20 Best Psychology Grad Programs In Concord, CA (2022 Updated)

Oh my gosh, where to begin. The amount of involvement the faculty and student body have for their students is outstanding. CAPS counselors are there, attentive to your needs, and a great resource for other resources within the university. The health center and CAPS both take great care of their students by follow up phone calls and emails to remind you of your next appointment. Miss an appointment? Expect 5 phone calls, a few emails, possibly even a text message, lol. Faculty, unlike other UC professors who only care about research, give time to their students. Yes, attendance is a huge in this school, again unlike other UCs. As far as school work theme, be prepared for quizzes, in class participation, attendance, take home assignments, online at home participation, and exams. Yes, this school is a comprehensive institution, aimed at achieving and producing the top of the line students. Don’t take the age of this school or it’s high acceptance rate to be any indicator of this schools merit. Go bobcats! Ps. Not to mention the small class sizes. Gives a private school feel.Reuben Hernandez

I am the father of a new student, I am truly disappointed in the campus, my son is an intern in one of its buildings and with these record temperatures and inefficient air conditioning he has spent 2 weeks of hell inside his bedroom at more than 90 °, how can someone have a normal day, if you have days without sleeping? We had to buy a small portable air conditioner because there is still no solution and the only thing he received from the building coordinator was a threat, that he has to remove the air conditioner or they will come in to remove it, like you can be so unhuman in the face of the basic needs that a student has under the roof of his university, truly a disappointment.Clau Martínez

This university has the best food of any university I have visited. I am an AVID Student, we got a tour, and our guide Donald was AMAZING! The food was ABSOLUTELY OUTSTANDING! I am very highly to go to this school when I go to college.Jon Videogeek

Dropped by here in order to go to Panda Express. Don't know why I'm reviewing a college I'm not even part of, and this review is during a pandemic too.. well, it's purely about the aesthetic and convenience of the facilities. De Anza has quite the sizeable college grounds , so sizeable that it feels like an abandoned residential area with how empty practically everything is. It's complete with artistic facilities for music, visual arts, science buildings, sports facilities and the like. While I didn't enter, the library and the nearby park (called the sunken gardens by the college) was quite the beautiful location. The outdoor seating areas where the students would take a break and wait for classes on are widespread, shaded and very calming to be on. Not to mention the very convenient bus routes available . It's no wonder the college ended up being quite popular, it's geographically excellent and quite picturesque.Ace Hughj

De Anza College is great but not the book store. Beware of book store return policy. Make sure the books or items is in original condition or their will not refund. No sympathy at all. I bought online access book a week before class starts. My math intructor switch book. And to make matter worse I accidentally bent the access book card because it was in my backpack with one line crease and they denied the return after i picked it up on 1st day of class. Cost me $120 for a simple honest mistake. Ask for store credit or even exchange for the current hard copy of the free math book and they not willing to do anything. I'll go buy from amazon or used book somewhere else. Never again support this book store.Dru Down

Community colleges are a treasure trove of gems among them is access to the on-campus gym. De Anza College’s on-campus gym provides patrons with a quiet and well rounded experience for an affordable price. From experience, these types of gyms allow me to get my workout done in a welcoming environment, which I feel can’t be said of many gyms. However, it’s sad that the school is closing it due to budgetary reasons on June 28, 2019.Daniel Negrete

Laney college culinary program is wonderful, while back, I was looking for a culinary schools around and close by city of Oakland, I found, San Francisco cooking school, CIA and Laney College. CIA’s Tuition on full time basis was about $47,000 for all students, San Francisco cooking school tuition is about $25,000, , then, Laney’s tuition: $46.00 per semester unit…next, I started comparing each school’s culinary programs, they all were very similar with a very little insignificant differences. I visited each school as well, honestly, CIA school, has a much fancier buildings but, not for $47,000 tuition, same as San Francisco cooking school, therefore, for my budget and goal, Laney College was evidently and unmistakably was my first and only choice. I signed up in their Culinary baking program, instructors are fantastic, school’s facilities are moderate, reasonable and very much adequate for this program, equipment are the same as other mentioned schools that I visited, and much better than “acceptable” that I thought it would be, most importantly, instructors are one better than the others, not to mention, I finished the baking program while back, now, I am just finishing up 3rd semester of their cooking program. Highly recommend Laney College and their culinary programs.John Sarlak

