Khadijah Ahmad is a Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) trainee from Milpitas, CA. Born and raised in the Bay Area by immigrant parents, Khadijah draws from her bi-cultural and multilingual background (English, Punjabi, Urdu, and Hindi) to provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care. As a first-generation college graduate, Khadijah earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from San Jose State University in 2017. After seven successful years in the tech industry, she felt called to pursue her passion for mental health and wellness. She is now completing her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University. Khadijah’s therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She integrates these approaches with a humanistic and existential lens, prioritizing empathy, authenticity, and each client’s unique lived experience. Khadijah is passionate about empowering clients to find meaning, resilience, and self-compassion as they navigate life’s challenges. She is dedicated to supporting children, adults, couples, and families in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and family system disruptions. Khadijah’s practice is rooted in fostering a collaborative and nonjudgmental environment that promotes healing and personal growth. Outside of her professional work, Khadijah enjoys connecting with nature, painting, boxing, watching movies, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Hello, my name is Marissa Allison. I am a graduate student at Palo Alto University and a Marriage and Family Therapy Trainee. I have three years within the psychology field and supporting others through ABA therapy. I look forward to providing effective treatment to my clients.

Judy is pursuing a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Santa Clara University. She follows an integrative approach to therapy and believes that therapy should be customized to the unique needs of her clients. She believes that the therapeutic relationship should be authentic, collaborative and focus on clients’ strength and resiliency. Judy hopes to help clients find adaptive habits that lead to a more meaningful and enriching life. Judy is known for her enthusiasm and sense of humor. She enjoys rescuing plants, crafting, and reading in her spare time.

Hi, I´m MariaElena, a therapist trainee and graduate student in the Counseling Psychology program at Santa Clara University. I´m currently working toward a dual Master´s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counseling (PCC), with specializations in Child & Adolescent Mental Health and Latinx/é Psychology. My journey into therapy is rooted in worker, advocate, and community connector. Working with children, elders, and families navigating complex life situations helped me realize how powerful it can be when people feel truly seen and supported. That’s what inspired me to become a therapist. As a bilingual and bicultural Latina, I’m especially passionate about providing a person-centered approach in providing culturally responsive care. I aim compassionate to create a therapeutic space that feels safe, empathetic, and grounded in respect; where clients can explore their stories, identities, and goals without judgement. My clinical interests include working with youth, families, people with disabilities, in supporting intergenerational healing, and addressing the emotional systemic challenges faced by deep commitment to personal growth, cultural humility, and lifelong learning. My goal is to support clients in finding strength in their voices, navigating transitions, and building meaningful, empowered lives. My work integrates multicultural awareness and strength-based practices, with a long-term goal of advancing mental wellness in underserved communities. Prior to my graduate studies, I worked with Santa Clara County’s Department of Social Services in roles ranging from Social Worker, Program Service Aide, to Eligibility Worker. Being fluent in Spanish and culturally responsive, I had the privilege to work and supported venerable populations with care, respect, and advocacy. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Notre Dame de Namur University and multiple Associate degrees from Cañada College Redwood City in Psychology, Child & Adolescent Development, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Social & Behavioral Sciences. My academic work is complemented by certificates in SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) and Adult Mental Health First Aid, as well as recognition on the Dean’s List. Translated into Spanish Hola, soy MaríaElena, terapeuta en formación y estudiante de posgrado en el programa de Psicología de Consejería de la Universidad de Santa Clara. Actualmente estoy trabajando para obtener una doble maestría en Terapia Matrimonial y Familiar (MFT) y Consejería Clínica Profesional (PCC), con especializaciones en Salud Mental Infantil y Adolescente y Psicología Latinx/é. Mi viaje hacia la terapia se basa en el trabajador, el defensor y el conector comunitario. Trabajar con niños, ancianos y familias que atraviesan situaciones complejas de la vida me ayudó a darme cuenta de lo poderoso que puede ser cuando las personas se sienten realmente vistas y apoyadas. Eso es lo que me inspiró a convertirme en terapeuta. Como latina bilingüe y bicultural, me apasiona especialmente brindar un enfoque centrado en la persona para brindar atención culturalmente receptiva. Mi objetivo es compasivo crear un espacio terapéutico que se sienta seguro, empático y basado en el respeto; donde los clientes pueden explorar sus historias, identidades y objetivos sin juzgar. Mis intereses clínicos incluyen trabajar con jóvenes, familias, personas con discapacidades, apoyar la curación intergeneracional y abordar los desafíos sistémicos emocionales que enfrenta el profundo compromiso con el crecimiento personal, la humildad cultural y el aprendizaje permanente. Mi objetivo es ayudar a los clientes a encontrar fuerza en sus voces, navegar por las transiciones y construir vidas significativas y empoderadas. Mi trabajo integra la conciencia multicultural y las prácticas basadas en fortalezas, con el objetivo a largo plazo de promover el bienestar mental en comunidades desatendidas. Antes de mis estudios de posgrado, trabajé con el Departamento de Servicios Sociales del Condado de Santa Clara en roles que van desde Trabajador Social, Asistente de Servicio de Programa hasta Trabajador de Elegibilidad. Hablando español con fluidez y culturalmente receptivo, tuve el privilegio de trabajar y apoyar a poblaciones venerables con cuidado, respeto y defensa. Tengo una licenciatura en Psicología de la Universidad de Notre Dame de Namur y varios títulos de asociado de Cañada College Redwood City en Psicología, Desarrollo Infantil y Adolescente, Estudios Interdisciplinarios y Ciencias Sociales y del Comportamiento. Mi trabajo académico se complementa con certificados en SBIRT (Detección, Intervención Breve y Derivación a Tratamiento) y Primeros Auxilios de Salud Mental para Adultos, así como el reconocimiento en la Lista del Decano.

