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, PsyD, Co-Founder, Director of Clinical Training
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, PsyD, 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.
Marquita Stokes, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor
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.
Jessica Moya, MSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Clinical Supervisor
Jessica Moya is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#64722). She received both a Bachelor’s in Social Work (2008) and Master’s in Social Work (2010) from Eastern Washington University in Cheney, WA. While being licensed for 7 years, she has over 12 years of experience in the field of social work. She has had the privilege to work with a variety of populations from young children to adults from all walks of life whether it be LGBTQ+, gender/gender identity, socioeconomic status, nationality, multicultural, religious background, and/or differently abled. She has supported some of the most fragile in our society including children with developmental delays, adolescents in the foster care system, and adults with severe and persistent mental health challenges.
Jessica uses trauma-informed care to recognize early adversities in our lives and provide a safe and collaborative process to empower growth and healing. She is passionate in utilizing strengths-based approaches in working with others in coping with life’s many challenges including self-esteem, anxiety, depression, processing unresolved trauma, chronic substance issues, and self-identity. Additionally, she is trained in DIR/Floortime, a therapy to support social-emotional development. She truly believes that genuine relationships and authentic emotional connections with others is what leads to growth and development, and helps us achieve our full potential.
Cynthia Ferguson, MA, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Cynthia Ferguson is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Marquita Stokes, Ph.D. She is a Los Angeles native and completed her Clinical Psychology program at Southern California’s Antioch University in 2021. She currently holds a master’s in clinical psychology with a focus on child studies.
She has extensive experience supporting teenagers through individual as well as group therapy and has also worked with children as young as eleven. In addition, she has found a passion in working with women and examining impacts to mental health due to societal and cultural structures. Finally, she has extensive experience supporting adults that are working through anxiety, stage of life, grief as well and relational issues within polyamorous, gay, lesbian, and heterosexual relationships.
Cynthia primarily works with a psychodynamic technique while utilizing a person centered approach. She also integrates feminist approach for clients who wish to explore their existence within a broader context. She primarily works through a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) lens using science backed techniques. In her free time Cynthia enjoys meditation, grounding in nature, traveling, reading, and writing short stories.
Melanie Castro Phillips, MA, Associate Marriage And Family Therapist
Melanie Castro Phillips (She/Her/Hers) is a bilingual Spanish-speaking Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Dr. Marquita Stokes, Ph.D. She graduated with her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide. During her traineeship, Melanie completed her practicum at the Family Service Agency in Burbank and the Therapeutic Play Foundation in Pasadena. Melanie worked with children, adolescents, adults, and groups of various backgrounds experiencing different mental health challenges, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, family dynamics, identity, and parenting issues.
As an Afro-Latina, Melanie works closely with the BIPOC community and is passionate about supporting individuals and families through perinatal, postpartum, and caregiving challenges. She is committed to fostering safe and affirming spaces where people of all backgrounds feel heard, valued, and understood. Melanie primarily utilizes a person-centered approach. She has experience practicing various interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Melanie believes in the power of connection, resilience, and culturally responsive care. Whether you face life transitions, relational struggles, or emotional challenges, she is there to walk alongside you with empathy, understanding, and support.
Melanie is passionate about the performing arts. In her free time, she enjoys reading, meditating, singing, dancing, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Angie Nazarian, MA, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Angie Nazarian is a bilingual Armenian speaking Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Jessica Moya, LCSW #64722. She earned her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute of Campbellsville University. Prior to pursuing therapy, Angie completed her Bachelor’s in Interior Architecture from Woodbury University and gained valuable experience working in the demanding field of architecture and design.
During her internship as both a trainee and associate therapist, Angie served a diverse population of individuals, couples, families, children/adolescents, and elderly at a community mental health clinic. She has experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-worth/esteem, family and relationship dynamics, and trauma. Angie leads with a systemic approach, providing holistic care that empowers clients to create lasting, meaningful change.
Her therapeutic style is warm and nurturing, grounded in authenticity and compassion, with a touch of humor. Angie is deeply passionate about supporting mental health and healing. She looks forward to walking alongside her clients on their journey toward growth and wellness. Outside of her practice, Angie enjoys spending quality time with friends, family, and her fur baby dogs. She also values mindfulness and finds balance by recharging in nature.
