Welcome, My name is Mary Stein and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Phillips Graduate Institute and became licensed in 1999. Throughout my career of over twenty years, I have enjoyed working with individuals, couples and families. In particular, my work includes helping clients who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, addictions, grief and life challenges. In my wide range of experience , I have worked with clients in private practice; in addition, as clinical supervisor in adolescent residential programs, and in a domestic violence agency. HOW I WORK My counseling style is warm, accepting and interactive. I believe in being respectful, kind and providing a safe environment and positive feedback for each client. Together, we will explore what has brought you to the point of seeking treatment. Then, from there we will determine the most effective methods and tools to help bring you to a better place in life. It is important in approaching each therapy with compassion and make every effort to assist clients improve their ability to have healthy and fulfilling lives. I believe it is always a privilege to be a part of another’s emotional journey striving towards self-awareness, learning and healing. As a therapist, the fulfillment comes not only in the growth of clients but also in the ripple effect on others in their lives. THERAPY APPROACHES * Humanistic (person centered) approach where a therapeutic relationship is maintained that is accepting, collaborative, authentic and that gives consideration to where an individual is in their life and takes into accounts goals, expectations, and strengths. * Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) usually involves efforts to recognize one’s distortions in thinking that are creating problems, gain better understanding of the behavior, learning adaptive ways to manage their feelings and using problem solving skills to cope in more functional ways. * Existential therapy assists clients to find meaning and purpose in their lives. It is designed to help overcome essential issues and embrace one’s choices and empowerment. Taking small steps will lend to larger changes and progress. Thank you for the opportunity to work together, Mary Stein