I've been doing the baking and pastry program for three semesters now and it has exceeded my expectations. First of all, the core classes are 90% hands-on work. The other 10% are mainly lectures about the history of the product you are about to recreate. The chef instructors are extremely knowledgeable in the industry and will help you guide your way into a successful career. Many people coming into the program are trying to get their foot in because they don't have any experience. My first semester I was able to get a job in catering with help from my instructors. Even if you're not looking for a career, this program can help improve your skills in the kitchen. However, they will still prepare you as if you are going to work at a kitchen. They also offer a course in the savory side if baking and pastries isn't what you're looking for.Nathan Ung

I have just completed the baking curriculum of the Laney College Culinary Arts program. It was one of the most enjoyable and rewarding educational experience I have ever had. The program will prepare you for a successful career in the baking and services industry. The program is tailored to train anyone with absolutely no experience to become a professional baker. The classes provide real world hands-on experience in the preparation of baked goods. The instructors are professionals with many years of experience in the industry. They will make every effort to make your experience enjoyable and rewarding. Lastly you cannot beat the cost of the program. Why pay anywhere from $65,000 to $100,00 to attend a private profession culinary program when you can go to Laney and learn the same stuff for a fraction of the cost?tony lim

Let's be honest. This was your second choice. It's not the "best college in the world" or the "most beautiful campus in the world". Spent one and a half years here where it could’ve been one and a half years spent better elsewhere. Please, this is an extension of high school. Find your education and college experience elsewhere. You will thank me.Hakim Bouzina

I live near this college and me and my wife and kids love to take walks threw it. It's so beautiful and peaceful. Also you have campus police always around so you feel safe at all times. And the bell tower is a nice sight to see. But hearing that thing go off at 11:00pm at night I could go without.Shawn Dronet

I made a payment on Jul 16, 2021, at 9:54 AM still I haven’t received my payment back contacted front desk multiple time. Please contact me I tried to call and emailed multiple people but no one replies. Worst experience ever.Junaid Jamshaid

I'm a male, late 20's student at USF, and this has been my experience: 1) Rigorous – Having had a decent amount of life experience before coming here, I expected it to be easy. I was wrong. As someone who has always been good at math, the math classes were all challenging and required a lot of time and effort to do well in. The same goes for their science classes. I had attended another, easier university before coming here, and the difference was huge. 2) Political/Religious – Being a catholic university in the middle of a very liberal city, there is a good chance that someone will at some point try to shove religion or liberal politics down your throat, with a higher probability of the latter. As someone who doesn't care for politics, I'd prefer if they were left out of the classroom. 3) Small class sizes – All but one of my classes have been under 30 people, with many being less than 20. There are personal, 1-on-1 classes for music lessons in guitar, piano, vocals, etc. There are ample staff to handle any problem and any and all issues I've had were solved quickly. Compare this to a state school with class sizes in the 100's and there is really no comparison. 4) Expensive – With an annual price tag of about 50k, plus the astronomically high San Francisco cost of living, it is incredibly expensive to go to school here. I came here largely because I had a full-ride scholarship, and would have seriously considered other options if I didn't. 5) Amenities – There are several large libraries, excellent quiet study areas, private music rooms with instruments, and the campus itself is quite beautiful. With the tuition comes a free public transit card and gym access, at a very nice gym. 6) Overall quality – The quality of the school overall is very high. I can't say how it compares to the likes of top schools like Stanford, but many of USF's professors have come from those big name schools. The combination of talented, intelligent professors and personal 1-on-1 attention make it a great place to learn and study.Tyler D

I transferred out of the University of San Francisco real quick. The school is expensive, the education is ok but the material is too easy, and the social life is garbage unless you're undoubtedly liberal. The professors were very nice and helpful, but anyone from the administration building is out to get you, ultimately this place is just a big money pit. They'll find a way to fine you and take your money even if you haven't done anything wrong.Alex Douthat

Beautiful campus in the heart of the city but otherwise, a school filled with professors that don’t really care, poor accommodations for students with disabilities, extremely expensive, campus police focuses more on giving you parking tickets and people’s conduct rather than ensuring vehicles are not broken into. Did I mention is extremely expensive and they will not accommodate you well if you need to take time off for medical/family issues.Jake Bilyak

