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Until further notice, all appointments are conducted via video. Contact your location's admin team for more information.

Westwood

Westwood

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Westwood Services

Acacia Westwood offers individual, group, couple’s, and psychiatry services. Located within walking or scootering distance from UCLA, across the street from Whole Foods. Come into the office to experience a little slice of modern design featuring cozy lobbies and the occasional cute pup.

Westwood Office
Westwood Office
Westwood Office
Westwood Office
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Looking to recommend a friend, colleague, or family member? Everyone in California can access our services!

Streamlined
☆☆☆☆☆
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I've had some really great sessions with my practitioner and the staff is really nice! The text notifications are a great way to keep up with my sessions and the $10 co-pays with UCSHIP are very affordable. I got a referral from CAPS, and the process was very streamlined. If you are at UCLA and looking for accessible one-on-one care, I'd recommend!
Sense of Self
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This counseling office is great! The staff are friendly and supportive. My practitioner is phenomenal and feel a stronger sense of self. Thank you, Acacia!
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Westwood Team

Acacia providers have experience working with diverse clients in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, attention difficulties, eating/body image concerns, identity exploration, trauma, and substance use issues.

Click on a provider to learn more about who they are and their individual specialties.

Kerriww

Kerri Cole

Director | LMFT
Wayne Lee Photow

Dr. Wayne Lee

Psychologist | PhD
andrewww

Dr. Andrew Webster

Psychologist | PsyD
Laura Williams Photoww

Dr. Laura Williams

Psychologist | PsyD
Stephanie Woodfin Photoww

Dr. Stephanie Woodfin

Psychiatrist | DO
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Michelle Tran

Therapist | LMFT
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Dr. James Chavers

Psychologist | PsyD
nicoleww

Nicole Fanucci

Therapist | LMFT
headshot of Brianna Sturmer

Dr. Brianna Sturmer

Nurse Practitioner | PMHNP
joeseph

Joseph Derije

Nurse Practitioner | PMHNP
jordanheathww

Jordan Heath

Not Accepting Clients
jasmineww

Jasmine Pollak

Therapist | LMFT
Acacia_Alana Stelly - Alana Stelly

Alana Stelly

Therapist | LMFT
Portrait of Hillary Thomas

Hillary Thomas

Not Accepting Clients
Headshot of Ami Patel

Ami Patel

Therapist | LMFT
Portrait of Marni Muenzer

Marni Muenzer

Therapist | LMFT

Westwood Team

Each Acacia office is supported by a team of amazing staff members who will help you on your mental health journey. From scheduling your first appointment to navigating your questions about billing, insurance, and client rights, the admin team is here to ensure you get the care you need.

Click on a team member to learn more about who they are. Contact our office to discuss options.

Headshot of Leslie de Dios

Leslie de Dios Muniz

Office Manager
Headshot of Alexandria Ortega

Alexandria Ortega

Administrative Specialist

Westwood Services

All of our Acacia offices offer individual therapy, psychiatry, couples therapy, group therapy, and wellness events. Below are services offered specifically in Westwood!

At the time of session, you can pay with credit card, cash, or PayPal although a credit/debit card is required to be on file.

We accept Anthem Blue Cross, UCSHIP, Aetna, MHN, Cigna, and Optum insurances. Pricing of services will vary by plan and will be discussed prior to your first session. 

Please note, you are required to provide us with notice of cancellation at least 24 hours in advance. Failure to do so will result in late cancellation or missed appointment fee charge. Coordinate additional billing inquires with your Office Manager prior to your sessions.

Payments using our online service are for completed or ongoing sessions.
Contact your office front desk if you have additional payments you would like to make.

KERRI COLE | #LMFT110563

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Couples Therapy, International Students, Cultural Issues, Identity Issues, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Spirituality, Additional Language: Frech

therapeutic orientation

Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic/Attachment-based, Restoration Therapy, Trauma- Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness

about me

Hello! I am thrilled to be a part of the Acacia Westwood team! I grew up in the LA area, but after completing my graduate studies in Psychology I moved abroad to France, where I lived for nearly 9 years. I spent my time in France working with international college students dealing with issues around identity, relationships, culture, and spirituality. I returned to my native Los Angeles in order to complete my Masters and enter into the therapy field, because I believe deeply in the power of therapy to help us find wholeness, healing, and freedom in our lives. Also, I really missed tacos.

