Grief counselors and therapists in Ventura, CA

Hi, I'm Ellen, a psychotherapist who treats adults and adolescents 19 and up. I combine psychodynamic techniques with spirituality to create a session that offers both common sense and compassion, and also some creative and fun interventions! I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationships, and more. My approach is individualized to respect you and what you need or hope for in therapy. I am a marriage and family therapist with experience in school, clinic, and private practice.

Aloha nui loa, and welcome to new possibilities, as you step through the threshold of conscious self-care. Congratulation on taking that first step in reaching out for help. Let's start that process together by creating a treatment plan that will address your needs.

I help clients break the cycle of self-defeating patterns by exploring the lasting impact of early attachment wounds—especially the often unspoken pain of under-mothering and emotional neglect. My approach is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and the belief that healing begins when we de-stigmatize shame and make space for our unmet needs.

With certification in EMDR and advanced training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), I support clients in working through trauma, grief, and relational challenges. My background also includes working with first responders and professional athletes navigating high-pressure roles and emotional resilience.

Whether you're facing anxiety, grief, or feeling stuck in old patterns, I provide a steady therapeutic presence—offering insight, empathy, and deep respect for your healing process. Together, we work toward greater self-trust, healthier boundaries, and a renewed sense of wholeness.

I’m a clinical psychologist (doctor) in Ventura county, California, with over 25 years of experience and a practice designed to feel calm, human, and welcoming. Many of the patients I work with come to therapy feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, disconnected, anxious, depressed, or stuck. They may be navigating trauma, grief, relationship pain, major life transitions, or the quiet weight of having tried to manage too much for too long. My work is for people who are ready for something deeper than just getting through the day. My approach is warm, grounded, and deeply human, focused on real life, not just symptoms.

As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am passionate about helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and relationships with compassion and care. In my work as a Ketamine-Assisted Therapist, I support individuals healing from developmental and other traumatic experiences, offering a safe and grounded space for growth. My approach empowers clients to move beyond feeling stuck and discover a deeper sense of truth, resilience, and self.

If you are looking to become a better, happier, and healthier person and would like to gain a deeper understanding and love for yourself and others, I can help you. Psychotherapy can improve the quality of your life and/or manage more serious issues such as depression, anxiety, and grief. The process focuses on comfortably connecting with you in a confidential and empathetic, therapeutic setting.

I'm a therapist offering in-person sessions in the Westlake Village area of Southern California, and telehealth to folks throughout California. I decided to become a therapist after many years of working in corporate America, and I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and an LMFT license.

Seeking therapy is acknowledging you are allowed to take space, time, and care for yourself. Finding the right therapist is an important first step. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy for adolescents, adults, and seniors experiencing anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, grief, and stress. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in genuine connection. I believe healing begins when people feel understood without judgement. Together, we will work to increase insight, strengthen resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change that aligns with your values and goals.