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Trainee Therapists

Our counseling staff consists of Marriage & Family Therapist Trainees and Professional Clinical Counseling Trainees who are working towards completing their degree required practicum and primarily provide therapeutic services. They are supervised by Dr. Avis Attaway, LMFT (34493), or Dr. Guy Balice (PSY 22638). 

The fee for a 50 minute session with a trainee therapist is $30

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Kaoru Pasache, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Adversities are inevitable in life. In order to swim through a sea of challenges, we all need support and need to learn healthy coping skills. The courage to reach out for help already shows one’s strength; I respond with respect, compassion, empathy, and integrity, and strive to create safe and non-judgmental space.

 

My name is Kaoru (Kay). I am from Japan and have been living in the U.S. for 17 years. I am a firm believer in the power of dialogue. An hour of quality dialogue can be a transformative experience of finding a life-long friend or partner. I believe quality dialogues are also necessary and possible in the therapy room between couples and family members for mutual understanding.

 

Are you experiencing pain, fear, and distress due to relationship challenges or life transitions? Are you feeling hopeless due to depression, anxiety, or trauma? Do you feel stuck with communication problems, boundary issues, or negative self-image? Are you hurt experiencing oppression or microaggression from others? Do you recognize yourself as a Highly Sensitve Person (HSP) and find interpersonal relationships emotionally exhausting? Are you feeling left behind from society due to an illness? I’d like to hear your story and help you process feelings, experience self-exploration/discovery, and cultivate self-compassion. I have some experiences with such individuals and I also worked with neurodivergent population in the past at a non-clinical setting. My interest areas for therapy also include grief, crisis intervention, and women’s health. I see my role as a therapist as someone who stays nearby and carries a lantern as you walk the dark and bumpy road, so you can see things better and find hope. My personal beliefs align with person-centered and existential therapy. In many circumstances, we don’t have control over obstacles in life. Still, what choices do we make to move forward? How do we continue to grow as a person? From the family systems perspective, we can review multiple aspects of family such as: structure, dynamic, culture, communication, patterns, roles, and history. Then explore how they have impacted your development and coping methods. I encourage holistic approaches in some cases, like reviewing diet and activities, engaging with nature and animals, and utilizing art and music. I’m naturally into Eastern approaches such as mindfulness practice/meditation, yoga, and use of acupressure points. I am happy to share some tips and somatic approaches to ease emotional and physical symptoms. I am committed to serve clients with diverse background including underserved population and immigrants, and I respect clients’ spirituality and faith.

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Sukai Kah, Psyd

PsyD Trainee

Hello! Currently I am attending Azusa Pacific University getting a PsyD in Clinical Psychology. I have a passion for helping others which has stemmed from childhood. While getting my master’s in forensic psychology, I realized that I wanted to shift towards clinical psychology. I have previous experience working with diverse populations. I have experience working with adolescents and elder adults dealing with daily life stressors, anxiety, and depression. I have gained this experience due to working as a Therapeutic Behavioral Coach and a Social Worker. Currently my interest is working with diverse populations with a wide range of presenting problems. I believe in providing a safe and supportive place to all. Seeking therapy is a step and I want to walk with my clients on their therapeutic journey.

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Thema Poarch, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Life’s journey is filled with challenges that help us grow toward clarity, acceptance, and understanding. As your therapist, I will support you in navigating through the complexities of life by providing a safe space to express your thoughts freely. If you are struggling with cycles of distress due to anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-worth, or relationship issues, I would like to collaborate with you on your journey to inner peace.

 

My style of therapy is a person-centered approach that provides a nonjudgmental environment conducive to honest self-exploration. Areas of specialized training include Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) trauma therapy.

 

I embrace spirituality as a resource for empowerment, healing, and finding meaning in life's journey. My goal for every client is to provide a safe refuge where we can work together to unlock your superpower.

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Isaiah Whisner

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee/Professional Clinical Counselor Trainee

Hi, my name is Isaiah Whisner, a therapist trainee here at Life Source Affordable Counseling. When people are facing major life transitions the first brave step is to acknowledge that you need help. I am happy that you have taken that first step to starting therapy.

 

I enjoy working with high school students, college students, and adults experiencing major life transitions and I am passionate about working with and helping LGBTQIA+ youth and adults by providing a safe and nurturing space where you can feel accepted and understood. Together we can create meaningful changes and the possibility of a more fulfilling life.