As a marriage and family therapist, it is a privilege and honor for me to hear your story and actively partner with you in your process toward positive change in your life. I believe in creating a safe, accepting, genuine space in the therapy room where you are free to bring all of yourself, discover your truth, and know that you will be heard. In this space, we will work together to discover new insights into your story, remove obstacles in your path, and take practical steps towards growth and healing. I look forward to walking alongside you in this journey!

DR.WAYNE LEE|#PSY24701

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Addictions, Anxiety, Christian Counseling, Couples Therapy, Cultural Issues, Depression, Grief & Loss, Mindfulness, Relationship Issues, Social Anxiety, Stress Management, Trauma

therapeutic orientation

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

about me

I am honored and thrilled to be part of the Acacia team in Westwood. I am a native of Southern California, having lived here most of my life. I am very proud to have earned my Bachelor’s degree in psychology at UCLA. Subsequently, I completed my Psy.D. in clinical psychology and a Masters degree in theology at Fuller Theological Seminary Graduate School of Psychology.

One of my placements in graduate school was at the Fuller Psychological and Family Services, where I had the privilege of providing services to students, becoming familiar with the unique challenges they face. In addition to therapy, I have provided clinical supervision to other therapists conducted psychological testing and taught courses as an adjunct faculty at the University of Phoenix.

I see all of us as traveling along life’s roads in pursuit of our goals and values. Sometimes along the way we encounter barriers, including emotional issues, relationship problems, trauma, and unhealthy choices. The good news is you don’t have to travel this road alone. As a therapist, I think of myself as a guide along this path, assisting and supporting you in understanding yourself better, to help you relate to your emotional pain in a different way, and to begin moving forward again toward a life that is rich, full, and meaningful. Those I have helped have described me as having a calm presence, which provides safety, compassion, and warmth. I take a non-judgmental stance, accepting you from right where you are. With over 20 years working in mental health, I have acquired a wide variety of clinical experience. I have treated children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families for a number of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress management, anger management, trauma, addictions, and relationships. I believe in a holistic approach to psychological healing, which encompasses the physical, mental, emotional, behavioral, and spiritual, with each of these components influencing the others.

My therapy approaches are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), both of which are infused in my practice with an emphasis on mindfulness and acceptance. In addition, my therapy work has been informed by dialectical behavior therapy and motivational interviewing. I have very much enjoyed over the years working with college students and other young adults, as this is a stage in life of great transition, which carries with it opportunities and challenges. I look forward to hearing from you so that we can decide together how I may best help you along on your journey.

DR. ANDREW WEBSTER|#PSY30704

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Relationship Issues, Identity Development Concerns, Cultural Issues, Trauma, Men's issues, Depression, Anxiety, Student-Athlete Concerns, Life-Transitions, Body Image, & Mindfulness

therapeutic orientation

Psychodynamic, Interpersonal and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

about me

I am ecstatic to be on the Acacia team in Westwood as providing longer term services to an emerging adult population has been a long-term career goal of mine. Though born in Arizona, I grew up in Northern California and completed my undergraduate degree at a small, private college in the Napa Valley. From there, I moved to Pasadena, and completed my doctorate at Fuller Theological Seminary and fell in love with Southern California.

Early on in my doctoral program, I focused my training on the college and graduate student population. My placements have included Azusa Pacific University as a practicum student, the University of Houston as a doctoral intern and Saint Mary’s College of California as a postdoctoral resident and Staff Psychologist. These experiences have adequately prepared me to address the unique challenges and stressors that accompany the college and graduate school experience.

I view therapy as a collaborative effort where, together, we examine, identify, and understand how previous significant events and factors have contributed to present-day concerns and obstacles. This is done through establishing a warm, trusting, and validating relationship, which is always my priority as a therapist. From there, we will be able to develop insight in your concerns, identify more adaptive ways to manage and tolerate distress, and create a therapeutic experience that is tailored to your unique and specific needs. I focus on meeting you where you are in your journey and will assist and accompany you to where you would like to be.

With the understanding that we are social beings, I typically utilize a psychodynamic or interpersonal framework which allows us to explore how previous relationships have impacted the way you understand yourself and relate to others. I also have experience incorporating cognitive-behavioral tools and am a strong advocate for mindfulness meditation which will help you cope and manage acute distress while we address the underlying factors that contribute to your presenting concerns. Through this process, it is my hope that we can create a path that is right for you. I look forward to working with you and supporting you through this exciting and challenging journey.

