CALA Psychological Services is a multi-specialty and multi-lingual group of highly educated and highly skilled mental health professionals. Delivering services via telehealth.
Clara Aparicio, Psy.D., Co-Founder, Clinical Supervisor
Clara Aparicio, PsyD, is a bilingual, Spanish-speaking, licensed clinical psychologist. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Biology from California State University, Northridge. She completed her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Dr. Aparicio worked in community mental health and school settings providing services for underserved populations throughout the San Fernando Valley. In 2006, she resumed her studies completing a Master of Arts degree in Psychology, a Master of Arts degree in Christian Leadership, and Doctorate of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. During her studies at Fuller Seminary, Dr. Aparicio completed rotations at The Center for Aging Resources, BHC Alhambra Hospital, was a Neuropsychological Extern at Casa Colina Hospital, and completed an APA-Accredited Internship at Child and Family Guidance Center.
Dr. Aparicio has a private practice based in Pasadena, CA where she provides individual, couples, and family therapy, while continuing to service residents in short and long-term care facilities. She utilizes a strength-based therapeutic approach, being mindful of cultural, spiritual, socio-economic, and medical factors that contribute to mental health conditions. Advocating for her clients’ needs is a passion of hers. She takes on the role of clinical provider, advocate, and life-coach as she helps clients navigate through life’s stressors and hardships.
Lilit Ayrapetyan, Psy.D., Co-Founder, Clinical Supervisor
Lilit Ayrapetyan, PsyD, is a bilingual Armenian-Speaking, licensed clinical psychologist. She graduated from California State University, Northridge, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She then completed a Master of Arts degree and a Doctorate of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Ayrapetyan completed internships at Lawndale Mental Health Center, Harborview House and Canyon Ridge Hospital. Her experience includes providing evidence-based interventions for the geriatric population, conducting psychological assessments to assist in diagnostic clarifications and treatment planning, supervision of pre-doctoral interns, didactic trainings to medical students and psychiatry residents and individual and group therapy in community mental health settings.
Dr. Ayrapetyan has a private practice based in Pasadena, CA where she provides individual, couples, and family therapy. She utilizes a unique blend of psychotherapy, coaching, and assessment to help empower clients as they navigate through stressors. Dr. Ayrapetyan believes that in order to experience happiness, peace, and overcome difficulties, one must first have the courage to face and overcome one’s fears. Through her work, Dr. Ayrapetyan assists clients remove obstacles blocking their paths, find purpose in life, and learn to love themselves.
Amanda Kendrick, Psy.D., Clinical Supervisor
Amanda Kendrick, Psy.D. is a bilingual, Spanish-speaking, licensed clincial psychologist. Dr. Kendrick received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Rosemead Graduate School of Psychology, an APA accredited program. Dr. Kendrick strongly believes the relationship between the therapist and client is the biggest predictor of change. Her modality of treatment is eclectic and includes attachment based work, psychodynamic approach, cognitive behavioral interventions, and family therapy.
Dr. Kendrick is trained in the following evidenced based practices: Seeking Safety, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Aggression Replacement Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy. She has extensive experience working with clients from all age groups. In addition to clinical work, she is passionate about psychological assessments and using the findings to advocate for her clients in different arenas of their life (e.g., academic, work, social).
Marquita Stokes, Ph.D.
Marquita Stokes, PhD is a licensed clinical psychologist. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Spanish from Pennsylvania State University. She completed her Master of Science & Doctorate of Philosophy degrees in Clinical Psychology from Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, in Chicago, IL. During her studies at Northwestern, Dr. Stokes completed clinical rotations at Lurie Children’s Hospital, John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County, and University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Stokes completed an APA-Accredited Internship at Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School and Postdoctoral Psychology Fellowship in Adolescent & Young Adult Medicine at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles/University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine.
Dr. Stokes has experience in evidence-based psychotherapy, psychological assessment, consultation, education, leadership and training, supervision, and research. She provides individual, couples, and family therapy with specialties in mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, identity development, multicultural issues, and pediatric psychology. Her passion is to provide comprehensive and culturally-competent care to help clients on their path to wholeness.