I attended MILLS for my 2 year grad program in dance, earned my M.A. I love Mills with all my heart, especially seeing how there is a great and supportive ESA (emotional support animal) community. I thank Mills for letting me live in ESA hall with my ESA. I love the supportive community here at Mills. I consider all of the undergrads who go here to be LUCKY and FORTUNATE AF because where I went to undergrad, the school was awful and not emotionally or spiritually supportive. Again, love this place. Just wish I can relive my experience here again.袁子盁

Mills is a private predominantly women's liberal arts college in East Oakland. Access to the campus is restricted by a security gate, security patrols and perimeter fences. They have a strong reputation for producing school teachers, but not for STEM majors.946 Towguy

Doing one of my long walks, I end up at at the corner of Mills College only to find a bully operating maintenance gate on the perimeter of Campus. And a campus employee who unwilling to open the gate for a pedestrian wishing to walk through campus.Bjon Farber

Started working on my MBA degree there in 1977 when it was known as College of Notre Dame. Unfortunately with working full-time during the day and driving from San Jose three nights a week, it was difficult for me to continue. Plus, I was later transferred to Corpus Christi, TX. I deeply regret not having the opportunity to complete my studies there and earn my degree. Wonderful experience. Loved the small campus and classrooms after attending UCLA.Michael Cook

As a parent of a student that attends NDNU, I am very pleased with the structure, support, faculty, student ratio and academic excellence. NDNU offers an excellent academic regime' as well as encouraging students to serve in the community. NDNU has activities and social events that enhance the university experience. This university is for the student striving for academic success.CC

I'm doing research on the university, because as a Sophmore in highschool I've started to invest time into scholarship and college research. Can people who attend the university give me some feedback about their experience there? -P.S. I've already received and email from the school.Riley Cantu

I applied to the nursing program in 2021 and was not accepted- which was fine- but the call I received from the Admissions department is what really left a bad taste in my mouth about this school. The woman who called to tell me that I didn’t get in did so with the purpose of “selling” me another major. Her words: I don’t really see you getting into another nursing program in the state… your grades just aren’t high enough… but we do have other good bachelors programs. Outside of her statement being rude and unnecessary, it’s also untrue as I finished my master’s with a 4.0. Yes, I have a masters degree and this admissions person tried to sell me a BA in psychology or health admin. A degree that would be literally useless to me. I was more offended by the blatant attempt to make a quick buck than I was by her talking down to me in such a way. Needless to say I didn’t enroll here, but I did get into 2 other nursing programs in the Bay Area. I guess my grades were “high enough.”AJ E

We went to San Rafael to get our covid vaccines today. Afterwards we ordered food from Sol restaurant to pick up. My daughter had attended Dominican University about 18 years ago. They have beautiful lawns On campus, with picnic tables and trees and flowers over there, so we went and had our lunch there. It was beautiful as usual. Squirrels running up-and-down the trees and people walking their dogs and jogging…. The trees swaying back-and-forth with the breeze… And with me with great company, my husband and my Mom. And all now With our 1st covid vaccine under our belt! Yay !! A Beautiful day!S. JORDAN

Once Upon a Time, Domincan was where all the CA Catholic School Girls went for college….there was also an impressvie International contingent…Chances were that an aunt, cousin, sister attended the all girl school before. Held in very high esteem and the good Sisters were an impressive lot. The campus was charming, nicely appointed and safe. Time move on and the school went Coed and DC became a semi commuter school.Kerry On

I used to crash classes here and love that a school like this exists and I am very happy that many pioneers in various fields are finding a more public voice here. I was recently interested in obtaining a masters and encouraged to apply late (Pauline Reif) with the promise that I would be seen for that semesters admission. After submitting and paying non refundable application fees I was told I was late (which I had clearly known!) and none of my subsequent emails have been responded to. For a school focused on cutting edge psych and interpersonal dynamics, my experience with admissions was a FAR cry from what I hoped they stood for. I really hope they button up their program, modern and non-mainstream schooling is important, and I find that system wide integrity is even more crucial amongst those who walk on the outskirts.Mike D

I had a very mixed experience with this school. It was well worth the effort, but the school was not supportive when they needed to be which was ironic since many of the programs are focused on learning how to provide holistic psychotherapy. I would think an organization that focused on that subject would be filled with people capable of providing great support. Rather I found, after a few years, that it is very disorganized and in some serious need of an administrative overhaul.Marni Sweetland

Cutting edge graduate institution & doctoral program in the field of integral studies, psychodynamic psychotherapy & multidisciplinary consciousness studies. 🏦 Expanding the study of the psyche to include the transpersonal domain is a radically important undertaking for us at this time.⛲ The California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) is at the vanguard of the transpersonal movement and a leader in the field of holistic studies.🕉Chris Hutnik