DR. LAURA WILLIAMS|CA: #PSY20169
NY: #PSY012285

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

College & Graduate Student Stress, Family of Origin Issues, Relational Difficulties, Sexual Trauma Survivors, Body Image/Eating Problems, Dreams, Creative/Writing Blocks, Group Therapy

therapeutic orientation

Relational, Contemporary Psychodynamic/Analytic, Feminist

about me

I am happy to be in LA where I started my journey to become a Psychologist thirty years ago, graduating with a Psy.D from California School of Professional Psychology- Los Angeles, (CSPP-LA). My specialty in college counseling began with my internship at Whittier College's Counseling Center. I also developed a speciality in working Psychoanalytically with my internship at The Wright Institute LA (WILA). I continued training in college counseling as a Postdoctoral Resident for The University of Rochester's Counseling and Mental Health Service, where I was a liaison for the Eastman School of Music, thus have a specialty in working with creative people as well. I worked in college counseling for the past 25 years in North Carolina and New York, as well as California. I was Founding Director of StonyBrook University's Wo/Men's Center where I developed a training program in Feminist Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, thus have a special interest in looking at how oppression is internalized and can lead to feelings of alienation, anxiety and depression, thus offer culturally sensitive psychotherapy.

I am a Certified Group Psychotherapist who believes in the healing power of group, as often students can feel isolated and alone and connecting with others can be a way to realize you are not alone. In particular, I have been running groups for sexual trauma survivors for the past 25 years. In the era of the Me Too movement, it is finally time for survivor's voices to be heard. In 2021 I graduated from The Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis (ICPLA) as a Certified Psychoanalyst. I have been Training Director at Humboldt State University's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and Saint Mary's College of CA, Counseling and Psychological Services, (CAPS), so also have a specialty in providing clinical supervision from a feminist, contemporary relational perspective. I am pleased to be a part of Acacia Westwood where I will be able to see you throughout your university journey.

DR. STEPHANIE WOODFIN
Director of Psychiatry | #20A9002

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Mood & anxiety disorders, eating disorders, late adolescense & early adult-specific care

therapeutic orientation

Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy

about me

I’m excited to work with you at Acacia! I utilize a specialized combination of traditional western medicine and complementary care modalities in order to provide patients with holistic, individualized treatment regimens. After obtaining my Bachelor of Arts degree in English with Honors from the University of Michigan, I attended Western University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, California, and graduated with my Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine. I went on to work as an Intern and Resident at UCLA/Harbor Medical Center in Torrance, California and served as Chief Resident during my final year of residency. During residency, I had specialty training in treating mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, late adolescence and early adult-specific care, Psychodynamic therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. I also became certified to provide Medical Acupuncture through the Stanford University/HMI program.

I am board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and have been in practice since 2007 providing psychotherapy, medication management, medical acupuncture and consultation on nutrition, exercise and other complementary modalities. I prefer to work with patients as a team to strive for optimal health by creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient. I am humbled to be a part of your journey and look forward to working with you.

MICHELLE TRAN|#LMFT104571

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Depression, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Anger Management, Self Esteem, Stress Management, Relational Issues

therapeutic orientation

CBT, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic

about me

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a Master’s degree in counseling. Prior to my graduate education, I attended University of California, Santa Cruz and studied sociology and education. I’ve worked in both inpatient and outpatient mental health over the last 6 years. I have experience in individual, family, and group psychotherapy. I have experience working with kids from elementary to young adulthood and older adults. My areas of experience include depression, anxiety, social anxiety, anger management, stress management, self-esteem, and relational issues. In my sessions, I incorporate theoretical interventions related to cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, psychodynamic, and person-centered therapy.

DR. James Chavers
HE/HIm/HIS | #PSY32025

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Career counseling, Coping skills, Depression, Domestic violence, Family conflict, Couples, Forgiveness, Grief, LGBTIA+, Men's issues, Racial identity, Social/romantic relationship issues, Self-esteem, Sexuality, Transgender, Stress

therapeutic orientation

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client centered, Christian counseling, Culturally sensitive, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic, Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), Strength-based, Mindfulness, Humanistic, Family/marital,

about me

It is by suffering that human beings become angels. – Victor Hugo

Hello, my name is James Chavers. Family is a core value for me, and I am pleased to be a part of the Acacia family.

