Meet Our Team
Dr. Nicole Chavez
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Dr. Nicole Chavez is a licensed clinical psychologist, certified play therapist, and has specialized training in maternal mental health. She has been providing therapeutic and supportive services to children, adolescents, parents, and families since 2007. She has experience in providing therapy in a variety of settings to children ages 0-21, as well as working with pregnant and new mothers. She strongly believes in prevention and early intervention in order to maintain individual well-being, to promote healthy family relationships, and to facilitate positive bonding and attachment between the child and caregiver. While she enjoys providing individual therapy, she is a strong believe in the importance of working with the whole family. Dr. Chavez enjoys working with parents individually to help them improve their confidence in their parenting skills.
Dr. Chavez is dedicated to providing quality services and personalized care to each and every one of her clients. She prefers to work collaboratively with her clients in which they are an active participate in their change. |
Aside from providing therapy, Dr. Chavez enjoys psychological testing. She is able to provide psychological testing for a variety of struggles, including ADHD, learning disabilities, and helping an individual clarify emotional struggles and learn personal strengths and weaknesses. She is also skilled in early assessment and diagnosis of perinatal mood disorders and childhood mental health disorders. Dr. Chavez’s passion for psychological testing goes beyond the clinical setting, she also teaches psychological testing at the American School of Professional Psychology, and supervises unlicensed professionals and students in the area of psychological testing.
Dr. Chavez earned her doctorate degree from the American School of Professional Psychology, Orange County in 2010. Dr. Chavez holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Clemson University. She also is a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and earned her certification from the University of California, San Diego Extension Program. She also has training in and uses evidence based practices, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy and Functional Family Therapy when working with families.
Dr. Chavez is licensed in the State of California as a clinical psychologist. PSY 24982
Dr. Chavez earned her doctorate degree from the American School of Professional Psychology, Orange County in 2010. Dr. Chavez holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Clemson University. She also is a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and earned her certification from the University of California, San Diego Extension Program. She also has training in and uses evidence based practices, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy and Functional Family Therapy when working with families.
Dr. Chavez is licensed in the State of California as a clinical psychologist. PSY 24982
Dr. Parie Faridnia
I'm passionate about using humor, stories, and analogies to help my clients look at their challenges from a new perspective.
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If you feel stuck in old patterns it may seem impossible to free yourself. Today is the day. All you need to start the therapy process is the willingness to make that first contact. Dr. Faridnia believes in the innate ability of her clients to transform themselves, their relationships, and their lives. Everyone encounters challenges whether it's depression, anxiety, loss, failed relationships, compulsions, or past traumas. Dr. Faridnia works collaboratively with her clients to develop self-awareness and self esteem, a key foundation of meaningful relationships. She enjoys acting as an empowering, knowledgeable guide along each client’s unique therapeutic journey. Dr. Faridnia is a strong supporter of prevention and early intervention to bring about and maintain healthy familial attachments, reduce incidence and severity of risk factors, and increase individual strengths. Dr. Faridnia is committed to helping children, teens, and their families improve their communication and relationships.
Dr. Faridnia is a certified expert in parenting and family therapy. She is certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence based treatment model, where she provides education and live coaching to parents to strengthen the parent-child bond, promote healthy parent-child attachment relationships, and decrease maladaptive child behavior. Dr. Faridnia is also certified in Functional Family Therapy, an evidenced based short-term family therapy model for tweens, teens, and young adults (aged 10-21) to decrease risky behavior, blame, and negativity, and increase responsibility, warmth, and functional communication. She helps to engage and motivate teens and their families by decreasing intense negativity, reducing and eliminating problem behaviors, and strengthening familial relationships and communication. |
Dr. Faridnia has specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, play therapy, and suicide assessment and intervention.She is passionate about helping individuals who are suicidal find another way to cope with overwhelming despair, pain, and suffering. She utilizes a collaborative, short-term, evidence-based intervention program for those presenting with thoughts and plans of suicide. Dr. Faridnia believes that preventing suicide is a shared responsibility between her and her clients. Together, Dr. Faridnia works with her clients to develop their ability to label their emotions and create personalized strategies to calm themselves and keep themselves safe. She has developed a strong skillset in treating individuals in crisis and has specific training centered around the prevention and intervention of suicide. She acts as a community advocate for promoting best practices in the assessment and management of suicidal behavior.
