Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA

Hello, I'm Gurleen Hans, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have been a registered nurse for five years, working with diverse populations and cultures throughout California.

My background includes specialized training in psychiatric medication management, comprehensive diagnostic assessments, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions. I work with adolescents and adults across inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings, giving me a thorough understanding of care at varying levels of treatment intensity. This experience has reinforced my belief that recovery looks different for everyone and can happen at any stage of life.

My expertise spans the full spectrum of psychiatric care, from initial evaluation and accurate diagnosis to ongoing medication management and thoughtful treatment refinement.

I have extensive experience supporting individuals living with severe and persistent mental illness, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I also work with adolescents navigating mood disorders and behavioral challenges unique to their developmental stage. My work with Assertive Community Treatment teams has deepened my insight into supporting individuals with complex needs within real-world community settings.

What drives my work is a genuine love of caring for others and helping people find meaningful relief from their symptoms. I believe effective mental health care requires clinical expertise, compassion, cultural sensitivity, and a true willingness to listen to each person's unique story. I am here to partner with you in achieving your goals.

I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) LCSW who helps individuals navigate anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. I will strive to meet my client's needs. Life tends to take us on various journeys. Not all clients are the same, and everyone has the right to their healing process. We will work as a team to overcome challenges. I will strive to meet my client's needs. Life tends to take us on various journeys. Not all clients are the same, and everyone has the right to their healing process. We will work as a team to overcome challenges. My goal is to maintain a safe and confidential environment to help overcome adversity.

I have always had a deep passion for working with children, teens, and their families. With nearly 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, which I earned in 2012. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting young people through many of life’s challenges.

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to connect with individuals across ages, cultures, and experiences. This connection is grounded in authenticity and relatability, which is nurtured through a strong therapeutic alliance. I believe therapy offers a safe space to explore, learn, and grow—and I strive to help clients build resilience, strengthen relationships, and develop into their best selves.

Hi, welcome to my practice. I support individuals, couples, and families through the complexities of life transitions. Whether you're adjusting to a new relationship, navigating parenting challenges, or facing unexpected life changes, I offer a safe, supportive space to help you reconnect with yourself and your relationships. I have over 30 years of experience as a licensed therapist and more than three decades leading personal growth workshops

My name is Gerardo Salinas. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker and therapist for more than 13 years. I have worked with adults, youth, and families from varied life experiences. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds.

My goal is to provide a space that feels warm, non-judgmental and more importantly helpful. I work with adults, adolescents and adults who are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and many of the other effects and challenges.

Thank you for considering me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have a Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California where I studied Adult Mental Health an Wellness and Military Social Work. I specialize in the Veteran and First Responder populations.

I’m Michele Ellis, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. With over a decade of experience, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the social, emotional, and psychological challenges people face. My approach is warm, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs—meeting you exactly where you are in your journey. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back, build on your strengths, and create a path toward meaningful, lasting change.

My patients can expect me to be warm, empathetic, and genuinely interested in their story. I take time to understand not just current struggles, but also personal history and experiences that have shaped who they are. I believe that mental health is deeply connected to overall health, and treating psychiatric conditions can positively impact all areas of life. I work with all patients and conditions, and I always meet people where they are. If someone isn’t ready for medications, I fully support their choice and will be there to provide guidance, education, and care until the time feels right for them. Above all, I listen, I value each person’s perspective, and I aim to create a safe space where patients feel truly heard.

Hey there! You being here is huge, and I am honored to partner with you on your journey toward wellness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and U.S. Navy veteran, having earned both my BA and Master of Social Welfare from UCLA. My professional background includes extensive experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, specializing in helping individuals navigate complex psychosocial needs, trauma, and substance use. Ultimately, I am deeply committed to helping you break down life's barriers, adapt to major transitions, and successfully reclaim your stability

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Hello! My name is Janette Ruano. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Los Angeles County, California. I provide Telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults throughout the state of California. I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma.