MSMW Staff Family

Hi, I’m Johana. If you’ve been carrying emotional pain for a long time, maybe you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure why you keep repeating patterns that don’t reflect who you truly are, you’re not alone. I support children, teens, adults, and couples in working through the weight of trauma, anxiety, and relationship challenges, and toward clarity, confidence, and emotional peace.

You might not even have all the words yet, just a sense that something feels off. Maybe you’ve learned to stay quiet, to not take up space, or to disconnect emotionally to protect yourself. These patterns often begin in childhood or through painful relationships. They may have once helped you survive, but now they may be holding you back from feeling present, connected, and understood.

As a bilingual licensed therapist in the state of California and founder of My Serenity Mental Wellness, I provide a calm, compassionate space for you to gently explore what’s underneath the surface. In our work together, you’ll reconnect with your voice, learn to honor your needs and feelings, and practice building healthy, respectful boundaries with others.

If you are in a relationship, I also support partners in learning to communicate with care and clarity. I help both individuals share their needs without shutting down or overpowering one another. The goal is to build mutual understanding, reduce conflict, and create emotional safety within the relationship.

I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level II (CCTP-II), and a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional (CMIP). I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). For children and teens, I am certified in Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and trained in Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), two evidence-based models for youth.

Each session is tailored to meet your unique needs. Some days we’ll focus on practical tools and structure. Other times, we may slow down and make space for emotions that haven’t had a safe place to land. I often use creativity, metaphors, and gentle humor in the process, because healing doesn’t have to feel heavy to be meaningful. Many of my clients say they feel safe being their full selves, and that sense of safety helps open the door to real change.

In my personal life, I’ve shared nearly 25 years with my high school sweetheart. Our family includes our curious Weimaraners and a few feathered friends. I find joy in dancing, especially to Latin music and 80s hits, and I unwind with classic reruns like I Love Lucy. I also love adventure and have experienced skydiving, hot air ballooning, helicopter rides, ziplining, and parasailing. I believe healing includes not only reflection and rest, but also joy, laughter, movement, and connection.

You don’t have to carry it all by yourself anymore. I’d be honored to walk this serenity journey with you.

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene

Hi there, I’m Christin and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor at My Serenity Mental Wellness. My therapy career started when I graduated with my Masters in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University in 2018, proudly becoming the first person in my family to achieve a college education. 

During my time in this field, I have worked with non-profit agencies and private practice settings to provide services across a multitude of populations within our community. I have a high level of experience ranging from children with extensive trauma, adults with various diagnoses, and couples facing challenges within their relationships. 

I believe in providing a safe, comfortable, and judgment free zone for my clients to freely process their feelings and work towards their individualized treatment goals. I hold the belief that we can laugh together and we can cry together, and we will absolutely celebrate your successes together.

In my downtime, I can either be found baking delicious desserts in my kitchen or in a bowling alley. I am a self-taught baker and adore spoiling my loved ones with baked goods as often as I can. I bowl in leagues multiple nights a week and often spend my weekends competing in tournaments. I try to spend as much time with my family and close friends as possible as well as pick new places to travel to and explore. I believe life is enriched with new experiences we cultivate for ourselves!

Thank you for taking the time to read my bio! Should you have any questions or need to speak with a clinical supervisor, please feel free to reach out!

“May your choices reflect your hopes not your fears” – Nelson Mandela

Hola! My name is Yohana “Joey” I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor. 

My journey began when I graduated from California State University, Los Angeles with my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. I dedicated my professional life in working with non-profits and Los Angeles Employment/Education Department where I provided wraparound services to at risk youth and adults. As a social worker I also provided services to homeless individuals and those dealing with a wide range of mental health issues in order to help them meet their basic needs. 

In 2018, my career took a different path as I became a college counselor for a nonprofit organization that served first generation college students through their educational paths and professional development. Here provide coping mechanisms and guidance to college students dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, suicidal ideations substance abuse, LGBQT, and identity issues. This professional experience help guide me in pursuing a career as a therapist. 