She is a member and active supporter of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, a supporter of the Los Angeles County Perinatal Task Force, and a member of the American Association for Play Therapy. Dr. Faridnia has extensive experience working with adolescents, parents, and families since 2008.
Dr. Faridnia earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology in 2012. Dr. Faridnia earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology in 2009. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development from the University of California, Davis in 2007.
Dr. Faridnia is currently licensed as a clinical psychologist in the state of California. PSY 26838.
She is a member and active supporter of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, a supporter of the Los Angeles County Perinatal Task Force, and a member of the American Association for Play Therapy. Dr. Faridnia has extensive experience working with adolescents, parents, and families since 2008.
Dr. Faridnia earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology in 2012. Dr. Faridnia earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology in 2009. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development from the University of California, Davis in 2007.
Dr. Faridnia is currently licensed as a clinical psychologist in the state of California. PSY 26838.
Dr. Allie DeSousa
I'm dedicated to supporting children and families as they identify their challenges and work toward meaningful change.
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Dr. Allie DeSousa is a licensed clinical psychologist who collaborates with Dr. Parie Faridnia. She has specialized expertise in psychological assessment across childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. Dr. DeSousa conducts comprehensive evaluations to clarify concerns related to neurodevelopmental conditions—including Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)—as well as learning differences, mood disorders, trauma-related symptoms, and personality-related concerns. Her assessment approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in evidence-based practice. She strives to provide clear, practical recommendations that meaningfully guide treatment planning and support family understanding.
Dr. DeSousa is passionate about working with children and their caregivers. In addition to her assessment work, she has provided therapeutic services to children ages 0 to 21 and has offered parent support for several years. She integrates attachment-based frameworks, play therapy principles, and developmentally informed interventions to strengthen connection and promote emotional well-being. She is also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and values empowering parents to build confidence and foster healthy family relationships. Dr. DeSousa earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Anaheim, in 2024. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. PSY 36293 |
Alyssa Rios
I value a client centered approach to therapy and focus on strengthening my client as well as building a therapeutic relationship that will foster success.
My goal is to make my client feel seen and heard by providing a space of empathy and unconditional positive regard. With that framework, my goal is to provide my clients with the skills and tools they need to succeed in life. |
Alyssa Rios is a doctoral trainee under the supervision of Dr. Parie Faridnia. She is currently in her fourth year at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Anaheim Campus, pursuing a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development. Alyssa earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School in 2024.
Alyssa has completed clinical training at multiple settings, including a diagnostic practicum at CreatingFamiliesTogether.org, a non-profit organization where she conducted psychological assessments and provided therapeutic services to children ages 3 to 7. She also trained at ROWI Teen and Parent Wellness Centers, where she offered therapy in a more intensive setting for at-risk children and adolescents. Alyssa utilizes a client-centered, developmentally informed approach to therapy. For younger children, she incorporates non-directive play therapy, using play as a tool to help children express and process emotions, thoughts, and experiences. For adolescents and adults, she takes a non-directive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, helping clients identify and reframe negative thought patterns. She also integrates techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support emotional regulation and improve interpersonal functioning. A strong proponent of mindfulness, Alyssa often incorporates practices such as diaphragmatic breathing and guided meditations to encourage present-moment awareness and self-reflection. Alyssa is passionate about supporting the emotional well-being of children, teens, and families, and is committed to creating a safe, supportive space for growth and healing. |
Casey Suh
I believe that healing begins when we feel safe, seen, and supported. I strive to support children and families with early, compassionate, and culturally attuned care that builds resilience and prevents further adversity.
I feel honored to walk alongside clients as they grow, heal, and reconnect with their strengths |
Casey Suh is a doctoral trainee in Clinical Psychology under the supervision of Dr. Parie Faridnia. She is currently pursuing both her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology at Azusa Pacific University. Casey also holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Art and a minor in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University.
