Connect with First Responders therapists in Palm Desert, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Leslie Dorticos

Leslie Dorticos

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Leslie Dorticos, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Leslie has a Master of Clinical Health Services from Turo University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

When circumstances or life, in general, can feel overwhelming, either from past history or current situations, getting through the day can be a struggle. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where your story matters.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Griselda Garcilazo

Griselda Garcilazo

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC
10+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Griselda Garcilazo, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Griselda has a Master's of Science (MS) in Counseling from Loma Linda University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Chronic Illness
Depression
Life Transitions
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a M.S. in Counseling with dual specialization in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling from Loma Linda University. My professional focus has been serving complex care populations, which has informed my work in establishing comprehensive counseling services within various settings.

Griselda is very understanding and accommodating with her appointments, so if I need to reschedule or I am sick she has been able to reschedule me, no charge. Not only this, but she is an all around great therapist to have who provides logic and wisdom.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Annabel Vargas

Annabel Vargas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Annabel Vargas, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Annabel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Impulse Control Disorders
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Motivational

Whether you’re dealing with non-stop stress, feeling stuck in an anxious loop, navigating a messy life transition, or trying to untangle family drama, it is completely normal to need some support. I’m here to offer a down-to-earth, judgment-free space where we can sort through it all together and get you back to feeling like yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Valentina Volk

Valentina Volk

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Valentina Volk, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Valentina has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

San Luis Obispo, CA
Specialties
First Responders
Aging
Chronic Pain
Grief
Life Transitions
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

You may be carrying the weight of grief, illness, caregiving, or a major life transition while still trying to hold it all together. My work is grounded in the belief that even during difficult seasons, people have the capacity for resilience, growth, and connection.

Available virtually

A headshot image of William Larkin

William Larkin

LCSW
7+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like William Larkin, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

William has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Divorce
Life Transitions
Panic Attacks
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

I am a licensed psychotherapist that believes therapy should feel like a genuine conversation, not an interview. My goal is to create a space where you can be honest, understood, and challenged in ways that help you move forward. Together, we'll help you build a life that feels more meaningful and manageable.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stacey Robbins-Podvin

Stacey Robbins-Podvin

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Stacey Robbins-Podvin, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Stacey has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Stanislaus.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Depression
Mood Disorders
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Candid
Empowering

Counseling is a great step to assist in identifying goals and beginning forward progress. Life brings challenges and obstacles, and sometimes we are so close to a problem that we can't see the full picture. I am here to help.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jean-Pierre De Oliveira

Jean-Pierre De Oliveira

LPCC
9+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Jean-Pierre De Oliveira, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
First Responders
ADHD
LGBTQIA+
Men's Issues
Sex Therapy
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Candid
Supportive

My name is J.P. De Oliveira Estêvão, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (L.P.C.C.). I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Samuel Semanda

Samuel Semanda

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Samuel Semanda, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm an LMFT, and I warmly welcome you as you begin this work together. In an intersubjective approach, I focus on how your experiences and our therapeutic relationship unfold in the room, creating safety, meaning, and momentum.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joseph Garcia

Joseph Garcia

LMFT
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Joseph Garcia, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Joseph has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapist from Touro University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Career Counseling
Parenting
jobStress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to providing a supportive, respectful, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and understood. My approach is collaborative and practical, helping individuals navigate life challenges, strengthen coping skills, and improve relationships.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karin West

Karin West

LMFT
7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Karin West, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Karin has a Master of Health Science (MHS) from California State University, Sacramento.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Panic Attacks
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I’m a warm and down-to-earth therapist who provides a safe space to explore your concerns in a respectful non-judgmental atmosphere, providing a place in which you can feel comfortable to be you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Dana Nevin

Dana Nevin

LMFT
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Dana Nevin, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Dana has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from John F Kennedy University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Parenting
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Style
Practical
Candid
Collaborative

I believe therapy should feel real, comfortable, and useful. My approach is down-to-earth and collaborative, creating a space where you can be honest, feel understood, and work toward meaningful change without judgment.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joyce Nicholson

Joyce Nicholson

LPCC
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Joyce Nicholson, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Joyce has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Personality Disorders
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I provide a warm, supportive, and collaborative space where you can feel heard, build insight, and develop practical tools to navigate life’s challenges. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rhonda Holmes

Rhonda Holmes

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
4+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Rhonda Holmes, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Rhonda has a Master of Social Work from California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Depression
Domestic Violence
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Empowering

Sometimes life just feels like a lot, and having someone to talk things through with can make all the difference. I work with people navigating anxiety, self‑doubt, big transitions, trauma, or the pressure to keep everything together. Let's slow things down, make space for what you’re feeling, and build coping skills that actually fit you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Victoria Buskirk

Victoria Buskirk

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Victoria Buskirk, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Victoria has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Touro University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
First Responders
ADHD
Relapse Prevention
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Empowering