On April 2023, I became the first in my family to graduated with a Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology with a dual program certification in Professional Clinical Counseling from California Baptist University. I am trained to work with individuals, families, and groups to treat mental, behavioral and emotional problems and disorders. My scope of practice has given me experience to provide cultural awareness and appropriate services to clients who often can’t find spaces for themselves. Creating safe spaces for clients who identify with BIPOC, LGBQT, and/or immigrant communities is my goal as an inclusive and empathetic therapist. 

I have over 10 years of experience proving counseling and wraparound services in the mental health field. My combined degrees and certifications have given me the skills to guide my clients through their therapeutic journeys with personalized plans, treatments, and care. I specialized in Anxiety, Trauma, Life Transitions, LGBQT, and depression. I have a passion to help others with tools, skills, and techniques to address their wellness goals and be self sufficient. 

As a bilingual clinician I am here to help my Spanish bilingual and monolingual clients process their emotions, trauma, and life events in Spanish and provide a cultural context to their healing journey. 

Un Poquito de Mi. Soy orgullosa de ser Latina y la primera en mi familia de recibir me con dos títulos universitarios. Me encanta cocinar platillos Mexicanos y tradicionales. Amo pasar mi tiempo libre con mi familia, mis animales y mis amigos.

“I am my own muse, the subject I know best.”-Frida Kahlo

ENGLISH:

Hello and Hola! My name is Karla, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have earned my Master degree in Clinical Psychology, from Azusa Pacific University. 

While I originally obtained my Bachelor’s in Graphic Design back in 2020, my deep interest in understanding the connection between the mind, body, and soul—particularly how trauma impacts the brain from a young age—has always been a guiding force in my career journey. 

In 2021, I had the privilege of working with refugee children and youth migrating from Central America to the United States, an experience that profoundly shaped my perspective and solidified my desire to pursue a career in psychology. This opportunity allowed me to gain invaluable insights into trauma in adolescents and children, further fueling my passion for supporting those who have experienced significant hardships. 

I bring experience working with individuals, couples, and families—as I’ve had the privilege of working in a Trauma Recovery Center. I am committed to empowering clients by tailoring therapeutic interventions to their unique needs, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes self-awareness, growth, and healing. 

A little bit about me: During my free time, I enjoy attending concerts, reading, journaling, and pretty much anything that has to do with art! Thank you for taking the time to read my Bio! :) 

“You can't carry all things, decide what is yours to hold and let the rest go.” - Taylor Swift

  𖡼.𖤣𖥧  𖡼.𖤣𖥧   𖡼.𖤣𖥧  𖡼.𖤣𖥧   𖡼.𖤣𖥧  𖡼.𖤣𖥧 

SPANISH:

¡Hola! Me llamo Karla y soy terapeuta matrimonial y familiar asociada bilingüe. Obtuve mi maestría en Psicología Clínica en la Universidad Azusa Pacific.

Aunque empecé mi licenciatura en Diseño Gráfico en 2020, mi profundo interés por comprender la conexión entre la mente, el cuerpo y el alma, en particular el impacto del trauma en el cerebro desde una edad temprana, siempre ha sido un motor en mi trayectoria profesional.

En 2021, tuve el privilegio de trabajar con niños y jóvenes refugiados que migran de Centroamérica a Estados Unidos. Esta experiencia moldeó profundamente mi perspectiva y consolidó mi deseo de dedicarme a la psicología. Esta oportunidad me permitió adquirir conocimientos invaluables sobre el trauma en adolescentes y niños, lo que avivó mi pasión por apoyar a quienes han experimentado dificultades significativas.

Aporto experiencia trabajando con individuos, parejas y familias, ya que tuve el privilegio de trabajar en un Centro de Recuperación de Traumas. Me comprometo a empoderar a mis clientes adaptando las intervenciones terapéuticas a sus necesidades únicas, fomentando un entorno colaborativo que promueve el autoconocimiento, el crecimiento y la sanación.

Un poco sobre mí: En mi tiempo libre, disfruto ir a conciertos, leer, escribir en mi diario y prácticamente cualquier cosa relacionada con el arte. ¡Gracias por tomarte el tiempo de leer mi biografía! :)

“No puedes cargar con todo; decide qué es tuyo y deja ir el resto.” - Taylor Swift

Hi, I’m Eric De Trinidad. I’m a therapist supporting teens, young adults, and families through challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions.