Before entering the field of mental health, Casey worked as a licensed K–8 educator and spent five years teaching kindergarten in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her extensive background in education, combined with a deep commitment to holistic child development, inspired her to pursue graduate training in clinical psychology. Casey has professional experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), where she supported children with developmental delays through individualized, goal-oriented interventions aimed at building adaptive skills and functional independence. Currently, she serves as a clinical extern at Healing Together Therapy & Wellness Center, an organization that offers accessible, affordable, and inclusive mental health services to English-speaking individuals across Asia. Casey is committed to providing individualized, empathetic care to adults and children. She provides treatment that is uniquely designed to meet her client's needs, with emphasis on identity development, emotion regulation, and healing from past trauma. Her therapeutic approach integrates Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Theory, and Mindfulness, while collaboratively developing culturally responsive SMART goals tailored to each client’s unique needs. Casey brings cultural humility and lived experience to her work, particularly with immigrant families, bicultural individuals, and those navigating intergenerational trauma. She is passionate about cultivating a safe, empathetic therapeutic space where clients can explore their inner world and relational patterns with curiosity and self-compassion. In addition, she remains deeply committed to supporting children and families through early intervention, play-based therapy, and culturally attuned care. |
Isabel Avila
I strive to create a safe therapeutic environment as I aspire to validate my client’s authentic selves.
I utilize humor, curiosity, and active listening to connect and engage with clients. |
Isabel Avila is a 4th year doctoral trainee under the supervision of Dr. Nicole Chavez, Psy.D.
Currently, she is working toward her Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on child and adolescent therapy at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She has two years of experience working with children with an autism spectrum disorder as an Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapist. Isabel is an ambitious clinical psychologist with a history of working with children, adolescents, and young adults in various mental health settings. |
Jennifer Leaver
I love skiing, swimming, reading and going to the beach with my dogs.
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Jennifer Leaver received a Bachelor's degree in psychology from University of Washington and a Master's degree in Social Psychology with a specialty in intergroup relations from Claremont Graduate University.
She has taught psychology at the college level for over 20 years and enjoys working with both students and clients. Jennifer has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, and play therapy. She has completed the coursework for her doctorate, is working on supervised clinical hours, and will begin her doctoral dissertation soon. I am excited for the next steps in my career and I enjoy providing excellent care for my clients. |
Kristin Ibrahim
For me, therapy begins with trust. By cultivating a safe and compassionate environment, I aim to help individuals feel secure enough to share their stories, confront their challenges, and build the tools they need to thrive in the future.
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Kristin Ibrahim is a fourth-year Doctoral Candidate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles, where she also earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. Currently training under the supervision of Dr. Nicole Chavez, she brings a strong foundation in psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and culturally responsive care across a variety of clinical settings.
Kristin has gained comprehensive clinical experience through her doctoral externship at Sunny Hills Behavioral Health, where she conducted intake evaluations, developed individualized treatment plans, and provided both psychotherapy and psychological assessments. She also trained at Lighthouse Health Center, offering individual and group therapy to residents in a skilled nursing facility, with a focus on enhancing emotional, cognitive, and social well-being. Additionally, Kristin continues her work with Universal Psychological Services as a Clinical Assistant, where she conducts intake interviews, supports diagnostic evaluations, and prepares medical-legal documentation for patients involved in workers’ compensation cases. Kristin is known for her warm, compassionate approach and her ability to build strong therapeutic alliances. She creates a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and understood, fostering meaningful connection as a foundation for healing and personal growth. Her approachable style resonates with individuals of all ages, helping them navigate complex emotional experiences with confidence and clarity. Outside of her clinical training, Kristin has been deeply involved in community service for over a decade, with a particular passion for working with children and families. She believes that early intervention is key to long-term well-being and sees her work with youth as a way to strengthen both individuals and the broader communities they are part of. Fluent in English and proficient in Arabic, Kristin is committed to providing empathetic, respectful, and culturally attuned care to those she serves. |
McKayla Kay
I am focused on building an empathetic and wholistic conceptualization of every client..
