Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Encino, CA

My name is Rene and I’m a down-to-earth therapist who specializes in substance use and trauma, and I love helping people feel hopeful again during some of the hardest and most confusing chapters of their lives. I also support clients navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, family and relationship struggles, stress, and women’s issues. I especially enjoy working with women rebuilding identity and confidence after difficult life experiences.

People often tell me they feel comfortable with me quickly. My goal is simple: to meet you exactly where you are — whether that’s overwhelmed, stuck, healing, hopeful, or unsure — and help you find freedom, opportunity, and solid ground again. If faith or Christian counseling is meaningful to you, I’m happy to incorporate spirituality into our work together. And if not — that’s perfectly okay too. Therapy with me is about your values and your journey.

Welcome! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California, I'm passionate about supporting clients who are dealing with anxiety and/or depression, and I love helping them build self-awareness and work towards becoming the best version of themselves! I earned my MSW from USC in 2019 and have spent the past decade working across different areas of mental health social work.

• Outstanding Patient Reviews - Google reviews (Access Psych Meds)
• Experienced Mental Health Provider (13 years) assisting clients with ADHD (adult) Anxiety Depression Chronic Pain Chronic Sleep problems Mood disorder PTSD: Military combat, childhood & sexual trauma Alcohol Use Disorder
• Dual Master’s Prepared
• ANCC Dual Board Certified - Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Veteran 22 yrs retired US Navy Commander/O-5
• Licensed in 5 States - AZ, CA, OR, MD, WA

I want to make this process easy yet challenging for you.

www.marielrtherapy.com

You are the one everyone relies on - the strong one. Even when you’re running on empty, you keep showing up, holding it together, and pushing through. On the outside, you look composed. Inside, you might feel exhausted, unseen, or detached from yourself. I work with adults break free from patterns that keep them stuck in survival mode. We will work on reconnecting with your needs, rebuilding self trust, and creating a balanced, authentic relationship with yourself. I bring a compassionate, steady presence to therapy; no cold stares or awkward silences. Just a real human connection, where you can feel safe enough to show up. As a therapist for the past 9 years and someone who has navigated my own share of life’s complexities, I understand the invisible weight we often carry; anxiety, depression, expectations, and the pressure to hold everything together.

Choosing the right therapist is important, so I offer a free 15-20 minute phone or video consultation to discuss your needs and ensure we’re a good fit. There’s no pressure; this call is simply an opportunity for you to learn more and decide if you’d like to move forward with therapy. You may take your time after the call to decide whether to move forward.

I have been practicing since 2000. I have worked in many healthcare and non-profit settings both while obtaining my education and in professional roles. I have a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology and have successfully treated many individuals, families and adolescents.

I am currently accepting new clients. Great to meet you. If you have been carrying anxiety, depression, or that heavy feeling of not quite being like yourself, we can work through it together. I offer virtual therapy that meets you where you are, with care that feels compassionate, practical, and grounded in real life. My goal is to help you feel more like yourself again and build a path toward a brighter, more fulfilling tomorrow.