Brenda Russell, LMFT — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Brenda!

I'm passionate about helping people recover and reclaim their lives. Therapy offers a safe space to explore your values, beliefs, strengths, and life patterns to gain clarity and direction. Whether you're navigating transitions, healing from past experiences, managing mental and emotional health, or seeking growth, I support you in the journey.

My focus

I work with anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, trauma and stressor-related disorders, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I also have extensive experience as a substance abuse specialist.

My approach

I use a solution-focused, client-centered approach with warmth and unconditional positive regard. My work is often cognitive-behavioral and family systems-based. I also utilize a psychodynamic lens because our entire story shapes how we experience ourselves, others, and how we choose to live life.

My communication style

Personal growth can be both painful and joyful, but always worthwhile. I work collaboratively with clients to gain agency and confidence, finding skills to create positive change. I instill hope and help you gain insight into barriers and contributing factors. Together, we find unique solutions tailored to your needs and goals.

My journey to mental healthcare

I became a therapist because a therapist helped me. I believe life is meant to be enjoyed, and it can be, in spite of circumstances, hardships, or barriers.

My goals for you

Clients identify their problems and goals. I may offer ideas or challenge you in a positive, supportive, non-judgmental way that always conveys respect and promotes autonomy.

Our first session

Our first session is focused on getting to know you. I use a biopsychosocial assessment to learn about factors influential in your current experience. I also learn about your mental and emotional health and how it's impacting your life.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White
Spiritual

Expertise

Specialties

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

+ 17 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

Art Therapy

Dialectical (DBT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Experiential Therapy

Humanistic

Mindfulness-Based

Motivational Interviewing

Object Relations

+ 10 more

Focus populations

Gay

Lesbian

Military/Veterans

Non-Binary

Recovery/12 Step Friendly

Sex Worker

Single Mother

Transgender

+ 8 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy
Couples Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 61 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Masters of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Marriage and Family Therapy - Chapman University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Brenda Russell