I was born into a working-class black family from Pennsylvania. Because of their faith, love, and kindness I am now a clinical psychologist licensed and living in California. I earned my masters and doctorate in clinical psychology at Antioch University Santa Barbara. I worked and trained in jails and prisons, community health clinics, and colleges and universities for 9 years. I have worked with older adults living with HIV, addiction, and life course diseases, inmates preparing to transition out of locked settings, and gender and sexually diverse students 18-50+ navigating the difficulties of college life. Whether they were a murderer, mother with HIV, or young Muslim student struggling with depression, I could not help but notice the beauty, complexity, and vulnerability of their humanity, and felt privileged to serve them.

Collaborating with these patients, we have worked through relationship, substance abuse, family, gender non-conforming/trans, sexuality, sexual assault, mood, and trauma issues, to name a few. My clients and I have worked together using a variety of modalities including Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing, and Client-centered Therapy. Incorporating Humanistic philosophies in my work, I believe that every person is deserving of love and respect and is the expert of their own life. My purpose as a therapist is to support, suggest, and succor as needed. Openness, curiosity, and acceptance informs my multicultural approach.

Away from work I have been blessed with other passions to enrich my life. With my spouse we have traversed the globe. We participated in a tea ceremony at the Imperial gardens in Tokyo, slept a night in the Amazon jungle in Brazil, hiked into the rainforest to see wild Koalas in southern Australia, and watched the sun rise from Angkor Watt in Cambodia. Every year we visit NYC to enjoy opera at the MET, jazz at Birdland, theater on Broadway, and a slice of New York style pizza. I am a voracious reader of sci-fi/fantasy on my Kindle, and I cap each week with a call to my father who is my mentor, hero, advisor and friend.

Finding the right counselor is akin to having that close person in your family or meeting a great friend. You want someone in your life who accepts you unconditionally but is not afraid to call you out when you do something stupid. They take the time to listen carefully to what’s going on, and then if you like, shares some insight. This friend is solidly in your corner and makes you feel like you are the most important person in the room. They stand by you and walk by your side as you work through your challenges.

I have been blessed to have family and friends like that in my life. If you give me the privilege, I would like to pay those experiences forward…to you.

NICOLE FANUCCI|#LMFT97641

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Crisis & Stress Management, School & Work Related Stress, Self Esteem, Life Coaching, Dating & Relationship Issues, Depression, Sexual Assault, Anxiety, Grief, Couples

therapeutic orientation

Behavioral Therapy, Coaching, Motivation Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Mindfulness

about me

Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, stuck, having a hard time achieving your goals? Are negative thoughts, self-harming behaviors controlling your life? Are you having trouble with difficult people in your life? Are you looking for specific strategies to live a more balanced and fulfilled life? I can help. My name is Nicole Fanucci and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a certification in Life Skills Coaching. I provide tele-therapy and face to face therapy throughout California. I was born and raised in the Napa Valley and have been living in Southern California for the past 10 years.

I have ten years of experience helping teens, adults and couples acquire the tools necessary to be resilient in the face of adversity. I use evidence-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapy and strength-based skills that work for a range of issues such as anxiety, life transitions, depression, relationship issues, and work-life balance struggles. Together we'll uncover the root cause of your problems. I focus on guiding you through radical self-reflection, illuminating your blind spots, shifting limiting beliefs, and quieting the overwhelming noise in your mind.

Look forward to supporting you in living your best life!

DR. BRIANNA STURMER
SHE/HER/HERS | #PMHNP95016191

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Mood & Anxiety Disorders, LGBTQIA+, Women's Issues, Life Transitions

therapeutic orientation

Integrative, Cognitive-Behavioral, Trauma-Informed, Motivational Interviewing

about me

Hello! My name is Brianna Sturmer and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am excited to be a part of your team at Acacia and to have the opportunity to work with you.

After graduating from UC Irvine with degrees in Psychology and Public Health Policy, I moved across the country to New York to complete my Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Nursing at Columbia University. My clinical experience has centered around working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with mood & anxiety disorders, trauma, life transitions, and emerging mental health concerns. I have mainly worked in community-based clinics and outpatient mental health centers. In addition to working with college students, I am also passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community.

