Prenatal and postpartum therapists & psychiatrists in Westlake Village, CA

I believe that healing begins when you feel truly seen, understood, and safe to be yourself. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in both evidence-based therapy and mind–body awareness.

Many of my clients are high-achieving professionals, caregivers, or individuals navigating life transitions who feel anxious, stuck, or disconnected from themselves.

Together, we’ll explore not just what’s happening in your mind, but how your body and emotions respond — so you can reconnect with clarity, calm, and confidence.

I bring curiosity, compassion, and a touch of humor to each session. My goal is to help you slow down, breathe, and find the insight and direction that’s already within you.

You've done meaningful therapeutic work and you're ready to go deeper. You're successful in the external markers of your life, but you know there's more—greater depth, connection, and purpose waiting for you. You've addressed foundational trauma, and now you want to explore subtler patterns: how you hold back in intimacy, the meanings you're searching for, the fuller expression of yourself you sense is possible. You may be curious about psychedelic-assisted therapy as a tool for profound insight. You're not dealing with crisis, but are looking for a guide who can support you in moving from survival to fully living in your wholeness.

I’m Elaine, a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, clinical supervisor and mental health trainer, passionate about helping individuals and families heal, grow, and honor their unique stories.

With over a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting first-generation, BIPOC, and (im)migrant communities to embrace cultural strengths, interrupt cycles of trauma, and navigate life’s complexities.

Wherever you are on your journey, I am honored to walk alongside you. I look forward to connecting and supporting you as you take the next step toward healing and growth.

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.

We all experience times of feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure how to move forward. Some seek practical solutions, while others want to understand the “why”—we can focus on both. We’ll move at your pace to explore what isn’t working and why. My goal is to help you navigate challenges, slow down, and feel more connected to your emotions. I’m also passionate about helping couples improve communication, reduce conflict, and build greater intimacy and connection.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Bachelors in Sociology with a double minor in Chicanx and Education Studies at UCLA and my Masters in Social Work at USC. I have been providing therapeutic services since 2018. In my role as a therapist, I work with children, youth, and families facing anxiety, depression, stress, and more. My goal is to help you navigate these challenges with compassion and evidence-based support.

I work with individuals and families across the spectrum, as well as professionals navigating major life transitions. As a Psychology Professor and Senior Lecturer, I provide a high-level clinical space for those who feel "stuck" in their current narrative. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating a career shift, or seeking LGBTQ+ affirming care, my ideal clients are those ready to build a life that feels authentic, sustainable, and truly yours.

You’re the one everyone relies on. You get things done, show up, and keep it together—but lately, it feels like too much. Your mind won’t slow down, you’re constantly overthinking, and even when you “rest,” you don’t actually feel better.

From the outside, you look like you have it all together. Inside, you’re exhausted.

I work with high-achieving women who are tired of carrying everything on their own. Whether it’s anxiety, burnout, or feeling disconnected from yourself, we’ll work together to help you feel grounded, clear, and back in control of your life.

I have completed Phase 1 Brainspotting training through Pacific Trauma Center and may integrate Brainspotting into sessions for clients interested in exploring a deeper brain-body approach to healing.

First Things First, you are here! I’m happy about that and excited to help you reach your next step in life. Having helped my clients for over 20 years now, I have a deep understanding of how to facilitate growth and will be tailoring our sessions to your personal goals and individual needs.

I am someone who wants to support personal growth in others. Life is rough and we don't always listen to our heads and that's okay. I am someone who tries to meet clients where they are and not judge.

Julie Ann Therese, PMHNP-BC is the Founder & CEO of Alternative Awakenings Psychiatry, a group practice with multiple rotating providers. She provides medication management with therapy integration (no stand-alone therapy). Julie supports adults and women, with a focus on perinatal mental health and the Filipino-American community.

Diagnoses are based on clinical findings; she does not offer evaluations solely to obtain a specific diagnosis (e.g., ADHD).

For immediate response please call/text our office at 530-691-0193 or +18555985659

UPDATED HOURS OF OPERATION AS OF 4/01/2026

Front office hours: Weekdays 8 am to 5 pm.

Providers’ office hours are by APPOINTMENT only:

Monday/Tuesday from 9AM to 7PM

Wednesday 9AM-12PM

Thursday 9AM-5PM

Friday 9AM-12PM.

Weekend hours for CONSULTATIONS ONLY: 12PM-5PM

BOOKING PROCESS:

A deposit is requested to reserve your appointment time. For Headway patients, this deposit is fully refundable. It is not applied as payment for services unless insurance cannot be verified, a claim cannot be submitted due to incomplete or inaccurate insurance information, no valid payment method is available in Headway or Alma, or you are otherwise responsible for the charges.

UPDATES AS OF 3/30/2026

Practice & Availability Disclaimer

Julie is nearing her maternity leave and has 2 providers covering. Julie will remain actively involved in the practice by monitoring, supervising, and approving treatment plans as part of a collaborative clinical team to ensure continuity and quality of care.