Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Ventura, CA covered by United Healthcare

I specialize in helping clients navigating trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, & much more. I earned my MSW from New York University in 2011 and have worked as a forensic social worker in NYC at The Legal Aid Society & have also worked with Gay Men's Health Crisis, Services for the Underserved, Footsteps & Office of the Appellate Defender. I moved to Los Angeles in 2017 and have been in private practice since 2018.

My passion for psychology comes from a place of wanting to listen, understand and empower change. As we build a trusting relationship my approach is collaborative and proactive. My career has led me to work in primary mental health, addiction treatment, and working with various diagnoses and a widely diverse population including marginalized individuals, unhoused, sexual assault victims, former military, American Indians, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

As a therapist my goal is to break the stigma that comes with therapy. I strive to create a collaborative, nurturing therapeutic relationship that can help transform one's pain or uncertainties into one of healing. Life can be difficult and sometimes confusing therefore I want to create a corner where one can feel safe, understood, and free of judgement.

Maybe what aches most is not the change itself, but the fear that someone you love is slipping out of reach — even if that someone is you. Everything feels different, yet somehow the same. One minute you are putting on pajamas, and the next you are spiraling because it is the first moment of quiet you have had all day. There is this gut feeling that your heart can no longer be bound with band-aids, but soul-searching is a lot before the alarm goes off tomorrow. You do not have to make sense of it all alone at midnight — that is what I am here for.

Hi, I’m Lorraine Nxumalo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Thank you for trusting me with your mental health care. My priority is to offer compassionate, evidence-based support tailored to your needs. I strive to create a positive, trusting environment where you feel safe to share openly about your experiences and challenges. Together, we’ll work honestly and transparently to develop a treatment plan that prioritizes your well-being and safety.

I am pleased to meet you on your journey of self care and growth! If you have ever felt stuck or overwhelmed, you are not alone. I work with adults navigating life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, mood regulation, coaching, Christian counseling, cultural and systemic issues to name a few. Some areas I've worked in are healthcare, schools, adoptions, hospice etc. I will create a safe, supportive space as we do the work to obtain the type of life you want and reach your goals.

I'm the kind of therapist who makes you feel safe the moment you walk into the room. I listen fully, without judgment, and with the attention that makes you feel uderstood. Humor is one of my superpower and I used to make you feel more comfortable. I am direct I won’t sugarcoat what needs to be said. I love to be the kind of therapist who makes healing feel both profound and human.

I’m Rachel Benjamin, and I help individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges to build more authentic, connected, and empowered lives. Together, we’ll identify the patterns and barriers that have been holding you back and work toward lasting change around your strengths and values. If you are thinking about starting therapy, or returning after some time away, but feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Taking that first step can bring up a mix of emotions. If you’re wondering whether now is the right time, it likely means you’re ready to begin exploring meaningful change.