Better Life Counseling Center
Located in Roseville and Cameron Park!!
Welcome to your first step in reaching your mental health goals. We are here with you every step of the way.
Therapists
Kimberly Salmon, LMFT #53299
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013. I have spent my professional experience working with children from ages 2-12, teenagers, and adults. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families in order to help identify areas in their lives that they wish to strengthen or change.
There is no limit to the stress that accompanies the responsibility of being an adult. Many times the stresses increase before changes can be made. We can work together to create a healthy life balance with managing stress, strengthening social/ intimate relationships, reducing work stress, and identifying positive coping skills to use when feeling overwhelmed.
I also have experience working with individuals that struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Bereavement, and many other related disorders. I generally use Cognitive-behavior therapy and Solution-Focused modalities.
Cynthia Max-Wright LMFT, #46220
Hello and Congratulations for taking this step for your Mental Health. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience in working with children, families and adults. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara I am committed to supporting my clients on their path to making meaningful change, letting go of what no longer serves them and aligning their actions with who they really want to be. I am committed to working with each individual with respect and compassion. I aim to embrace and understand the individual, cultural and spiritual differences in each client I serve. I am EMDR trained and working toward Certification. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT, Internal Family Systems, Narrative and Art Therapies. I approach therapy with a solution focused, strength based and trauma informed background. I can offer support in addressing a variety of issues including: relationship struggles, life transitions, family conflict, depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, substance abuse recovery and more. I enjoy supervising associates and offering the highest level of clinical integrity that each client deserves.
Priya Ramachandran, LCSW #75334
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I received my Masters in Social Welfare from the University of California, Los Angeles. My area of expertise involves working with teens, young adults, adults and older adults both in outpatient and inpatient settings. I have extensive experience working with first responders, youth offenders, adult offenders, immigrants, Asian Americans, military service members and families coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, crisis management, neglect, abuse, personality disorders, grief, bipolar, schizophrenia and substance abuse issues. I utilize CBT, solution focused, strength based and trauma informed therapy. I provide a safe, compassionate and empathetic environment. My goal is to help clients to create goals, be supported, heard, advocate for themselves, build insight and strategies to work towards growth and healing.
Kathy Steenberg, LCSW #21712
Kathy has over 26 years of experience as therapist individuals, families, and couples in overcoming common as well as difficult challenges. My specialty certifications are in Trauma Focused CBT, Attachment Based Family Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy with couples, Psychodynamic psychotherapy for Adoption & Foster Families. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing. LGBT affirmative.
She earned a BS degree in Psychology from Ohio State University (1984), MSW from California State University, Sacramento (1995), and finally obtained my license as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2008. In addition, for over ten years she has been mentoring associate therapists to perfect their counseling skills.
Her clients describe her as down-to-earth, nonjudgmental, and easy to talk to. She helps individuals, families, and couples to establish their goas early on to begin pursuing their desired changes sooner. Sessions have a clear direction
Jenny Clearwater, APCC #14977
Supervised by: Cynthia Max-Wright, LMFT # 46220
“Our wisdom does not just come from what we learn. It also comes from what we unlearn.”
~ Cleo Wade, Heart Talk: Poetic Wisdom for a Better Life
Jenny is an associate marriage and family therapist and associate professional clinical counselor. She received her Master of Arts degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University. In addition, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal arts and a Master of Education degree in curriculum and instruction, both of which were received through University of the Pacific.
Previously, Jenny worked as a marriage and family therapist trainee at Heartstrings Counseling in Loomis. In addition to this experience and her educational experience, Jenny has other life experiences that will inform her work with clients, including time spent as a classroom teacher and educational consultant, as well as experience parenting as both a stay-at-home mom and a working mom.
Jenny believes in every person’s ability to heal and grow, and is honored to walk alongside people as they embark on this healing journey. She knows that healing requires both the learning of new, productive skills and strategies as well as the unlearning of patterns and thought processes that are no longer helpful. Trained in brainspotting, Jenny firmly believes in the brain’s ability to heal and recover from trauma. Jenny is passionate about providing a welcoming and nonjudgmental space for people to explore their challenges. She is committed to helping individuals, couples, families, and those in the LGBTQIA+ community navigate challenges relating to anxiety, depression, identity concerns, trauma, and self-esteem issues. Jenny hopes to work cooperatively with clients in order to tap into their unique strengths and help them to expand their personal and relational wisdom.
