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.
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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.
Sabrina Azzuz, MA, Doctoral Student
Sabrina is a doctoral student of Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her academic journey was established at Channel Islands University where she earned her Bachelor’s degree of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Communications. She recently earned her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School in part of her journey towards earning a doctorate.
During her recent traineeship, Sabrina completed her practicum at ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Center, an outpatient treatment center, where she worked with teens and adolescents of various backgrounds experiencing different mental health challenges, including those struggling with self-esteem and battling addiction. She also took on a supplemental position at Neuron & Rose Psychological Services, where she provides comprehensive neurodiversity-affirming care through administering a range of neuropsychological batteries.
Throughout her professional career, Sabrina had the privilege of working with children and adults in various settings. She was a classroom aid for both a kindergarten and first grade class where she helped facilitate an environment in which both neurotypical and neurodivergent children could flourish.
Sabrina’s approach to clinical practice emphasizes the transformative power of connection in the healing process. She utilizes a holistic methodology, recognizes the distinctiveness of each individual, and understands that our identities are greatly influenced by our personal experiences.
In motivation to give back to her community, Sabrina volunteered as a Sexual and Domestic Assault advocate where she aided survivors by answering hotline calls and providing accompaniment for them during medical examinations and interviews. These experiences were very rewarding and deepened her commitment to advocating for misunderstood individuals. Sabrina combines a psychodynamic strategy with a person-centered approach in her practice.
Outside of her doctoral studies or clinical practices, Sabrina likes to maintain an active lifestyle, whether that be exploring new restaurants and coffee spots with friends, going on morning walks with her dog, or recharging by spending quality time with her family.
Jhanavi Bharwani, Doctoral Student
Jhanavi Bharwani is a current student pursuing her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School with the aim to further her academic and clinical pursuits. She has completed her B.S. in Psychology from Stony Brook University, where she also gained valuable neuropsychological research experience. Over the years, Jhanavi has spent some time practicing ABA therapy and has had the opportunity to work with diverse communities and supporting individuals struggling with academic challenges and self-esteem barriers. Jhanavi is deeply committed to advancing mental health awareness and breaking down existing barriers. Drawing from previous experiences, she aims to challenge and support individuals in navigating stressors while maintaining authenticity. Her ultimate goal is to empower individuals to overcome challenges, achieve their personal goals while fostering resilience and self-compassion.
Erin Khodaverdin, Doctoral Student
Erin is a bilingual Armenian-speaking doctoral student of Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her academic foundation was laid at California State University, Northridge, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Child and Adolescent Development.
In her professional journey, Erin has served as a Clinical Counselor at a residential treatment center where she provided intensive support to teens and adolescents grappling with addiction, mental health challenges, and co-occurring behavioral issues. Her earlier role as a behavior therapist in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) fueled her dedication to advocating for neurodivergent individuals and those who often go unheard. Erin also has experience in working with LGBTQ+ teens and adolescents and is open to working with more people in this population.
Erin's clinical philosophy centers on the power of healing through connection. She adopts a holistic approach, embracing the uniqueness of each person and acknowledging that individual experiences profoundly shape our identities, far beyond mere labels or categories.
When she is not immersed in her doctoral studies or clinical work, Erin enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors, often by simply going on walks with her dogs! She also values the chance to unwind and recharge by connecting with friends and family, whether through social outings or simply enjoying their company.
Sophia Whyte, doctoral student
Sophia is a dedicated doctoral student at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, pursuing her studies in Clinical Psychology. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Otterbein University, where she excelled as a research assistant and served as an admissions coordinator at a local private practice therapy facility. For the past two years, Sophia has been a Clinical Outreach Representative, providing specialized support to individuals facing trauma, addiction, mental health disorders, as well as couple and family conflicts. Her holistic therapeutic approach integrates the physical, emotional, and social aspects of well-being, aiming to treat the whole person. Outside of her academic and professional commitments, Sophia loves spending time with her friends and family. She is passionate about nature, and her favorite activities include hiking, traveling, beach days, and taking walks with her dog.
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. graduated from UCLA in June of 2023 with her Psychobiology degree. Emily's love for both psychology and helping others can be seen in her work and hobbies. Emily is currently a certified domestic violence and sexual assault advocate at the East Los Angeles Women's Center. She enjoys volunteering there and giving back to her community. She was recently accepted into the University of Hartford where she will begin pursuing her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, Psy.D. Outside of her work and volunteering she loves to spend time with her cats, her family, catching up on reading novels and playing video games.
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.