David Vest

"What doesn't hurt you makes you stronger.....but don't show your emotions!" Hi, I am Dr. David Vest EdD-C a doctoral candidate in psychological traumas and a licensed marriage family therapist in California (LMFT103919 Exp 8/25). I specialize in psychological traumas and trauma-informed conditions and treatments. I have been practicing since 2010 and also work with kids and teenagers, anxiety, depression, cognitive disorders, substance use, and couples.

My approach

I utilize more modern theories and approaches to assist people, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Bilateral stimulation, Neurofeedback, Somatic, Multiphase, Exposure, Brainmapping, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure therapy, and other newer theories that incorporate not just thoughts and behaviors but include an aspect of spiritualness. For couples, I use the Gottman approach as well as ACT and some of my own therapies designed to open communication and have communication mean more.

My focus

I focus on the strengths and perspectives that people bring with them. I believe most of us already have many answers to our problems and treat each person as their expert. My position is to meet you where you are without judging you, help you gain new insight into your strengths, and emphasize how to use these skills better.

My communication style

Therapy feels difficult to many people, especially if they grew up in a family or culture that does not value mental health. I communicate with people at a fundamental ground level. I have a unique ability to take complicated issues and break them down into usable pieces. The nature of providing the newer therapy theories leads to feelings of revelation in session and "light-bulb" moments. Most people I work with report feeling connected and warm and enjoy the upbeat and enlightening moments.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a therapist has been lifelong. I never imagined I would become a therapist. Throughout my life and my many experiences, I learned every part was preparing me to understand and help others. I understand culture through my eight years of service in the US Navy while engaging in different countries. I understood pain, family issues, substance use, and trauma from my 16 years of law enforcement experience especially the last four years as a homicide/ arson detective. (Yes I do have good crime stories) I learned how to break down complicated theories, philosophies, and metaphysical underpinnings as a professor and academic. Most importantly, I can use myself as a tool to help others through my anxieties, pains, and traumas. We truly do heal better with the help of other people and I have learned how to maximize that potential. I will state that I am still learning and while I have the expertise, I expect to learn from you and gain new perspectives. I respect and think being a therapist is really a professional partnership with you.

My goals for you

People frequently come into therapy with no idea of what they want from treatment other than to feel better or communicate better. Setting goals in therapy is very important, and I like to offer options for people on what goals they could develop and treatment options for how to achieve those goals. It is not uncommon for people to change their goals even if they feel they have a direct path while in therapy. My part is to be upfront and honest in what I can and can't do that offers you the best options.

My first session with you

Expect to be nervous. I get nervous, too. Remember that when you engage in therapy, you are allowing a random person into your pain with the hope they can help. That is a big deal. I approach your choice with dignity and respect. I offer upbeat and enlightening assessments from day one. I am also very upfront in stating this is your therapy and while I am very competent, I may not be the one for you, and that is okay because I can help you find someone or something else that helps. I encourage you to learn about mental health and the options you have.