Syd Peterson

I work with adults who want to reduce the effects of anxiety, depression, and trauma; receive support as they move through something difficult; change how they relate to other people; and/or understand themselves better. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients and have extensive experience working with individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual people; those navigating their aging process in their 60s and older; and people living with chronic illness or caring for someone with a chronic illness. I earned my MSW from UCLA and have been providing therapy for eight years.

My therapeutic style is eclectic and draws from different modalities including narrative, psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, DBT, and STAIR trauma therapy. The environment I aim to create is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I see therapy as a partnership—one where your voice, values, and lived experience guide the process. Over time, this foundation allows for deeper insight, growth, and lasting change.

My priorities for our first session is to begin to build trust and rapport, clarify your needs and priorities, and establish a direction for our work together. There’s no pressure to “have it all figured out” or to share more than you’re comfortable with. I may ask questions about your emotional well-being, relationships, stressors, and personal history—but it’s always a collaborative conversation, not an interrogation. We’ll also begin identifying your goals. Some clients come in with clear intentions—like reducing anxiety, improving relationships, or working through a specific life transition—while others just know something doesn’t feel right. Either is completely okay. Together, we’ll start shaping what meaningful change might look like for you.