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Dr. McKayla Kay is a Registered Psychological Associate currently completing her postdoctoral fellowship under the supervision of Dr. Nicole Chavez. She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Anaheim, specializing in child, adolescent, and family therapy. Dr. Kay is a member of the Association for Play Therapy (APT) and is actively pursuing certification as a Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
Dr. Kay provides trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive care to children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families. Her clinical expertise includes working with complex trauma, attachment issues, adoption and foster care challenges, neurodevelopmental differences such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD, as well as mood and behavioral concerns. Her therapeutic approach is warm and relational, grounded in evidence-based practices including Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and family therapy. Dr. Kay’s diverse clinical training spans community mental health, residential care, and medical settings, including Harbor-UCLA. In addition to therapy, Dr. Kay conducts comprehensive psychological assessments to clarify concerns related to ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, depression, trauma, and emerging personality features. Her evaluations are developmentally sensitive and inform accurate diagnoses and individualized treatment planning. Committed to fostering a strong therapeutic alliance, Dr. Kay is honored to support her clients through meaningful growth and healing. |
Mayra Mehrguth
Therapy is hard work and sometimes extremely daunting. I enjoy helping clients feel comfortable and safe in a therapeutic setting by using empathy, understanding, and awareness. I strive to create an environment where I can come alongside, support, and work toward all the goals of my clients
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Mayra Mehrguth is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, under the supervision of Dr. Nicole Chavez. Mayra graduated with her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and received her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lamar University.
Mayra previously worked at an intensive outpatient program geared towards helping children with mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, ADHD and much more. Mayra has experience working with both adults and children (as young as toddlers) who are experiencing severe depression and anxiety. Mayra has also found a love of working with families, mothers, fathers, and children as they navigate the many challenges life can throw at us. As a mother of three, Mayra uses the skills learned in motherhood to be compassionate and understating of parents and children as they develop and grow into new life stages. Mayra also previously volunteered at A21, which is an anti-human trafficking non-profit organization. |
Melissa Hitt
With presence and care, I hold space for whatever arises, trusting in your capacity to grow and heal..
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Melissa Hitt is a clinical psychology practicum trainee under the supervision of Dr. Nicole Chavez. She is recognized for her compassionate and grounded presence in her work with individuals and families. Her therapeutic approach is informed by over two decades of experience in public health and healthcare consulting, along with her lived experience as a mother. Melissa deeply understands the importance of feeling seen, supported, and empowered—particularly during significant life transitions such as pregnancy, the postpartum period, and parenting.
Her clinical interests include perinatal mental health, child and adolescent therapy, and trauma-informed care. She integrates mindfulness practices, somatic experiencing, and evidence-based strategies to support emotional resilience and strengthen connection. Melissa is currently completing her practicum as part of her doctoral studies in clinical psychology at California Southern University. She also holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Harvard University. |
Natalie McIvers
I consider it an immense privilege to support my clients on their healing journey.
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Natalie McIvers is a Registered Psychological Associate under the supervision of Dr. Parie Faridnia. Natalie Graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a master’s degree in clinical psychology with an emphasis in family systems. Natalie also holds a second master’s degree in forensic psychology, with an emphasis in applied clinical psychology from George Washington University. Natalie also received a graduate certificate for specialized training in autism spectrum disorders. Natalie is currently in the process of earning her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.
In addition to her formal education and clinical training experience, Natalie has actively pursued advanced training in several specialty areas. She holds training in: Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Child Play Therapy, Biofeedback, Polyvagal Theory, Sensorimotor Therapy, Family Systems Theory, and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT). Natalie takes a holistic approach to her theoretical orientation utilizing a mind-body approach as well as Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more depending on the needs of her client. Her approach includes consideration of her client’s childhood, social history, worldview, family system and physical health. Natalie is passionate about providing compassionate, comprehensive care for her clients. She specializes in working with couples, adults, families and children. Natalie works collaboratively with her clients to understand the meanings behind their emotions, thoughts, interactions, and patterns. She believes that through addressing the root cause of psychological symptoms, anyone can find healing and prosperity. When working with children, she incorporates play therapy and relational psychodynamic therapy to explore the source and function of the child’s behaviors. Natalie strives to create a safe space where children can process life events through conversation, imaginative play, art therapy, and other types of developmentally supportive therapy. Natalie’s work with couples draws on a humanistic and attachment-oriented approach, supporting couples with empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. Her attachment-oriented approach encourages a resilient, secure emotional bond between partners. She tailors her approach to meet the goals of the couple, honoring their needs both as individuals and as a connected partnership. Through therapy, Natalie believes that couples can recognize and understand their patterns, develop new emotional experiences, and ultimately form a thriving, joyous partnership. |
Raymeka Moss
I believe in creating a safe space for my clients to be themselves, explore interests and talk about the hard things we face in this life. I work in a creative way so that each client is treated according to their unique needs. My hope is that through the work I do with my clients, they can develop the skills needed to embrace their life and their experiences.