Alejandia Guzman, ASW # 103302
Supervised by: Bannupriya Ramachandran, LCSW #75334
My name is Alejandia Guzman. I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master in Social Work from New York University in 2018. I have experience providing counseling and case management services to children, young adults, and adults in a community, agency, and correctional setting. I have extensive experience working with clients in foster care, unaccompanied minors, immigrants, trafficking victims, youth offenders, and young adults with a diagnosis of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, and clients who have experienced trauma.
I enjoy helping others while using strength-based and empathetic approaches. I strive to meet clients where they are in their journey, from a place of non-judgement, respect, and support. I also utilize CBT, motivational interviewing, and solution focused therapy.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients and help achieve their desired goals.
Katrina Scranton, ASW #113613
Supervised by: Kathy Steenberg, LCSW #21712
Katrina is passionate about using solution focused and evidence based practices such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help her clients navigate challenges and changes in life. She finds the most joy in working with clients who need support navigating interpersonal relationships, family dynamics, bereavement, traumatic loss, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and trauma. Katrina also has extensive experience working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community, adolescents and individuals with Autism and ADHD. Katrina received her Master of Social Work from the California State University, Northridge and has experience working in school settings, partial hospitalization programs, and providing in home therapeutic care. Her mission is to help individuals and couples develop the necessary tools to have a fulfilling life that is aligned with their values and goals.
Katrina understands the importance of finding a supportive therapeutic relationship and she is excited to provide an authentic, empathetic and vulnerable space for you to optimize your life and work through healing together.
Kimberly Goehring, AMFT, #139877
Supervised by: Cynthia Max-Wright, LMFT # 46220
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and received my Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Santa Clara University. My passion for helping others began at an early age and naturally progressed to pursuing a career in the mental health field. My enthusiasm and fascination with human behavior fuels my desire to provide a space where the client feels heard, seen and accepted in a non-judgmental atmosphere. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families providing support in addressing a myriad of issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction and trauma. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most crucial factor in achieving a successful counseling experience, which is why I will provide a safe and supportive environment for the client where we both learn from each other. I am confident that each unique individual has the tools within themselves to heal, change and grow and I am honored to be able to guide you on this journey. My therapeutic approach utilizes attachment theory, cognitive behavior theory and internal family systems.
Inessa Palnikov, AMFT #137028
Supervised by: Deidra R. Wells, LMFT #119415
Welcome – I am so glad you are here. I can imagine you probably never saw yourself being here (wherever ‘here’ is). Regardless, I want to commend your courage and strength to reach out and look for support. Life is hard – we are not meant to go at it alone. I’m here to help you reconnect with yourself and your relationships.
I work with couples who are looking to rebuild intimacy, closeness, and connection. I also enjoy working with individuals looking to process grief and trauma and learn how to regain control of their lives. If that is what you are looking to do – let’s connect.
In therapy, I take a client and goal-oriented approach that allows folks to guide their own therapy experience and healing. I am the counselor that will always gently guide… but, occasionally challenge you out of your comfort zone. Throughout our time together, I’ll help you discover how your past relationships and family history shape your present, and then help you use that insight to determine how you want to reshape your outlook.
If you are committed to improving your future by better understanding and fully accepting your past, I am here to support you in making those connections. I look forward to working alongside you. Till then – take care.
Taylor Williams, APCC #15504
Supervised by: Bannupriya Ramachandran, LCSW #75334
Hi there! My name is Taylor and I am an associate professional clinical counselor.
I obtained my BA in Psychology in 2020 from San Jose State University and my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2023. I became a therapist because I know there are things that we cannot control in our lives that are difficult to accept. My goal is to work with you collaboratively and help you accept what you cannot change in order to live a fuller life.
My background involves working with trauma, depression, eating disorders, and adjustment issues. I enjoy working with children and adolescence who are navigating their way of life and need a little more support in managing emotions, adjusting to new experiences, or just need someone safe to talk to.
The modalities I use include acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution focused brief therapy (SFBT). Typically, more than one modality is necessary for successful treatment which is why I use each of these modalities in various ways.
I am so happy you have chosen to begin your mental health journey and hope to work with you soon!
