Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Encino, CA

I work with adolescents and adults and offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I help individuals identify their goals and make the changes necessary to help them lead more productive and fulfilling lives. I am directive, and I provide a warm, caring and non-judgmental environment to explore the issues and life-events with which you may be struggling.

Hello! I'm Kris and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and the founder of Village Wellness Center, a thriving group psychotherapy practice based in San Juan Capistrano. I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, and I specialize in maternal mental health, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and the unique needs of women and mothers.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Sacramento State University and returned to school 15 years later to earn my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology.

The beginning of my career in mental health started in residential care helping at-risk youth, and over the course of 20 years, my work and experience evolved into leading and developing clinical programs for outpatient and court-mandated facilities while also building my specialty in perinatal mood disorders and maternal mental health in my private practice. Additionally over the past two decades, I was raising my family and actively contributing to the Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano communities.

Through my own struggles with postpartum depression and anxiety, I became a passionate advocate for maternal wellness and thriving families. This became the catalyst to opening Village Wellness Center, where the ability to serve entire families and promote holistic mental wellness with a team of therapists can be achieved.

I have been a licensed marriage and family therapiist for over 30 years. I have had many years of experience working with clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My focus on treating clients is on improving and increasing coping skills to better manage emotions and/or relationships. I like to give specific tools that can be used outside of the session.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience in the mental health field, beginning my clinical work in 2014. I have worked with children, teens, adults, and families experiencing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, and crisis situations. I am also experienced in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and creating an affirming, inclusive therapeutic space.

My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and practical. I draw from several evidence-based modalities, with a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I value helping clients build skills that can be applied not only in therapy, but in everyday life to manage emotions, improve relationships, and navigate challenges with greater confidence.

Having spent many years working within school settings, I also have extensive experience supporting caregivers in advocating for their children and navigating educational systems. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.

I have experience working with individuals struggling with their mental health issues. Through therapy, we can discuss the areas of support that need your attention.

Hi, and welcome! Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or grief. You may feel stuck, stressed, or unsure how to move forward. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns, feel understood, and start building the tools to regain control and find peace.

I am a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist who values creating a genuine, trusting connection with each client. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and able to be your authentic self.

I earned my Master of Arts from National University and completed doctoral-level training at Pacifica Graduate Institute. My clinical training and professional experience have provided me with a strong foundation in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

I have experience working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation settings, where I supported individuals navigating substance use, trauma, and related mental health challenges. I also have experience working with men’s mental health concerns, including emotional regulation, identity, and relationship issues.

I use an integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients understand both present challenges and underlying patterns. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, and life transitions, helping them build insight alongside practical tools for lasting change.

Outside of my work as a therapist, I value staying active and maintaining a strong mind-body connection. I spend much of my time weightlifting, boxing, practicing jiu-jitsu, and participating in CrossFit and Olympic lifting, and I also enjoy running. These practices help me stay grounded and bring a perspective of discipline, resilience, and balance into my work with clients.

Nice to meet you!

If you’ve been dealing with depression, anxiety, panic, sleep problems, or mood swings, you may feel worn down, stuck, or unsure what to try next. You want relief, but also clear answers, practical options, and someone who takes your concerns seriously. I work with young adults, adults, and seniors who are ready to better understand what’s happening and take steady steps toward feeling more balanced and in control of their mental health.

Clients working with me can expect a therapeutic experience rooted in restorative care, cultural authenticity, and deep respect for their lived story. At Cultivating A Better Me, healing is not defined solely by symptom reduction—it is a process of rebuilding inner safety, strengthening emotional resilience, and reconnecting with the parts of yourself that deserve to be seen, honored, and supported.

My clinical foundation began at Sacramento Head Start, where I learned the profound impact of compassion, early intervention, and family‐centered support. With advanced training in Early Childhood Development and Counseling Psychology, I bring specialized expertise in disruptive behaviors, trauma‐responsive care, and expressive‐arts‐based healing.

Within my practice, clients are invited into a space where they can slow down, breathe, and explore their experiences without judgment. I integrate evidence‐based practices with creativity, narrative work, and culturally grounded approaches that honor identity, community, and personal agency.

Most importantly, clients should know that I show up with presence, authenticity, and a deep commitment to helping them cultivate meaningful, sustainable change. Healing is a collaborative journey—and I walk alongside you with compassion, clarity, and support.