Ani Harutyunyan

My name is Ani Harutyunyan. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker having earned my Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from California State University Northridge. I am a member of NASW and a Certified Cognitive Behavior Therapist. I provide individual, family, couples, and group psychotherapy to adults. Psychotherapy is both a helping relationship and a process of change, which overcomes challenges and increases happiness.

My approach

My approach is an integrated combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

My focus

I provide psychotherapy to adults with concerns related to depression, anxiety, adjustments/life transitions, interpersonal relationships, school/work difficulties, women's issues, self-esteem issues, parenting difficulties, and family conflict.

My communication style

Techniques that I utilize include dialogue, psycho-education, relaxation, reinforcement, reframing negative thoughts, positive decision-making, role-play, mindfulness, or writing/art exercises. The therapeutic environment should be safe, honest, and respectful. I believe in meeting clients where they are at and tailoring my approach to each individual.

My journey to mental healthcare

I was always eager to listen and care for others. I identified my passion for mental health when I started working with a psychiatrist as an office manager and learned more about human behavior, vulnerability, and the need for achievement and mental well-being. I am passionate to help individuals overcome their difficulties, cope with psychosocial and emotional stressors with courage and believe in themselves, and empower and encourage them to see themselves as resourceful and resilient when they are in adverse situations.

My goals for you

Respecting each individual's goals and needs, identifying pros and cons, and working as a team with clients to assure that goals are measurable and attainable.

My first session with you

Clients will feel comfortable during their first therapy session by being provided with a safe therapeutic environment, validation, support, empathy, and encouragement. Both, the client and therapist with work together as a team, will learn about each other, will develop treatment goals, and discuss the expectation and approach of therapy.