 

In my free time, I enjoy listening to music and going to concerts. In the evenings you can find me in the kitchen creating delicious meals for family and friends. I like traveling as a way of experiencing new cultures and learning new points of view. My three favorite places so far are Iceland, Ireland, and Norway. I look forward to working with you.

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Anita Narssu, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Greetings! My name is Anita Narssu, and I am an aspiring Trainee Marriage and Family Therapist currently enrolled in Alliant International University MFT program. Throughout my life, I have always believed in the significance of promoting genuine communication and meaningful connections as pathway for personal development and positive relationships.

 

My journey into the field of therapy began with a personal passion for helping others navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. With a background in a Psychology, I bring a unique perspective to my therapeutic work, blending insights from my previous experiences with the theoretical and research frameworks I've encountered in my studies.

 

As a therapist-in-training, I am committed to fostering a collaborative and empowering environment where individuals, couples, and families feel seen, heard, and valued. Grounded in the principles of relational-cultural theory and narrative therapy, I strive to honor each client's unique story and empower them to rewrite the narratives that no longer serve them. Additionally, I integrate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide practical tools for managing thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, facilitating lasting change and growth.

 

Outside of my academic pursuits, I find joy in spending time with my husband and our small dog Dash, which serve as a source of inspiration and rejuvenation in my life. Whether I'm exploring new books to read or trying out new recipes in the kitchen, I approach each moment with a sense of curiosity and openness, eager to learn and grow both personally and professionally.

 

I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to accompany you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

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Jamal Nicholas, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

I am currently a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) trainee actively pursuing licensure to become a licensed marriage and family therapist. With over a decade of experience in the mental health industry, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals, particularly men, as they navigate the complexities of their emotional and psychological lives. My professional journey has equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to facilitate meaningful change, and I am passionate about helping clients uncover their potential for growth and healing.

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Throughout my career, I have cultivated a deep understanding of the challenges that many individuals face in today's fast-paced world. I often use the metaphor of running on a treadmill to illustrate the experience of feeling overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of stress and anxiety. Many people are caught in this relentless pursuit of productivity and success, leaving little room for self-reflection or emotional expression. I believe it is crucial to provide a safe space where individuals can step off this treadmill, take a breath, and engage in meaningful discussions about what may be bothering them.

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Creating a supportive environment is at the core of my therapeutic approach. I am committed to developing a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients, recognizing that trust and collaboration are essential for effective therapy. By working together, we can explore the unique challenges you face and develop tailored strategies to address them. I work with individuals, families, and couples, and I strive to meet each client where they are in their journey, ensuring that they feel heard, valued, and empowered.

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My experience in the mental health field has been diverse, allowing me to work in various settings and with a range of client populations. This breadth of experience has deepened my understanding of mental health issues and equipped me with a variety of therapeutic techniques. I employ evidence-based practices that are grounded in research and tailored to the specific needs of each client. Whether addressing individual concerns or facilitating family dynamics, my goal is to create an inclusive and effective therapeutic process.

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One of my primary areas of focus is supporting men in their mental health journeys. I recognize that societal expectations often discourage men from seeking help and expressing vulnerability. By normalizing these conversations, I aim to break down the stigma surrounding mental health for men, creating a safe space where they can explore their feelings and experiences without judgment. My work with men often involves helping them develop emotional awareness and resilience, empowering them to embrace their authentic selves.

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As I continue my training, I remain committed to lifelong learning and professional development. I actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills, attending workshops and training sessions to stay informed about the latest developments in the field of mental health. This commitment to education not only enhances my practice but also ensures that I provide the highest standard of care to my clients.

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In addition to my clinical work, I am passionate about raising awareness about mental health issues in the broader community. I engage in outreach efforts aimed at promoting understanding and acceptance of mental health challenges, particularly among men. By facilitating workshops and participating in community events, I strive to encourage open discussions about mental health and empower individuals to seek the support they need.

My approach to therapy is fundamentally rooted in the belief that every person has the potential for growth and change. I am dedicated to helping clients uncover the best version of themselves, which often involves exploring their strengths, values, and aspirations. Together, we can identify barriers to personal growth and develop strategies to overcome them, fostering a sense of agency and empowerment.

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Throughout my career, I have witnessed the transformative power of therapy. I understand that the journey to mental wellness can be complex and challenging, but I firmly believe in the resilience of the human spirit. My clients often express appreciation for my empathetic approach and the genuine care I bring to each session. By creating a space where clients feel heard and understood, I facilitate profound healing and personal development.

