Our founding therapists

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

LICENSED MARRIAGE AND
FAMILY THERAPIST
Roya Sakhai

I will help you to look at your past, look at who you loved, and how you learned to be loved. Multi-lingual Counseling Center Inc. was formed by looking at my personal life and by using my research for my Doctoral dissertation on “How switching in languages can affect Personality”. Having lived as an immigrant most of my life, and a multilingual person, I, realized how important was for me to be understood in the language I was expressing my feelings. In my research, I realized that studies have found that bilinguals / multi-linguals change their personality as they switch between their languages. In my research I also realized that bilinguals/ multi-linguals can better access their memory in the language that memory was formed.

Languages: English — Farsi — Dari — Spanish — Italian

TRAINING DIRECTOR

LICENSED
CLINICAL
PSYCHOLOGIST
Kambiz Sakhai

My approach to psychotherapy takes into consideration the subjective, the objective, and the intersubjective dimensions of the life of the patient. Individual, society, and nature are all analyzed and discussed in the process of therapy. Rogerian psychotherapeutic approach deals with the subjective dimensions or the specifically psychological aspects of the process; Fromm, Frankfurt school, and Habermas are responsible for the intersubjective aspects; and Rumi and Zoroastrianism take care of the universal and human side.

Person Centered approach of Rogers which is based on Phenomenological understanding of the patient’s psyche constitutes the core of my psychotherapeutic method. This approach requires me to provide empathy and unconditional positive regard to the patient. At the same time it demands complete honesty, transparency, and congruency, on my part. Psychotherapy, according to this school, consists of the process through which the patient learns to be genuine, to himself or herself without becoming self centered and aggressive towards other human beings. S/he learns to be present as well as aware at all times without denying other peoples presence. Erich Fromm, Frankfurt School, and Jurgen Habermas constitute the other dimensions of my theoretical understanding of the world of the patient. They help me understand the social, economic, political, and linguistic ramifications of the patient’s psychopathology. They provide me with the knowledge that is necessary for understanding the socio economic, political, and linguistic barriers to an authentic life.

Beside the above mentioned schools of thought that are mainly rooted in the western culture I use Eastern Philosophies and trends of thought like Zoroastrianism and mystical approaches of Rumi and Attar. They help me, as well as the patient, to not to lose sight of the connection with the universal dimensions of the individual’s psyche and its link to the humanity and nature as a whole.

Languages: English — Farsi — Dari — Italian

Our licensed therapists

CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Patricia Olvera

As a seasoned clinical supervisor with eight years of experience in the field, I specialize in providing comprehensive support to individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, identity, and relationship issues. I lead a dedicated team of associate therapists, guiding and overseeing their professional development.

Within the therapeutic process, I emphasize evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), ensuring a clinically sound and effective approach. Whether you’re feeling disconnected in your relationship or facing individual challenges like anxiety or depression, my team and I are here to offer tailored support.

Languages: English — Spanish

  

LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Nina Marucheck

I’m committed to helping people gain insight and wisdom about themselves and their lives. Utilizing a collaborative approach, we will seek to understand important life experiences and identify ways to move forward. My work is trauma-informed and strengths-based, and I draw from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused theories. I believe that all of us need emotional support, warmth, and healthy mirroring in order to heal, grow, and lead fulfilling lives.

Languages: English

LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Margarita Orona

As a Marriage Family Therapist my focus is creating a safe and authentic environment where the clients can use their strengths to create the movement they are seeking. I assist clients in discovering the root of their emotional, physical, or psychological pain to allow healing to take place. I work with clients collaboratively providing a non-judgmental and open-minded space for clients to feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings while we work together to identify and achieve therapeutic goals. I help clients gain increased self-insight, realize their strengths, and learn new tools to help them work towards increased stability and healing within themselves and their relationships. Using my multicultural knowledge and experience I tailor therapy to an individual’s needs, I draw on insight-oriented, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness methods. I believe that the combination of a strong therapeutic relationship based on compassion and acceptance, along with help to identify and alter negative patterns of behavior, can lead to great change. While my experience includes all ages and groups, I specialize in working with adolescents and families, working collaboratively to help families build better communication and healthier boundaries.

Languages: English — Spanish

LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Zahra Seyami Dodran

As an LCSW and Ph.D. in sociology, I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to my practice. Fluent in English, Farsi, Dari, and Turkish, I’ve cultivated a rich cultural competence. My diverse experience spans across elderlies, adults, and adolescents, utilizing a strength-based client-centered approach, EMDR, CBT, and DBT. Drawing from my sociology background, I assess and treat clients within the broader context of their families, cultural backgrounds, and society. Recognizing the impact of societal factors, I assist clients in accessing essential resources, addressing the root causes of mental health challenges. Understanding the dual nature of families as sources of strength or abuse, I guide clients in developing healthy communication skills and setting boundaries, fostering the creation of nurturing and supportive relationships.

Languages: English — Farsi

Our associate therapists

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Chinyere Onuoha

You have taken the first step at an opportunity to gain insight, develop coping tools, and change behaviors that have not been serving you. I can assist you in your journey of learning and relearning. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, work burnout, and coping with grief and loss. I hold a holistic, strengths-based, mindful, and multi-cultural framework with clients while using modalities catered to your needs. I am committed to accompanying you on your journey of restoration and wellness.

