Couples therapists in Arcata, CA

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I see people as more than their symptoms. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to validate lived experiences. Together, we work through anxiety, depression, grief, and life’s challenges.

Hi, I’m Amaris, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes healing happens best in a space where you feel safe, understood, and never judged.

I work with children, teens, adults, and older adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, emotional overwhelm, grief, and major life transitions. Whether your child is having big feelings they don’t know how to manage, you’re feeling stuck in patterns that don’t serve you, or your family is walking through the heartbreak of dementia or loss, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

My style is supportive, down-to-earth, and collaborative. Therapy with me isn’t about “fixing” you, it’s about helping you understand yourself, build practical tools, and feel more confident handling life’s challenges. I blend evidence-based approaches with compassion, creativity, and sometimes even humor, because growth doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time.

Parents appreciate that I help kids build emotional regulation skills in ways that make sense to them, and I make sure caregivers feel supported too. Adults often come to me when anxiety, emotional ups and downs, or grief feel overwhelming. I also have a special place in my heart for working with older adults and families facing Alzheimer’s, dementia, and end-of-life changes.

At the core of my work is this belief:

You are not broken, you’re human, and you’re capable of growth.

If you’re ready for a space where you can show up exactly as you are, we’ll work at your pace, together.

I am a warm, friendly and empathetic trauma therapist who has a passion for helping hurting people. I have a BA in Psychology, a MA in Human Services Counseling with a concentration in Life Coaching, and a MA in Marriage & Family Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2. I utilize evidenced based modalities such as EMDR, Somatic and Restorative Yoga, Trauma Focused CBT and mindfulness to name a few.

Welcome! I’m Marissa Brooks, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience working in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of treatment settings, including crisis residential programs and outpatient mental health services. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Criminal Law and Behavior, as well as a Master’s degree in Social Work. I specialize in working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress management.

Life is hard and naturally comes with stressors and overwhelming feelings, no matter your age. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed with your emotions, or maybe you recently experienced a difficult situation. These are very normal and natural moments that everyone will encounter at some point in their life. Just as we go to the doctors when we have aches or pains in or body, we should also see someone when we have aches or pains in our mind and soul. Valiant Mentality is about having the courage of addressing your struggles instead of ignoring them. With almost 18 years of clinical experience, I know that everyone has the capacity to heal, no matter the circumstance . Today, make that first decision towards the change you want to see and schedule your appointment with Valiant Mentality. I look forward to meeting with you.