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In summary, as an MFT trainee with over ten years of experience in the mental health industry, I am dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and couples in their journeys toward emotional well-being. My therapeutic philosophy centers on creating a safe and collaborative environment where clients can explore their challenges and discover their inner strengths. I am passionate about empowering those I work with, helping them step off the treadmill of life and embrace their authentic selves. As I progress toward licensure, I remain committed to my clients and the transformative power of therapy.

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Kim O'Neill, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Kim O'Neill is a Marriage & Family Therapy Trainee from Touro University and thrilled to be able to serve her clients through Life Source.

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Kim offers individual, couple and family sessions, both in-person and virtually. She also welcomes all types of clients including children, teens, LGBTQIA+ and people of all faiths and backgrounds.

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Kim is experienced working with clients with a public safety or military background; spiritually-focused clients; trauma histories; relationship attachment wounds; and more. Some of Kim’s specialized training includes CRM (Comprehensive Resource Model) trauma therapy; Reiki; facilitating guided meditations; and various spiritual, metaphysical principles.

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Prior to becoming a therapist, Kim was a youth mentor for seven years, and has served clients as a professional coach since 2011, helping people reclaim their authentic self-confidence for job interviews and everyday life.

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Tynesha Penny, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

It's completely okay to take off the mask. It's alright to show that you're not okay on the inside, even if you've been trying to appear fine on the outside. As mothers, students, daughters, sons, and individuals, we often feel immense pressure to always be okay.

 

It would be wonderful if life came with a guidebook - a manual to help us navigate through our emotions, feelings, and the most difficult aspects of life. Unfortunately, there are no simple solutions, no easy answers, and no clear paths for overcoming life's toughest challenges. However, we can choose to be open and vulnerable. Being vulnerable requires courage and strength to show up and be seen. I see you and deeply appreciate your decision to be open and vulnerable with me as we embark on this healing journey. It's okay if things don't look perfect. Healing can be tough, but I want you to know that I'm here for you. Let's work together to align your inner and outer feelings. You're not alone in this.

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Amanda Khraich, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Hello! I'm currently a graduate student at California Baptist University.

 

I understand that life happens to all of us. You can feel overwhelmed by unexpected situations, unfortunate losses and psychological pains. Exposure to high levels of prolonged stress can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Intense anxiety attacks and social isolation are common experiences. Seeking helps means that you're ready to work and bring your life into a healthier balance. Through self-acceptance and care, you can gain more tools to improve your lifestyle and relationships. By listening attentively with non-judgmental empathy, I provide ongoing support with therapeutic insight and expertise in a confidential setting.

 

I invite you to a life of self-directed inspiration! You can live in a way that is fueled by your pursuit of achieving what you love! I can assist you to achieve peace of mind, happiness and life full of authentic gratitude.

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Brenda Torres, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Hi there! If you're looking for a compassionate, supportive space to navigate life's challenges, I’m here to help. I have a deep passion for working with individuals from all walks of life toward growth and healing. Whether you’re working through personal struggles or just looking to enhance your well-being, therapy can be a transformative experience.

 

I’m bilingual in both English and Spanish, ensuring that sessions are accessible and comfortable, no matter your language preference. I’m committed to creating an environment where you’ll feel safe, understood, and empowered. My approach is all about you, tailoring our work to your unique experiences, goals, and needs. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of the issues you’re facing and develop strategies that genuinely work for you.

 

Taking that first step into therapy can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’ll move at a pace that’s comfortable for you, and I’ll be with you every step of the way, offering empathy, understanding, and unwavering support.

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Faust Malabanan, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Good news, the best is yet to come.

 

Greetings, my name is Faust, and I’m a therapist trainee here at Life Source Affordable Counseling Center. I firmly believe in realizing our best through experiences, acknowledgments, and learning. Our experiences are the stories that we can unravel and explore—stories that often reflect both opportunities and adversities. As for our acknowledgments, this represents our courageous act to change… to take that one step toward therapy. And finally, learning serves as the pathway to improvement and betterment. We can learn various strategies, coping mechanisms, and healing techniques right here in therapy.

 

Having said that, my approach and style of therapy are person-centered. I support the direction, growth, and leadership that each individual takes. I enjoy working with diverse populations, such as immigrants, students, intersectional identities, and more. The theories and techniques I focus on include, but are not limited to, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

 

As for my free time, the activities I do to relax and enjoy include: solving escape rooms, playing video games, visiting lots of cafes, reading The Economist, "cooking", going to concerts/music festivals, watching movies, and much more.