Languages: English

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Gina Mahmoudi-Silverman

My main approach to psychotherapy is based on Humanistic therapy, that focuses on a person as an individual with unique potential and abilities. This method is more focused on helping my clients overcome their difficulties through personal growth, instead of focusing on what is wrong with them. I have been working with a diverse population of clients with severe anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental disorders helping them to alleviate their psychological pain that will make lasting improvement in their lives.

Languages: English — Farsi

ASSOC. PROFESSIONAL CLINICAL COUNSELOR

Ladan Bahramnia

I believe that good mental health is a necessity for life, and I am very passionate to help everyone to get the support that they need. I work with people who are struggling with a wide range of issues, providing an empathic, non-judgmental and positive regard by using person centered therapy technique.

Languages: English — Farsi

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Marieh Akhavan Gooran

I’m Marieh Akhavan Gooran, an Associate marriage and family therapist dedicated to guiding individuals and families towards holistic well-being. I am passionate about helping my clients navigate life’s challenges and discover their inner resilience.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I integrate cognitive-behavioral techniques, narrative therapy, and mindfulness to tailor treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each client. I believe in fostering a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I specialize in relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to empower clients to build resilience, enhance relationships, and achieve personal growth.

Languages: English — Farsi

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Sabina Anvari

Let’s take a moment to take a deep breath and process your thoughts and emotions. What brings you purpose and meaning? How can I be of a guide to shine light into the pathway of achieving your goals in life? I apply existential, person-centered, unconditional positive regard, and humanistic approaches to my therapy. Alternatively, my passion is working with children. Providing a safe and fun space for children to freely express their emotional and needs is of importance to child and play therapy. Angry outbursts, physical aggression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and attachment challenges are all areas that I hope to help children cope through and change along with supporting their caregivers by giving them tools needed to help children with this change. I look forward to meeting you and warmly welcoming you into therapy.

Languages: English

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Renee Demirdjian

My approach to psychotherapy is a blend of modalities including psychodynamic, person-centered, Jungian, integrative, humanistic, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, and attachment theory to name a few.  I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, behaviors, relationships, identities, core wounds, thought patterns, traumas, attachment styles, and family of origin wounds.  The strategies we learned for survival in childhood usually trap us in cycles, beliefs, and behaviors that are maladaptive as adults and no longer serve us.  Together we explore the complexities of what it means to be human and how we can create more inner and outer alignment and peace. Supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Languages: English

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Tina Namakian

My name is Tina and I use she/her pronouns. I’m a queer, Middle Eastern woman who immigrated to the US from Iran in 2011. I’m passionate about providing culturally sensitive, client centered, strength based therapy to clients of all ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds. As a queer therapist, I strive to provide a safe space for historically marginalized communities to get access to mental health resources that can support their wellbeing. I am especially interested in working with clients who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, and neurodivergent folks who struggle to fit in a heteronormative, neurotypical society. I’m looking forward to connecting to you, and supporting you through your journey towards self acceptance and growth!

Languages: English — Farsi

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Valentyna Stusenko

As a therapist and personally, I truly believe that all people are born equally good. Each and every one of us has had a variety of experiences throughout our lives that have shaped our personalities, our relationships with people, and our view of ourselves. Throughout the course of our work together, in a safe atmosphere of trust and empathy, we will be able to give you the opportunity to relive your previous experiences and learn new lessons from old memories. With my support, you will learn to perceive yourself and the world around you in a new way that will benefit your ability to build, maintain, and develop relationships. The significance of understanding your past is that it empowers your future.

Languages: English — Ukrainian — Russian

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Vanessa Davis

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or lost in your current situation? Do you find yourself struggling with symptoms of depression and anxiety that are impacting your daily functioning and overall quality of life? Perhaps you also battle with negative self-talk, self-doubt, and low self-esteem. These challenges can be difficult to navigate alone, but you don’t have to face them by yourself. With guidance and support, we can work together to create positive changes in your life and build a stronger foundation for lasting growth and happiness. My approach to therapy is humanistic person-centered, which means that I focus on the unique needs and goals of each individual I work with. I prioritize and integrate cultural sensitivity and experiences into therapy. I am committed to creating a nurturing and accepting space for you to freely express and work through your feelings and experiences. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey, and to provide an experience that feels both healing and empowering. I understand that starting therapy can be intimidating, which is why I am happy to answer any questions you may have and to provide you with the support you need to feel comfortable throughout the process.

Languages: English

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Jessica Nuñez

I am passionate about serving the community by providing culturally sensitive mental health services. My approach is rooted in building personal connections and establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship. I believe that healing is a collaborative process and I work closely with my clients to create a safe and supportive space for exploring life’s challenges. My approach is rooted in a person-centered and psychodynamic perspective, recognizing the importance of addressing the interplay between mind, body, and spirit. I enjoy assisting children, adolescents, and adults on their mental health journey. My work is guided by a deep commitment to inclusivity and dedicating a setting to create safe spaces for individuals from all backgrounds to explore their inner-worlds and find their path towards personal growth and fulfillment. I am committed to promoting mental health, well-being and strive to empower my clients to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Languages: English — Spanish

ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

Yulissa Sanchez

I am a first generation Latina who specializes in working with children, adolescents and immigrant Spanish speaking families. I mainly use a person centered and humanistic approach in therapy because I believe people are experts of their own lives and have the capacity to lead their own healing. I believe the therapist is responsible for creating a safe, trusting, and empathic environment during sessions for clients to feel they can be their true authentic self. I use a strength based approach to support clients through their self-discovering and personal growth journey. My goal is to help clients gain self-awareness, self-confidence and self-love.

Languages: English — Spanish

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