LGBT therapists in Culver City, CA

I work with teens, adults, and couples. I believe that true wellness comes from integrating all aspects of ourselves—spiritual, social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and creative. As a California-certified sexual assault counselor, fully trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, I provide trauma-informed care with empathy and expertise. I also specialize in psychedelic therapy preparation and integration, guiding clients through their profound journeys with care and intention.

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2021 and have over 10 years of social services experience, serving children, families, inmates and victims. I have worked with various disciplines, such as court staff, law enforcement, corrections, medical, social workers, mental health and management.

Hello, I am excited to meet you and start the wild adventure that therapy can be. I have experience working with people of many ages from shy teenagers, to spicy adults in their 70s. I have worked with individuals, as well as couples and families. The majority of my experience was learned at a trauma recovery center. I gained skills for addressing PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, as well as exploring concepts of self, identifying other forms of trauma such as religious trauma, shame, and recognizing ways for experiencing empowerment. As a bi-sexual therapist who has lived overseas, was raised in a conservative religious house hold, I believe that I have a unique way of sitting with people in the complexities of cultural differences, trauma, faith, spirituality and sexuality.

I have over 30 years of clinical, counseling and administrative experience working with individuals and couples, addressing the unique issues related to their unique life experiences. I have extensive professional and personal experience with military families and veterans. I understand first-hand the struggles of grief and medical conditions that impact all aspects of life. I have supported chronically and terminally ill patients, individuals living with cancer or chronic medical diagnoses, as well as parents experiencing infertility, peripartum, and postpartum depression. Whether dealing with life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, or divorce, or simply seeking to express yourself and feel more confident, I am here to walk with you, provide insights, and support you toward lasting change.

Life can feel heavy sometimes—uncertain, overwhelming, and out of balance in ways that are hard to put into words. If you’ve been carrying a lot on your own, it makes sense that reaching out for support might feel difficult, even vulnerable. I want you to know that those feelings are understood, and you are not alone in them.

You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. I’m here to gently walk alongside you as you begin to take those first steps—at your pace, in your way. Whether you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply tired, this can be a space where you’re allowed to just be, without pressure or judgment.

I approach therapy with warmth, care, and deep respect for your unique story. Together, we’ll create a space where you can feel safe enough to express yourself openly, explore what’s been weighing on your heart, and begin to reconnect with yourself and the relationships that matter most to you.

With extensive experience working with adults, I tailor each session to your needs, honoring where you are while gently supporting where you want to go. Healing doesn’t have to happen all at once—and you don’t have to do it alone.

My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him). I have been working as a mental health therapist for over five years. My practice has primarily been specialized in working with LGBTQ+ youth. However, I have worked with couples, families, emerging adults, and adults from all backgrounds. I am a client-centered therapist who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals.

Hi and welcome! We all struggle with the human condition from time to time. As your therapist, I’m here to meet you with genuine connection - to truly see and hear you. It's only in a safe, supportive space that we can truly unpack the thoughts, feelings, and patterns that shape our lives - and create lasting, intentional change. I offer a unique blend of motivational coaching and in-depth therapy. Together, we’ll take a holistic look at your unique humanness - your strengths, struggles, values and patterns - while working toward practical, goal-oriented solutions that help you reduce emotional suffering and move forward in your life, relationships, and career.

Welcome! I'm glad you are taking this step towards your growth and healing. Are you challenged with relentless thoughts, communication, or quieting your critical voice? I enjoy helping others manage anxiety, build self-esteem, and foster emotional resilience.