Meet The Santa Clarita Team

Emily Dingman 

LMFT 

Emily Dingman is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who graduated with distinction from California State University, Northridge with a Master of Science in Counseling, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. She uses evidence-based practices to work with you, your unique values, needs and goals in a relaxed and comfortable environment. She dedicates herself to creating a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space for you to grow.

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Emily has experience working with a variety of mental health diagnoses, with a focus on trauma related disorders, stress related disorders, relational and family of origin struggles, as well as anxiety and depression. She is trained in multiple modalities of treatment including, but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). She has worked with individuals, couples, foster families, and children from a variety of different backgrounds for over 8 years.

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Emily has been married to a first responder for over 14 years and is a proud mother of one. She prides herself on helping you develop the tools and coping skills you need to bring balance to your life. Choosing to begin therapy is a courageous decision. If you are ready to take that leap into self-discovery, Emily will be there to walk you through even the most powerful of memories on your journey. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

EMDR and TF-CBT

Fast Facts:

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE?

Oprah Winfrey

WHO IS YOUR CHILDHOOD HERO?

Tommy Pickles

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?

Paris, France and Inverness, Scotland

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR  BODY?

Hiking and nature walks 

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

With french vanilla creamer 

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

Witnessing a client have an aha! moment 

WHO OR WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST TEACHER?

My daughter; who I learn and grow with everyday

Kara Richards  

LPCC

Kara Richards is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles, California. She received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Secondary Education and a research focus in Human Sexuality from Ursinus College in Pennsylvania and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Loyola Marymount University. Kara has worked with clients of all ages and in various settings including schools, home-based, inpatient and outpatient clinics, and private practice providing, individual, couple's, and group therapy. Kara works heavily with anxiety, traumatic stress, and mood disorders and has specialized in human sexuality and perinatal mental health with both gestational and non-gestational partners. She has experience working with addictions and other compulsive behaviors by taking a holistic approach to address underlying stress reactions to promote more adaptive coping skills. Kara takes a person-centered approach in order to utilize different tools from various theoretical backgrounds to best meet each client's individual needs.

QUALIFICATIONS 

Perinatal Mental Health

Fast Facts:

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE?

My grandmother. She was a wonderful cook and she also had wonderful stories from a pretty remarkable life.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?

After our teaching contracts ended in Spain, a friend and I spent 10 days popping around different cities in Europe. There were a lot of mishaps that challenged me in new ways. We also had a lot of fun, chaos aside. Certainly the most memorable trip that I still think of frequently.

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL SATURDAY?

I enjoy going to my exercise class in the morning with my son and friends followed by getting breakfast all together. Then family time in the afternoon with my husband and possibly trying a new local restaurant for dinner.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR  BODY?

I enjoy mainly being in group classes whether it’s yoga, palates, HIIT, or strength training. I’m currently focusing on healing my postpartum body with a group specific to moms (my son is usually serving as my weight)

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

If they are good beans made well with a pour over method, I'll take it black; but if I'm at a big chain, a café latte will do

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Lindsey Lovier 

LMFT

Lindsey Lovier is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who graduated from California State University, Northridge with a Master of Science in Counseling, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has a history of working with a diverse range of individuals and variety of age ranges. She focuses on working collaboratively to expand insight, increase individualism, promote resiliency, develop healthier coping mechanisms, cultivate growth while fostering change, and to identify and build upon one’s own strengths. 

 Lindsey believes therapy can offer a safe place to openly unpack, process, and cope with past and current trauma for those who are ready to take the leap, and commits herself to creating a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space for growth. She enjoys working collectively to empower individuals to set and achieve personal goals while developing and maintaining a healthier mindset and way of being. She has experience in the use of Cognitive Behavioral, Postmodern, and Humanistic Therapies when treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, PTSD, anger, and interpersonal conflict/relationship issues.

Fast Facts:

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?

Bora Bora

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL SATURDAY?

Taking my ATV out for a ride.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR  BODY?

Playing softball or flag football.

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

Knowing that you had a part in affecting the life of another human being; offering hope when people feel hopeless; and inspiring others to be all that they are capable of being.

IN BETWEEN SESSIONS, YOU CAN FIND ME...

Balancing management of my own self-care and completion of client notes

Kate Butalan 

APCC 

I have worked with students in underserved communities within LA county experiencing difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief and loss, interpersonal relationship problems with family and peers, in addition to crisis intervention. I enjoy working with late adolescent teens and young adults, as this is a phase in our lives where we experience the first of many milestones and ill-defined problems. As a therapist, I hope to provide a space for individuals to freely dive into self-exploration and gain clarity in their true identity as they navigate in such a complex world.

QUALIFICATIONS 

I received my 200hr Yoga Teacher Training Certification in 2017.

Fast Facts: 

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE?

My birthday twins, Wiz Khalifa and Bernie Sanders.