One of the Best liberal, nursing and music colleges in the California. The Kodaly music program is a leading center in the USA. The preparatory music department has long being established and reputable for the Suzuki Music Method – piano violin cello flute and etc. The music department has strong faculty roster in piano and vocal. The Valley Center for the Performing Arts is one of the best music and multi functional facility in the Bay Area. Many music graduates have continued to extend their knowledge and professional skills on this campus and provided valuable music education and instrumental learning to the east bay communities. 👍👍👍🍎🍎🍎😍😍😍🎶🎶🎶🎹🎹🎹Pno Ens

Not a huge or well known campus compared to other universities, Holy Names is nestled in the Oakland Hills. The facilities and grounds are nicely laid out and have a very peaceful feeling. Apart from the regular curriculum, HNU also offers music programs for young children.Ton T

I had a wonderful experience at Palo Alto University. I feel well equipped and prepared to continue my journey as a Marriage and Family Therapist. While a couple of the professors I had were not outstanding, for the most part the staff was wonderful and incredible compassionate. A few professors I highly recommend taking courses from at the graduate level are Aaron Henderson, William Snow, Christen Wathen, Rochelle Ritzi, Donna Sheperis, Dareen Basma, Maryasha Katz, and Donya Wallace. Having an entirely online graduate course was essential to me because I have a busy schedule and needed a program that was flexible and accommodating. I feel proud to be a soon-to-be PAU alumni and love being affiliated with a school that promotes social justice, equality, and diversity.Janelle Stepper

This is an affordable program that was able to prepare me for a career as a marriage family therapist. The quality of instruction is excellent, and I rely on the skills and concepts I practiced and learned here in my vocation.Mary Williams

I've obtained my master's and in the final stages of completing my doctorate at Saybrook in the Mind Body Medicine program (now called Integrative health science, I believe). Attending this school has been a game changer for me personally and professionally. The caliber of people who attend the school are incredible and it opens ones professional networks and capacities for creative work. The school is well organized. The hybrid model of education, which entails residential academic retreats and online working and collaboration is in sync with the changing world of education. Education is a personal choice and if Saybrook's educational offerings are what you are interested in, I would highly recommend considering this school.Kari Allen-Hammer

I have been a Masteral Student in this school for the last 3 semesters and I totally love the experience. The faculty members are excellent, and the best and most respected in their field. Classmates are wonderful, scholarly, intelligent and hard working. Administration answers all queries within 24-48 hours. This school has changed my life for the better. I have just finished all my Masters degree requirements and I plan to continue in this school for my PhD.Robin Velasco

Edit: Over $100k for their Psychology PhD program… and not even APA accredited. I know APA is not required in some states but I I know of other non APA PhD programs that are literally half the cost of Saybrook’s. I like that they’re non profit, regionally accredited & offer some interesting programs but they are pretty expensive… you can get a Harvard masters degree for less than their masters programs..Josh Esc

I was traumatized by my treatment at Langley Porter: I had to heal from being there, on top of the emotional crisis I went in with. I was locked up when all I needed was compassion and listening – the ward was terrifying and like in prison. I woke up one night in tears with a strong need to talk with someone. I hadn't been able to speak since arrival, I was so upset and disconnected and overwhelmed, so I stepped outside my darkened room and immediately the nurse yelled at me to get back in my room. I was shocked at her aggression and tried to explain, but she launched out from behind the desk and kept yelling, headed right towards me. In my upset and fragile state this was completely triggering and devastating, I couldn't speak but tried to explain myself. Then the threats began — to put me in solitary and to strip search me, I was shaking with fear and couldn't find words. The situation just got worse with me more and more dissociated – but I never made an angry gesture or did anything provocative. I just wanted to talk with someone as I had been so alone and silent since arrival. Now I was in shock and frozen in terror, and a team of big men came out and hauled me away to solitary confinement. That memory will never leave me, and the horror of the nurse responding that way – just because I wanted to talk! I was in an isolation cell and I still have nightmares and traumatic memories from this abuse. I saw this treatment again and again around me to other patients – and I know this is one of the so-called better and more high funded facilities. The worst was how they lied to me telling me I would always just be a schizophrenic and have to take meds for life. Once I got out of the system I've been successful healing this and other traumas and un-learning the misinformation I was told while an inpatient. Today I'm off disability and working on my PhD but my life suffered a terrible detour when I was forced into treatment. This was totally unnecessary but happens all the time to mental patients. We are treated like prisoners. We need voluntary community based non-disease model ways to care for people. My doctoral research is on non-medication treatments for schizophrenia and psychosis and the process of withdrawal from antipsychotic medication – information Langley Porter never taught me about. Doctors were wrong about homosexuality being a disease and they are wrong about psychosis and schizophrenia being diseases best treated by medications. Look into successful alternatives such as Open Dialogue and Soteria House and the recovery movement – I wish I had known about this before I became a patient at Langley Porter. Sanctuaries should be caring places not authoritarian prisons. Some day we will look back at this era of so called mental health and see the barbarism and failed science for what it is. Just because "good people" work there and "do it to help you" doesn't mean it isn't violent abuse – the worst evils are done in the name of good. Please if you read this and work for Langley Porter find out about the psychiatric survivor movement, the hearing voices movement, Open Dialogue and human rights issues in mental health. Stop being part of the problem and start being part of the solution. No more abuse of people like me!Will Hall

