Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Simi Valley, CA covered by Cigna

Hi! I'm Ava, a licensed psychotherapist specializing in self-esteem, depression, and trauma in women. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology & Education from UCLA and my Master's of Marriage & Family Therapy (clinical psychology) from USC.

Women who find me often describe feeling disconnected from themselves in ways that are hard to explain.

Most are in their 20s, many of whom are Latina, navigating identity shifts and redefining who they are after major life transitions. They may have ambition, potential, and clear goals, yet still feel held back by something invisible. That “something” often goes by many names: depression, low self-worth, insecure attachment, abandonment and rejection wounds, and unresolved relational trauma from childhood.

I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) who helps people heal from the inside out.

I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults for years, and one thing I’ve learned is that healing happens when we feel seen, safe, and accepted exactly as we are. My style is warm, real, and collaborative. I meet you where you are, and we go from there.

Rena has experience treating professional women and adults from all cultures. She takes a process-based approach and tailors her sessions to the client. She also provides treatment through EAP and has a passion for working with Division I collegiate athletes and therapists (they need it too), exploring and healing emotional challenges impacting performance.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who provides compassionate, evidence-based care for adults. My approach is clinical, trauma-informed, and whole-person, meaning I look beyond symptoms alone and consider the many parts of life that shape mental health. I believe care should feel collaborative and supportive, not overwhelming. My goal is to help you feel understood while creating a treatment plan that fits your life, values, and goals. Whether you are seeking medication management, in-office IV or IM ketamine treatment, or support through a difficult season, I want you to feel safe, respected, and empowered.

I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with many years of experience in healthcare, including primary care, psychiatric mental health, leadership, and wellness-based practice. My background has allowed me to work with individuals facing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and medical concerns, and I understand how closely mental health and physical health are connected.

I am Jennifer Ferguson. I knew I wanted to be a therapist when I was 13. After college, I was a teacher on and off-interspersed with staying home with children. While completing my counseling degree from Capella University, I was still able to stay at home with my children. I have worked at a drug rehab center for women, a small private school as their mental health therapist, at a mental health hospital outpatient program, and in private practice, virtually and in-person.

I commit to supporting your growth whilst challenging your outdated defense mechanisms. Old patterns got you this far, and my Gestalt training allows me to see your obstacles as creative adjustments. I will empower you to choose, consciously, what works and what works no longer.

I have been described as a “down to earth” and “real” therapist. I like to believe these are accurate descriptors. I bring a plethora of experience to my therapy room; however, I recognize, acknowledge, and celebrate the client being the expert on their life. I provide a safe environment which allows my clients to be transparent without judgment. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and it is definitely a risk. We need to remember there is no growth without risk!