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As a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW27187) who has worked in the field of mental health for over 23 years, I bring forth a vast array of experience. That experience includes working with children of all ages, working with all types of families, and working with couples in various stages of relationship. I began my educational attainment working towards my Masters in Social Work at Cal State San Bernardino. I elected to further my education through specializing in Infant and Preschool Mental Health, which followed with a Specialty Certification from Alliant International University.  In addition to providing therapy to families, children and couples, I provide for the personal growth and development of upcoming therapists through Clinical Supervision.

 

To be human is to feel stress, to feel overwhelmed, and at times, to even feel alone. I welcome the opportunity to hear your experience, through providing my undivided attention, and support. Your thoughts, feelings, and needs are not only worthy of being heard, they deserve respect and regard. It is my goal to create an environment in which you feel safe, and empowered to share your unique story. Together we will not only set your goals, but identify, and work towards your preferred reality.

 

My experience includes working with children with behavioral issues at home/school, working with families on co-parenting issues, working with children of separation/divorce, working with foster children/families, working with blended families, and working with Depression and Trauma. The strength based theoretical approaches which inform my work includes: Attachment-Based Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. It is my belief that, not only are we individually, equipped to solve the human condition, but that, in addition, we are the authors of our own story. If you will allow me to utilize my journey to witness your story as you write and re-write your Narrative, you will learn the following:

 

 “You are braver than you believe, stronger that you seem, and smarter than you think” - A.A. Milne, creator of Winnie-The-Pooh

 

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT96419). I received my Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix. I work with individuals of all ages and circumstances. I have experience assisting clients dealing with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-esteem and self-compassion issues, stage of life issues, marital and parenting conflicts, and loss and trauma.

My philosophy is that people need people, and as human beings we are called to care for and nurture each other. Having endured painful experiences in my own life, I have a genuine heart and a strong desire to help others navigate through challenging times of their own and provide a safe and calm environment to do so. I believe we are not meant to do life alone. We are each a work in progress and can benefit from the support and encouragement of others. I feel it is a privilege to walk alongside people, guiding and encouraging them on their own journey.

I am passionate about helping mothers and daughters redefine and strengthen their relationship, especially during the daughter’s adolescent and young adult years. I have specific training in helping individuals experiencing grief and loss; and couples and families recovering from infidelity find hope and healing. I use a variety of theoretical perspectives including person-centered, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness techniques and solution focused therapy. My theoretical approach is based on the individual’s circumstances.

I believe that recognizing the need for support and seeking help is a sign of strength and determination to live a productive and meaningful life.

 

Clinicians

 

Adrienne Knabb LMFT
Darlena Allen, LCSW
  Kelly Wheeler, LMFT

I am a licensed  Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 100651). I completed my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University, and also have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, and Anger Management.

 

I have worked as a mental health professional assisting children and teenagers who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and various other diagnosis.  I have also worked with adults, families, individuals suffering from severe mental illness, and have conducted group therapy. Additionally, I have worked with a wide array of ethnicities, ages, and am able to conduct therapy in Spanish as well. I use an eclectic and varied approach, as I feel it is important to tailor services to the individual. I offer an unconditional, accepting, and non-judgmental environment where I will be able to provide appropriate, relevant, and culturally sensitive intervention strategies to each unique client, couple, or family.

 

I strive to provide a supportive and compassionate environment to facilitate the exploration of early childhood and present experiences, and help clients make meaning of these experiences which allows for healing and growth. I look forward to getting to know you and am always happy to answer any questions you may have.

 

 

Bilingual In Spanish

 

 

Alexandra Martinez, LMFT 

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CA LCSW 79900) in California.  In pursuing my goal to become a therapist, I completed a Master of Arts in Pre-Clinical Psychology from San Diego State University and a Master of Social Work from University of Southern California.  I hold a Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) in School Social Work, enabling me to understand school systems and potential factors affecting the mental health of children and teenagers in the school setting.  I have advanced training in the area of trauma and depression, and am EMDR trained.

I enjoy work with diverse populations and have helped clients ranging from 2 years old to 90 years old.  I have a range of experience which includes working with early childhood trauma, recent trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, childbirth trauma, military related stressors, caregiver stress, teenagers, end of life issues, adjustment to chronic disease, self-harm, and behavioral challenges.  Each person is unique and I strive to utilize evidence based treatment methods to improve your symptoms as rapidly as possible through individual therapy, family therapy, and/or connection to outside resources as needed.

 

My philosophy is that each of us is striving to do the very best we can, but that sometimes situations or circumstances occur that overwhelm our ability to cope.  As a therapist, I enjoy helping empower others gain the tools they need to improve and enrich their own lives.  What you need to grow and overcome your obstacles will be unique to your situation, and should be driven by your own goals for yourself.  In pursuit of that goal, I am able to utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), solution focused strategies, assertive communication training, anger management training, behavior modification, and a variety of other strategies as needed.  I enjoy providing psychoeducation about your symptoms and providing the information you need to be an active participant in your own treatment plan.

Andrea Lovvorn, LCSW

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 52556). I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. Since beginning my work in the mental health field in 2005, I have worked with families, individuals, couples, and children with a wide range of therapeutic needs.

 

I am a firm believer that each of us has strengths we can lose sight of in the midst of: tragedy, work stressors, family conflict, health issues and other unpredictable life events. My approach in the therapeutic relationship involves creating a space in which you can find these strengths once more. Often times, we are so consumed by what life has thrown at us, we can forget the struggles we’ve already overcome to get this far.

 

I don’t believe people need to be “fixed.” I think they need to be “reminded.”

 

I have used this approach successfully in both children and adults whose concerns included, among other things: ADHD (or parenting a child with ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, and various Spectrum Disorders.

 

In addition to specific disorders I have also worked with: families with relational conflicts, separation and reunification, children with social development needs, parents in search of parenting skills, attachment work, and a variety of other relational matters.

 

I look forward to walking alongside you as you rediscover the strengths you already possess!  

5051 Canyon Crest Drive. Suite 204. Riverside, CA 92507

© 2016 by Dr. Tanika Gayle and Clinical Associates

 

To Schedule An Appointment

Call 951-682-1488​

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