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.
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.
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 first-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.