Jessica Kaufman, MA, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Jessica Kaufman (she/her) is a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (#161274) and registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (#21846) supervised by Jessica Moya, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#64722). She earned her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Northridge. She completed her clinical training at PUC Schools in North Hills, where she worked with children, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds facing challenges such as grief, anxiety, depression, and relational issues. She also facilitated a supportive group for young girls, fostering empowerment and connection. Jessica also has experience at an intensive outpatient program, working with adults in recovery.
Jessica holds a unique academic background with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Culinary Arts from the Johnston Center for Integrative Studies at the University of Redlands. Her holistic, integrative therapeutic style is rooted in empathy and collaboration, drawing from Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She tailors her approach to meet each client’s individual needs, focusing on helping them uncover their inner strengths, build self-compassion, and make meaning of their experiences, including trauma, in a safe and supportive space. Jessica is dedicated to walking alongside her clients as they grow, heal, and move toward greater self-acceptance and well-being.
In her free time, Jessica enjoys spending quality time with friends, family, and her dog. She loves going on walks to reconnect with nature and is a foodie who enjoys trying new restaurants and cooking new recipes.
Jared Bell, MS, Doctoral Practicum Student
Jared (he/him), supervised by Dr. Clara Aparicio, is a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology pursuing a doctoral degree at Fuller Graduate School of Psychology. He has a commitment and passion for the Relational Psychodynamic practice, attachment theory, identity formation, and LGBTQ+ mental health. He holds a Master of Science focused on Forensic Psychology and a Master of Arts focused on Clinical Psychology.
Jared has had the privilege of working with all age groups and in many treatment settings such as forensic, medical, and outpatient clinics. His professional, clinical, and training experience has been working in Psychiatric Inpatient care, Geriatric Memory Care, and Cancer Care settings. With his diverse background, he brings a wholistic mindset into his clinical work and emphasizes the crucial nature of addressing each person’s unique complexity and story. With his vision of meeting people within their context and story, Jared provides a variety of services such as Play Therapy with children, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, and Individual Psychodynamic Therapy.
Roman Stancarone, MA, Doctoral Practicum Student
Roman Stancarone, supervised by Dr. Lilit Ayrapetyan, is a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, with a deep commitment to psychodynamic therapy, LGBTQ+ mental health, and TEAM-CBT. His clinical training includes work at Twin Towers Correctional Facility, Pasadena Rehabilitation Institute, Feeling Good Institute, where he has provided psychotherapy and conducted psychological assessments in both forensic and medical settings.
Roman holds a BA and MA in Linguistics, a degree in Education, and an MA in Clinical Psychology. He is a multilingual clinician and educator with a background in teaching and academic research. His dissertation explores the intersection of attachment styles and erotophilia in gay men, reflecting his broader interest in identity, intimacy, and sexuality from a relational and culturally informed lens.
With a foundation in both theory and practice, Roman brings warmth, cultural sensitivity, and insight to his clinical work with diverse clients across the lifespan.
Amy Hancock, MA, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Doctoral Practicum Student
Outside of the world of psychology Amy enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, spending time with family, finding reconnection in the mountains or the ocean, and cheering on the Dodgers!
Amy Hancock (she/her), is a doctoral student earning her degree in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School, and is supervised by Dr. Clara Aparicio. She also practices as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and earned her master's degree in Counseling Psychology from National University. Amy provides compassionate, evidence-based care grounded in cultural humility and respect for each client's unique lived experience. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and person-centered principles to create an individualized, strengths-based approach. Amy believes meaningful change begins with a collaborative therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect, empowering clients to advocate for themselves and make intentional life choices.
Amy has experience working with children, teens, and adults, from diverse backgrounds and across a wide range of clinical presentations, including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, identity disruption, personality disorders, substance use, and crisis intervention. Amy is passionate about providing LGBTQIA+-affirming care and supporting individuals as they navigate identity exploration, gender affirmation, relationships, and co-occurring mental health challenges. She has experience in community mental health, supporting unhoused individuals during life transitions and complex mental health needs. Amy also has facilitated psychoeducation groups for the Transitional Age Youth (TAY) program, helping young adult women develop communication skills, emotional regulation, and confidence as they navigate employment, independent living, and other developmental milestones.