I was a patient of the partial hospitalization program for a couple days and I was shocked at how infantile and juvenile the treatment was. I need serious help and serious treatment but being treated like a 6 year old is not on my list of ways I want to be treated. I felt the program was dehumanizing and degrading. I voiced this opinion in one of the group sessions and later that day another full grown adult spoke out in the group saying she wanted to “do violent” things to me. I obviously freaked and thought I wouldn’t come the next day. Cynthia Diwan spoke to me about the incident. When I told her I do feel the that the program is juvenile and that threatening violence doesn’t equal out. I was told that it is shocking that I have not had this type of reaction before to a negative comment. I mean… it was shocking and horrifying. I am used to dealing with adults and speaking in an adult manner. Cynthia all but used the words “this is your fault”. The blame was clear. I am in the wrong and violent comments are acceptable no matter how the victim of such comments feels. Do not go here unless you are ok with basically holding hands and singing camp fire songs. This program is essentially adult daycare with a smidge of life basics thrown in.C

I have recently heard two psychologists speak on Michael Krasney's Forum from Langley Porter on two different programs. I found the heartfelt desire to help teenagers from the UCSF Langley psychologists to be disingenuous when therapy ( in the eating disorder/ anxiety program there) costs $450 per hour- (most insurances do not begin to cover this expense). It would be the right thing to do for these professionals to advocate that their own UCSF programs for Youth charge reasonably , or to advertise lists of therapists/help programs in the Bay area who do. There must be qualified therapists out there who aren't interested in exploiting the worry and desperation of families seeking help for their children. We paid a staggering bill issued by Langley Porter for therapy we were under the impression was covered by insurance. Our experience still feels a nightmare 2 years on.Vicki Melin

I previously had the joy of working with Dr. Sahar Dorani for 2 years. In that time, I got to know her expertise in working with young adults who have a history of trauma and her commitment to providing culturally sensitive care. Additionally, Dr. Dorani has an ease in her clinical style which allows the creation of strong working relationships with every patient she serves. I also had the pleasure to attend a CE course co-lead by Dr. Dorani which educated our clinical staff on culturally sensitive therapeutic care for South Asian, Southwest Asian, and North African (SSWANA) college students. I found her presentation style informative and engaging.Robyn Shannon

Dr. Alexis Lopez is a wonderful psychologist. I had the absolute pleasure of working with her for a year, and getting to see her warmth, genuine care for her clients, passion for multicultural work, advocacy, and real gift for using CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) in a tailored and client-centered way. I learned so much from her kind and thoughtful approach. I am always excited to refer clients to her, as I have seen how effective her balance affirming while helping clients push towards change can be. I can't recommend her highly enough!Paige O'Connell

I happily refer clients to Stella Nova because of their expertise in offering services geared towards the mental health and well being of women and non-binary people. Dr. Maya Borgueta has built a practice that is uniquely focused on understanding her clients' needs, and her team of therapists are thoughtful, compassionate, and well trained. I especially appreciate that they have therapists on staff who understand issues specifically affecting women of color. I've referred clients to them for individual, couples, and group therapy.Lily Sun

