AJ (Amberle J) Wagner

Hi, I'm AJ Wagner. I specialize in working with teens, couples, trauma survivors, individuals struggling with codependency, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I especially enjoy helping people navigate identity, faith, family dynamics, relationship challenges, and healing from difficult life experiences.

Clients often tell me I'm easy to talk to, compassionate, and genuine. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a partnership, so I approach each session with curiosity, collaboration, and respect for your unique experiences. I bring over a decade of experience in mental health and social services, with a background that includes outpatient therapy, hospitals, schools, and child protective services. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy throughout California.

I grew up in a religious household and still believe in God, though my spirituality has evolved into a more personal "to each their own" perspective. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and a mom, I understand what it's like to balance different parts of your identity, navigate life's unexpected challenges, and search for a place where you feel fully accepted.

My approach is grounded in evidence-based therapies, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor therapy to each person's needs and goals. Whether we're building healthier coping skills, breaking patterns of codependency, healing from trauma, strengthening relationships, or simply creating space for emotions that have been carrying too much weight, my goal is to help you feel understood, supported, and empowered.

Wherever you are in your journey, you don't have to navigate it alone. I look forward to helping you build on your strengths, find healing, and create a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in real life. I believe healing happens in relationships—starting with the one we build together. I’ll meet you with warmth, curiosity, and honesty, and I’ll tailor our work to your unique needs and goals.

I draw from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness, but I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. Whether we’re building coping skills, unpacking patterns, or working through past pain, I’ll help you connect to your values, your strengths, and your voice.

Above all, I see therapy as an empowering space—a place to get curious, feel supported, and take steps toward the life you want.

Clients can expect to walk away from our sessions feeling heard, grounded, and more in control of their path forward. Whether we're working on managing anxiety, navigating identity, healing from trauma, or improving relationships, my goal is to help you better understand yourself and feel more confident in your choices.

You'll gain practical tools to handle stress, communicate more effectively, and cope with difficult emotions—but just as importantly, you'll start to feel more connected to who you are and what matters most to you.