Tika Shoulders, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Tika!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a strong passion for supporting individuals navigating mental health and substance use challenges. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and substance use disorders, empowering clients toward meaningful, lasting growth and well-being.

My focus

I support adults 18 and older navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, substance use concerns, and other emotional needs. I am especially passionate about helping individuals with substance use disorders, offering compassionate, structured support for recovery. My approach is holistic and client-centered.

My approach

My therapeutic style offers a supportive, non-judgmental space grounded in empathy and active listening. With a client-centered approach, I tailor treatment to your needs, helping you explore emotions, build resilience, and move toward meaningful healing and long-term well-being.

My communication style

My communication style is grounded in warmth, empathy, and partnership. I listen deeply and create a safe, judgment-free space where you can express yourself openly. Sessions are calm, supportive, and paced around your comfort, with a collaborative approach that empowers you in your healing journey.

My journey to mental healthcare

My path to becoming a provider has been shaped by my own recovery experience. Navigating my healing journey gave me a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face with mental health and substance use. This inspired me to support others in achieving the same growth, stability, and transformation.

My goals for you

I approach goal setting collaboratively by first understanding your values, priorities, and current challenges. Together, we create meaningful and realistic goals, break them into manageable steps, and check in regularly to track progress. We adjust goals as needed and celebrate growth along the way.

Our first session

During our first session, you can expect a warm and supportive conversation focused on understanding what brings you to therapy. We’ll explore your history, current concerns, and goals at a comfortable pace. I’ll explain my approach, answer questions, and begin creating a collaborative plan tailored to your needs in a non-judgmental environment.

I identify as...

Female
Black or African American
Spiritual

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Behavioral Activation

Dialectical (DBT)

Mindfulness-Based

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 7 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Sierra Health and Life
Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied

+ 54 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Bakersfield.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Tika Shoulders