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL SATURDAY?

A nice slow morning followed by a stroll around the neighborhood with my dog and grab coffee. We would walk to the local farmers market to buy some produce and a bouquet of flowers for the home. Later I'd go to a nearby park to watch the sunset with a few friends over a picnic with some wine. Maybe at night we get a little dolled up and dance!

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

I take my creamer with a splash of coffee.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD DREAM?

An animated Disney character.

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

It's another medium of art to me. Like any other form of art, it is true vulnerability and interpretation as you strive for human connection. In therapy you practice the art of language and communication styles to paint the pictures that represent our perspective of the world and sense of self. Instead of a microphone or a paintbrush, we use our voice and our bodies. As a therapist I am also an artist. It is a beautiful thing.

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Tamara Diamond

Everybody has a story and I'm ready to hear yours. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in the field of social work. I earned my Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California and my Bachelors in Social Work from Azusa Pacific University. My background includes working with diverse social and cultural populations in child welfare where I engaged with children and families who had endured abuse, neglect, addiction and domestic violence. My emphasis is on supporting individuals in navigating the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, as well as enhancing self-esteem and identity. 

My approach is strength based as I help you tap into and utilize existing coping strategies, in addition to learning new skills. I will help you make connections between your past and how it impacts your present. It is never too late to change the narrative that brought you to the crossroads where you may now be seeking peace and balance in your life. I look forward to providing you with a safe space where we can navigate your journey together. 

Fast Facts: 

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?

My favorite trip is to visit my oldest son in New York City. 

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

I take my grande triple mocha in the Starbucks drive thru.

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

Being able to meet people where they are at and reframing crises as an opportunity for growth.

IN BETWEEN SESSIONS, YOU CAN FIND ME...

Watering and talking to my plants.

WHO OR WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST TEACHER?

Witnessing resiliency in the face of adversity.

Paola Zaldivar, AMFT

My approach to treatment is tailored to each client's needs. I like to first start by establishing a trusting relationship where your inner thoughts and emotions can be freely conveyed. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can have a sense of empowerment, foster growth, and mutual empathy and authenticity. I have experience working with adults, families, and couples using a Person Centered, Solution Focused, and or Narrative Therapy approach where I meet the client where they are at in their journey. My clinical interests and areas of experience include childhood trauma, adjustment disorders, attachment, anxiety, depression, and the effects of mental health on couples. I understand the importance of ongoing collaboration, both internally and externally, and I pride myself on being a strength-based, adaptable, and culturally respectful clinician.

QUALIFICATIONS 

Prepare/ Enrich Relationship Assessment Training, Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Therapy Training, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Training, Crisis Prevention Institute

Fast Facts:

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE?

Rigoberta Menchu

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?

My favorite trip was camping at Yosemite when I was a child.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD DREAM?

I dream of having the ability to fly as form of transportation. 

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

The greatest thing about being a therapist is being able to help find hope for a better future.

IN BETWEEN SESSIONS, YOU CAN FIND ME...

Sipping on my coffee and scrolling through my phone pictures.

Jennifer Kahl ,  LMFT #119777

In my eight years of experience, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups in a variety of settings who experience issues related to anxiety, mood-related symptoms, trauma, grief/loss and relationship challenges. I have grown to appreciate the importance and healing power of trauma-based work. As a trauma informed therapist, I strongly believe in a holistic-integrative approach, I help clients build personal insight so they regain understanding of how and why their mind and body respond in sometimes upsetting or challenging ways (such as anxiety/panic attacks, overthinking, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, low-self-esteem, feeling disconnected from self/others, etc.). I enjoy providing psychoeducation on the brain and nervous system. I assist clients in identifying their resources and offer somatic-based strategies, along with incorporating mindfulness, self-compassion and cognitive behavioral therapy throughout the process. I bring a positive, compassionate and nurturing perspective to all of my work and work within a warm and accepting environment. I am deeply passionate about helping others explore new ways to nourish parts of the self and fostering deeper connections between the mind and body. I appreciate the opportunity to help people make a difference by supporting clients resiliency through the therapeutic relationship.

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QUALIFICATIONS 

• Foundational SSP Training Certificate of Completion by Unyte-iLs.

• Engaging The Rhythm of Regulation: Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice

• Trauma Resiliency Model Level 1 Training

• Somatic Experiencing Practitioner

• Trauma Focused-CBT online

• Special Education Advocate

Fast Facts:

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE?
My mom
WHO IS YOUR CHILDHOOD HERO?
Wonder woman
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?
Maui and Bahamas
WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL SATURDAY?
Self-care, nature, cooking and/or eating out at favorite restaurant
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR BODY?
walking and dancing
WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?
being present and an empathic listener and when there are those aha moments!
IN BETWEEN SESSIONS, YOU CAN FIND ME...
hanging with my cats or in nature
WHO OR WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST TEACHER?
my children

Karen Torres,  LMFT 

Karen earned her B.S in Human Services from the University of Phoenix and her M.S in Counseling at the University of Phoenix. Karen is passionate about working with adults of all backgrounds/ ages. Karen's main goal is to help patients recognize their strength, to help patients make necessary changes to be happier, learn healthy copings skills, and help reach their full potential.