I highly recommend the TMS treatment at BWC. After 36 sessions I feel so much better, both my anxiety and depression have gone away. Reading online about the treatment can make it seem scary, I can assure you it is not. I did not have a seizure or pain. The treatment itself feels like a workout, imagine your muscles around your head contracting and that is it. Once the session is over the discomfort goes away. As for getting better, it takes time. With every session you start to feel better after a couple of sessions you feel so well you forget why you even needed the treatment. If it were not for the daily diary I would not have been able to remember how I felt before. The staff is super nice and you get to know them during your treatments. They check in multiple times during your session to make sure you are comfortable and you enjoy the tv channel you picked. Finally, if you know anyone that is suffering from depression or anxiety point them here, it will help them get better and see results fast.Jose Garcia

I have been suffering from depression for over 45 years, which is most of my adult life. After trying numerous antidepressants, with no lasting results, my psychiatrist referred me to the Brain Wellness Center in San Ramon for TMS treatments. I was very apprehensive to try something new. The entire staff at BWC were so awesome to make me feel comfortable. They explained everything that was being done to me and were very patient with all of my concerns and questions. They all were wonderful! After 8 weeks of treatment, the results are remarkable. I am enjoying life again and have such a positive outlook. My family and friends are truly amazed to see the great change in me. I continue to feel better with each passing day. I highly recommend receiving the TMS treatment at the Brain Wellness Center in San Ramon to anyone suffering from lasting depression. The treatment was a lifesaver to me!Roxanne Freccero

I have been exceptionally happy with the help that the Brain Wellness Center has provided for my daughter. The range of services they offer is much more thorough than I’ve found elsewhere. The assessments provided were extensive and provided a good basis for the prescribed treatments. I feel my daughter will have a happier and more successful life because of the ADHD and depression treatments she received. Their effectiveness is clearly evident in the way she can successfully manage her life and emotions now! Thank you Brain Wellness Center!!Nancy Olsen

Before meeting Leslie, I had never done therapy before. It has always been something I wanted to do and something I was interested in but never found the time or courage to follow through with. Growing up, therapy wasn't always something that was positively stigmatized, so it was easy to find excuses to not go. There were things I needed help working through, however, and I knew I wouldn't be able to continue to take it on myself. I found me asking myself the same questions in different ways and always coming to the same conclusions. I'm not saying that I was tormented by these questions/answers but I knew that I needed a fresh, new and professional angle. I wasn't going to be able to dig as deep without having the proper tools to dig. Leslie came in as a kind and understanding voice—asking me questions I have never been asked and exploring my feelings in a way I've never thought to explore them. I'm an introspective person by nature but I would never stop to think of how certain situations made me feel and how it looked to explore those feelings. Each session was quite an interesting and eye-opening exercise. Leslie was always respectful enough to give me time to think about my responses and never seemed to pry or dig too deeply if I wasn't comfortable but she masterfully worded questions in a way that disarmed me and allowed me to share open and freely. She created a very comfortable environment for being open. I knew that therapy was working for me when I started to openly share my feelings in normal conversation with friends and family. I found myself thinking more deeply about how I was affected by something or taking a particular situation and viewing all of the angles and how I felt about potential outcomes. When speaking with friends, I found myself being more understanding and sensitive—asking them questions about how they felt. It was all kind of "weird" but I knew it was very helpful. Unfortunately, I do not see Leslie anymore but ever since our final session, I feel mentally reborn. The lens I now look through my own feelings with is less judgmental and more understanding. It's okay to feel. It's ok to emote. The mental clarity I have now is far better than it was before she and I sat down for the first time. I am grateful for her service and would highly recommend Leslie to anyone seeking understanding, mental health and a kind ear.Troy Cotton

Dr. Hemedes is a complex and compassionate therapist. I had the honor of sitting with Leslie in a weekly consultation group at my previous place of employment. She often demonstrated an ability to uplift the seen and unseen parts of a person, especially in consideration of their different mental, emotional, physical, and environmental contexts. She is very well researched and always engages with a sense of curiosity and deep competence all at once. I also have witnessed her creative lean to incorporate multiple modalities into very caring human interactions. All while having a uniquely relaxed demeanor. I can recommend her support without question!Lyana Murrell

When I met Leslie for the first time, I was struck by how easy it was to get to know her. Her relatable personality has a way of making you feel like you’ve known her for all of your life. As a trusted colleague, I respect her knowledge of the field, and capacity to use her natural gifts to promote encouragement, strength, and tools when working with clients. Leslie is well versed in providing both in person and telehealth therapy. I wholeheartedly recommend Leslie if you, or a close family/friend are looking for emotional support in any capacity.Vanessa Solis, LCSW

