Grief counselors and therapists in Laguna Beach, CA

It has been a privilege to provide psychotherapy to a variety of clients for over 20 years. I have advanced clinical training in trauma, addictions, sexual abuse, mood and personality disorders, and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and encouraging. I provide support as you examine core issues and change underlying patterns of behavior or simply gain perspective concerning a recent issue.

Struggling with anxious thoughts or self-doubt? I work with young adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. Together, we’ll build coping skills and create a personalized plan for growth that feels empowering and achievable.

Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I help clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with curiosity and compassion. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and the life you want to create.

I graduated from Fresno Pacific University-Biblical Seminary in 2014 and obtained my license as a LMFT in 2018. My experience has been working with children, adolescents, families (4 years) and adults (11.5 Years). I have 11.5 years' experience with co-occurring disorders to include severe mental illness and trauma. I have utilized but not limited to the following evidence practices and modalities -ACT, Strength-Base, Family psychoeducation, DBT, CBT, and person centered. I am currently expanding my education/training in Internal Family Systems.

As a therapist working with both children and adults with 5 years experience, my clinical approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for healing and growth. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their experiences. Many individuals come to therapy carrying the weight of trauma, stress, or life transitions, and my role is to walk alongside them as they develop insight, resilience, and practical coping skills.

My journey into mental health began with a deep interest in the intersection of human behavior and emotional resilience.

I enjoy working with adolescents and adults going through life transitions and experiencing trauma. My current practice includes individual treatment helping adults with anxiety and depression, self-esteem/confidence, grief, trauma and life transitions! Finding a therapist with whom you connect with is important.

Over the past 14 years, I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community clinics and public school settings. These experiences have shaped my belief that therapy is not a "one-size-fits-all" process, but rather a collaborative partnership built on trust and evidence-based strategies!

I hold a Master of Social Work from California State Long Beach as well as a Bachelor of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University..

I have worked with a variety of clients of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My primary focus has been on individual therapy but enjoy working with couples and families as well. I bring empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness to all of my therapy sessions.

I’m Kali, and I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2007. I want to help you have the relationships you want with yourself and with others. I have an MA in Applied Behavioral Science, with a concentration in Systems Counseling. What this means for you, practically speaking, is that as I work with you, I am also thinking about all of the other people, family and friends, co-workers and acquaintances, who are a part of and influential in your life, and you in theirs. I’m also thinking about the relationship you have with yourself, and how all of the parts of you, past, present and future interplay with each other and the world around you. Which is a long-winded way of saying I want to help you have the relationship you want with yourself and with others. I want you to find happiness, joy and health. I'd like to help you identify and meet your goals, and I am a warm, supportive presence whether or not you have any idea as to what your goals might be.

Welcome!

As a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), I believe in prioritizing out mental health as a way to live a happy and balance life. Reaching out for help can be one of the hardest things a person can do, great job on taking that step! I’ve been practicing for 10 years, but in the field for 20 plus years. In the last 6 years I have shifted my main focus to adults 18 plus who are struggling with trauma and substance use.

I’m warm and real, but I’ll also call you out when I see you getting in your own way. I believe emotions carry important information, and the goal isn’t to get rid of them. It’s to learn how to sit with them and respond in a new way. My background includes community mental health, school settings, PHP, IOP, short-term residential, and long-term transitional care, which has shaped a direct and collaborative style that’s all about helping you do something differently.

Recognizing when you're overwhelmed isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Whether you’re stuck in familiar painful patterns or navigating a new life transition, I’m here to help guide you. Since 2011, I’ve supported diverse clients across inpatient, outpatient, substance use, and crisis settings. I offer contemplative, trauma-informed care for LGBTQ+ adults, veterans, artists & creatives, and high-performing professionals, and I help people of all backgrounds deepen self-understanding and work through questions of identity, meaning, and purpose.