Hello all, I'm excited about my counseling journey. Currently, I'm a master's student pursuing a counseling degree at Palo Alto University. As an intern at Peace-It-Together, I look forward to growing my skills and working together with clients to support their life journeys. Friends have dubbed this phase of my life "Heather 3.0" since my first job out of college was as a professional soccer player in Japan. After that, I pursued my teaching credential and taught for 20+ years while raising kids and helping run our family business. I feel lucky and humbled to be serving individuals, children, and families through counseling, and I look forward to meeting you.

Areej Bazzari is a Marriage and Family Therapy trainee at Northwestern University. With a background in engineering and a master’s degree from Columbia Business School, she brings over a decade of experience in behavior-driven design and human-centered research. As a first-generation Arab-American, a child of refugees, and a working mother of two, Areej approaches therapy with cultural humility, deep empathy, and a systemic lens. Her clinical work is grounded in Integrative Systemic Therapy (IST), the core framework of The Family Institute at Northwestern. She draws from evidence-based modalities and tailors treatment to each client’s unique context, incorporating trauma-informed, relational, and attachment-based approaches. She provides therapy in both English and Arabic. Areej is especially passionate about supporting women, couples, and growing families during transitional life stages such as postpartum adjustment, parenting identity shifts, and relationship challenges. She strives to create a nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen, safe, and empowered to reconnect with their resilience and values. Her approach is curious, collaborative, and deeply rooted in honoring clients’ lived experiences.

Adrianna Benyat is a Marriage and Family Therapist/Professional Clinical Counselor Trainee completing her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Palo Alto University. She is passionate about working with individuals navigating relational challenges, anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD. Adrianna is especially interested in attachment-based and trauma-informed approaches that help clients build resilience, deepen self-compassion, and maintain healthy, meaningful connections. She believes that healing occurs in safe, compassionate relationships and is dedicated to creating a nonjudgmental, collaborative space where clients feel understood and empowered. Adrianna believes our purpose in life is to love and be loved, to learn how to care for ourselves and others well. She brings this philosophy into her work by ensuring clients feel safe enough to explore their stories and grow. With a strong academic foundation and a deep sense of curiosity, Adrianna brings both research-based knowledge and a warm, empathetic presence to her work. She values cultural humility and aims to honor the diverse identities, experiences, and stories of each client she meets. Outside of her counseling work, Adrianna loves spending time with friends and family, cooking, traveling, watching movies and creating art. She also loves to laugh and appreciates a good sense of humor.

