Grief counselors and therapists in California

I earned my Master of Arts degree in psychology with a focus on marriage and family therapy to pursue my passion for helping others navigate life's challenges, achieve personal growth, and heal. My education and training have equipped me with the knowledge and skills to provide effective, evidence-based therapy to my clients.

Throughout my three decades as a therapist, I have discovered that one of the most important skills I have developed is the ability to listen deeply. Along the way, I have gained a broad range of therapeutic tools and approaches, but I have learned that meaningful change begins when people feel truly heard. My mentors are the horse whisperers. I believe they listen with their whole body. They trust the intuitive nature of their horse. I like to think that I use some of this as I work with each client, trusting their intuitive nature. Together we are learning what is present in the room, gaining new insights and feeling more empowered.

I have a BS degree in Health Science from San Jose State University and an MSW degree from the University of Southern California. Yes, I’m originally from California. I’m a licensed clinical social worker in both California and Florida. I was first licensed in 2003. For the first ten years of my practice, I worked with children, adolescents, and families.

I have over eight years of experience supporting individuals whose mental health is affected by health and medical issues. Finally, I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).

Feeling worried all the time? Feeling down or depressed? Dealing with negative thinking that wont go away? Having difficulties in your relationships? Struggling to maintain a balance between responsibilities and everyday challenges?

Let me help you! I will guide you to effectively manage anxiety, depression or elevated stress that may arise when dealing with past or present relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, separation, parenting difficulties, trauma, illness, loss, transitions or other life stressors.

I'm here for you! Don't tackle this alone; open yourself to professional help.

I'm John, a licensed psychologist practicing in Utah and California. I started out in information technology because I loved computers and making sense of data, but over time I found I enjoyed working with people more than working with machines, so I went back to school and earned my doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD). Since then I have worked in counseling centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and schools, and I have really enjoyed applying the science of psychology to help people understand themselves and navigate the challenges of everyday life. I see teens, young adults, adults, and older adults for concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, relationships, men's mental health, and questions of religion and spirituality.

Welcome—I’m so glad you’re here. Reaching 20 years in practice is a milestone I hold with deep gratitude, as it reflects two decades of walking alongside individuals and couples as they navigate life’s transitions, challenges, and growth.