Therapists in California

Dexter Mai
Dexter Mai
In my integrated approach to trauma therapy, I seamlessly weave Brainspotting and evidence-based talk therapy to provide comprehensive support for clients. Drawing on the power of Brainspotting, I guide clients in identifying and processing trauma through the activation of specific “brainspots,” while leveraging the insights and techniques of talk therapy to foster deeper introspection and cognitive reframing. I target both the neurological and psychological aspects of trauma, and facilitate a holistic healing journey. My practice prioritizes creating a collaborative and empathetic space, where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to navigate their healing process with self-awareness and newfound strength.

The Center for Men’s Excellence
The Center for Men’s Excellence
Our therapists work with men, couples and kids who seek to improve their quality of life with effective, evidence-based therapy modalities. Our clients take part in scientifically-supported psychotherapy treatments to effectively manage a variety of issues including anxiety, stress, depression and other life challenges. By learning to apply well-researched psychological techniques, clients are better able to improve their quality of life and experience lasting relief from their concerns.

Dr. Aleksandra Drecun
Dr. Aleksandra Drecun
My therapeutic style emanates warmth, compassion and professionalism. My approach is collaborative, empowering, authentic and client-centered.

Stephen Jacob Coffey
Stephen Jacob Coffey
Hi, I’m Stephen,
I work with men who have experienced sexual abuse and use an eclectic approach to help them get back to living life fully! If you are looking for a warm, consistent, engaged therapist, I’m here for you!

John Bucher
John Bucher
I know firsthand how hard it can be to set aside society’s expectations of traditional masculinity and admit that it might be time to ask for help. As men, we are conditioned to try and solve life’s many complexities on our own, but the truth is reaching out for help shows immense strength, not weakness.
Perhaps you found my profile because you are considering therapy, and for that I applaud you. You have taken the first step toward healing and that is an incredible start. Maybe you still feel uncomfortable with the idea of therapy or you found me by accident. In that case, I sincerely look forward to answering your questions about how this could help improve your life as well. Either way, I am glad that you are here.

Dr. Eric van der Voort
Dr. Eric van der Voort
As a sex-positive, kink-affirming, and LGBTQ+ inclusive psychologist in San Diego, I work individually with men in their 20s-40s on issues like anxiety, depression, sexual concerns, relationship stress, substance use, and grief. My approach to therapy is collaborative, empowering, and evidence-based, and clients find me to be active, compassionate, genuine, and nonjudgmental. I offer a safe environment to help unburden you from difficult thoughts, painful feelings, and unhelpful patterns, so that you can gain new coping skills, discover more helpful ways of thinking, and explore new ways of living a fulfilling life.

AJ Rich
AJ Rich
Many difficulties stem from our relationships, with both ourselves and others. My work with men is direct, yet warm, empathetic, & understanding. Together we navigate how to process the blocks obstructing your view & ability to move forward. We will explore life events from the past, as behavior patterns emerge in the here-and-now. As this self-awareness develops, clients can lead more joyful & connected lives. I cater sessions to each unique individual using real-life examples & the material you provide to deepen your own understanding of YOU. Complimentary consultation visit is available to all prospective clients. AJ is employed & supervised by Marina Chatterton, LCSW #26126

Nicholas Morvan
Nicholas Morvan
Hate psychobabble? Good, me too. I want to make therapy more accessible to those that think “therapy isn’t for them”
I help men build resiliency and develop purpose through honest conversations. Sometimes this means teaching tools and techniques, sometimes this means exploring painful memories, but almost always we are having authentic conversations that respect your experiences and provide ways for you to grow.

Dr. Nicole Bryant
Dr. Nicole Bryant
My approach when working with participants is to keep things low-key. The worst thing is an overly clinical therapist! I do my best to get on your level and to converse in the way you’d like to converse. I listen and then inform you of blind spots as needed. It helps clients remain comfortable yet always have that “aha” moment.
Specialties: Depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, relationship conflict
Therapies: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Brief Therapy Interventions, Rapid Trauma Resolution

Steve Oppenheimer
Steve Oppenheimer
I help Individuals & Couples to manage stress & to get unstuck from the life circumstances holding them back in life, career & relationships.
I have a diverse professional and personal background, which helps me to connect with others. In addition to my role as a licensed therapist, I bring to my practice over 30 years of business leadership experience.
I am goal oriented, solution focused and non-judgemental. Most important, I am easy to talk to.

Salvador Resendez
Salvador Resendez
My approach to therapy is to help couples and men foster a safe, caring therapeutic relationship to help them thrive. I bring compassion and empathy from my own recovery to support healing and growth. My style is active and I will collaborate with you to tap into your identity, strengths, values, and interests in our work together to help you achieve your goals.

Dr. Derek Novacek
Dr. Derek Novacek
Dr. Derek Novacek (PSY #35671) offers expertise in evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and interpersonal stressors. He practices a collaborative and strengths-based approach that integrates sociocultural factors as appropriate. Dr. Novacek sees patients at Therapy Lab but also works at the Los Angeles VA Clinic. In his free time, he enjoys playing tennis, trying new restaurants, and traveling.
Dr. Novacek is currently accepting new clients in person (Los Angeles, CA) and virtually (California and Michigan). To get started or learn more, send an email or book a free welcome call on the Therapy Lab website.

Dr. Troy Piwowarski
Dr. Troy Piwowarski
I provide individual and group therapy for men in their 20s-50s who have done therapy before and are looking to go deeper. As an individual therapist, I like to be actively involved and give feedback about what I’m noticing in the here-and-now. This gives us a portal into understanding how you get tripped up and where you can lean into a fuller, deeper way of living. My men’s groups are long-term process groups that primarily focus on relationships between members. Group is all about practicing direct, authentic contact and exploring your blocks to getting closer with others.

Aaron Kurtz
Aaron Kurtz
I’m an LCSW practicing in San Diego, California. I have a focus on Men’s issue’s and Gaming Addiction. Many of the men I’ve worked with have struggled to find mental health support that is sympathetic to their situation and understands their experience. I focus on concepts of mindfulness and use mainly CBT, DBT, and Strengths Based.

Dr. Tony Madril
Dr. Tony Madril
I provide the following types of therapies to help you work through PTSD, Complex Trauma, anxiety, and depression: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), STAIR for complex trauma, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am a doctoral candidate at the University of Pennsylvania.
Contact
Call and request an initial appointment by phone or email. Once you get to your appointment, explain your symptoms and what’s going on in your life.
Learn more about talk therapy.
Don’t know what to say?
- “Hi, I found your website through HeadsUpGuys. I’ve been dealing with a lot of stress recently and am looking for a therapist to consult with.”
- “I’m wondering if you are taking new clients? I’m looking for someone to work with to help me get through a rough patch.”
Back to our Therapist Directory.
It may take reaching out to 3+ therapists to find one who is currently accepting new clients. So don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away. Keep reaching out to therapists until you get a response. Your better health is worth the effort.
For more information on talk therapy, including more ways to find a therapist, virtual/online therapy options, how to make the most of therapy, and how to know if it is working, see:
Recommended Qualifications
We recommend therapists who hold a minimum of a Master’s level education (in North America), Level 4 credentials (in the UK), a degree and ACA Level 2 qualifications (in Australia) in a relevant discipline (e.g., clinical or counselling psychology, therapeutic counselling, social work), along with membership, licensure, and accreditation with an appropriate governing body or professional organization.