Ari Bocian is a third-year graduate student at Santa Clara University, currently pursuing an MA in Counseling Psychology, and most interested in working with adolescents and couples. He has previously volunteered as a counselor for children with special needs and chronic illnesses, and has also been a case manager intern for the homeless population. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Ari earned a Bachelor's in Cello Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and a Master's in Orchestral Conducting from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Ari's musical background has helped inform his approach to counseling, in that he believes the therapeutic process should be collaborative, empathetic, nonjudgemental, and uplifting. He is very grateful for the opportunity to work at Peace-It-Together, and looks forward to learning and growing as much as possible during this experience.

Alice Cekleov is a Marriage and Family Therapist in training at Pepperdine University. She brings a rich and diverse academic background to her clinical work—this is her third master’s degree. Her first, in Design, is from École Estienne in Paris, France, and her second, in Liberal Arts, is from Stanford University. Alice is American, Brazilian, and French. She speaks English, Portuguese, and French fluently. Due to her Brazilian heritage, her name is pronounced “Alissi.” Alissi is deeply passionate about people and the stories they carry. As a therapist, she hopes to walk alongside her clients in uncovering and cultivating their inner strengths. A lifelong learner, Alissi is also an avid reader, a global traveler, and a devoted admirer of the visual arts, especially painting.

Hi! My name is Jovial Chan, and I am currently a Master’s student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an MFT emphasis at Palo Alto University. My approach is grounded in person-centered values, and I draw from integrative, evidence-based practices to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be authentic and collaborative, with a focus on each client’s strengths and capacity for resilience. I strive to create a safe and compassionate space where clients can feel truly seen and supported. I speak English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, and I value the richness that language and culture bring to the healing process. Looking forward to meeting you!

Su-Pei (Sue) Chang is a Counseling Psychology graduate student at Santa Clara University, currently pursuing MFT track with an emphasis in Health Counseling. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, she integrates person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and trauma-informed techniques to support individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds. Sue brings a unique blend of technical and relational strengths, with over a decade of experience as an engineer in the high-tech industry. She is fluent in Mandarin, conversant in Taiwanese, and actively serves in Christian faith-based counseling and leadership roles, including parenting and women’s career fellowship ministries. An avid traveler and experienced travel planner, Sue is passionate about exploring cultures and personal growth through global journeys. In July 2025, she completed her fourth Camino de Santiago pilgrimage—walking 113 kilometers solo on the Camino Inglés route—deepening her spiritual resilience and love for reflective adventure.

Tiffany Cottle is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee who offers a nonjudgmental, affirming space where people from all walks of life can feel safe to grow, heal, and reconnect with themselves. Their approach honors each person’s unique path toward growth, whether that starts with acceptance, curiosity, or something else. Tiffany brings a calm, steady presence, along with a deep respect for each person’s story. Their background as a massage therapist, yoga teacher, and Reiki master informs a holistic, body-aware approach. They’ve supported healing in a variety of community-centered spaces, including Yoga for All Movement, Janus, and the Homeless Garden Project. Tiffany is passionate about supporting anyone seeking clarity, connection, or healing through life’s challenges. They also provide a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals, people in alternative relationships, and those exploring identity, intimacy, or personal growth outside of the mainstream.

Jesse Dreyer is a graduate student at Santa Clara University working towards his MA in Counseling Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapist license. He has 5+ years of experience working in the mental health field, including in-home caregiving for disabled adults and medical case management in Santa Cruz county. He has volunteered with multiple community resource organizations, such as Advocates of Hope and Opportunity, specializing in outreach for unhoused youth in Marin county, and Walnut Avenue Women’s Center as a hotline crisis counselor. Jesse has trained in a person-centered orientation to counseling, believing in the fundamental resourcefulness of all people. At the same time, Jesse recognizes the necessity of trauma-informed care and the role of a counselor as a psychoeducator and liaison between clients and community resources. He also views implementation of evidence-based treatments as a vital part of the therapeutic process. In his spare time Jesse enjoys hiking in the Santa Cruz mountains, checking in with his friends, or working on one of his many perpetual creative writing projects.