College is a transformative time, and that comes with a lot of stress. Whether you are new to seeking mental health services or not, my goal is to create a non-judgmental, respectful space for you to talk about your experiences and to work with you to find a treatment plan that best fits your needs. In addition to medications, we will discuss the role of therapy, sleep hygiene, exercise, and other coping skills. Finally, I recognize that mental health does not exist in a vacuum. As such, I strive to be a culturally sensitive provider, because who we are influences how we experience the world.

In my spare time, I love going to concerts, baking, crafting, reading, and playing video games. I look forward to meeting you!

Joseph A. Derije
He/HIM/HIS | #PMHNP-BC95005123

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia

therapeutic orientation

Motivation Interviewing

about me

Working with young adults is an opportunity that I look forward to. I think it is a privilege to listen to the young and eager minds who will be shaping the next generation.

My experience in psychiatry started as Registered Nurse in a psychiatric hospital before I transitioned into becoming a Nurse Manager of an Urgent Care Center. I completed my graduate degree in Spokane, Washington from Gonzaga University. My current work provides me the opportunity to work with the homeless community, specifically those who require assistance with their mental health.

My passion is personal finance, so if we have extra time during our interview, please feel free to ask any money related questions!

Jordan heath
she/her/hers | #LPCC5000

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Communication & Assertiveness Skill-Building, Relationship difficulties, Trauma & PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ Advocacy, Grief, Mindfulness, Life transitions and Adjustment Disorders. I am certified in Seeking Safety and Trauma Focused CBT and feel particularly passionate about working with young people navigating new phases of life.

therapeutic orientation

I approach therapy in an eclectic way, combining different orientations to work with individual needs and what’s relevant to you. My therapeutic style aims to create a non-judgmental and approachable space to support you in your goals, recognizing the importance of building trust. Our hope as clinicians is to minimize the shame and stigma often tied to seeking mental health support. I am trained in person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, as well as other mindfulness based approaches.

about me

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the State of California with experience working in diverse outpatient, foster care and community-based settings. I am originally from Chicago and have many years living and working there as well as now in California. These experiences working with children, transitional age youth (TAY), adults and families have guided my own clinical interests and passion for working from a trauma-informed and multicultural approach.

When I’m not working, I love to travel, hike and go to concerts and sporting events. I especially enjoy music and dancing, and have found music and art to be an amazing coping and stress management tool for myself.

I look forward to getting to know you and developing the coping tools that work for you.

JASMINE POLLAK
she/her/hers|#LMFT113150

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Depression, Anxiety, Self-compassion/self-esteem, Trauma, Relationship/social difficulties, Navigating life transitions, Academic challenges, Mindfulness. Additional Language: Hebrew

therapeutic orientation

Person-centered, Integrative, Humanistic, Cognitive-behavioral, Psychodynamic, & Mindfulness

about me

In our lifetimes, every person faces challenges, struggles, and the desire for greater personal well being. As your therapist, my goal is to work collaboratively and develop a relationship premised on empathy, trust, and non-judgment. Your inner wisdom and strength will be used as guides toward your growth, freedom, and fulfillment. Through working together you can expect to develop new ways to confront old challenges, as well as discover personal insights to improve relationships – with yourself and others.

I am honored to be a part of the Acacia team as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my BA in Psychology from UC Berkeley and my MA in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles. I strongly believe that therapy is a place to begin healing and achieve personal growth, and I am dedicated to supporting you on your path!

ALAna STELLY
SHE/HER/HERS| #LMFT121652

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Women's Issues, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming/Suicidal Ideation, Career Counseling, Life Transitions, Stress & Self-Esteem

therapeutic orientation

Psychodynamic, Existential, Trauma-Focused, Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

about me

I'm so happy to be a part of the Acacia Team and to be providing services to the Westwood and UCLA communities! As a graduate of UCLA, I'm glad to be able to give back to a place that shaped my life experiences and career path. I also love living in Los Angeles because there are so many exciting places to explore!