I enjoy working with short term or long term clients that feel stuck and would like to try modalities like EMDR and hypnotherapy to work through old patterns.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Margot Brown

Margot Brown

LMFT
31+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Margot Brown, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Margot has a Doctor of Psychology, Counseling Psychology from University of San Francisco and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from College of Notre Dame.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anger Management
Relapse Prevention
Spirituality
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Attuned
Collaborative

The most effective steps towards positive change are being honest with yourself first! Then, if you can share that honesty with me, I can meet you where you are, and we will begin the journey together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Krystle Ramirez

Krystle Ramirez

LCSW
4+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Krystle Ramirez, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Krystle has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Codependency
Family Conflict
LGBTQIA+
School Issues
Transgender Issues
Style
Responsive
Warm
Affirming

Looking for someone who specializes in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals through identity exploration, life transitions, relationships, and mental health challenges. As both a clinician and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I provide an affirming, inclusive space where clients can feel seen, understood, and empowered to live.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sarah Chavez

Sarah Chavez

LPCC
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Sarah Chavez, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sarah has a Masters in Counseling (MC) in Mental Health Clinical Counseling from Capella University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Cultural Stress
Grief
Life Transitions
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

Have you been looking for a space where you can feel genuinely seen and understood? I believe meaningful change happens through a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, safety, and connection. My approach is warm, culturally responsive, and centered on meeting you where you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of David Serbin

David Serbin

LPCC
6+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like David Serbin, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
First Responders
ADHD
Addiction
Style
Practical
Warm
Motivational

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #147386) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC #15666). Through therapy, I work with clients to help them see the positive storylines in their lives. I believe that each client has the main ingredient for success in therapy: hope.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Amber Hayslett-Atkison

Amber Hayslett-Atkison

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
14+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Amber Hayslett-Atkison, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Amber has a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Hayward.

Denair, CA
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Grief
Self-Harming
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

Welcome! If you are navigating heavy life changes, family stress, or complex behavioral hurdles, we will work side-by-side in a safe space to figure it out together. I focus on bringing clarity and practical strategy to your challenges so you feel grounded and confident. Let’s connect and handle this next step together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shelly Simpson

Shelly Simpson

LCSW
12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Shelly Simpson, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Practical
Approachable
Supportive

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with master’s degrees in Social Work and Clinical Counseling and over 20 years of experience. I primarily work with adults and also welcome teens, providing a warm, down-to-earth space where you can feel heard, supported, and comfortable being yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Cheyenne Lofthouse-Wolf

Cheyenne Lofthouse-Wolf

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Cheyenne Lofthouse-Wolf, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Cheyenne has a Master of Social Work from Widener University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Behavioral Issues
Parenting
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

I am an LCSW who believes therapy doesn't have to feel stiff or clinical to be effective. With several years of experience supporting youth, parents, and families, I help clients navigate trauma, maternal mental health challenges, ADHD, anxiety, and the often overwhelming stress of everyday life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rayna Hartman

Rayna Hartman

LMFT
7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Rayna Hartman, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Rayna has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from University of California San Francisco.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
School Issues
Self Esteem
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Empowering

You are the expert on your own life and therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to walk alongside you as a guide, create space for greater awareness, self-discovery, and choices that feel authentic and aligned with who you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tulare Mott

Tulare Mott

LCSW
13+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Tulare Mott, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tulare has a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Behavioral Issues
Developmental Disorders
Parenting
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward? I help adults navigate anxiety, stress, life transitions, and difficult emotional or behavioral patterns through a compassionate and practical approach. If you’re seeking greater clarity, confidence, and balance, I invite you to reach out.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Veronica Reyes

Veronica Reyes

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
7+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Veronica Reyes, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Veronica has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anger Management
Coping Skills
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Responsive
Candid
Motivational

Life’s challenges, trauma, and ongoing stress can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected. I work with adolescents, adults, and families using a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to help foster healing, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kerry Cannon

Kerry Cannon

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
14+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Kerry Cannon, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Kerry has a Master of Social Work from California State University, Sacramento.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Aging
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Life Transitions
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

I work alongside you as the expert on your life through active listening, reframing, and proactive support. I can teach you coping tools like visual imagery, breathing techniques, radical acceptance, and ways to reframe unproductive thoughts that don't serve you well.

Kerry undid a lot of the worries I had returning to therapy. I had previous experiences that kept me from trying it again for many years. She took every opportunity to support me in the specific ways I needed to feel supported. Her honesty and transparency about the progress I was making, the treatment itself, and what she felt would suit me or not made me feel safe and seen. I learned several techniques to temper my anxiety, depression, and PTSD that have now become part of my daily life and improved my mental health. I appreciate Kerry’s therapy style and would love to return to her in the future should I find myself needing support once again.

Available virtually