Brian Waters, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Brian!

I offer a nonjudgmental, welcoming space to work through whatever you're facing. I have experience helping people navigate depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, gambling issues, trauma, and more. Having gone through my own journey, I understand how difficult it can be to take that first step and build trust.

My focus

I work with adults, individuals, and couples, focusing on depression, anxiety, and dual diagnosis. My expertise spans substance use, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anger management, grief, and relationship issues. Sessions are online only, available Mon-Thu evenings.

My approach

My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, focused on you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. I use CBT, ACT, DBT skills, and motivational interviewing as needed. I'm Seeking Safety Certified and value the mind-body connection in our work.

My communication style

I'm warm, direct, and nonjudgmental. I listen closely and ask thoughtful questions rather than lecture. I'll be honest with you, even when it's hard, while making sure you always feel respected and heard. Therapy should feel collaborative, not clinical.

My journey to mental healthcare

I earned my MSW from Wurzweiler School of Social Work in 2020. My path here was shaped by my own mental health journey, which taught me how hard it is to ask for help, and a genuine desire to give back. That experience grounds my nonjudgmental approach today.

My goals for you

I draw from CBT, ACT, DBT skills, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based approaches, adapting to what works for you. I teach practical coping skills while exploring deeper patterns. I'm Seeking Safety Certified for trauma and substance use together.

Our first session

Our first session is a relaxed conversation, not an interrogation. We'll talk through what brought you in, your goals, and your history at your own pace. There's no pressure to have it all figured out; we'll build a plan together from there.

I identify as...

Male
Caucasian or White

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Attachment-based

Behavioral Activation

Child/Parent Psychotherapy

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

Trauma Focused

+ 12 more

Focus populations

Educators

Recovery/12 Step Friendly

Single Mother

Body Positivity

+ 4 more

Therapy types

Couples Therapy
Family Therapy
Individual Therapy

Ages served

Minors
Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Arlo (Cigna)
Ascension-SmartHealth

+ 18 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Brian Waters