My name is Elana (pronounced Ee-lah-nuh) and I use she/her pronouns. I am a therapist in training, currently pursuing a Master’s degree from Touro University Worldwide. I have been a healing arts practitioner for more than two decades. I taught yoga and mindfulness in both studio and private settings, as well as leading international yoga retreats. I have practiced therapeutic massage professionally in both clinical and private settings and I am also a certified holistic nutritional consultant. My path of being in service to people to find healthier and more peaceful lifestyles, has led me to becoming a licensed MFT, with a slated graduation date of August 2026. In my professional orientation, I have a draw to work with the LGBTQ+ community as well as trauma-informed practices. In my free time, you will find me playing music, spending time with my dogs and cat, gardening, foraging for mushrooms, nerding out on nature, hiking and surfing.

Hello! My name is Janika Filipe, and I am currently a master's student at Palo Alto University. I am originally from Canada where I completed a Bachelor of Psychology. I have worked in many different industries during my professional life. I spent time as a nanny, flight attendant, sales & marketing specialist, ABA therapist, and preschool teacher. Eventually, I worked for a warm line, and I fell in love with providing therapy and working with clients. I approach each relationship with an open mind and a willingness to help. I am looking forward to meeting and working with you!

I am a compassionate Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Trainee pursuing a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University. As a first-generation college graduate, I received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Chicanx and Latinx Studies from California State University East Bay. As a bilingual speaker in both English and Spanish, I strive to serve diverse populations and cultures in the Bay Area. My goal for therapy is to provide a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space for clients to receive the support they are looking for that is tailored to their individual needs. I look forward to meeting with you and being a part of your journey to personal growth!

My name is Astrid Hernandez, and I am an MFT trainee and a master’s student in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from San José State University, where I developed a strong passion for mental health and supporting others. I’ve always been driven to help people, and I’m committed to creating meaningful change in every client I work with. I have experience working with children on the autism spectrum and have predominantly worked with adult learners from Latin American countries in my role as an instructor at a charter school. While I supported students across various age groups, the majority of my work has involved assisting adults who are learning English and pursuing their high school diplomas. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to serving diverse populations with empathy and respect. I was drawn to the counseling field after seeing how mental health challenges in my community often go unaddressed due to stigma or lack of access. My goal is to help break that stigma by providing a safe, culturally responsive space where all clients feel seen, heard, and supported. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I hope to provide linguistically accessible therapy to all clients in a way that meets their unique needs. In the future, I hope to work in community mental health settings, supporting underserved populations through accessible and culturally affirming care.

I have a burning desire to serve underprivileged and diverse communities through the field of social work. My journey began with an Associate of Science in Human Services from Cabrillo College, where I laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to advocacy and mental health support. I earned my Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Monterey Bay, where I developed a deeper understanding of trauma-informed care, community-based services, and systemic inequality. These experiences solidified my dedication to creating meaningful change for vulnerable populations. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Massachusetts Global, along with the Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC), with the goal of becoming a school social worker. My academic and professional journey has consistently focused on supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, homelessness, and domestic violence. Through my practicum and volunteer work with the nonprofit counseling organization Peace It Together, I will be gaining valuable, hands-on experience delivering trauma-informed care to individuals across the lifespan. The work at Peace-It-Together reinforces my belief in the importance of accessible, affordable, and culturally responsive services. As a social worker, my mission is to advocate for equitable treatment for all, regardless of cultural background, and to create welcoming, nonjudgmental spaces where individuals feel safe to express themselves. I am deeply committed to making a lasting impact in both school and community settings, bringing with me patience, empathy, advocacy, and a strong spirit of collaboration.

Natalia. I’m currently completing my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northwestern University, where I’m being trained in Integrative Systemic Therapy (IST). This approach helps me look at the bigger picture of understanding how our relationships, environments, and personal histories shape who we are. IST allows me to draw from a variety of evidence-based methods, so we can find what works best for you. My goal is to offer a space that feels safe, supportive, and judgment-free. Whether you're working through a life transition, navigating relationship challenges, or just need someone to talk to, I’m here to listen, reflect, and walk alongside you in the healing process. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being heard, seen, and supported. I’m honored to be part of that journey with you.