I’ve worked in school-based and partial hospitalization settings with high-risk adolescents and diverse families. I’ve led groups on anxiety and grief and supported individuals facing emotional pain, anger, low motivation, and unresolved trauma.

My approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a person-centered style. We focus on your goals and strengths while exploring deeper feelings. I bring calm, warmth, and steady support, meeting you where you are with patience and encouragement.

Therapy can feel unfamiliar at first. That’s okay. I’m here as both a listener and motivator, helping you sort through what feels like a tough spot or unclear. Together, we’ll work to get you unstuck and connected to your values and goals.

Whether you want to understand your emotions, heal from your past, or build confidence and communication skills, I’m here to support meaningful progress. Growth isn’t always dramatic — sometimes it’s just showing up for yourself a little more each day.

Outside of therapy, I’m a Dodgers fan who loves baseball, movie nights, beach days, and comfort shows like The Office and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. I cherish time with family and moments of calm.

A quote I live by:

“For me, success isn’t about wins and losses. It’s about helping people be their best on and off the field.”

And like baseball, progress comes one base at a time — and that still gets you home.

English version:

¡Buen día! I’m Yackeline "Yackie", a bilingual therapist passionate about walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate life’s challenges.

As a first-generation Mexican-American, I know firsthand what it feels like to experience culture shock, adjustment, and the pressure of balancing two worlds. Those experiences shaped my path — I became the support I once needed myself.

I’ve worked with kids, teens, and adults across schools, crisis care, foster care, and community settings. Along the way I’ve supported BIPOC, immigrant, and LGBTQIA2+ communities, as well as individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and high-stress transitions. My goal is to make mental health care accessible, compassionate, and culturally attuned.

My approach is person-centered: I believe you are the expert in your life. I bring tools from CBT, DBT, somatic work, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and holistic practices, always tailoring therapy to meet your unique needs. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all — together, we’ll discover your path to healing and growth.

Outside of therapy, I love spending time with my three pups, staying active through running, dancing, and hiking, and winding down with rom-coms and feel-good shows.

I would be honored to support you as you find your voice, your calm, and your strength.

"Siempre sale el sol después de la tormenta"

Yackeline Casillas, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #137086 )

  𖡼.𖤣𖥧  𖡼.𖤣𖥧   𖡼.𖤣𖥧  𖡼.𖤣𖥧   𖡼.𖤣𖥧  𖡼.𖤣𖥧 

Spanish version:

¡Buen día! Soy Yackeline "Yackie", una terapeuta bilingüe apasionada por acompañar a individuos y familias mientras navegan los retos de la vida.

Como mexicana-estadounidense de primera generación, sé de primera mano lo que significa experimentar un choque cultural, adaptarse y sentir la presión de equilibrar dos mundos. Esas experiencias moldearon mi camino: me convertí en el apoyo que yo misma hubiera necesitado en ese entonces.

He trabajado con niños, adolescentes y adultos en escuelas, servicios de crisis, hogares de acogida y en la comunidad. A lo largo de este recorrido, he apoyado a comunidades BIPOC, inmigrantes y LGBTQIA2+, así como a personas que enfrentan trauma, ansiedad, depresión, trastornos alimenticios y transiciones de alta demanda emocional. Mi meta es hacer que la salud mental sea accesible, compasiva y culturalmente sensible.

Mi enfoque es centrado en la persona: creo que tú eres el/la experto/a de tu vida. Utilizo herramientas de la TCC (terapia cognitivo-conductual), DBT, trabajo somático, mindfulness, terapia narrativa y enfoques holísticos, siempre adaptando la terapia a tus necesidades únicas. La terapia no es igual para todos; juntos descubriremos tu camino hacia la sanación y el crecimiento.

Fuera del espacio terapéutico, disfruto pasar tiempo con mis tres perritos, mantenerme activa corriendo, bailando o haciendo senderismo, y también descansar viendo comedias románticas y programas que me hacen sentir bien.

Para mí sería un honor acompañarte a encontrar tu voz, tu calma y tu fortaleza.

“Siempre sale el sol después de la tormenta.”

Yackeline Casillas

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #137086)

My background as a collegiate track and field athlete taught me endurance, discipline, and presence, qualities I now bring into therapy by walking with you, pacing with you, and supporting you through every step of your healing journey.