Jeffery Hicks, Psy.D.
Dr. Hicks came to the mental health field after working as an educator for 20 years. In addition to a doctorate in clinical psychology from Ryokan College, Dr. Hicks also has a Master of Education from Milligan College and a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt University. One of his primary areas of focus at Vanderbilt Divinity School was pastoral counseling with older adults and individuals coping with declining health. Dr. Hicks has experience working with adult clients of all ages in psychotherapy who are dealing with substance and process addictions, coping with addicted family members, chronic pain, cognitive decline, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, life transitions and adjustments, self-efficacy and self worth issues, men’s issues, issues related to sexual orientation, grief and loss, relationship issues, communication issues, and with individuals who are experiencing difficulty managing stress. He also has experience working with clients who seek faith-based counseling within the framework of psychotherapy.
Prior to joining CALA Psychological Services, Dr. Hicks was a family coordinator and program therapist at Westside Treatment Center, Los Angeles. He is an adjunct lecturer in the Physician Assistant program at the University of LaVerne in LaVerne, California. Dr. Hicks utilizes Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Reminiscence Therapy, Solution-Based Brief Psychotherapy, and Client-Centered Therapy as his primary modalities in his work with clients. He looks forward to collaborating with his clinical colleagues and facility staff in his work with clients.
Maria Favela-Castro, M.A. Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Maria Favela-Castro, is a bilingual Spanish-speaking, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, supervised by Dr. Clara Aparicio. Ms. Favela-Castro received her Master degree from National University in Counseling Psychology and her Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, San Bernardino in Sociology. For the last 10years, Ms. Favela-Castro has gained experience in non-profit agencies assisting children, women, and their families. As a clinician, Ms. Favela-Castro has focused working with children and families heal and recover from traumatic experiences. She has extensive clinical experience assisting clients with depression and anxiety, and collaborating with mental health entities such as the Department of Children and Family Services and the Juvenile Probation system.
Stephanie Castillo, M.A. Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Stephanie Castillo, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, supervised by Daniel Castro, LCSW. Ms. Castillo received her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology at California State, Los Angeles. After receiving her BA Ms. Castillo went on to study substance use addiction and worked as a counselor at a rehabilitation center from 2014 to 2017. Ms. Castillo received her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Long Beach and has been practicing since 2019.
Ms. Castillo has experience working with children, young adults, adults, families and couples. She has experience in working with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, relational issues and self-esteem issues. She believes the relationship between client and therapist is most important and that is why she ensures to create a safe and comfortable setting in sessions. Ms. Castillo uses different theoretical orientations to address each individual’s needs such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Person Centered Therapy. On her free time she enjoys running and listening to music.
Olivia Ceja, MSN, RN, CNL, DNP Candidate (she/her/hers)
Ms. Olivia Ceja is a bilingual Spanish speaking, Registered Public Health Nurse and Board-Certified Clinical Nurse Leader. Ms. Ceja received her Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Language from the University of Southern California, and her Master of Science, in Nursing, from the University of San Francisco. Ms. Ceja is in her final year of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of San Francisco in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program.
Ms. Ceja is under the direct supervision of Dr. Clara Aparicio, furthering her clinical training and experience in Clinical Mental Health. Her clinical experience includes working with young adults and adolescents, treating life transitions, mood disorders, family systems and interpersonal issues. Ms. Ceja assists Dr. Stefani LaFrenierre, MD with pychiatric intake-screenings and conducts ongoing trainings for CALA’s staff regarding psychiatric care.
Ms. Ceja’s NP expertise include maternity issues, supporting parents and families through childbirth and beyond. Ms. Ceja is an adjunct professor at the Azusa Pacific School of Nursing. As an active member of the community, she offers compassionate and culturally empathetic care, with a focus on understanding and supporting the client’s objectives. Ms. Ceja is committed to providing a person-centered, holistic health approach and believes in championing the wellness journey of those she serves.