For the past few years, I have been working as a therapist to provide services to children, adolescents and young adults. My work with clients focuses on helping them explore their thoughts and beliefs about themselves and the world in order to make better choices that align with their values. I believe everyone has something unique to offer and I help them discover their authentic self while also building on strengths to create healthy boundaries and relationships. During sessions, I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space to help clients explore their past and present in addition to building skills to help them create the future that they want. Everyone deserves to feel empowered in their own life :)

HILLARY THOMAS
SHE/HER/HERS | #LCSW77273

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Stress

therapeutic orientation

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Expressive Arts, Eclectic, Humanistic, Motivational Interviewing, Mindful Self-Compassion, Psychodynamic, Strengths-Based

about me

As a Bi+ therapist, I have a unique appreciation for the bravery it takes to remain curious about yourself and live authentically. When we truly know ourselves, we can live our lives more intentionally and with a sense of empowerment. I believe that therapy helps us to know ourselves deeply and can assist us in feeling centered and grounded. I might be a good fit for you if: you find yourself in the supporting character role and want to be the lead, if you are an LGBTQ+ young adult or adult, if you are having difficulty with self-esteem/self-worth, anxiety, or depression. Or generally, if you find yourself at some sort of crossroads, uncertain of where to go next. I feel honored to do this work with you.

I am a LCSW with a Master of Social Work from USC School of Social Work. I currently also work at UCLA in a non-clinical role supporting students. I previously worked for several years in community mental health.

I practice an integrative approach and adapt a variety of techniques including mindfulness-based interventions, expressive arts therapies, and cognitive behavioral therapy to support your healing and well-being. My approach to therapy is informed by strengths-based, psychodynamic, and humanistic frameworks.

Outside of the office, I enjoy drawing and illustration, roller skating, and spending time in nature.

AMI PATEL
#LMFT99802

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Transitions, Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma and PTSD, Women's Issues

therapeutic orientation

Attachment Based, CBT, DBT, Eclectic, Mindfulness-Based, Multicultural, Person Centered, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused, Trauma Focused

about me

I have success in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress. My clients often appreciate how we create a safe space where they can easily share their life experiences. Clients typically enjoy learning and developing practical tools for living a better life. I get to know my clients in order to build a deeper connection so that we can take a look at the tools you currently use, and collectively figure out the ones that work for you, as well as those that may need to be updated. Together, we will identify patterns throughout your life and come to a place where you feel stronger, and capable of significant change.



If you feel that you are ready to take charge of your life, and create a new path that invites in strength, tranquility, pleasure...whatever it is you may be looking for, I'm here to support you through this journey.



Throughout my 10+ years in the field, I’ve been able to work with at risk youth, adolescents and older adults. I’ve found passion in being able to help others heal through trauma and be able to find a positive outlet, or tools to manage these stressors.



I am originally from the east coast but have been a California native for over 10 years now. I love it here! I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in 2010. During my free time I enjoy cooking, outdoor activities, trying new restaurants, traveling, and relaxing with my dog.

MARNI MUENZER
SHE/HER/HERS | #LMFT124037

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Stress, Family Conflict

therapeutic orientation

COMING SOONCognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems, Gestalt, Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Eclectic

about me

Hello and welcome! My name is Marni and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I discovered passion for mental health during my undergraduate studies at UCSB, where I received my BA in Psychology. After completing my bachelors, I pursued an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy at Chapman University. I have experience working with individuals, children and families from diverse backgrounds. Prior to joining the Acacia team, I worked as a therapist in eating disorder treatment (both residential and outpatient). Throughout my time working with various clients, I have discovered that my skills are well suited to help young adults navigate the unique challenges that arise during college years.

My therapeutic orientation incorporates elements of DBT, CBT, mindfulness, person-centered, and family systems therapies. My approach is mindful, warm, and compassionate. I value your feedback throughout the therapeutic process and aim to create a safe, non-judgmental environment. In my free time, I recharge by practicing yoga, hiking, playing board games, attending concerts (I love music!), traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Leslie de Dios Muniz | she/her/hers

Office Manager

ABOUT ME

Hi all! My name is Leslie de Dios and I am the Office Manager at the Acacia Westwood office! I am from Lancaster, California and am an alumnus of UC Santa Cruz where I received my BA in Sociology. When I'm not in the office or virtually working you can find me either spending some quality time with family & friends.

During my undergrad in Santa Cruz I was actually introduced to Acacia through university referrals and a program I was a part of. After graduating I was in deep search for jobs and came across Acacia again and knew I had to be part of the team! I began as an administrative specialist and over the time lead to my promotion as office manager. Over the time my passion for mental health has grown immensely and I 'm proud to be able to provide support and advocate mental health for college students and the community of Westwood!

