Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Gardena, CA

Hi, my name is Theresa and I have devoted 11+ years of experience to helping individuals and families navigate life’s emotional challenges with compassion and authenticity. Grounded in both professional expertise and lived experience, I bring genuine empathy and understanding to my therapeutic work.

I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, and relationship challenges. If you're seeking more short-term coping, we can explore the patterns shaping your experiences to support lasting, meaningful change. My approach is trauma-informed and attachment focused - always guided by your goals. Therapy is a warm, collaborative space where we process experiences, strengthen communication, and build more secure, fulfilling relationships.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that therapy works best when you feel truly heard — not judged. I bring warmth, honesty, and a no-nonsense approach to our work together. My goal is for every client to leave each session feeling a little more understood and a little more equipped than when they walked in. I work with most major insurance plans, so getting quality care shouldn't have to break the bank.

I am dual board-certified as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a passion for functional medicine. I believe mental health is best addressed by looking at the whole person—mind, body, and soul. I’ve been working in healthcare for over 20 years. Through my experience in mental health, I have the privilege of working with adults aged 21–60. I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and eating disorders, offering a safe and respectful space for growth and healing.

I have a Master's Degree in Counseling, Marriage, and Family from Phillips Graduate Institute.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from UCSB.

I typically work with clients who have a history of trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and managing anxiety, The clients I work with are very motivated to make changes in their lives.

I worked with high-risk, traumatized, and abused youth for many years. I find practicing therapy very rewarding. Assisting my clients to work through life challenges and progress in their life journey is a privilege.

I am an LMFT with more than 15 years of experience in trauma, relationships, and family systems.

I feel this work is a vocation driven by humility, love, patience, and integrity. I enjoy developing relationships and assisting people on their way to living life to their fullest potential. I believe the world can change one person at a time through mindful, values-based living. In my free time I enjoy spending time outdoors, with my family and my three little furry friends.

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or past experiences? Moving forward can feel difficult when emotional pain, relationship struggles, or life stress leave you feeling trapped or uncertain.You do not have to face these challenges alone. I provide a compassionate, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where we can work together to help you heal, grow, and regain confidence. I believe your worth is not defined by your past or your struggles. Together, we will explore practical tools and strategies to help you create meaningful change and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I am warm, kind, and believe in partnering with my clients so they can achieve their goals. My approach is both compassionate and professional, and I am dedicated to supporting my clients with confidentiality and respect.