Nicole Whaley, CEO

LCSW (26811), LPCC (472)

My experience spans 20 years working with children, adolescents and adults providing social services, psychotherapy and education. I have successfully treated clients of all ages from many different ethnic, cultural, sexual- orientation, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.

I work with those who suffer from depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, and disruptive, impulse control and conduct disorders. Also, I treat other mental and behavioral health challenges such as low-self esteem, complicated bereavement, self-harm, social limitations, outbursts of aggression and race-based traumatic stress. Much of my experience had been focused on helping individuals who have experienced traumatic, confusing, and/or stressful life events, such as physical, sexual and/or emotional abuse, abandonment, neglect, the death of a loved one, and relationship issues.
 
I have provided these services in agency settings and on university campuses as well as through private practice. I have managed and clinically supervised clinical and MSW interns, taught as a professor at several universities in the social work, psychology, early childhood education and child development departments, and served as a subject matter expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

My goal is to work with you to help you identify your desires and empower you to make those positive changes in your life. I understand that making the decision to seek help can be difficult, so I use an approach that is compassionate and non-judgemental to help create an environment where you feel supported in your counseling journey.

Dionne Brooks

LCSW (25868)

(Accepting New Patients)

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Louisiana Technical University and a master’s degree in Social Welfare from Louisiana State University. In the last 20 years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families with treatment modalities based on Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I also specializing in EMDR and trauma informed care.

I am a Navy veteran and I have experience treating PTSD, depression, daily stressors, life changes, anxiety, racial trauma, mood disorders and Military Veterans. I have provided services in hospitals, child welfare agencies, Veteran’s Affairs and private practice. I have worked with various clients of different ages, ethnic backgrounds, sexual-orientation, and religious and socioeconomic backgrounds. My purpose will be to support you and guide you through this journey and empower you to be your best self!

William Elliott

AMFT (12209)

(Accepting New Patients)

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families from various cultures and backgrounds utilizing treatment modalities based on the individual’s needs. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Sociology and furthered my education by acquiring a master’s degree from Pacific Oaks College in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in working with diverse individuals, families, children and adolescents.

I began my career working in residential facilities, where I obtained experience working with adults, children, adolescents and families coping with complex traumas. From there, I supervised for a variety of non-profit agencies providing expertise in the areas connected trauma, anxiety, and depression.

My experience includes working with children and adults suffering from mental health disorders, including emotional and/or behavioral. My passion for working with youth, adults, and their families is highlighted in my lifelong service to others. I volunteer yearly by partnering with local parks working directly with community members by engaging them in activities and providing resources for mental health services. 

Cheyenne Emery

LMFT (116584)

(Accepting New Patients)

I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Simpson University and a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from National University.

In this life there will be hardships, challenges, and pain and I understand that we all have a unique story to tell. I believe that as a therapist I am simply a guide to encourage and support each individual to formulate their own solutions to challenges and achievement of goals. The therapeutic atmosphere is one of non-judgment and empathy. Kindness and genuineness are the therapeutic tools I hope to convey as the individual and I travel the road to healing.

I specialize in Dual Diagnosis, Relationship Issues, Grief and Loss, Trauma/PTSD, Woman's Issues, Addiction, Anxiety and Depression and Christian therapy. I offer a space to uncover the root of the symptoms or challenges that may be occurring in your life. My goal is to walk alongside you with kindness and encouragement as you address what you feel is most important. I know that life can be very stressful and challenging at times. Life is not meant to be traveled alone, you are worthy of support!

Maria Mousa

LMFT (139605)

(Accepting New Patients)

I was born and raised in a close-knit community and developed a strong sense of empathy and understanding from an early age. This innate ability to connect with others, combined with a natural curiosity about the complexities of the human mind, led me to pursue a career in therapy. After completing a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, I went on to earn a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, solidifying my foundation in the field.

Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings, gaining invaluable experience in both individual and group therapy. I have provided counseling services to diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, each with their unique set of challenges and needs. I have also worked with individuals facing a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relationship difficulties. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach to therapy. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can freely express themselves, explore their thoughts and emotions, and work towards personal growth and healing.