"Julia ‘Yulja’ Lauer is a California native who has recently returned from upstate New York to reintegrate herself in the Bay Area community. Julia is remotely completing her remaining coursework for her master’s degree in Social Work from Nazareth University this year. Julia’s passion for mental health and counseling stems from a deep commitment to supporting individuals dealing with trauma, depression, and those experiencing crisis-level situations. Her therapeutic style focuses on compassionate, validating, trauma-informed care with a little bit of sass. Julia believes in the importance of integrating therapy with an understanding of the ecological systems perspective, where one can examine the environment that an individual lives in. This perspective focuses on utilizing inner strength and community support, in order to improve quality of life, while gaining a greater understanding of the factors that perpetuate illness in our environments. Julia is acutely aware of stigma’s negative impact on mental health care, and she hopes to be able to help others and give back to the local community. She is a strong advocate for self-care, and relaxes by cooking, gardening, and tending to her tropical houseplant collection."

My name is Rachel Lee, and I am currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Palo Alto University. As an immigrant from Taiwan, I believe my multicultural background can bring a unique perspective to my work, as I have experienced the challenges individuals and families may face when navigating cultural transitions and identity. Prior to beginning my graduate studies, I gained valuable experience as a volunteer in several hospice care facilities, where I provided emotional support and companionship to individuals navigating the final stages of life. These formative experiences strengthened my commitment to mental health care. I am passionate about working with individuals from diverse cultural, social, and familial backgrounds. Looking forward to meeting everyone!

We all carry stories that shape us - some we tell easily, others we keep tucked away. Before stepping into the field of counseling, I spent years immersed in people’s stories - through extended travels abroad, on crisis lines, as a community journalist, and while living and working in small seasonal communities within remote national parks. Now a graduate student at Palo Alto University, I carry those early experiences into my clinical training, where they continue to shape how I show up: with curiosity, presence, and a steady respect for the courage it takes to share your inner world. In our work together, I offer a grounded, nonjudgmental space where you can come as you are. I draw from mindfulness and somatic practices, Internal Family Systems, and cognitive tools, always tailoring therapy to fit your unique story. I bring a narrative and feminist lens, and I’m deeply attuned to how culture, identity, and lived experience shape who we are and how we heal. I also welcome conversations around spirituality as part of the therapeutic process, honoring whatever beliefs or practices feel meaningful to you. I'm LGBTQ+ and BIPOC allied, and I work with people of all genders, including men who are exploring emotional expression, vulnerability, or identity. When I’m not in the office, you can usually find me curled up with my cat, exploring the trails and coastline of Central California, or grounding myself in a simple meditation practice that helps me stay connected to what matters most.

Brittney is a dedicated counselor currently working at a 24-hour receiving crisis residential. With a deep commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, she specializes in providing support and crisis intervention to youth facing significant challenges at various stages of life. Her current role allows her to provide direct care to minors facing emergencies, offering them a safe space during times of extreme vulnerability. Over the years, she has developed a deep understanding of mental health, particularly in helping those with complex needs, for both children and adults and believes in fostering resilience and growth through personalized care. As someone with Afro-Latina heritage, she brings a unique cultural perspective to her work, prioritizing empathy, understanding, and community in her approach to helping others. Previously, Brittney worked as a Behavioral Specialist and Service Coordinator, assisting individuals battling severe mental health conditions such as psychosis, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, self-injury, ADHD and ASD. As part of her dedication to mental health support, she volunteered at a crisis hotline to further solidifying her expertise in providing immediate emotional support to those in need. Raised in a close-knit family, they have been a constant source of support, grounding her throughout her personal and professional journey. This strong familial bond has been a driving force in her career, motivating her to be a reliable, compassionate figure for youth who lack stable family environments.