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Raymeka Moss is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who collaborates with Dr. Parie Faridnia. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Substance Abuse and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
With extensive experience serving individuals ranging from ages 3 to 75, Raymeka is passionate about supporting both individuals and their families. She emphasizes the importance of community and the strengthening of relationships, working to empower clients so they can engage in life in a way that promotes positive experiences. Raymeka has worked with clients presenting a wide array of conditions, including Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder. She utilizes a person-centered approach combined with evidence-based practices to address issues such as family disruptions, relational challenges, attachment impairments, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Her treatment approach is holistic, considering not only the individual’s mental health needs but also cultural and environmental factors that may influence their well-being. LPCC# 18052 |
Sally Mansour
No one likes change, even if that change is for the better. The hardest part is starting, but you can do hard things! Wherever you are in your unique journey, whether it is thinking about therapy, scheduling an intake appointment, giving therapy another chance, or somewhere in between, I am proud of you. It is not easy, but you deserve to feel happiness and confidence in who you are. It is not about making big changes but being consistent with small changes. You got this!
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Sally Mansour is an Licensed Clinical Social Worker, under the supervision of Dr. Nicole Chavez. Sally graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Boston with a BA in Social Psychology. Sally went on to receive a Master of Social Work degree, with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Families, from the University of Southern California (USC).
Sally values building the therapeutic relationship because she understands that it takes time for people to trust and feel safe enough to be vulnerable with their therapist. Sally uses humor and sees the significance of showing up as her most authentic self so that others feel comfortable doing the same. Sally emphasizes the importance of working together as a team because she believes the clients always know themselves best. Serious topics do not need to be talked about so seriously. Sally enjoys bringing a lightness to taboo conversations and has found that normalizing the human experience creates a space for people to learn about themselves and process their emotions. Sally has experience working with clients ages 2-89. She has worked in different areas of the mental health field, including elementary/middle/high school settings, a hospital, a temporary housing site for people experiencing homelessness, a foster care and adoption agency, and group homes. Sally has experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and suicidal ideation. My belief as a therapist is, “See no difference between you and those that you serve.” From one human being to another, I understand that every person is struggling with something but does not want to be defined by their struggles. I aim to create a safe space for my clients to learn about mental health and develop the tools to feel empowered to cope with life challenges and heal from negative experiences. |
Sarah Trinh
I endeavor to provide my clients with a safe and empathetic space to ensure comfort and support with life's challenges.
I work to empower my clients to be confident and take a hold of their mental health journey. |
Sarah Trinh is a doctoral trainee under the supervision of Dr. Parie Faridnia. Sarah is currently working towards her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sarah received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University, San Marcos.
At her previous practicum site, Sarah was a diagnostic practicum student at the University of LaVerne, where she administered neuropsychological, achievement, personality, and behavioral measures to the university’s students. She was previously employed as a patient care technician (AKA behavioral health associate) at Montecatini’ Eating Disorder Treatment Center’s residential, partial hospitalization program (PHP), and intensive outpatient program (IOP), geared toward women ages 16 to 65 years old who have an eating disorder. At Montecatini Sarah worked with individuals who have struggled with anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, and orthorexia. Many of these individuals also had co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and OCD. Sarah also previously volunteered at San Diego Youth Services for their I-CARE program, which helps children and women who have been sexually exploited and/or trafficked. Additionally, she has volunteered with Interfaith in their soup kitchen, providing individuals who were homeless with a warm meal and a listening ear. At Elizabeth Hospice she assisted individuals with their Camp Spero program, which is a weekend camp for children and teenagers who were grieving the loss of a loved one. |
Delfi Corpuz
I'm dedicated to providing friendly customer service with compassion and care.
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Delfi Corpuz is the office manager for OC Family Wellness Group.. She approaches all aspects of any job with a positive, hard-working mindset and is passionate about helping find solutions to any challenge.
As the office manager she will facilitate the process on your healing journey. Delfi is a new mother and knows how difficult it can be to prioritize "me time" but knows the value of self care. Please contact me via email or phone as I am here to help get you started. |
