Find a Therapist in California AC

My passion is to help individuals heal from trauma. 

By creating an open, safe, collaborative, engaging, and supportive environment the process of healing from trauma can begin.

I specialize in working with teens and adults from all walks of life. I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, stress and anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.

During my work experience, I have practiced an array of therapeutic intervention therapy modalities stemming from evidence-based models such as cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy, while maintaining a culturally responsive, client-centered approach. I hold a PESI Evergreen Certification in EMDR therapy.

 
About me: I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Health Administration, and I recently completed a Master’s degree in Social Work with a trauma certificate. My previous work experience included teaching and mentoring intellectually and emotionally challenged individuals with disabilities.

When I am not working with clients, I enjoy and participate in all things outdoors. I enjoy mountain hiking, biking, running, rock climbing, kayaking, and downhill skiing for sports. 

 
I believe that engaging in health and wellness while practicing self-care empowers individuals to heighten more self-awareness, providing guiding direction towards learning, skillset development, and facilitates opportunity for the initial change process to occur. 

 
I would be glad and honored to welcome you, to assist you on your path toward self-discovery, growth, learning, healing, and recovery.

Hi, my name is Melissa Strickland. Welcome to The Center of Resiliency Therapy & Counseling. Thank you for taking the first step toward healing. There are so many challenges, obstacles, and trauma in our lives that it can be overwhelming at times. You don’t have to go it alone, that is why I am here to listen and help you with tools to overcome/cope these challenges. I will be here to support and help you through any difficulties in your life. The journey can be tough at times, but we will push through it together.  

I was born and raised in San Francisco California and currently reside in Lassen County, California. Most people don’t know where that is, so if I say where the Dixie fires were several years back, that is where I am at. I have a degree in Psychology from Ashworth University, an MSW from Walden University, a Computer Science degree from University of San Francisco, certification in domestic violence and suicide prevention with the state of California, undergrad is in law,  and a Civil litigation paralegal certificate in criminal law. I have been a therapist for over 6 years. 

My expertise is in relationships, working with children, families, individuals, anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, self-esteem, body image, group therapy, the prison system, mentally challenged offenders, PTSD, depression, Domestic violence, LGBTQ community, culturally competent,  human trafficking, and abuse.  When I first began in my field, I primarily worked with offenders, human trafficking, and domestic violence.  I then branched out to different fields.

I am divorced and have a grown son. I currently live with my 94-year-old father in the mountains.  We lost mom over 12 years ago and he won’t leave the home they built together.  I am so blessed to have everyone I love so much in my life. I can relate to the loss of loved ones.  I learned to take each day at a time and be thankful for what I have.  Granted I want to be selfish and ask to have my mom come back, but alas, I have to face the fact that it isn’t going to happen. 

This is me in a nutshell. Thank you Melissa 😊

My name is Ryan and thank you for visiting my page!

I want to welcome you to this space and tell you that there is only inclusion and zero judgment here. 

I am an experienced Associate Clinical Therapist who helps people navigate their life stressors through difficult times in their lives. I am here to help clients form solutions to any prevalent issues, especially mental health topics. Some of the areas I specialize in include symptoms associated with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, Bipolar disorder, Substance Abuse,  and ADHD.

I have worked extensively with victims of complex forms of Trauma, sexual abuse, and domestic violence, substance abuse issues, and an advocate for social issues pertaining to the court system. I understand the dynamics behind trauma and can assist you in the healing process. If you struggle with self-worth, hopelessness, anxiety, or if you are in need of developing better coping skills, I am here to help. 

I utilize a variety evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Schema Focused Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Strength-based Therapy,  and Motivational Interviewing. 

The treatment process looks different for every person, but you are the expert on your own mental health. My role as a therapist is to collaborate with you and help provide insight and tools to solve the issues in your life. I understand that each client learns and heals at different paces, so I am able to work with your comfort zone and listen to your needs. Every treatment plan will be tailored to the relevant problems surfacing in your life, which are unique to every individual. We will collaborate during every session and debrief any pressing issues in your life. I have worked with all ages, including families and couples. I have worked in school districts and non-profit agencies, so I am familiar with working with a wide variety of behavioral issues. 

About Me 

I enjoy creating artworks in my freetime and frequently visit the local farmers market on the weekend. 

Education a Bachelor’s Degree at Chapman University and a Master’s of Social Work Degree at the University of California 

Expertise: I have worked extensively with families, especially in the school district and non-profit settings. I have worked with a variety of diverse populations, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals. I have worked in collaboration with other mental health therapists, psychologists, and social workers, helping advocate and empower our clients with the best form of clinical care. I focus on actively listening to the concerns of the client, which takes patience and a growth mindset. 

Credentials 

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

(PPSC) Public Personal Service Credential 

Ryan is an Associate Clinical Social Worker in the state of California 

Hello there. My name is Kathleen Porter.

Welcome to your personal wellness via therapy. My hope is that you find a therapist that you will connect with and begin your journey of healing. I want everyone that I work with to feel heard and my hope is to create a safe relationship built on trust and mutual understanding.

I have worked with clients extensively around life issues such as: Parenting, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Body Image, Eating Disorders, Relationship issues, Self-esteem, Self-Care, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Substance Use, Grief and Loss, and Families impacted by the Child Welfare System.

My approach includes a combination of Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Strengths Based interventions. Each of these strategies can provide us with coping tools in daily living. My hope is to have the client leave our session feeling a bit better about themselves and those around them!

A little about me: I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology at California State University, Fullerton and Master’s Degree in Social Work degree from California State University, Long Beach. My work experience includes working in the Child Welfare System, including a specialized unit with runaway adolescents and probation involvement. Prior to that, I spent years working in residential treatment centers with co-existing disorders: eating disorders, substance use and mental health disorders. I have also facilitated groups focused on navigating grief and loss issues and assisting them on the journey of healing. 

I currently am a Professor and Mentor of college students in the School of Social Work at CSULB.

I am a wife and a parent, and I love spending time with family and friends, traveling, and long walks outside.

I hope to have the opportunity to grow with you and wish you well in your path toward self-discovery!