Grief counselors and therapists in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi there, I'm Jay!

My path to becoming a therapist was shaped by my own life experiences and a deep connection to both people and the natural world. Those experiences sparked a passion for understanding the human experience and led me to Social Work, a profession rooted in social justice, empowerment, and walking alongside others as they create meaningful change.

I believe healing isn't just something we think our way through, it's something we experience. Together, we'll explore the connection between your mind, body, and nervous system with curiosity, compassion, and enough humor to remind you that life can be both messy and meaningful.

We all carry emotional burdens—some deep and lasting—that shape how we experience ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. Sometimes our pain feels unseen, our emotions misunderstood, or our hearts weary from carrying more than we were meant to bear. I believe healing begins with the courage to look within, understand our experiences, and, when desired, invite God into the healing process.

I am Dr. Sandry Z. Esquivel, Psy.D., LMFT, a bilingual, bicultural therapist and Mexican immigrant. My personal and professional experiences have deepened my appreciation for the ways culture, family, faith, identity, relationships, and life experiences shape our emotional well-being. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel welcomed, respected, understood, and free to be authentic.

I’m Thomas Moore, LPCC, a licensed professional clinical counselor providing therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity development, and complex relational patterns. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in repeating cycles such as overthinking, people pleasing, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, or difficulty maintaining stable relationships even when they logically understand what they should do. My goal is to help you translate insight into real change.

My approach is structured and compassionate. I integrate evidence based methods including cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and trauma informed therapy. Sessions focus on understanding why your brain reacts the way it does and building practical tools you can actually use outside the therapy room. This is not only about talking through problems but learning how to respond differently when they show up in real life.

I work well with clients who want more than passive support and are ready to build skills, increase self awareness, and interrupt patterns that no longer serve them.

What clients should know before starting

Therapy with me is collaborative and active and you will learn strategies rather than only venting. We will work on understanding both the emotional and neurological side of your reactions. Sessions focus on present day functioning while also addressing past experiences that still affect you. I may gently challenge patterns when it supports growth while maintaining a supportive and respectful space. Progress often comes from small repeated changes rather than sudden breakthroughs.

If you are looking for therapy that combines validation with practical change, we will likely work well together.

Navigating our way through life can be tough, and sometimes all it takes is some outside perspective to help us figure things out, and they can lend us that perspective. Sometimes it takes a lot more work to feel better, and I have the tools, experience, empathy, patience, and understanding to assist you.

I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, grief, trauma, depression, disruptive behaviors, and self-doubt. I support clients who feel challenged or overwhelmed and those seeking to develop healthier coping skills.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma, PTSD/CPTSD, attachment wounds, grief, anxiety and relationship concerns. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, families, veterans, and military-connected clients. My path into psychotherapy began through fine art, consciousness studies and contemplative practice, which continue to shape my appreciation for creativity, meaning, and the complexity of each person’s experience. I earned my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, completed advanced training in psychedelic-assisted therapies at CIIS, and am pursuing a Ph.D. in Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute.

Hello, I am glad you are here. My goal is to offer a safe welcoming space where you can be yourself without fear of judgement. I believe everyone deserves to be heard with kindness, respect, and compassion. Together, we'll move at a pace that feels right for you as we work toward the life you want to create.

Weather you have been considering therapy, worked with therapy in the past or loved ones are suggesting reaching out-welcome to my practice. I work with individuals, couples and families in the assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, career issues, job dissatisfaction. My specialty areas included the assessment and treatment of Perinatal and Postpartum Depression/Anxiety and Grief and Loss.

I'm Kaellen Lamonte, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Rocklin, California area. I work with individuals navigating life's challenges, and I'm committed to meeting each client where they are — with compassion, patience, and genuine care. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, life transitions, or something you've never quite put into words, I'm here to help you find clarity and move forward.

Hi, I’m Rosekate, a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to partner with you to achieve your highest level of health and well-being.

What should you know about me?

"Above all else, I want you to know that I am here to truly listen to you."

In today's fast-paced healthcare environment, it is easy to feel like just another symptom or a number on a chart. My practice is built on a foundation of deep empathy and active listening. I believe that you are the expert on your own body, and my job is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where you feel genuinely heard, validated, and respected.

Hello! I’m Shelby Stewart a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 15 years of experience in the Mental Health field since my undergrad years at Chico State. I hold a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco and specialize in anxiety, trauma, and depression.

I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals and creating meaningful connections through a collaborative approach. I pride myself on building solid rapport with clients, ensuring a safe and inclusive space where all voices are heard and valued. I am grounded in being open-minded, warm, and empowering, allowing clients to feel supported and understood as they navigate their journeys. I prioritize your goals and needs, making sure you feel heard and understood. Whether you’re facing challenges in your personal life or seeking personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and respect.

I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations. Starting your healing journey can seem overwhelming and lonely. My aim is to walk alongside and help you gain a better understanding of how your experiences have impacted the way you approach life. I believe in a person centered approach as you are the expert of your life and your life experiences, so collaborative we will write your new narrative.