Team
Meet Our Dedicated Team of Therapists
Get to know the skilled and compassionate professionals at SoKer Psychotherapy. Each therapist brings a unique blend of experience, expertise, and empathy, ensuring personalized care for your mental health journey. Explore their backgrounds and specialties to find the right match for your therapeutic needs.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist I am honored in the presence of my clients who courageously seek self-improvement through therapy. My intention in every session is for my clients to be heard, felt seen and understood. I believe the use of the therapeutic relationship is the guiding force in my sessions.
As such, regardless of where you are in your process, I will meet you there.
I create a safe environment for my clients to explore and gain newfound hope and strength. Through my tailored, eclectic approach, I assist clients in setting goals and creating lasting changes in themselves and/or their relations.
My clinical work is informed by, but not limited to tools from Psychodynamic, Relational, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies within a positive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental environment. I am aware of, and sensitive to, the importance of each person’s ethnic, cultural, and spiritual backgrounds and account for these distinctions when developing my approach.
My clients come to me for a variety of reasons; some feel anxious, depressed, hopeless or helpless and others feel stuck or lost about how to move forward with a particular issue. Working together, I seek to empower each person to reach identified goals and reframe thoughts that may be prohibitive to positive results and increased feelings of fulfillment.
As a compassionate agent of change, I help my clients cultivate skills that will make their lives feel easier and provide a space that is their own.
I enjoy working with adults and the following areas; Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Family of Origin Issues, Life Transitional Issues and Relational Issues. I look forward to meeting you!
I am bilingual in English and Armenian.
ALINE MANOUGUIAN, LMFT
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from Antioch University with a Masters in Psychology, and I hold an undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in creative writing.
Life can be overwhelming. We all need a place where we can talk about our worries, struggles and anxieties without fear of being judged. I work with deepening awareness of yourself and of your experience in the world. Our work will help you become more in touch with your intentions and hopes, and we will figure out what tools may be helpful in overcoming the challenges you are facing. In working with deepening awareness, we can expand our usual thoughts or assumptions (often negative ones) by bringing new ideas and options into the picture. I focus on facilitating growth with my clients, coming from a place of empathy, compassion, and curiosity of your experience.
I work with individuals, couples, children and families struggling with anxiety, depression, and communication issues. Having previously worked on a television show as an on-set counselor, I became familiar with the unique issues surrounding artists, and continue to treat those in the entertainment industry. I also work passionately with young adults who have been diagnosed with cancer.
LAURA WORTHINGTON, LMFT
Christiana Is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked as a child and family therapist for over 10 years. Her experience includes providing mental health services to children and families and individuals in the community, providing social skill groups and parenting support.
Christiana's experience comes from working in community mental health from Northern California to Inglewood California and presently in North Hills. Christiana has worked with children and their families in foster care, probation and at risk youth. She also enjoys working with parents providing parental strategies for kids with ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
She is a graduate of California State University Northridge with a Masters degree in Educational Psychology and Counseling.
CHRISTIANA DASILVA, LMFT
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 6 years of experience working with children and families. I graduated with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate University and hold a Bachelors degree from UCLA in Psychology.
My past experiences have been in community, home and school based settings. I have focused my career on helping children and teens suffering from anxiety, depression, school related issues and everyday stressors.
I have helped families in the foster care system navigate difficult situations with their children. I was a clinical case manager for a therapeutic behavioral program focusing on helping at risk youth regulate their behaviors and emotions through tailored treatment and interventions.
I am so happy to meet my clients in their journey of life. I believe that working together with my clients is essential for self discovery and change. I welcome each client with unconditional positive regard, curiosity, empathy and compassion.
LISA POWELL, LMFT
Kevin Wehe is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been working with clients since 2013. He obtained his Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California and his Bachelor’s Degree from Cornell University.
Kevin’s work with individuals often focuses on alleviating depression, soothing anxiety, healing traumas, and letting go of addictions through finding self-compassion, acceptance, and joy. Kevin’s work with couples often focuses on increasing open and honest sharing and compassionate listening so that both partners truly feel heard, felt, and supported. Kevin’s work with couples also often focuses on healing relational wounds resulting from addictions, affairs, and other traumas.
Kevin works first from a place of unconditional positive regard for the client seeking to truly hear, feel, and understand what the client is going through. Kevin then mixes in reflective insights and behavioral suggestions to help the client make the adjustments that they need in order attain the life they want.
KEVIN WEHE, LMFT
I believe we are all capable of building for ourselves a life of meaning and fulfillment.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I facilitate a safe space for clients to foster a greater connection to themselves, experience a greater sense of balance and neutrality, and feel more prepared to tolerate the difficulties (and pleasures) that coincide with being human.
I obtained my Master’s Degree in Psychology
from Phillips Graduate Institute, and have provided
therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, and children in various settings (including school-based programs and equine assisted learning
facilities), and for the past three years have worked closely with adults struggling with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
I draw upon my experience as a yoga teacher and my daily work with horses to promote mindfulness, self awareness, self compassion and meaning into the lives of my clients.
I believe strongly in the collaborative experience of therapy, and work together with my clients to determine the best way to face their unique presenting challenges.