Amy has a particular interest in supporting women through maternal and reproductive life transitions, helping them navigate the grief, identity shifts, relational changes, and societal and familial expectations that often accompany experiences such as family planning, infertility, pregnancy loss, and choosing a child-free life. Her goal is to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard and build the confidence to move toward a life that aligns with their values and authentic sense of self.
Lanying Wang, MA, Doctoral Practicum Student
Lanying Wang, supervised by Dr. Clara Aparicio, is a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology doctoral program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles. She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Macalester College and her master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School.
Lanying is a bilingual Mandarin-speaking clinician whose therapeutic style draws from psychodynamic theory, attachment work, and person-centered principles to support clients in building deeper self-awareness and forming healthier, more secure relationships with themselves and others. She is passionate about working with individuals facing complex trauma and cross-cultural or intergenerational family dynamics.
Her past clinical experience includes conducting cognitive assessments in both inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as providing crisis intervention. She has facilitated individual, family, and group therapy with children, adolescents, and adults across diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, supporting clients navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem challenges, and family dynamic issues.
Grounded in a belief that healing takes root in genuine connection, she approaches her work with warmth, patience, and deep respect for each client's story. Her goal is to create a space where clients feel truly seen and supported as they move toward greater self-understanding, resilience, and hope.
Ruzanna Grigoryan, MS, Doctoral Practicum Student
Ruzanna works with individuals and families seeking support in couples, family, and individual therapy. Ruzanna’s personal philosophy is that you are the author of your own book, unfurled through life’s experiences. Ruzanna firmly believes that an individual’s behavior – no matter how difficult to understand at times – is shaped to protect the mind, body, and soul. To “re-author” what was once detrimental to the story, one must take the conscious and courageous step of unlearning and redesigning a new storyline to build positive change and achieve a fulfilling outcome. Ruzanna uses a humanistic, behavioral, and strengths-based approach that emphasizes self determination, resourcefulness, and resilience in the face of harsh conditions. Therapy helps eliminate and control troubling symptoms so individuals can function better, thereby improving health and facilitating healing.
Ruzanna’s specialties include treating mood disorders (e.g., depression and anxiety), PTSD, addictions, and life transitions. Throughout the therapeutic process, she incorporates evidence-based clinical interventions that help connect mind and behavior. Although her theoretical orientation is largely cognitive-behavioral, she believes that placing a distinct emphasis on emotional experience is key to making and influencing important life decisions, both large and small.
Ruzanna’s passion began twelve years ago while working with children with special needs. She worked her way up to a supervisory position and then to managing a small branch. While working closely with families of children with special needs, she realized that the family unit could benefit from mental health services. Therefore, Ruzanna turned her attention to Counseling Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). Throughout her journey as a therapist, her goal is to facilitate and motivate individual growth, from self-awareness and discovery to action. Ruzanna’s core goal as a therapist is to help individuals develop their authenticity, confidence, and self-respect.
Oyira Akwa, Head of Billing
Oyira’s billing experience is a combination of front-line experience and formal study. She started out working as a laboratory technician for institutions such as LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics and Genzyme Genetics. Utilizing her hands-on experience, she furthered her career in Administration at UCLA as a medical transcriptionist. After solidifying her understanding in the clinical aspect of medical care and working as a Medical Biller for a range of private practices, Oyira went on to study the revenue cycle process while obtaining her Certified Professional Coding license with AAPC.
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.
Emily McAtee, BS, Administrative Assistant
Emily McAtee, B.S. is currently a second-year doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) program at the University of Hartford. Her passion for psychology and helping others is reflected in both her academic journey and her community involvement. Emily volunteers with Hands On Hartford, a social service nonprofit organization that supports Hartford’s most economically challenged residents in the areas of food, housing, and health. Through this work, she is dedicated to promoting well-being and equity for underserved populations. She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychobiology from UCLA, where her interest in the intersection of biology and mental health took root. Outside of her studies and volunteer work, Emily enjoys spending time with her cats, family, and friends, reading novels, playing video games, and staying active through tennis.
Doranny Martinez, Client Coordinator
As one of CALA'S client coordinators, I am eager to assist you into your journey in mental health. In my current role at CALA Psychological services, I am responsible for scheduling appointments, maintaining client records, and communicating effectively with clients to ensure their needs are met. I have always had a passion for helping people, I am compassionate and caring and I hope to help you find your journey into mental health. In my spare time I enjoy hiking with my dog Moose and painting with friends and family.