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QUALIFICATIONS 

• EMDR trained, TFCBT certified,

Fast Facts:

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR  BODY?

dancing and evening walks

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

I enjoy vanilla lattes

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD DREAM?

to be a model but also enjoyed helped others

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

helping someone heal

IN BETWEEN SESSIONS, YOU CAN FIND ME...

eating / snacking

Andres F. Castaneda

AMFT #144053

Hello my name is Andres Castaneda, I have a Bachelors degree in Sociology with a focus in Social Work and a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My style of therapy is collaborative and believe the client is their own author to their story. I believe in creating a space of positivity, warmth and openness to hold meaningful conversations. I have over 9 years of experience working with diverse communities including LGBTQIA+. I have conducted therapy with individuals, couples, and adolescents. My experience includes working with clients diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety, Grief and loss, Marital or relationship conflict, Autism spectrum disorder, Self esteem, Life transitions, Women's support for self confidence and boundary setting, Men's identifying and restructuring masculinity , Trauma and PTSD, and children using a play based therapeutic approach. I use a family systems approach in helping clients discover connections with their feelings, behaviors and emotions as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Narrative therapy. I am passionate in learning about an individuals perspective in how they view the world around them. Therapy is like a journal entry where you are free to share any thoughts, feelings, without the fear of judgement.

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QUALIFICATIONS 

​Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Prepare/Enrich Certified Facilitator

Fast Facts:

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE?

I would love to have dinner with James Arthur Baldwin

WHO IS YOUR CHILDHOOD HERO?

My mother

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?

Backpacking trip in Europe

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL SATURDAY?

Spending time outdoors with my family

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR  BODY?

Deep stretching and Pickleball

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

I do not drink coffee but I enjoy fruit smoothies

Alexandra Garcia

LMFT 123868

Alexandra Garcia is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Alexandra graduated from Cal State University Northridge with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling with specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. Alexandra has experience working with a diverse population of families, parents, children, and teens. Alexandra currently is only providing individual therapy for adults. Alexandra’s specialty is utilizing a trauma and cultural lens when working with clients around issues of intimacy, stress management, life transitions, & enhancing personal relationships. Alexandra implements a variety of evidenced based practices (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR) to find the best treatment for you because therapy is not one size fits all. The interventions she uses in sessions all depend on your personal needs and goals for therapy. Alexandra likes to give her clients autonomy and control, while at the same time providing guidance and offering tools to help you along the way. Alexandra wants you to feel empowered in the process, and find the clarity that you have been searching for. It may not be easy, but awareness and self-actualization are worth it.

QUALIFICATIONS 

EMDR Trained

Fast Facts:

IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE?

Trixie and Kataya from Rupaul’s Drag Race

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP YOU HAVE TAKEN?

Japan

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR  BODY?

Walking through Target, Running , and Pilates

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

More of tea gal Matcha with almond milk but for treat myself self kinda day it would be 2 shots of espresso shaken with almond milk and and dash of cinnamon (iced of course) :)

IN BETWEEN SESSIONS, YOU CAN FIND ME...

Loving on my two kittens, trying to stay off my phone :) getting outside for some sunshine, listening

Eva Teitelbaum

AMFT 145672

Eva Teitelbaum is a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. She has volunteered at a private school working with adolescents, children and families. Eva is looking forward to working with individuals of all ages. She helps her client’s feel confident, empowered and to find their true self. She believes in meeting the client exactly where they are along their journey to assist with their desired changes. Eva takes a person-centered approach in order to utilize different tools from various theoretical backgrounds to best meet each client’s individual needs.

CERTIFICATIONS:

Certified Transaction Coordinator. Certified hot yoga instructor.

Fast Facts:

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL SATURDAY?

In the morning, enjoying a nice big cup of coffee while reading a book and cuddling with my dog, Bear. Then I take Bear on some sort of adventure such as the park, beach, or hike. On Bear’s adventure I will most likely stop for some more coffee.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO MOVE YOUR  BODY?

I love all physical activities such as running, hiking, skating, boxing, water sports... my absolute favorite is yoga as I am able to find a mind and body connection.

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?

I love all coffee and all day! My perfect coffee would be a vanilla and peppermint latte with oat milk.

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THING ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

The privilege of being welcomed into my client's journey, hearing their story and who they truly are. The ability to shine so much light that each individual can see the light that has always been within and shine like the star that they are.

WHO OR WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST TEACHER?

Life's journey has been my greatest teacher.