As an empathetic and results-driven mental health professional, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals across a wide spectrum of psychological and emotional challenges. My professional journey has allowed me to work with diverse populations experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, providing me with a solid foundation in crisis intervention, behavioral management, and therapeutic support. Currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Palo Alto University, I am seeking a practicum opportunity to apply evidence-based counseling theories and gain supervised clinical experience. My approach is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Gestalt Therapy, and I am particularly passionate about working with clients navigating trauma, behavioral challenges, and emotional regulation. Throughout my roles at John Muir Behavioral Health Center, Fremont Hospital, and Learning Arts, I have facilitated both group and individual therapeutic interventions, supported crisis stabilization, and contributed to comprehensive treatment planning through behavioral assessments and real-time data collection. My early career as an EMT and ongoing volunteer work with Rock Medicine have further enhanced my ability to remain calm and compassionate under pressure, especially in psychiatric crisis settings. I am committed to creating safe, affirming, and healing spaces for clients and eager to grow under clinical supervision through intentional, culturally responsive, and ethical counseling practice.

"Hello! My name is Marie Ruso, and I am looking forward to working with you! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) trainee while studying Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in LBGTQ+ at Santa Clara University. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Oregon State University and my Associate of Arts in Psychology from Cabrillo College. Throughout my life, I've been drawn to roles where I can help others and care for them. I am committed to creating a space for my clients to feel that they are being listened to and attended to. My approach includes Person-Centered Therapy, with the mindset that each person has their own unique experiences and life story to tell. I am currently studying with an emphasis in LBGTQ+, and am passionate about creating a space where conversations around sex and sexuality can take place! In the future, I plan to be certified as a Sex Therapist to help serve clientele within the many topics encompassed within sex and sexuality!"

Monique Quillopo is a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) trainee and a current graduate student pursuing her Master’s in the Counseling Psychology program at Santa Clara University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Human Development from California State University, East Bay in 2021. With a background working with children as a teacher and behavior technician, as well as experience in human resources, mental health advocacy, and volunteer work—Monique brings a diverse and thoughtful perspective to her therapeutic training. She is passionate about fostering healing and empowerment in individuals across all populations, and is deeply committed to approaching therapy with collaboration and flexibility—adapting her work to meet the unique needs, identities, and goals of each client.

After working as a personal trainer and graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from San Diego State University in 2022, I realized that mental health was my true passion. Since then, I have moved back to my original home in the Bay Area and started my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. In time, I hope to become a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience in a diverse range of clients. My professional and personal experiences in mental health have shown me that the best care is care done in a safe environment and addresses every aspect of a person, working with existing strengths to help each individual grow into the best version of themselves. Outside of work, I enjoy spending my time playing board games, hiking, reading, and working out.

Heather Reiter is a graduate student at Syracuse University studying Marriage and Family Therapy. Heather is focused on using her eclectic work and life experience to provide trauma-informed care to individuals, couples, and families. She lives in Santa Cruz, California with her partner, an ancient Pomeranian, and an opinionated Maine coon/ragdoll cat.

Cindy is a student at Pacifica Graduate Institute with a passion for analytical psychology. Her career experience has been interspersed with facilitating Authentic Relating workshops, coaching with the transformational NLP Marin framework, and integrating various holistic healing modalities. She also has a background in filmmaking, theatre arts, and dance. All of this has yielded an exploration of emotional depths and expression as an approach to mental health and personal growth.

"Hello! My name is Marie Ruso, and I am looking forward to working with you! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) trainee while studying Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in LBGTQ+ at Santa Clara University. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Oregon State University and my Associate of Arts in Psychology from Cabrillo College. Throughout my life, I've been drawn to roles where I can help others and care for them. I am committed to creating a space for my clients to feel that they are being listened to and attended to. My approach includes Person-Centered Therapy, with the mindset that each person has their own unique experiences and life story to tell. I am currently studying with an emphasis in LBGTQ+, and am passionate about creating a space where conversations around sex and sexuality can take place! In the future, I plan to be certified as a Sex Therapist to help serve clientele within the many topics encompassed within sex and sexuality!"

