Indian Wells, California was originally settled by a cast of characters including pioneers, Native Americans, explorers, and prospectors. Prospectors found some gold and the city celebrated its silver anniversary in 1992. It doesn’t matter what your station in life is, everyone has occasions where they’re feeling more like a lump of clay than a cluster of gold.
There’s no need to continue feeling like a bump on a log when an Indian Wells professional licensed counselor is the best match to helping you feel shiny and new.

Sherie Dechter
HI, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the Southern California area. For almost 28 years I have worked with people who need extra help to get through tough situations. I have numerous areas of specialty and use techniques that I believe will best fit each client. I am committed to helping people heal, grieve and help people get through periods of crisis in their lives - either expected or unexpected. I want you to feel comfortable with yourself and rise to your full potential. I have worked with children, adults, couples and families as they navigate obstacles and together we create solutions. I strive to create a warm and friendly and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I believe the safety of the therapeutic re; relationship allows you to engage in a meaningful exploration of the issues that are impacting your wellbeing. Therapy is a collaborative process and my role is to empower you to reach your goals. I look forward to working together and creating new possibilities.

Chelsea Heller
Hi there! I'm Chelsea! I'm so glad you're exploring therapy - I think everyone can benefit from processing things in life and learning more about themselves. It's important to feel comfortable and connected with your clinician, so I'd like to tell you a bit about myself to help you make an informed decision as to whether or not we'd be a good fit together! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. Previously, I worked as a social worker for Child Protective Services for 9 years, supporting children and families touched by foster care and adoption. As such, I am well versed in addressing core adoption issues, attachment, and identity concerns. Additionally, I have experience treating depression, anxiety, parenting, blended-families, teen concerns, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis, and adjustment. I've also worked at an in-patient psychiatric hospital, helping stabilize individuals short-term with bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-morbid disorders, suicidal ideations, self-injurious behaviors, and those encountering psychotic breaks triggered by stress. Equally important was my role in educating families about the diagnosis and ways to support their loved ones. I have since transitioned to the education sector and have been supporting students as a School Psychologist. In this role, I conduct psychoeducational assessments to identify students with autism, intellectual disabilities, AD/HD, and learning disabilities, among others. My assessments are then utilized to inform independent education plans. I also conduct Educationally Related Mental Health Service assessments and provide related counseling, serving students with higher mental health needs. Lastly, I would be remiss if I neglected my passion and experience serving the LGBTQ community. For a portion of my time as a social worker, I worked solely with LGBTQ parents and children, providing support to this community. In the school setting, I conducted my doctoral research focusing on LGBTQ student needs and facilitated a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club, supporting LGBTQ students and allies. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, though tend to draw primarily from a humanistic, person-centered approach. This dynamic in a therapeutic relationship means I attempt to “meet each client where they are.” This serves as a catalyst, allowing each individual to progress through their unique process of self-discovery. I also utilize principles from leading psychological modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic approaches. My role as a therapist is not to give you advice or change you. Rather, it is to be an understanding, empathic, and non-judgmental support to help guide you to your own choices, AT YOUR OWN PACE. Together, we can establish goals for therapy, and while I can help you gain insight, I will never push an agenda or risk rupturing our therapeutic relationship. I know it takes a lot of courage to seek support, and I am humbled by the opportunity to lend my strength during times when you are most vulnerable. My credentials include: - Bachelor of Arts in Social Science – California State University, San Marcos - Certificate in Parent Education and Training – University of California, Los Angeles - Certificate in Special Education Advocacy – University of San Diego - Master of Science in Research Psychology – University of Phoenix - Master of Arts in Counseling (Marriage & Family Therapy) – Mount Saint Mary’s College - PPS Credential in School Psychology – La Sierra University - Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology and Mental Health (in progress) – La Sierra University - Licensed by State of California Board of Behavioral Sciences (LMFT 116834) About me: I know it is difficult to share intimate details with someone, while not knowing any personal details about them. I also understand the desire for shared experiences, and feeling as though someone truly understands your pain. Thus, I tend to share some of my background with clients, while maintaining professional boundaries and focus. Growing up, my mother was a principal and my father was a chief of police. My older brother struggled with learning disabilities and drug addiction as a teen, eventually leading to crime and prison. Thus, as an adolescent, I was quickly exposed to internal conflict, fearing someone I loved, and grieving that relationship. As an adult, I became a single parent and sought my own therapy to manage the intense feelings of shame while learning to co-parent. I have since found a new partner and was recently married after postponing the wedding 4 times due to COVID.. I continue to navigate the challenges of having a blended family with my 6-year-old daughter and 6-year-old step son. I enjoy concerts, photography, soccer, and camping. I also use profanity a shitload more than I care to admit.

Paula Fuentes
I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Dr. Julia Kaluga
Hello! Thank you for your interest! I am a Doctor of Psychology, licensed LMFT in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma and abuse, confidence/low self esteem, lgbtq+ related issues, and coping with grief and loss. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Cecilia Sandoval Serna
I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Joe "Joseph" Raphael
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Maria Favela Castro
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy for individuals, couples, and families. My approach is grounded in cultural humility and evidence-based practices, including EMDR and CBT, and I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. I work with clients across a range of backgrounds, helping them feel respected, understood, and empowered in their healing journey. Throughout my career, I have focused on supporting individuals with a variety of needs, from personal and relational challenges to more complex issues such as substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. In addition to individual and family therapy, I facilitate group sessions, lead crisis interventions, and collaborate with community resources to offer comprehensive, long-term support. I also have a strong foundation in child and family services, where I’ve worked extensively with youth and adults experiencing trauma, behavioral challenges, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can openly explore their struggles and receive guidance tailored to their unique strengths and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking to overcome personal challenges, improve family dynamics, or navigate a difficult transition, I am here to support you with compassion, empathy, and dedication. Together, we’ll work toward achieving your mental health and wellness goals, building resilience and hope for the future.

Diana Mathis
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Thais Guimaraes
I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Sarah Davidson-Amici
I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Find a therapist serving clients in California
Types of therapists available to clients in Indian Wells
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Indian Wells that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Indian Wells available through BetterHelp are accredited to help individuals and couples. Indian Wells therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Indian Wells therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Indian Wells region and in the state of California.
How a therapist can help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want
Therapists in Indian Wells can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Indian Wells may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.