What is your proudest accomplishment?

My proudest accomplishment has to be graduating from college and receiving my bachelors degree from UC Santa Cruz! Being a first generation college graduate not only is a big milestone in my life for my future endeavors but for my family as well.

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be?

I would only eat chicken wings! I can eat wings for the rest of my life if possible and yes boneless wings are still wings not chicken nuggets!

Alexandria Ortega | she/her/hers

Administrative Assistant

ABOUT ME

I am excited to be a part of the Acacia Westwood office as the new Administrative Assistant. I have years of experience working in healthcare administration and I look forward to contributing quality work with this team. Working for Acacia means a lot to me because I am currently working towards my MA in Clinical Psychology and becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor myself. Acacia's core values reflect my own values when it comes to how we treat others and the importance of mental health. On my free time, I love going to the beach, spending time with friends and family, and working out!

What is something you think everyone should do once in their lives?

I think everyone should travel somewhere unfamiliar at least once in their lives to be able to immerse yourself in different cultures.

Do you collect anything?

I love collecting crystals especially amethyst crystals!

INDIVIDUAL THERAPY

Also known as psychotherapy, talk therapy, or counseling, Acacia individual therapy is a collaborative process between you and your therapist, aiming to understand problems, facilitate change, and improve quality of life.

A staple of every Acacia office, we believe that individual therapy is an incredibly effective process of healing through self-exploration, skills training, and other various forms of change. Ask your therapist how they view the change process. Remember, not every therapist is a good fit and it is important for you to find an Acacia therapist who you feel connects best to your specific needs. If you don't get a good fit, don't fret. You can ask for a change and we will accommodate you!

The therapeutic process can range in length from a few sessions to several years and is appropriate for goals ranging from focused on solving immediate problems to facilitating self-growth and discovery.

Sessions generally last 50 minutes and provide a safe, caring, and confidential space where you can deeply explore the challenges in your lives and, with the help of the therapist, find effective responses and solutions. The process of therapy is largely determined by your individual needs and the nature of each problem but will likely involve exploration of emotions, beliefs, behaviors, internal conflicts, relationships, and both current and past experiences.

Individual therapy can be effective in helping you better understand, manage and express your emotions, learn to deal effectively with stress and anxiety, improve relationships, heal from past traumas, change behaviors that are counterproductive to your goals and values, gain confidence and self-esteem, work through difficult family dynamics, and many other situations. Individual therapy has been shown to be highly effective for many mental health conditions.

Until further notice, all appointments are via video. Contact your office to discuss this further.


All Acacia offices offer video therapy appointments*. Existing clients can discuss with their provider to switch appointments to video as a one-off or ongoing.
*Video service may not be covered by your insurance plan, it's important to know before finalizing your appointment.

VIDEO THERAPY

Video therapy, also known as telehealth or teletherapy, allows you to connect with a therapist without having to travel anywhere.

Similar to services you receive in person, video therapy sessions generally last 50 minutes and provide a safe, caring, and confidential space where you can deeply explore the challenges in your lives and, with the help of the therapist, find effective responses and solutions. The process of therapy is largely determined by your individual needs and the nature of each problem but will likely involve exploration of emotions, beliefs, behaviors, internal conflicts, relationships, and both current and past experiences.

ACACIA REACH

Acacia Reach is our video therapy services that allows everyone access to video services, even when there is no physical Acacia location nearby. Check out the link below to learn more!

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COUPLES THERAPY

Would you like to explore relationship dynamics and change problematic cycles to improve interactions with others? If so, couples therapy might be just the thing for you! At Acacia, we allow you to decide how you would like to define 'couple'. It does not always have to be romantic in nature and it can be defined in multiple ways (parent-child, roommate-roommate, partner-partner).

In couples therapy, we will help you work through communication issues, loss of connection and intimacy, financial issues, affairs and betrayals, family issues, and more. Acacia therapists will work hard to understand each of you and we will not take sides. Rather, we will explore patterns and try to find healthy alternatives and positive change.

We also understand how life stressors and relationship issues can sometimes make sex a challenge. Sex therapy is used to help couples or individuals reach greater sexual/emotional intimacy and create a satisfactory sex life. Our therapists will work hard to understand your sexual drives, limitations, desires, traumas and more to help you find your sexual peace of mind.