Lara Chakrian, M.A. Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Ms. Lara Chakrian is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Dr. Amanda Kendrick, Psy.D. Ms. Chakrian received her Bachelor's degree from Azusa Pacific University in 2019 where she double majored in Psychology and Philosophy and minored in Business Management.
After graduating from APU, Ms. Chakrian began pursuing her dream of becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist. In December 2021, she graduated from California State University, Northridge with a Masters degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. During her studies at CSUN, Ms. Chakrian interned at PUC Schools in Sylmar, spending hundreds of hours conducting therapy and treatment sessions with children, adolescents, adults, and families of various backgrounds. Additionally, she spent three years as a Developmental Interventionist with Professional Child Development Associates in Pasadena, where she specialized in treating children with developmental delays and their families.
It takes internal bravery and external support to examine the parts of ourselves that are much easier to ignore. Ms. Chakrian uses a Narrative and Collaborative lens to provide that external support and work alongside her clients at their own pace. While seeking therapy may come with the fear of stigma and judgment, Ms. Chakrian is ready to lend a listening ear and create a safe space to explore those desired areas of growth in an uplifting way. Therapy is the hardest challenge that reaps the greatest reward, and Ms. Chakrian is excited to embark on that courageous journey with her clients.
Wendy Rodriguez, M.A., Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Ms. Wendy Rodriguez is a bilingual Spanish-speaking, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Mr. Daniel Castro, LCSW.
Ms. Rodriguez received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Social Behavior as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from UC Irvine in 2016. Ms. Rodriguez continued her education and received her Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide in 2022.
Since graduating from UC Irvine, Ms. Rodriguez has gained experience working with children in school settings as well as working with adolescents and adults in the mental health community. Ms. Rodriguez understands that all individuals are unique, and one theory may not be suitable for all, that is why she enjoys supporting her clients by applying a wide range of modalities that best fits the clients need. Ms. Rodriguez’s goal as a therapist is to help her clients learn valuable skills and tools that can be applied long after therapy is over. She hopes to build authentic boundaries, cultivating self-esteem and self-acceptance, as well as healing wounds.
Lucy Curci Rocha, M.A. Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Ms. Lucy Curci Rocha is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Daniel Castro, LCSW.
Ms. Curci Rocha is a graduate of Antioch University Los Angeles, she holds a master's degree in Clinical Psychology with a focus on trauma. Understanding strong emotions and teaching people how to regulate them is her passion and specialty. Through CBT, DBT, and Psychodynamic therapy, she helps clients find their true selves. She is passionate about her work and is dedicated to helping her clients achieve mental and emotional balance.
Veronica Montes, Psy.D.
Dr. Montes earned her Masters Degree and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Southern California. Prior to that she earned her Bachelors Degree in Psychology from UC Irvine. Dr. Montes has worked with populations ranging in age from children to adults. Most of my clinical work has been in working with clients who have a trauma history and I use such evidence based practices as TF-CBT and EMDR. In addition, I have spent several years working with couples and individuals who are seeking support with managing difficult relationships, whether romantic or familial.
My main goal in session is to make the client feel comfortable and safe discussing their concerns with me. It can be difficult to find someone you feel you can be your authentic self with, and that’s where I believe I can play a role. I enjoy celebrating every individual’s uniqueness and helping individuals find their individual self, amidst the demands of their everyday lives. My client centered approach is aimed at targeting the problem and helping each individual to use their unique set of skills to meet that goal and develop new skills for the future.
Wendy Raskey, Ph.D., Registered Psychological Assistant
Wendy Raskey, PhD is a Registered Psychological Assistant, supervised by Dr. Lilit Ayrapetyan. Dr. Raskey received a Master of Arts Degree in Dance Movement Therapy from UC Los Angeles, as well as a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology, with a Concentration in Somatic Psychology from the Santa Barbara Graduate Institute, and a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology, with a Concentration in Somatic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Dr. Raskey’s experience working with adults embraces a holistic approach to treatment. Her method of treatment is deeply rooted in Somatic Therapy, utilizing a wide variety of healing modalities that center on the body and mind with interventions such as grounding, breath, muscle relaxation, and body centered mindfulness. In addition, her use of Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is enriched from a somatic perspective with clients experiencing symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders as well as from traumatic experiences. Dr. Raskey has an extensive background working in the field of forensics, as well as with individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities, mood disorders, and with trauma survivors. She believes that an approach from her heart is crucial in a client’s healing process.