As a clinical psychologist and colleague it's my great pleasure to highly recommend Dr. Mica Gonzalez as a psychotherapist for both children and adults. Throughout our more than a decade professional trainings and consultation time together, Mica’s experienced, sensitive, personalized, relational approach to helping patients has been evident. He is skilled in his work with children and their families. This shows from his extensive knowledge in child development and parenting, his natural ability in connecting with children and parents, and all the impressive comments I heard from people referred to him. He is also an excellent therapist for adults and couple work. He is easy to talk to, compassion, grounded, and at the meantime sharp and insightful. His capacity to hold difficult and big emotions makes his adept at working with intense issues such as grief, loss and trauma. His professional knowledge and exceptional therapeutic relationship skills makes his the ideal therapist for anyone ready to make changes and grew in their lives. I feel confident in recommending and referring patients to him.Gabrielle Lou

I highly recommend Dr. Himelstein of Family First Psychotherapy. He and I worked at the same agency for almost 3 years and during that time we became very close colleagues. I feel highly confident in recommending him and commenting on his work. He is extremely passionate about working with youth and their families and this shows when you meet with him. He is easy to talk to and very relatable for adolescents. This makes the introduction to therapy less threatening for the kids that are more hesitant about therapy. He specializes in working with youth that need treatment for their use of substances. He has amazing accomplishments within this speciality including the fact that he has developed curriculum for mindfulness and substance use, published books on it, implemented assessments in facilities, and continues to train staff all around the world in implementing the same practices as him. Beyond his talented clinical abilities, I personally trust him and he has added so much value to my work through consultation and guidance. I highly recommend working with him if you ever get the opportunity to do so!Rachelle Zemlok

I can highly recommend Mica Gonzalez to anyone seeking help as a parent of young children. I’ve not met a more thoughtful and insightful clinician in the field. As a colleague working alongside Dr. Gonzalez closely for several years, I have seen first hand how he connects with both children and parents and creates a therapy environment that feels safe and comfortable right off the first meeting. Always professional, but never dry, kids connect quickly with his humor and playfulness. Caregivers appreciate experiencing progress early on, and you’ll always feel well-informed and a partner in the process. Dr. Gonzalez provides culturally sensitive care that is always rooted in up-to-date research and practice. I frequently consult with him on challenging issues, and my practice has greatly benefited from his insights. I would no doubt turn to him if and when I need help with a parenting challenge.Sami Qreini

Dr. Will Courtenay is a leading expert in men's health concerns, including PPND, Paternal Posnatal Depression. Dr. Courtenay brings his clinical expertise, as well as his interpersonal wisdom and warmth to help new fathers navigate their journeys as new dads. I highly recommend his clinical services to many of the new families I meet in my practice and support groups. He has written and spoken extensively on PPND, an often over-looked, yet very real mood concern for new fathers.Juli Fraga

I’ve had the pleasure of working with “Dr. Will” as a guest expert on my medical television program. He is a compassionate, poised and effective communicator, and I truly enjoy working with him. Dr. Will is an excellent resource and I’ve referred my cardiac patients to him because he is a sensitive listener and I trust he can help these men cope with their anxiety and depression. I highly recommend him when it comes to dealing with men’s health and psychosocial concerns.Karen Owoc

Will Courtenay has been an excellent resource and primary referral psychologist for my male patients with psycho-social sexual dysfunction and interpersonal relationship problems. He is an outstanding therapist, great listener and compassionate health care professional. As a practicing urologist, I have referred many of my patients to Will and have been impressed by how much he has helped them through difficult times. I wholeheartedly recommend his services.Joel Piser

Ellis is passionate about helping people make positive changes through mindfulness. He is very knowledgeable about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) which has been proven to be effective for those struggling with anxiety and depression. Ellis is easy to talk to- he is down to earth and caring. In addition to his professional experience, he is a longtime practitioner of mindfulness meditation. If you struggle with anxiety and want to try ACT, look no further.Annia Raysberg

I highly recommend Ellis as an individual therapist. He is kind and thoughtful; making him extremely easy to talk to. Ellis is skilled at mindfulness work and is knowledgeable with EMDR to help process trauma, anxiety and depression. If you are looking for a calm, non-judgemental therapist that creates a safe space look no further!Natasa Nordman

