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. 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
Jamie Sani-Flores, LCSW # 113706
My greatest passion and inspiration is walking alongside individuals during their journey of self-discovery and improvement. This passion for helping others set me on my path of obtaining a Master's in Social Work, with a concentration in Health and Aging, and subsequently becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience working with individuals with substance abuse, chronic medical conditions, severe mental illness, life transitions, trauma, caregivers, those with brain impairments, and children and teens with that are diagnosed with developmental disorders. I have post-graduate training and experience in Art Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Group Therapy, and Psychoanalysis. I carry a deep commitment to learning about everyone I work with and their needs and I look foward to working with you!
Jenny Clearwater, APCC #14977
“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
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
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
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.
Lynell Talley, AMFT #137700, APCC #13123
I’m an associate Marriage and Family Therapist as well as Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with over 20 years experience in human services partnerships. I partner with children, youth and adults of all ages, from a variety of backgrounds, to assist with behavioral changes, growth and healing. I have experience working with people associated with child protective services, juvenile and adult justice, socioeconomic challenges and more. I’m a culturally diverse clinician experienced with mainstream culture, military, LGBTQIA+, sub cultures and a variety of ethnic backgrounds.
I’m an activities-based therapist whether it be in person or telehealth, not only children and teenagers love the approach, adults appreciate it as well! I use a combination of therapeutic approaches tailored to the individual client to ensure you feel heard, valued, safe to discuss hard things and are able to accomplish your goals for therapy.
Mattie Hogan-Betchik ASW #106258
Mattie is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing a variety of mental health conditions that are striving to navigate the stressors of life. She has extensive experience with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance dependence. Mattie uses a variety of techniques including CBT, DBT, solution focused therapy and takes a strengths-based approach with her clients. Mattie strives to meet her clients where they are in their journey and strives to be a compassionate, respectful and supportive part of her client’s journey.
Christopher Underwood, AMFT #135159
What does it mean to live well? This was an essential question Socrates asked his student Xenophon. As a therapist, I believe this is a question that all therapists and clients must answer during one’s journey in therapy. I view my role as guide. A guide that doesn’t provide advice but allows clients to have the space gain perspective in a space that is safe and non-judgmental.
I enjoy engaging with clients on existential issues no matter what age or stage they are in their life. Additionally, modalities that I also employ during therapy is CBT and trauma informed practices. Professionally, I have worked in a variety of mental health settings such as outpatient opiate addiction clinic for substance use disorder, community based mental health services in El Dorado and Sacramento County, and applied behavior analysis assisting kids on autism spectrum disorder. Therefore, I have experience but not limited to working with individuals, couples, and teens with a variety of mental health that include depression, anxiety, PTSD, school related issues, court informed care, LGBTQ+, and military members. I also have a special cultural interest in United Southern and Sikhism culture.
My professional background includes BA in psychology from the University of California Berkeley with special focus on neuroscience and clinical psychology. I achieved my master’s degree from Pepperdine University with a focus in marriage and family therapy. Outside of therapy I have had the opportunity to work as an adjunct professor at the University of the West teaching psychopharmacology and guest lectured at Both Pepperdine and Folsom Lake Community College. I am passionate about the work I do both in and outside of the office. I look forward to working with you on this current journey in your life.
Taylor Williams, APCC #15504
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
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
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
“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”.