Lauren McFarland, AMFT #139414
Supervised by: Kathy Steenberg, LCSW #21712
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked in the mental health field for over 22 years. I have experience working with adults, children from ages 3-18, transitional age youth, families, and youth with behavioral health challenges. I have worked with those that have dealt with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, and personality disorders. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families that are looking to increase their abilities to heal and grow. I generally utilize CBT, DBT, solution focused, trauma informed, and strength-based therapy, though everyone is unique, and we will work together to find the right therapeutic approach. I believe that each individual is the expert of their own life and I strive to provide a safe and affirming environment and a therapeutic relationship that supports others on their journeys.
Jana Kenney, ASW #120849
Supervised by: Reina M Woods, LCSW#73339
Jana is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with children, teenagers, and adults. She has worked in a variety of settings serving those with mental health challenges. She is compassionate, empathic, and exceptionally genuine. She has experience supporting, encouraging, and guiding individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. Jana is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for those who have survived specific traumas in life that significantly and negatively alter present day living. Jana approaches therapy from a strength-based and systems theory approach while incorporating CBT, DBT, person centered, solution focused, and EMDR modalities. She gently meets her client's where they are in life's journey and trajectory. Jana believes that with authentic and human centered guidance, an individual can learn and/or rediscover unique and personal strengths, power, and self love to thrive in everyday life.
Emi'lea Malkinson, AMFT #145860
Supervised by: Bannupriya Ramachandran, LCSW #75334
“The mind is a sacred place full of deep experiences. It is but an honor and a privilege to hold space for someone’s inner world.” - Unknown
Emi’lea (Emi) is an associate marriage family therapist with a Masters of Arts in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University. She also holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in operations management technology from Arizona State University, as her early career began in computer science, digital design and emerging technology.
Prior to Better Life Counseling, Emi worked for an adult day counseling center in Santa Monica, CA creating robust and engaging programs for clients suffering from memory loss. She also conducted one-one-one and group therapy sessions to assist with grief counseling, anger management, addiction, trauma-informed care and pervasive personality disorders.
Emi approaches every session and every client individually, using a blend of Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) practices. She firmly believes a “safe space” is imperative to a client’s success, and understands the importance of a fluid relationship. As a mother of two, she knows little can be achieved without trust and hopes to empower others to find their “true North”.
Reina Woods, LCSW
Hi there, I'm Reina Woods! Passionate, seasoned, and endlessly curious, I've dedicated over 18 years to the field of social work, nurturing growth and resilience in my clients. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Social Work, specializing in Management of Human Services with Children, Youth, and Families from the University of Michigan. My practice, deeply rooted in child welfare and family support, also extends to innovative telehealth mental health services. In our sessions, I employ a diverse range of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I am also skilled in utilizing Mindfulness-Based and Trauma-Focused interventions, which are essential for creating personalized and effective treatment plans. Whether addressing anxiety, life transitions, or the impacts of chronic illness, I provide a sanctuary for exploration and change. Together, we'll craft SMART goals and pathways focused not just on coping, but thriving. Let’s navigate the vibrant possibilities of your story with warmth, empathy, and a touch of creativity.
Richard Rios Jr., ASW # 127173
Supervised by: Mayra E. Garcia, LCSW #101998
My name is Rich D. Rios Jr., and I am an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker- I earned my Masters's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, and I hold a Masters's Degree in Education and Business from American Intercontinental University. I am committed to helping guide my clients through their life situations, through learning, growing, and healing while exploring the best solutions through a compassionate-focused lens, utilizing a practical approach. I use a holistic approach in therapy- taking the background, history, psychological, sociological, spiritual, and environmental factors into consideration. I also acknowledge the mind-body-spirit connection while considering everything from the food quality consumed to the influence of world events on your life, perception, and well-being.
My experience has been extensively working with Military Servicemembers, Veterans, and their families for the last 20 years, along with individuals and couples in a clinical setting as an Advanced Hypnotherapist since 2009. I am also assigned to work with at-risk teenagers and cadre assigned to the Challenge Youth Academies as a military behavioral health and mentoring assignment. I enjoy working with others who need support, guidance, or direction to improve their life situations and have experiences with PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. One of my favorite sayings is that- “I like to help clients get from where they are to where they would like to be.” Generally, I do so with a balance of optimistic-yet-realistic, a lot of empathy in between.
