

Headway connects Los Alamitos residents with 2,604 licensed providers experienced in addressing substance use disorder, alcohol addiction, and behavioral addictions through evidence-based approaches like CBT, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction strategies. Sessions are available in-person or virtually with flexible scheduling, and Headway works with your insurance so you can focus on recovery without worrying about costs.
Pamela Hughes received her Undergraduate Degree in Psychology and her Masters Degree
in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University, Costa Mesa, California.
Pamela has worked with individuals, couples and families improving their relationships
using the Collaborative Communication Skills as an Instructor. Pamela specializes in Addictions, ADHD, Family Systems and Hoarding.
I believe the best work happens when you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself—no pressure, no judgment, and no need to have everything figured out before you start. We’ll work together to explore what’s bringing you in, what matters most to you, and what you’d like to change or better understand.
I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Each person is different, so our work will be tailored to your needs, your goals, and your pace. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, going through a transition, or simply wanting to better understand yourself, I’m here to help you move forward in a way that feels manageable and authentic.
What I Bring to Our Work
If you’re looking for someone who is easy to talk to, genuinely supportive, and invested in your growth, I’d be glad to work with you and see if we’re a good fit.
I have been working in private practice for a few years and before that I worked in non-profits with a variety of individuals and groups. I am the parent of two adult sons and have three grandchildren that I thoroughly enjoy spending time with. I have an educational background in the study of philosophy, spirituality and counseling psychology. I have experience with helping people with histories of trauma, severe mental illness, as well as, symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have experience and some expertise with clients struggling with substance use.
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.
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 work with adults and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, past hurts, and life transitions that can feel overwhelming to carry alone. Many of my clients come in feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. My goal is to offer a supportive, welcoming space where you feel heard and understood as we work toward greater peace, confidence, and connection in your life.
My approach to clients is to see them both as individuals and also within the systems they operate in: familial, community, work-related, societal, or other. I help clients address personal issues in the context of their interpersonal relationships. I strive to support my clients in bringing to light their impact on others, and others’ impact on them while giving clients the skills to heal relational wounds and build healthier, meaningful connections. I work to help her clients connect with their values and find joy.


Headway makes it easier to find support for overcoming addiction — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
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