Our Therapists

Melissa Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CA LCSW #130126) who is dedicated to helping individuals align with their values and build meaningful, fulfilling lives. Since beginning her social work career, she has gained experience across outpatient, intensive outpatient, and residential treatment settings. Melissa works with clients navigating trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, and is trained in EMDR. She uses an individualized, eclectic approach, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to meet each client’s unique needs. Her therapeutic style is collaborative and client-centered. Melissa believes therapy is not one-size-fits-all and emphasizes that clients are in the driver’s seat—honoring their goals, preferences, and pace throughout the process. She is also deeply committed to social justice and incorporates a systems perspective, recognizing the impact of family, community, and broader societal influences on each individual.

Sally Flores, LMFT (#52715) is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over thirteen years of clinical experience. Her professional background includes work as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and an Adult School Teacher, experiences that inspired her to pursue a Master’s degree in Counseling. Sally has worked with a diverse range of clients, including children (ages seven and older), individuals, families, caregivers, and older adults, addressing concerns from mild to more complex conditions. She takes an individualized approach to therapy, drawing from a variety of evidence-based modalities. Her therapeutic style focuses on building trust and creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing openly. She begins with a thorough assessment to guide diagnosis and treatment, and works collaboratively with clients to establish clear goals and a structured plan for therapy.

Sara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CA LCSW #102612) who became a therapist to help people break cycles and make positive, lasting changes in their lives. Her clinical work began in 2018 facilitating group therapy for individuals facing dual diagnoses, addiction and mental health, and later transitioned to individual therapy in a university setting, supporting young adults through academic, developmental, and life transitions. She enjoys supporting people who are new to therapy and aims to demystify the process. She also works with clients at various stages of recovery and personal growth who are ready to take practical steps toward change. She believes clients are the experts on their own lives and stories. Her role is to collaborate with clients to identify tools and strategies that fit each person’s needs and lifestyle. She takes an approachable, relatable, and eclectic approach, drawing on evidence‑based practices tailored to the individual. Treatment is practical and creative, focusing on small, manageable steps that lead to meaningful shifts. She may challenge clients at times and encourage stretching outside comfort zones, because that’s often where growth happens. Everything she does in session is grounded in warmth and acceptance.

Cynthia Mohd holds a dual licensure both as a Marriage and Family Therapist (#146032) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (#10934). Her LMFT Licensure gives her the authority to practice independently in California. Cynthia's professional journey includes significant experience in trauma, anxiety and depression. She tailors therapy to meet individual needs, fostering positive self-perception and interpersonal connections. Cynthia's mission is to provide a secure environment where clients can navigate life's challenges, enhance relationships, and cultivate resilience.

Jessica Pacheco is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#148698). She attended California State University, Fullerton obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in human services with a track in Substance Abuse. Jessica later switched her focus to work with High-Risk Adolescents and provided support in school settings. It was through this work that she realized the high need for and importance of mental health support in the community. Jessica wanted to further her education and earned her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Mount Saint Mary’s University.

Veronica Gaona, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CA LCSW #76049) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from California State University, Fresno. She has worked with children, individuals, and families since 2003 and has been practicing as a licensed clinician since 2017. Her career began in community-based non-profit organizations, where she served as an advocate for children, youth, and families. These early experiences, witnessing the resilience and strength of those she served, inspired her transition into clinical social work.

Veronica provides a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where clients feel supported in exploring their concerns. She considers it a privilege to be entrusted with her clients’ stories and is honored to walk alongside them through life’s challenges. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and strengths-based, helping clients build upon their existing resources to foster resilience, balance, and emotional well-being.