As a therapist at My Serenity Mental Wellness I show up with a warm, compassionate style, and I truly enjoy helping people feel seen, understood, and supported.

I have experience working with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, autism, ADHD, and life stressors. In therapy, I often integrate mindfulness, CBT, and trauma-informed care to help clients understand their emotions, build coping skills, and reconnect with themselves. My goal is to create a calm and safe space where you can be open without judgment.

Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy yoga outdoors, going to concerts, and appreciating simple joys like pineapple Dole Whip.

I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey toward healing.

 " Don't stop. Keep going. If you want a taste of freedom, keep going." by Harriet Tubman

“If you’re carrying more than you say out loud, you’re not alone. I’m Giannah, and I help kids, teens, and adults untangle the weight of trauma, anxiety, grief, and the expectations that feel too heavy to hold alone.”

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with experience supporting clients across community mental health, inpatient, and residential settings. These experiences have shown me how much people hold — and how powerful it is to finally have a space where they don’t have to carry it alone.

My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed. You’re in the driver’s seat; I’m the instructor helping you navigate the road with clarity, safety, and support. I believe healing becomes possible when people are given tools, understanding, and room to go at their own pace.

As a Mexican American clinician, I honor the cultural and generational layers many of us carry — family expectations, identity, pressure, and unspoken emotional roles. Healing isn’t linear or perfect; it’s human, messy, and deeply personal. My goal is to create a grounded, nonjudgmental relationship that fosters trust, emotional regulation, and empowerment.

I draw from Narrative Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and CBT, adapting the work to each client’s unique needs. I don’t believe therapy should be one-size-fits-all. I meet you where you are and work at your pace.

Outside the therapy space, I recharge by exploring new restaurants, attending horror conventions, watching sunsets, and winding down with documentaries while painting my nails or spending time with my dog and partner.

“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they're never weakness.” Brené Brown.

My name is Anthony Shields - LMFT #922419. and I am one of the clinical supervisors at My Serenity Mental Wellness. I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist for almost ten years with years of experience working with those experiencing symptoms of depression, various anxiety disorders, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. I take a very relaxed yet direct approach to therapy in that I make it a point to meet each client where they are, collaboratively develop realistic, individualized goals for therapy, and then set out to assist each client with not only developing the needed skills and tools to navigate their mental health challenges, but also the challenges life brings our way that can cause real difficulty. 

My goal for each client is that they reach their full potential and achieve their personal goals built on a foundation of knowing their unconditional worth as a human being and valued individual. I have extensive experience working with clients affected by trauma, and assisting those individuals with both new strategies to manage the lingering, long-term effects, and new perspectives and ways of viewing what took place to reduce any and all unnecessary negative self talk or unhealthy core-beliefs. 

Together we will not only learn healthy ways of coping with the mental health challenges plaguing us, but we will explore their origins to provide validation for those challenges before recognizing just exactly what we can let go of in order to significantly improve the quality of your life.

When I'm not in the office working with clients, you can find me regularly at the gym, relaxing on my couch with a good movie or a Dodger game, or playing bass at my church for weekend services. I believe self-care is crucial and I make the effort to always practice what I preach."

“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.”

― Mother Theresa

Hello! I’m Jillian, and am passionate about helping people feel understood, grounded, and supported as they navigate life’s challenges. My work is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and a deep belief in every person’s capacity to heal.

I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals from many different backgrounds, supporting clients through anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, and periods of uncertainty or overwhelm. I approach therapy with the mindset that every story matters — and that healing begins when you feel safe enough to be your full, authentic self.

In sessions, I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and affirming space where you can slow down, explore your inner world, reconnect with your strengths, and develop the tools you need to move toward a more grounded and fulfilling life. My style is gentle but intentional, and I meet you exactly where you are, at the pace that feels right for you.

Outside the therapy room, you can usually find me enjoying coffee, playing piano, practicing yoga, or relaxing with my two cats, Pickle and Pot Roast. I feel most connected to myself when I’m in nature or getting lost in a meaningful book.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

This quote resonates with me deeply and reflects the heart of my work: your strength, wisdom, and resilience are already within you. I’m honored to help you uncover them.

Jillian Coker, Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW #118751)