This collaborative experience allows for the exploration of what is working, what might not be working, and what changes can be made so that each client can live the life they wish to live.
EMILY BELGARD, LMFT
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University Northridge and a Master of Arts in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate University. After a brief time as a Research Assistant in my undergraduate studies, I realized that my true passion lies in clinical work. I found myself wanting to learn more about the individual’s story and the desire to be a vessel of providing opportunities for change. I continued to pursue my passion by providing mental health services in community-based work in the San Fernando Valley for 6 years leading up to my current work with adults experiencing mental health issues.
I believe the obstacles that lead anyone to search for a therapist are an opportunity for intentional change and growth in one’s life. I am here so you don’t have to do it alone, and to help create fulfilling changes. I work with individuals affected by a myriad of mental health issues, specifically anxiety and depression, as well as those who are dealing with various life stressors and relationship issues.
I focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship to foster authenticity, honesty, and personal exploration. Every individual is unique, and each treatment I provide is built to meet the needs of that individual. My clinical work is informed by, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic theory, and family systems theory.
It is important for every person to have a space for self-discovery and healing. I am passionate about the work that I do and strive to create that space for my clients.
MARY COHEN, LMFT
Nicole Shoumer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA. Nicole received her Bachelors degree in Psychology at the University of California, San Diego, and her Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles, with an emphasis in Spirituality and Depth.
Nicole has worked with both adults and children in several different environments. She has a substantial amount of knowledge in and passion for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She also received in depth psychodynamic training at Airport Marina Counseling. Having worked with a wide array of people, from those struggling with addictions and interpersonal relationships, to those with severe anxiety and depression, Nicole offers comprehensive knowledge of the unique challenges individuals face in their day to day lives.
Being an adaptable therapist is important to Nicole, as she finds it necessary to tailor herself to the needs of each client, and meet everyone where they are at emotionally. Nicole is able to hold a safe and secure environment, where one may feel understood and at ease in her presence.
NICOLE SHOUMER, LMFT
I believe that you have boundless skills waiting to be discovered and utilized. I can help by supporting you through life’s challenging moments and provide tools to increase self-awareness, face difficult emotions, develop healthy loving relationships, and make more mindful choices.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience working with diverse demographics, I can provide you with the tools and encouragement you need to heal and evolve. I have worked with individuals struggling with family issues, relationship concerns, depressed moods, anxiety, life transitions, and work or school stressors. I provide a safe space to feel, process, and integrate change. My passion is to support clients foster and sustain the healthiest lives possible.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults in need of support. I would describe my approach as nurturing and warm, non-judgmental, and strength based. Clients appreciate my collaborative nature, ability to be direct, and authenticity to work towards a healthier present and future.
I completed my Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology at California State University, Northridge and my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy at University of Phoenix.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is paramount- therapy requires courage, strength, and trust in yourself and in your therapist. As such, regardless of where you are in your process, I will meet you there. I can help bring the balance and calm you’re seeking.
HEADY CAMPANA, LMFT
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with clients from all walks of life in a therapeutic setting. I received my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California and my Bachelors degree in Human Services with a concentration in Mental Health from Cal State University, Fullerton.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have worked in the community, outpatient, and school settings providing support to children, families, and adults. I'm experienced working with at-risk youth, survivors of trauma, LGBTQI, and justice involved individuals. The clients I support often want to learn how process feelings of depression and anxiety, and issues related to identity, relationships, and self-esteem.
My clinical approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and as a therapist, it is my goal to create a safe envionment where my clients feel comfortable. I believe each person is the expert of their own life and my role is to give my clients the tools, feedback, and support to grow and reach thier theraputic goals.
SONIA S. THOMPSON, LCSW
Babs Greyhosky received her Masters Degree in Psychology from Argosy University in 2011 and interned at The Maple Counseling Center in Beverly Hills where she was trained in psychodynamic therapy for three years. She passed her licensure exam in 2015 and has been in private practice since then.
In 2017, Babs joined SoKer Psychology Inc. Her primary focus is on trauma and PTSD; however she also treats clients in recovery from addictions and provides couples counseling. Since 2015 she has been a volunteer therapist with The Soldier’s Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to treating veterans and their families.
BABS GREYHOSKY, LMFT
I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings in mental health since 2009 with clients at various stages of life, healing, and personal development. After graduating from Ryokan College with a degree in clinical psychology, I became a licensed clinical psychologist in 2019. I have also been a registered drama therapist with the North American Drama Therapy Association since 2016.
My intention is to help support clients in transforming behavioral and emotional patterns that are barriers to creating a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I also focus on helping clients develop the skills necessary to successfully manage feelings of burnout caused by personal and global stress.
I enjoy infusing creativity into whatever evidence-backed treatment methods I use such as acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress-reduction, and solution-focused therapy.
Regardless of the therapeutic method, my intention is to create an environment of safety and connection where clients can process deep emotions along with exploring and developing strategies for leading a healthy and successful life.