With a deep understanding that each individual is unique, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the specific needs and goals of each client. I draw from a diverse range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). By combining these approaches with empathy, active listening, and genuine care, I empower clients to navigate life's challenges, develop coping strategies, and achieve meaningful change. With a deep understanding of the human experience, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to professional growth, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and personal transformation.

Andres Ruiz

LMFT (135430)

(Accepting New Patients)

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Community Psychology from  Antioch University Los Angeles.

My experience encompasses over 15-years of working with children, adolescents, and adults providing psychoeducation, social services, and direct mental health therapy in both English and Spanish. I’ve successfully treated clients from different ethnic, cultural, sexuality and gender, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.

My relevant experience includes working with people experiencing  depression, anxiety, attachment, PTSD, impulse control and conduct disorders. In addition, I’ve also worked with clients experiencing interpersonal violence and marital  challenges. I’ve worked for multiple community based mental health agencies, managing child protective services and probation cases, as well as teaching emotional intelligence classes to youth in juvenile hall. I currently teach court mandated parenting, anger management and domestic violence classes and have given lectures on various topics related to mental health and education at universities such as UCLA, LMU, Antioch University, and LA Southwest College.

My intention as a mental health clinician is to help you find your voice. Seek your path, explore the depths of your inner self, and find your truth. Cut the anchor and recalibrate your compass and allow me the privilege to be a witness and companion to your journey.

Monica Thomas

LCSW (82014)

Clinical Supervisor

(Accepting New Patients)

 I have 20 years of experience in community and clinical practice including case management, medical social work and mental health services. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. My clinical experience ranges from working with children and at-risk youth to the disabled and aging community and from traumatic experiences to every day stressors that affect our mental health well-being.

Therapy is an individual journey and it is a collaborative path that I am here to support you through without judgement. Rather than adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues, I draw from a variety of methods to create a personalized approach for each individual. As a therapist, I am warm, open, encouraging, and direct. I consider myself an active therapist, combining experience, education, creativity with a down-to-earth, realistic and holistic approach to counseling. As an immigrant bilingual clinician, I possess the ability to understand the unique struggles of minorities and hold in high regard cultural awareness in practice. 

Eric Warren Jr.

LMFT (130731)

Clinical Supervisor

(Accepting New Patients)

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Speaker and Certified Batterers Intervention Facilitator. I obtained a BA in Business Management and went on to receive my Master of Arts in Counseling in Psychology at Pacific Oaks College. My career began as a psychotherapist working with the Department of Mental Health and soon began working for various programs including Wraparound, TBS and FSP.

In conjunction with providing individual clinical services, I also facilitate court ordered services including anger management and batterers intervention. I have also conducted processing groups for incarcerated youth at in juvenile hall to help youth understand the principles of Emotional Intelligence. I am a firm believer that the journey toward individual healing will involve having to travel on unpaved roads that lead to redemption. I am passionate about healing and growing with couples, individuals, and families in hopes they realize their greatness within.

DR. APPOLONIA OLUMBA
DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, APRN

(Accepting New Patients)

(Accepts Medi-Cal, Medicare, Blue Cross, Aetna, St. Vincent, Cigna, Optum and United Health)

I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2008. I am board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I attended Azusa Pacific University for her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and graduated in 2018. I attended California State University Dominguez Hills for my Master of Science in Nursing / Family Nurse Practitioner and graduated in 2008. I obtained a post graduate certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at National University in 2018. I also received my bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) in 1997 from the University of Southern California (USC). I am a hardworking individual who believes in success through hard work and academic excellence. I have an extensive background and wealth of knowledge in several areas of practice in both medical and mental health care over the years. I work as a PCMH primary care provider in an outpatient internal medicine clinic, and urgent care clinic in Los Angeles. I also work as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient mental health clinic. As an individual who believes in education and the future of nursing profession, I have also work as an adjunct faculty with Azusa Pacific University, and National University school of Nursing, training future Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.

Sherry Shahid

I have my bachelor's degree from Chapman University and have been working in the social service and administrative fields for over 20 years.

Jade Williams

I am a junior at UC Berkeley and I am majoring in psychology. I plan to pursue a Ph.D in psychology to work with children.