I utilize a strengths-based approach, motivational interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Action Commitment Therapy, and many other tools that I have been trained in and learned along the way. I have worked extensively with diverse populations and backgrounds and enforced diversity, inclusion, equity, and LGBTQIA+ supportive policies in all my work settings. I look forward to healing and success!
Mayra E. Garcia, LCSW #101998
Hi there! I'm Mayra E. Garcia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience helping children, teens, individuals, older adults and couples navigate life's challenges. I received my Master’s of Social Work (MSW) from California State University Los Angeles in 2016. I became licensed in 2021. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and relationships. Using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, and EMDR modalities. I tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs and goals. I'm committed to providing an integrative whole person approach by providing a supportive and empowering environment where individuals can heal, grow, and thrive. My goal is to help you discover your strengths and capabilities.
As a clinical supervisor, I am passionate about teaching and mentoring therapists. My approach is tailored to each supervisee's needs and learning style, incorporating a variety of techniques and modalities to facilitate growth and development. I am committed to helping supervisees cultivate a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, and culturally responsive care. I view clinical supervision as a dynamic partnership, where both supervisor and supervisee learn and grow together. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and strengths-based. I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for supervisees to explore their clinical experiences, challenge their assumptions, and develop their professional identity.
Deidra R. Wells, LMFT #119415
Deidra Wells is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and my Master’s degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix. I am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Advanced Human Behaviors. I have been in the field for 12 years in various therapy settings and currently providing therapy and supervision to Associate Interns. My specialties include addiction counseling with treatment of underlying mental health disorders or life challenges, such as codependency, depression, trauma, ADHD, childhood issues, adulting life skills, grief, abuse or anxiety. I also assist with crisis interventions, improving self-motivation and self-esteem issues. My therapeutic style is eclectic. I utilize dialect behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused interventions, evidence-based practices, and experiential therapy. My goal as a Therapist is to provide a supportive environment and assist individuals, couples, and/or families to address their concerns by working together to process life’s obstacles. I strongly believe in empowering, educating, challenging, and supporting clients in their recovery and healing.
My name is Aubrina Washington, I am an Associate Clinical Social worker who has been fortunate to work in the behavioral science/ social work sector as a therapist for about 4 years with a total of 15 plus years of experience in the social work field. My impressive career as a professional social worker/therapist has already been hallmarked by serving as a staunch advocate for a variety of people and families who are unable to advocate for themselves. My professional mission is to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic human needs of all people, with a particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, depressed, and anxious, through unconditional regard, active listening, and efficient services.
I have experience working with individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety and PTSD, ADD, ADHD, Bipolar, eating disorders, among others.
Therefore, my interest in the position as your therapist is congruent with the overall mission of Better Life Counseling Center to provide therapeutic services with integrity, understanding of mental health code of ethics, and unconditional regard for those who need therapeutic support and guidance. I’m a Southern California native who has resided in Sacramento, California for three years. I’m elated to support others and normalize obstacles and barriers by providing strength-based therapy however, I understand that I cannot fix other people problems nevertheless, I can provide support and guidance to assist people with identifying the problem areas and generate a healthy solution. I have experience working with children, teens and adults.
Aubrina Washington, ASW #102207
Supervised by: Reina M Woods, LCSW#73339
Deborah Henry, ASW #122181
Supervised by: Kathy Steenberg, LCSW #21712
Hi everyone! My name is Deborah Henry, though I prefer to go by “Dee.” I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW) dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health support to diverse populations. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from UMass Global.
Since 2017, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, adolescents, and families who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, PTSD, phases of life changes, and addiction. As a dedicated mental health professional, I bring experience from my background in social work to my role as an associate therapist. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, helping individuals navigate complex life challenges and fostering their emotional well-being. In my role as an associate therapist, I am passionate about using my social work background to create a safe and inclusive space for healing. I understand the systemic factors that impact mental health and am committed to integrating this understanding into my therapeutic practice.
My specialities include evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and solution-focused modalities. I believe that human connection is at the heart of healing. I believe that building strong, trusting relationships is key to effective therapy, and I strive to empower my clients by validating their experiences and encouraging their strengths.
My approach is grounded in empathy and a commitment to client empowerment, which aligns with the values of Better Life Counseling Center.
If you’re looking for support in a compassionate and understanding environment, I would love to work with you. Together, we can explore your challenges and find the path forward that works best for you.