Daniel Castro, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor
I strongly believe the power to change is inside each one of us. We have the power to change ourselves, which in turn can help shape our environments, and help us feel better. Change may not come easily, but with some hard work, and help, we are able to achieve our fullest potential. I am here to help you through your journey of self-discovery and emotional healing.
I completed my degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in 2007. In 2010, I received my degree in Clinical Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. My clinical experience as a bilingual Spanish-speaking clinician spans over 14 years. Throughout my clinical work I have been passionate about providing culturally sensitive counseling, to address issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, and gender identity.
I work with LGBTQ, adults, and older adults, and I am looking forward to forming a meaningful relationship with you. I want to get to know you and help you through this transformation, with support and without judgment.
Wai Yan Ip Ngan, Ph.D., LMFT., Registered Psychological Assistant
Dr. Agnes Ip, she is a trilingual, Mandarin and Cantonese-speaking, licensed marriage and family therapist and a registered psychological assistant supervised by Dr. Lilit Ayrapetyan. Dr. Ip received her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. She also completed her Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Multicultural Community Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University.
Dr. Ip's clinical work experience covers mental health assessment, evaluation, and treatment for multi-ethnic individuals of all ages in various settings. She worked at Community Mental Health Clinic with severe mentally ill clients for five years treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, depression, and anxiety. Dr. Ip then completed her doctoral practicum and internship with diverse underserved populations within various settings: domestic violence intervention, drug and alcohol residential treatment, and forensic preliminary evaluation and therapy for children who experience physical and sexual abuse.
Dr. Ip applies Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with her unique integrated approach to meet client's individual needs. She aims to empower clients with hope, insights, and resources to overcome their current life challenges. She also teaches clients practical, assertive skills to improve their everyday relationships. In addition, Dr. Ip provides faith-based counseling and culturally relevant couples and family therapy for multi-generational Chinese immigrants and supports professionals in various parts of their career development.
Jann M. Monserrat, M.A., Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Ms. Jann Monserrat is a bilingual Tagalog-speaking Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Dr. Amanda Kendrick, Psy.D. Ms. Jann Monserrat received her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development from UC Davis in 2017 and her Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles in 2021.
Over the past four years, Ms. Monserrat has gained clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults in various settings - from in-home support to university settings and treatment centers. Ms. Monserrat's goal is to help her clients unlock the strengths that already exist within. Her modality of treatment is eclectic and individually based, incorporating concepts from person-centered, CBT, DBT, and trauma-focused modalities.
Rose Pak, M.S.W. Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker
Ms. Rose Pak is an Associate Clinical Social Worker supervised by Dr. Clara Aparicio, Psy.D. Rose earned her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Chapman University with a minor in Music, then obtained her Master of Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. Rose has a passion for strengths-based mental health services and has extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults experiencing crises and stressful life transitions. She has experience working with LGBTQ youth and also provides faith-based therapy for those looking to integrate Christianity into their healing process. As a therapist, Rose aims to understand and empower clients to meet their goals. Outside of the office, Rose enjoys spending time with her husband, baby girl, and puppy Truffles!
Leanna Ayrapetyan, Lead Administrator
As CALA’s Client Coordinator, I work with clients to provide quality service and to ensure your experience is seamless and stress-free as possible. Your journey into therapy is a very important step into bettering yourself and I will be there every step of the way to guarantee that you have the support you need. My passion in helping people has proven that I am empathetic, caring, and patient. I am knowledgeable in the different benefits’ policies, can effectively communicate verbally, and in writing to ensure that you have the information you need to make the best decision for your situation. During my spare time I love to read, cook, and take long walks with my two dogs.
Doranny Martinez, Client Coordinator
Jessica Kaufman, Client Coordinator