CYNTHIA H. KELVIN, PSY.D., RDT, CPT
I know how difficult it can be finding a therapist who is the right fit. My goal is to create a safe environment where my clients can share their most difficult struggles and feelings in a non-judgmental and warm space. I find that when my clients feel comfortable they can get to the root issues of the troubles that they face to improve their well-being and their relationships with others. I hold space for my clients to talk about their worries, overthinking, sadness, self-doubt, and frustrations so they don't have to feel alone in the areas of their lives that feel most difficult to manage.
Typically, our past experiences and development shape much of our current responses to stressors. I enjoy working with clients to help them make sense of the issues they are going through and work together in order to identify the changes they would like to make in order to thrive in all areas of their lives.
I graduated with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California in 2015. Prior to that I obtained my Bachelors degree in Child Adolescent Development from California State University- Northridge. Since then I have worked with many children, families, and adults in different community settings before starting in private practice in 2016.
LILLY SHONAFELT, LMFT
Nali Persaud is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both New York and California. Mrs. Persaud received her Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2006 and her Master’s degree in Social Work from City University of New York- Lehman College in 2014.
Nali has worked in a variety of clinical settings including domestic violence/homeless shelters, emergency psychiatric teams, and private practice. She has over 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of challenges and issues.
Nali offers psychotherapy for adults dealing with issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma, grief/loss, parenting skills, relationship improvement, domestic violence, and substance abuse. Her treatment style is primarily a client-centered approach that focus on building trust and rapport in order for a person to feel comfortable to discuss any issues that they are having trouble with. She believes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health treatment and instead she will tailor treatment to the individual.
Some of her treatment methods include CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy. Whether your challenges are recent or longstanding, whether you are seeking to improve your communication skills or mood, or if you just want to learn coping strategies- seeking help can be a difficult first step.
Nali is extremely passionate working in this field because she enjoys connecting with people and helping them to overcome obstacles in order for them to live a happier and more fulfilled life. She creates a safe space for someone to comfortably delve into their thoughts and emotions to find the core issues they are dealing with.
NALI PERSAUD, LCSW
Tate Lizagub is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#113190) who primarily works with individuals who are navigating symptoms of anxiety and depression. Using mindfulness and insight-oriented approaches, Tate facilitates a healing space where clients explore useful coping mechanisms for their unique life experiences.
Education/Training:
Tate received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from University of Southern California, and two Master of Arts degrees in Counseling psychology and Expressive Arts Therapy from California Institute of Integral Studies. She completed her training at The Maple Counseling Center in Beverly Hills. Tate is also a certified Yoga/Mindfulness teacher.
When not working, Tate enjoys spending time in nature, immersing herself in creativity and artwork, traveling and learning about other cultures and lifestyles. For Tate, diversity is key in living an interesting and dynamic life.
TATE LIZAGUB, LMFT
With over 20 years of experience, he has held various roles in the nonprofit mental health industry, including Amanecer Community Counseling Service, where he created the first-ever online school-based client referral system in Los Angeles Unified School District and secured funding for the nation’s first unaccompanied minor mental health program.
Prior, he was an Emergency Response Social Worker with the Department of Children and Family Services. Lucas is a member of the Association of Community Human Service Agencies (ACHSA) Human Resources Alliance, the Los Angeles Regional Human Trafficking Task Force, and has guest lectured at California State University, Los Angeles. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Lucas has a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz and a master’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles.
ALEJANDRO (ALEX) LOPEZ, LCSW
My name is Jonathan Monteverdi and I have a practice in Westlake Village, CA. I was raised in the Inland Empire and entered into my own work over 5 years ago. It was a demanding yet transformational experience and I decided to become someone who can confidently help others through the process as well.
I graduated with my Master's in Social Work with an emphasis in Clinical Social Work from Azusa Pacific University in 2020 and became a licensed psychotherapist in 2023 after working with the county of Ventura Adult Population for 3 years in various capacities. Additionally, I have been trained in various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trial-Based Cognitive Therapy (TB-CT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Committement Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I have been providing counseling services in various settings such as Residential Services (Adolescents) and Outpatient Services (Adults and Adolescents) for the last 6 years. Throughout my years of practice, I have been supporting individuals, couples, groups, and families in various capacities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I provide psychotherapy services to individuals (Adults and Adolescents), Couples, and group environments in order to assist in increasing Mental Wellness and overall satisfaction within their lives and relationships. My passions lie in restoring the relationship men have with friends, family, and most importantly, themselves. I have also worked in many other capacities with a variety of different issues. My approach in the therapeutic process is one of respect and honor within the space between therapist and client. Individuals coming in an effort to put energy into their self-improvement and invest in themselves, are individuals I have a lot of admiration for.
JONATHAN MONTEVERDI, LCSW
About Us
At SoKer Psychotherapy, we are dedicated to fostering personal growth and emotional well-being. Our team of experienced therapists offers a compassionate, respectful environment where every individual's journey is valued. We specialize in a range of therapeutic approaches, tailoring our services to meet your unique needs. Committed to creating a safe space for healing and discovery, we are here to support you every step of the way on your path to mental wellness.
Contact Information
5768 West Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(323) 827-8257
admin@sokerpsychotherapy.com
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