Cheryl Girdner, LMFT — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Cheryl!

I help adults navigate anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges with compassion, practical tools, and insight. Together, we'll build on your strengths so you can feel more confident, connected, and hopeful about your future.

My focus

I especially enjoy working with adults who are motivated to make positive changes, whether they're navigating anxiety, depression, work stress, life transitions or relationship difficulties.

My approach

I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while tailoring treatment to each person's unique needs. I believe therapy should be collaborative, practical and encouraging. Together, we'll identify unhelpful thought patters, build healthier coping strategies and create realistic goals that support lasting emotional well-being.

My communication style

My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where you can explore challenges without judgment while developing practical tools for everyday life. Clients often describe me as warm, compassionate and easy to talk to. I believe meaningful change begins with feeling heard and understood.

My journey to mental healthcare

I've always been fascinated by understanding why people think, feel, and behave the way they do. That curiosity led me to become a therapist, and it's a privilege to walk alongside people as they gain insight, heal from difficult experiences and discover new ways to thrive.

My goals for you

Therapy is a partnership. We'll work together to establish goals that reflect what's most important to you. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety, navigating a difficult season, improving relationships, or building greater confidence, I'll help you develop practical tools that support lasting emotional wellness.

Our first session

Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another. We'll discuss what brings you to therapy, your goals, and what you hope to accomplish. I'll answer any questions you have and explain how we'll work together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. My hope is that you'll leave feeling heard, supported, and encouraged.

I identify as...

American Indian or Alaska Native
Christian

Expertise

Specialties

+ 11 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Christian Counseling

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

+ 3 more

Focus populations

Body Positivity

Educators

Single Mother

+ 3 more

Therapy types

Couples Therapy
Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 59 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Science in Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy from Chapman University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Cheryl Girdner