Ellis is a therapist with a down-to-earth presence who immediately puts you at ease when you meet him. I would highly recommend him for issues around anxiety. He is a solid clinician who helps people get results!Michael Ceely

We hired Dr. Cleere to help our aspiring ballerina to enter professional dance world. While our daughter was getting into her personal best physical shape for auditions to ballet companies, her emotional health was her biggest obstacle. We set our ecxpectations very low and communicated so much to Michelle. In many ways, ballet training is very similar to any athletic training, with one major difference. Ballerinas are trained from very early age to defer judgment of whether they are any good to teachers, adjudicators, artistic directors – anyone but themselves. Ballet dancers' earning for perfection goes hand in hand with understanding that that perfection will never be attained. While that could drive a dancer to constantly improve her/his technique, often it creates a very stressed out and confused state of mind, especially in a young adult entering professional world. This confusion and inability to own her progress drove our daughter to sometimes botch her easiest combinations, blanking out on variations in class, falling in the very end of her very strong performance during easiest turn. Our daughter's biggest struggle was to not being able to control her body when her brain would blank out under stress. Being ignored and not getting correction from a teacher would lead to her total inability to self correct, or analyze her own strength or weakness, which resulted in constant state of panic. What Dr. Cleere was able to achieve through her very patient and nonchalant approach with our kid, was to first, slowly but surely, teach her how to pay attention and feel her body during class. Second, how to give herself a permission to have a self assessment. Third, gaining power of self analysis and mindfulness. We overheard her telephone sessions sometimes. What impressed us was that Dr. Cleere kept asking and prodding even when our daughter would only give her one or two word answers. She kept bringing her attention to how her class or audition felt both physically and mentally. Towards the end of our series of sessions, our daughter moved across country having joined a professional company as a trainee. During my visit in her new home, I was a witness to one of the last session. I was happy to hear how much more chatty my kid was in reporting her progress to Michelle. I liked how Michelle kept asking my daughter to refer back to the tools she taught her and making her analyze what worked and what could have worked better. I liked that my daughter OWNED her experience, could self assess and look for her own way of correction. She is slowly learning to take teachers' criticism or praise not as final verdict of her ballet career but as an objective feedback. Thank you for that!Oksana

We hired Michelle to help our 12 year old Tennis players deal with their emotions on the Tennis court. When first meeting Michelle, we liked her demeanor, she seemed serious and had some athletic experience. The first signs that something wasn't quite right came when she shared her ridiculous hourly pricing, and the fact that sessions packs should be paid upfront and that there is no refund. The legal language in her contract also seemed over the top. After seeing this, we should have run away, but decided to stick with it since she came recommended by someone we trust… In our experience, confident and effective professionals have no problem offering optional refunds because they have a proven track record of satisfied customers… After 3 months or so of working with Michelle, here are our observations: overall, it was a positive experience for our kids, mainly because they were able to talk to a third party in confidence about their emotional challenges. So, Michelle is an adequate listener, and having such a listener, is actually a positive thing. However I just do not think you need to pay this much for someone to listen to your kids, you could ask their grand parents or a trusted friend and get just about the same result… Now, our expectation was that Michelle could provide some sport specific mental coaching help, and that is where the engagement completely fell short. It became clear that Michelle does not really know what kind of mental tools are needed by youth athletes, and Tennis players in particular. She gave our kids mental routines to use on court, none of which seemed to have any effect. I kept on mentioning that I was not seeing any results on court, and her answer seemed to be to throw more billable hours at the problem. She also did not seem to believe that seeing the kids in action (we do not live too far) would be a requirement to see progress. What's more, she gave us no homework to do in between sessions. Anecdotally, we had a power outage during one of the sessions with our kids, which lasted 20 minutes in a 50 minute session. She ended the session on time and did not offer any make up… In our opinion, given the ridiculous price she was asking, that was just incredible. It is our assessment that Michelle is essentially a con artist.Fred L

We are from India and we have approached Dr Michelle for sports counselling for our 15 year old son who is striving hard to become a Tennis Player. Our son gets anxious while in the court and now after sessions with Dr Michelle he has been able to control those anxious moments inside the court which is helping him in better Performance. Though everything is remote during these Pandemic days, Dr Michelle has been very humble and Patient and took a streamlined course content to help my son. Now my son is able to approach his game with more confidence and balance. Appreciate Dr Michelle's time and efforts all through the program. Thank you Dr Michelle.Boorela