the state of the world and all you have to do? Welcome, you're in the right place! I have been in your shoes and the first (or twenty) step is always the hardest. As someone who has learned to balance multiple cultures, I know what it can feel like to straddle various parts of your identity. I have first hand experienced feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, angry, and at a complete loss for how to navigate the intensity of my emotions. This has informed my practice and work with clients where I strongly believe that our emotions guide us to understanding ourselves in a new light. Asking for help can be difficult, especially in a culture that values productivity over personality.