My name is Ambica Selvaraj. I’m a graduate student at Antioch University’s Couple and Family Therapy Program. I am passionate about helping members of the community lead healthy and meaningful lives. I look forward to working with a diverse population of individuals, couples, and children from a wide range of backgrounds. In my program we are taught to approach therapy at an individual, systemic, and intergenerational level, and this is what I will bring to my practice. I aim to delve into the underlying root of a situation and find effective solutions. I enjoy using a collaborative approach to get to know clients at an individual level to address their unique needs. I bring authenticity and transparency in my interactions to help create meaningful change.

"Hi, I’m Paarth, a graduate student in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Northwestern University. I hold a Master’s degree in Political Science from Columbia University, as well as undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Philosophy from UC Davis. My clinical interests include addiction recovery, identity development, relational dynamics, and navigating life transitions. I approach therapy with warmth, curiosity, and respect for each client’s unique story, believing that healing happens through meaningful connection and a collaborative therapeutic relationship. Outside of therapy, I’m passionate about endurance sports and aviation. I’m currently training for an Ironman triathlon and working toward my private pilot license—two pursuits that reflect my dedication to growth, discipline, and exploring life’s edges. I’m honored to walk alongside clients as they move toward greater clarity, resilience, and self-understanding."

My name is Eitan Shimonovitz, and I’m an MFT/PCC Trainee currently earning my Master’s in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University. Before training as a therapist, I spent a few years working in economics and consulting. That path shaped how I think, but left me searching for something more connected to people and their experience. I see therapy as a space for honest conversation, and I strive to bring consistency, presence, and respect into the work. I believe people carry complex histories shaped by their challenges, relationships, and the environments that they’ve navigated. And while we can’t control the past, we always have the ability to make small choices that help us live more meaningfully right now. I aim to show up as someone grounded and engaged; someone who listens closely and works alongside clients to find meaning, strength, and possibility in the midst of real challenges.

Eleni Stogianni is a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (PCC) trainee currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Palo Alto University. She is passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families in cultivating emotional well-being and meaningful connections. Before transitioning into the counseling field, Eleni worked as a civil engineer, an experience that informs her grounded, thoughtful approach to supporting clients through complex life transitions. She brings a rich background in clinical research, crisis counseling, and over a decade of teaching yoga and mindfulness practices. Her approach is collaborative, culturally sensitive, and rooted in respect for each client’s unique experiences and strengths. Working under the supervision of a licensed therapist, Eleni is committed to creating a safe, supportive space for healing and personal growth.

My name is Stephanie, but you can call me Steph! I am a Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Trainee and graduate student at National University. I have been in the field of serving others my entire adult life, from personal training to life coaching and now to this amazing world of therapy. I firmly believe in a holistic method of treatment, harmonizing mind, body, and spirit as I support clients on their journey to self-love and improved well-being. I take a multi-faceted, trauma-informed approach to each beautiful human that is sitting in front of me, and I am not afraid of delving into more uncomfortable waters to elicit true change. Let me be your compassionate scaffolding as you heal your inner landscape and live the life you love!

Nina Zhuxiaona Wei is completing her master's degree in counseling psychology at Santa Clara University. She has a B.S. in psychology from Zhejiang Sci-Tech University and a master's in HCI from the University of Washington. She has spent a decade working as a designer in tech startups. For the past few years, she has volunteered as a suicide counselor, grief counselor, and domestic violence advocate. She is committed to providing culturally sensitive therapy and trauma-informed care to people from diverse backgrounds. She is also a co-author of the newly published book titled "Couple Therapy Through the Lens of Four Asian Cultures".

I am student, currently pursuing a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Sofia University. To support your journey of self-discovery, I draw on my life experiences as a 1.5 generation Chindo immigrant, swing dancer, UX designer, people manager, meditator, and philosopher. I will create a curious and compassionate space for us to explore “what’s alive” and the gifts and growing edges they present. My approach blends mindfulness, body awareness, and open inquiry, drawing from diverse wisdom traditions such as Zen, Daoism, and Advaita Vedanta, while rooted in the principles of transpersonal psychology. I honor the uniqueness of each healing journey, meeting you where you are, and supporting you as you reconnect with the innate source of wellbeing within. If you feel called to take this step, it would be my privilege to walk beside you.Together, we’ll explore the profound possibility that there is nothing wrong with you. You—and every part of you—are welcome here.