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Jessica Fong, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Hello! My name is Jessica and I am currently pursuing my master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). I am also in the process of completing additional courses in couples counseling and physical and emotional trauma. I am excited to begin my traineeship journey with LifeSource Counseling and I look forward to assisting clients with their challenges.

 

I am passionate about treating the whole person and exploring the root issues so that an individual may experience healing and progress that is meaningful and client-centered. I have over 10 years of experience as an occupational therapist ranging from special education to physical rehabilitation. One of my goals in pursuing my MFT is to bridge the gap between physical and mental well-being so that I can continue providing a holistic approach to care when treating clients.

 

My areas of interest include but are not limited to medical trauma, workplace burnout, couples/relationship issues, parental support, and addictions/addictive behaviors. My approach in working with clients strives to provide a space that offers compassion and empathy while acknowledging the interconnectedness of a client’s social, environmental, and familial contexts. My hope for clients as they explore therapy is that they feel empowered to navigate their challenges and are able to facilitate a process of ongoing healing and growth in their lives.

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Karrie Flint, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Hello! My name is Karrie Flint. I’m currently a trainee therapist and I will be graduating with my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2025. I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Psychology from California State University San Bernardino in 2021 and I have a history of working in the mental health field with at-risk youth and their families as a Family Specialist on a WRAP team.

 

My approach to therapy is very eclectic and I draw a lot of inspiration from Bowen theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Feminist theory. I practice from a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach with an overarching goal of creating a non-judgmental environment for all, with a particular emphasis on inspiring a sense of safety for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

 

As someone that loves nature, I spend a lot of my free time outdoors – hiking, birdwatching, etc. – and outside of that I spend most of my time reading (particularly fantasy), crocheting, and practicing yoga.

 

Taking this first step to start therapy is a success in and of itself and I applaud you for being here! My purpose is to advocate for you and promote mindfulness throughout your healing journey and I look forward to being able to work with you. As Samwise Gamgee says, “There’s some good in this world … and it’s worth fighting for.”

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Mehrsa Javanmard, MFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Hello! I'm Mehrsa, a graduate student on the path to becoming a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I understand how overwhelming it can feel navigating a world filled with chaos and uncertainty. Taking the step towards self-care by seeking therapy is a courageous choice, and I commend you for it. I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your challenges, uncover your strengths, and embark on a journey of healing and growth. Together, we'll work collaboratively to navigate life's complexities and cultivate resilience, empowering you to thrive in the face of adversity.

 

With eight years of experience in the mental health field, I've had the privilege of working closely with individuals and adults during challenging times, offering support and guidance on their healing journey. My passion lies in assisting individuals and families as they navigate life's complexities, fostering healing and growth along the way. I approach each session with empathy and a client-centered focus, ensuring that every individual feels heard, understood, and respected.

 

My clinical interests are diverse and encompass a broad spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I'm particularly drawn to working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, immigrants, and those struggling with trauma. In therapy, I utilize a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to suit each client's unique needs and preferences. I am trained in approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy, allowing me to adapt my methods to best support my clients' journeys toward healing.

 

As a therapist trainee, I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My goal is to empower clients to tap into their inner strengths, reconnect with their inherent worth, and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

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Diane Louise Maldonado

Clinical Mental Health Counselor Trainee

Hi my name is Diane Maldonado and I am a Trainee in the field of Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have had training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children and have a deep desire to help them become restored. Assisting your family as you navigate the grief that comes with experiencing these deep wounds, so that everyone can negotiate the future together, is my intentional purpose. Advocating for you and supporting your life journey is my aspiration by helping you discover the tools within yourself to empower you to be even more successful. “Healing takes time, some wounds take longer.” Let me help you walk through this time in your life as we heal these wounds. I practice deep breathing, mindfulness-based therapy, strengths based, and cognitive behavioral therapy myself. You don’t know if a tool works until you use it, so let’s find the tools you need. I read a book several years back and one of the quotes stuck with me, it says: “Often the hardest person to fight for is yourself. But you must. Your heart is needed. You must be present and engaged in order to love well and fight on behalf of others. Without you, much will be lost.” Stasi Eldredge, Captivating.

 

I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you better.

Make An Appointment

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Contact Info

6235 River Crest Dr., Suite J,
Riverside, CA 92507, United States


Tel: (951) 640-1375
​Email:  Info@AffordableCounselingServices.org

 

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