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.
Wendy Raskey, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor
Wendy Raskey, Ph.D is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. 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.
Cynthia Ferguson, MA, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Cynthia Ferguson (she/her/hers), Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, is supervised by Marquita Stokes, Ph.D. She received her Bachelor of Science in Philosophy at California State, Los Angeles. She competed the Clinical Psychology program at Antioch University in 2021 and currently holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology with a focus on child studies.
While with Antioch, she worked with adolescents, young and older adults from various background and helped to co-facilitate an adolescent support group. She has experience working with depression, anxiety, stage of life, grief as well as relational issues within polyamorous, gay, lesbian, and heterosexual relationships.
Cynthia primarily works with a psychodynamic technique while utilizing person centered approach. She has experience with and prefers working through a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) lens. She believes the key to success in therapy is to let the client lead and is passionate about involving the client in the therapy process every step of the way. In her free time, Cynthia enjoys traveling, listening to music, reading, meditation, hiking and practicing guitar.
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.
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.
Jannat Grewal, MA, Doctoral Practicum Student
Jannat Grewal, supervised by Dr. Marquita Stokes, is a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology doctoral program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles. She is particularly interested in psychodynamic approaches to healing, with a clinical focus on trauma, mood disorders, and the long-term psychological impact of displacement and intergenerational adversity.
Jannat has experience working with individuals across the lifespan and diverse backgrounds, including immigrant and refugee communities. She has provided clinical services in settings such as the Twin Towers Correctional Facility and Eastland Neuropsychology Group, where she gained training in psychological and neuropsychological assessment.
Her research explores the biological and psychological transmission of trauma across generations, with an emphasis on cultural resilience and healing within marginalized populations. In therapy, she integrates somatic awareness and culturally informed practices to support nervous system regulation and deepen insight.
Jannat is fluent in Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu, and draws on her Punjabi Indian background to offer a culturally sensitive and inclusive therapeutic space. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and painting.
Neeka Naderi, BA, Doctoral Practicum Student
Neeka Naderi, supervised by Dr. Wendy Raskey, is a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology doctoral program at The Chicago School in Los Angeles. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine, and brings a diverse background in both clinical and forensic mental health settings.
Neeka has worked with a wide range of populations, including individuals impacted by trauma, those involved in the legal system, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Her clinical training includes experience at the Los Angeles Public Defender’s Office, Clearview Treatment Program, and The Mental Health Collective, where she conducted cognitive assessments, provided crisis intervention, facilitated group therapy, and supported clients through emotionally complex life transitions.
She is deeply committed to providing affirming, culturally responsive care. Neeka is especially passionate about working with immigrants and first-generation individuals, the neurodivergent community, survivors of trauma and abuse, and formerly incarcerated individuals. She also has experience working with and advocating for LGBTQIA+ clients.
Neeka welcomes clients of all backgrounds and is open to integrating each individual’s personal values and belief systems into the therapeutic process. She is dedicated to creating a safe, empathetic, and collaborative space for healing and growth.
Sarah Yang, MA, Doctoral Practicum Student
This is Sarah Yang (she/her/hers), supervised by Dr. Wendy Raskey, and she is excited to be part of the CALA Psychological Services team! She is currently in her third year at the Chicago School’s Los Angeles campus. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from CSU Fullerton and her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School. Her previous clinical experience was at a medical center, where she provided assessments and therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. She aims to foster a trusting and collaborative relationship that supports clients every step of the way in their therapeutic process. Outside of school and work, she enjoys spending time with her cat, friends, and family. She also loves watching movies/TV shows, going to the beach, doing arts and crafts, and visiting cafes. She looks forward to working with you and supporting you on your journey!
Sara Saad, MA, Doctoral Practicum Student
Sara Saad, supervised by Dr. Wendy Raskey, is an Egyptian doctoral student at Fuller School of Psychology, where she is pursuing a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology and a masters in Theology, alongside her masters in Psychology. Her therapeutic style draws from psychodynamic theory, attachment work, and humanistic psychology to support clients in deepening emotional expression, insight, and resilience. Her clinical interests include trauma recovery and sexual shame.
Sara has worked with individuals ages 6 to 65 across diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. At Door of Hope and Sync Counseling Center, she supported children and adolescents navigating homelessness and complex trauma. At Fuller Psychological and Family Services, she worked with adults in individual therapy and co-facilitated a grief process group.
Much of her work has centered on trauma, prolonged grief, and the intersection of sexuality and spirituality. She is especially passionate about supporting adults navigating sexual shame and the lingering effects of relational trauma. Sara aims to provide an affirming, attuned space for clients to move through what Resmaa Menakem calls “clean pain”—the pain that comes from facing trauma with intention and care.
Outside of therapy, Sara loves dancing (Zumba, Salsa, Bachata), visiting art museums, and absorbing vitamin D in botanical gardens.
Stacy Valdovinos, MA, Doctoral Practicum Student
Stacy Valdovinos, supervised by Dr. Clara Aparicio, is a bilingual, Spanish-speaking doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles. Her clinical training has included work at the Children’s Institute and the Center for Integrated Family and Health Services, where she provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and families in both school-based and community settings. She has facilitated individual, family, and group therapy focusing on culturally responsive, family systems, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), and strength-based approaches to promote client growth and well-being.
She is especially passionate about working with the Hispanic and immigrant communities. She has supported undocumented individuals through a culturally sensitive lens, helping them navigate challenges related to transnational family separation and acculturation stress.
Her experience also includes working with individuals facing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem challenges, adjustment difficulties, and family dynamic issues.
In therapy, she is committed to helping others feel supported and empowered as they navigate the complexities of life. She strives to ensure her clients feel heard and understood, and she focuses on their strengths to promote autonomy and resilience.
Patricia Basalyga, MS, Doctoral Practicum Student
Patricia Basalyga, supervised by Dr. Wendy Raskey, is a doctoral student at Fuller Theological Seminary. She has a Master of Science in Criminal Justice: Forensic Psychology from Liberty University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College. Her research focus is on trauma-informed care and spiritual formation, and she is dedicated to integrating restorative justice principles into her clinical work.
Patricia’s background includes roles as a protection worker and intake/investigation worker in Indigenous child and family services, where she managed complex cases involving abuse, neglect, and family reintegration. She has provided educational outreach on issues such as addiction, domestic violence, and mental health.
Patricia’s relational approach to therapy centers on building strong, trusting alliances with clients, fostering safety and authentic connection as the foundation for effective healing. She values mutuality and respect, encourages collaborative and empowering interactions, considers the broader relational context of family, community, and culture, and integrates interventions that repair relational ruptures, promote empathy, and support healthy communication and boundaries. Working from a trauma-sensitive and restorative justice orientation allows her to integrate these principles into therapy, emphasizing healing, resilience, and the potential for positive change within individuals and their communities.
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.
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.
Jessica Kaufman, Client Coordinator
Jessica Kaufman (she/her/hers) is currently working towards her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at California State University, Northridge. During her studies at CSUN, she is an intern at PUC Schools in North Hills. Jessica received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Culinary Arts from the University of Redlands Johnston Center in 2023. She believes that the first step is always talking about what is going on and is excited to help others through their journey and be part of their support system. It is important to have an easy, stress-free experience when beginning therapy, and Jessica will help you through the process. Her characteristics that are especially beneficial are her organization skills, empathy, time management, effective communication, and patience. Outside of work and school, she enjoys spending time with friends, family, and her dog.