Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Santa Clara, CA covered by Aetna

I have extensive experience and training in the area of trauma and substance abuse. Prior to building my private practice I provided mental health to youth in the child protective services then later I provided therapeutic services in an inpatient residential treatment center for substance abuse. I am trauma informed and specialize in processing traumatic memories utilizing EMDR and integrated fragmented parts of the self by using IFS therapy.

Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. You may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, grief, depression, or experiences from the past that continue to affect your present. Perhaps you find yourself reacting in ways that don't make sense, feeling disconnected from others, or carrying burdens that have followed you for years.

I believe that symptoms often make sense when we understand the story behind them.

For nearly 20 years, I have worked as a psychotherapist helping children, adolescents, adults, and families heal, strengthen relationships, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves. My experience includes working in private practice, schools, pediatric healthcare settings, and community mental health programs. I also taught graduate students in counseling and family therapy programs, helping train the next generation of therapists.

Great to meet you!

I am Pamela and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have worked with teens and adults for over 20 years. I have experience in working with clients with anxiety, depression, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked at schools for over 19 years with students aged 12 and older and very much enjoy working with school-aged students.

I am available to assist with many of the current issues that are affecting us all. Issues os depression, anxiety and PTSD are impacting many. Relationship and communication challenges are problematic. Challenging adolescents and children suffering from ADHD or Learning Disabilities are impacting family life. I can assist you with these common challenges, and help to provide and process solutions.

It's not easy starting therapy and investing time in yourself, but you've already done the first step! My experience has primarily been focused in clients with eating disorders and co-occurring diagnoses. With that said, I also have extensive experience working with relationship challenges, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidality. I generally like to pull from my knowledge of various therapy modalities such as DBT, CBT, FBT and EFFT. I also really enjoy self-compassion work. Your goals are always my top priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

Outside of work, I enjoy live music, spending time with friends, and hanging out with my dogs, Nala and Toni. These personal interests help me stay grounded and bring balance to my life, which I believe is crucial for overall well-being.

If you're ready to take the next step, I'm here to help you navigate your journey towards healing and growth. Let's work together to achieve your goals!

I create a safe space for you to describe how you see yourself in the world and to notice patterns that have persisted, and that may hamper you from achieving optimal relationships and completing your goals. I work with a range of ages, from young adults to seniors, and with a multicultural diverse population in California. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and trauma related issues.

I help clients break the cycle of self-defeating patterns by exploring the lasting impact of early attachment wounds—especially the often unspoken pain of under-mothering and emotional neglect. My approach is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and the belief that healing begins when we de-stigmatize shame and make space for our unmet needs.

With certification in EMDR and advanced training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), I support clients in working through trauma, grief, and relational challenges. My background also includes working with first responders and professional athletes navigating high-pressure roles and emotional resilience.

Whether you're facing anxiety, grief, or feeling stuck in old patterns, I provide a steady therapeutic presence—offering insight, empathy, and deep respect for your healing process. Together, we work toward greater self-trust, healthier boundaries, and a renewed sense of wholeness.

Most of my clients would describe me as an empath who is warm, caring, and non-judgmental. I often hear, that speaking with me is like speaking with a best friend. I utilize my education, experience, training and education to support you, and the situations/issues you face. I have an ecumenical spiritual belief system, which can be brought into session at your request. As a member of the LGBT+ community, being sober, and over coming clinical depression have only contributed to my therapeutic approach. I look forward to getting to know you, and working with you for the best possible outcome. Please contact me should you have issue with finding an available time to accommodate your schedule. I will do what I can to help you find a mutually agreed appointment.

Welcome! My name is Megan and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with clients as young as 4 years old and up. I frequently work with clients who experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, and relationship problems.

I am a Psychodynamic therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience in offering a deep, insight-oriented approach to healing. My practice is built on the belief that understanding our past is the key to transforming our future. I specialize in helping individuals uncover the underlying patterns and unconscious processes that shape their current lives.

My therapy style is both empathetic and analytical, tailored specifically to your unique history. Together, we will explore the "why" behind your experiences, fostering profound self-awareness and lasting emotional growth in a secure, supportive space. Whether you are navigating trauma, relationship issues, or major life transitions, I am here to help you move toward long-term resolution and authenticity.

Introduction

I primarily use a cognitive behavioral approach. My focus area of practice is helping clients improve their lives and find meaningful change.

My communication style

My sessions are calm, collegial, interactive, respectful, directive, and helpful.

How I help clients reach goals

Change does not necessarily take a long time. We're 'shooting for the moon' right away. What's the worst that could happen?

My journey to becoming a provider

Helping others help themselves is an absolute privilege! I'd pay them to do this work (but please don't tell them that.) How did I get here? It's a long story. I originally went to college to be a journalist, but changed to broadcasting. Dumb. I needed to jumpstart my life, so I changed to this profession. Talk about purpose and meaning!

When anxiety feels like it's running your life, or when thoughts keep looping no matter what you try, 25 years of experience makes a real difference. I'm Dr. Pamela Dobbins, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than two decades of practice working with adults through anxiety, panic, depression, and grief. I bring clinical depth and a direct, practical approach to every session. Clients often describe me as steady, clear, and genuinely invested in helping them build skills that last.