Dolanda Charles, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Dolanda!

Taking the first step toward healing is incredibly brave, and I'm here to support you on that journey. I help young adults, older adults, and parents navigate challenges like life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. In our sessions, you'll find a safe space to explore your feelings and develop practical tools to feel more in control.

My focus

I work with parents, young adults, and older adults navigating life transitions and relationships. We'll access your inner strengths to overcome difficulties and make life changes. Together, we'll identify and reshape unhelpful thought patterns, equipping you with tools to foster emotional well-being and build stronger connections.

My approach

I create a safe, collaborative space where you can explore challenges and build tools for a more fulfilling life. By blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with mindfulness, I tailor sessions to your needs, helping you identify and change unhelpful patterns while setting goals and tracking progress.

My communication style

I prioritize clear, open, and transparent communication in a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you feel welcomed and free to fully engage. You can expect active empathetic listening and straight talk as we explore what happened without judgment and discover what may be helpful towards your emotional growth.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey into therapy began with lived experiences and a strong desire to help others find strength through life's hardest challenges. Working with mental health professionals who understood me allowed me to open up and achieve my goals collaboratively. This motivates me to help others achieve long-term wellness.

My goals for you

My goals for you are simply your goals for you. It is my honor to walk alongside you and collaboratively create a plan targeting what is relevant and meaningful to you. I will support you with tools and skills to move closer to where you want to be, whether managing anxiety, improving communication, or processing trauma.

Our first session

Our first session will be an opportunity for us to get to know one another as we discuss the physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and environmental aspects of your life to reach a richer understanding of your background and what brings you to therapy. This creates the foundation for our work together.

I identify as...

Female
Black or African American
Christian

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Mindfulness-Based

Behavioral Activation

Christian Counseling

Motivational Interviewing

+ 5 more

Focus populations

BIPOC

Military/Veterans

Single Mother

+ 3 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem
Arlo

+ 43 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) in Child Welfare from San Francisco State University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Dolanda Charles