Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Torrance, CA covered by United Healthcare

Hey there! I am a psychotherapist with a background in psychology and clinical social work. My experience stems from working with a wide variety of clients in many different treatment settings, such as schools, residential treatment facilities, supportive housing, and private practice. I work with adolescents and adults and provide treatment for mood, anxiety, personality, and trauma-related disorders.

Hi there, I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose practice is rooted in one foundational belief: every person deserves compassionate, individualized mental health care — regardless of background, circumstance, or the barriers and challenges they've faced along the way.

I focus on the treatment of depression, anxiety, and life's traumas, with a particular dedication to individuals from underserved and marginalized communities who have historically faced systemic barriers to quality mental health care.

All care is grounded in evidence-based practice, blending the most current clinical research with individualized judgment and patient-centered values. As a lifelong learner, I actively pursue continuing education and emerging best practices in psychiatric care — because excellence in medicine requires ongoing growth, humility, and a willingness to be taught by both science and the patients who make this work meaningful.

I welcome patients of all backgrounds and identities, and I am honored to walk alongside each person on their journey toward healing, wholeness, and hope.

My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him). I have been working as a mental health therapist for over five years. My practice has primarily been specialized in working with LGBTQ+ youth. However, I have worked with couples, families, emerging adults, and adults from all backgrounds. I am a client-centered therapist who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals.

I’ve helped people work through trauma, burnout, ADHD, Bipolar mood concerns, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and others, in ways that honor their pace and their story. Our work together is grounded in honesty, humor, and compassion.

As a therapist in Fresno and online in CA, I help people whose minds and bodies are tired of being on high alert. You might notice every possible threat around you, feel constantly on edge, or struggle to relax even in moments that should feel safe. You may carry guilt or shame from the ways you react when overwhelmed.

As therapy continues, you begin to notice small but real shifts. The mornings feel a bit lighter. You catch yourself laughing without effort. You start to sleep better. You find it easier to connect with family or friends, to be present, to breathe. These small moments build into something bigger

— a sense of belonging in your own life again.

I am a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. With a foundation in whole-person, evidence-based care, I integrate medical management with psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions to support mental and physical wellness.

My background spans outpatient psychiatry, primary care, home health, and assisted living settings, allowing me to understand the unique needs of patients across all stages of life. I have extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, and chronic medical comorbidities that impact emotional well-being.

I believe in creating a collaborative, compassionate, and culturally sensitive environment where patients feel heard and empowered to take an active role in their care. My approach focuses on building balance—supporting both the mind and body—through medication management, therapy, and integrative care strategies.

Dr. Aw primary interest is the intersection between mental and physical health. Dr. Aw’s philosophy, one does not exist outside of the other. Furthermore, Depression and anxiety in patients who are also suffering from medical issues feels significantly worse, and it is his goal to get patients on the road to recovery.

I am a licensed therapist with a Christian-perspective. I hold a deep desire to support and encourage others on how to overcome life's challenges and regain peace and balance in their lives. I am equipped to offer individual counseling to those who experience anxiety, depression, transitional life changes, interpersonal difficulties, bipolar disorders, and childhood trauma.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about providing compassionate, supportive, and individualized mental health care. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma-related concerns, or life stressors.