Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us.

-David Richo

At Coastal Counseling, we believe that deep healing and change occurs when the client feels safe, accepted, and understood. We place great importance on making sure that you feel comfortable, as if you were sitting with a trusted friend. We balance this focus on creating a relaxed environment with the ability to offer you real solutions, and thoughtful guidance ensuring that each client leaves our facility feeling like they are making progress toward their personal goals.

It is not our job to diagnose or cure you, but to allow you to be the expert of your life and your personal struggles. We will work together to help you find the peace in your life that you have been seeking.

Dr. Jennifer Semmes, Psy. D., LCSW

  • Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Director

    Are you struggling to work through personal issues that you’ve been unable to resolve on your own? Are you having issues with your current relationship, or need help getting out of a relationship? Have you had experiences that are causing you to feel unhappy, anxious or confused? There is no reason to feel alone or stuck, I can help you to not only resolve these issues, but to become happier and more content. I strive to create a nurturing and safe environment, by incorporating humor and friendship in my practice. I have found this to be very effective in furthering the progress and positive experience that therapy can bring.

    I have spent much of my career working with clients who are experiencing relationship issues, which is a great passion of mine. I believe that the therapy should focus on helping my clients get ‘unstuck’, and to help each individual find their way to happiness. This can range from simply teaching clients how to better communicate, or helping them exit out of an unhealthy relationship. Working with couples can be a challenge, and I have a firm belief that specialized training is necessary in order to offer appropriate treatment. As a result, I have studied extensively both Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy, in addition to other, more general couple’s therapy techniques.

    I have studied and focused a lot of my work on couples who have experienced infidelity in their relationship, and have had much success in helping them navigate through the trauma that is associated with this painful event. Infidelity in a relationship can be a key turning point, it can break a couple apart or bring them closer together; I help couples find their personal path for healing.

  • Individual Relationship Therapy

    Couples therapy

    Infidelity

    Divorce and Separation

    Relationship Issues

    Life Transition

    Trauma

    PTSD

    Mood Disorders

  • 20+ Years in Practice

    The Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference- 2013, 2014, 2017, 2020, 2023

    EMDR, part 1 and 2 basic training- completed May 2010

    EMDR, The Neurobiology of Consciousness- May 2013

    EMDR Certification – November 2015

    Emotionally Focused Therapy- 4 day externship- completed January 2014

    Gottman and EFT- couple’s therapy summit- March 2013

    Gottman Couples Therapy- level 1- September 2014

    Gottman Couples Therapy- level 2- January 2015

    Gottman Couples Therapy- level 3- March 2015

    Techniques for Children with Emotional and Behavioral Problems- November 2011

    Anger Control Make Easy- November 2012

    Undergrad: University of Colorado, 1999

    Graduate: Colorado State University, 2003

    Doctorate: Ryokan College, 2012

    License No & State: LCS 23587, California

TELEHEALTH ONLY


Connie Padera, LCSW

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CA LCSW #106726)

    Are you struggling with substance use or disordered eating habits? Or maybe you need some guidance on self-esteem or relationship issues? It's okay to not be okay, and I'm here to help you through whatever life has brought your way. I believe in treating each these issues from a whole person perspective, and will work with you to enrich all areas of your well-being. Through openhearted and compassionate communication, we will create a safe space for you to mindfully explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and identify which among them no longer serve you.

    For many people, the destructive habits that we pick up originally developed as coping tools for trauma that was experienced early in life. Learning to understand & accept your emotions and their accompanying behaviors can assist you in handling all life situations from a place of inner peace. It is through this sense of awareness that I will help you to reduce negative emotions, increase the joy in your life, & remove any obstacles that are preventing you from reaching your highest potential.

    My therapeutic style often varies based on my client's unique needs. I utilize an eclectic mix of evidence-based therapies, including Ego State Therapy (“parts work”), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), attachment therapy, harm reduction, and psychodynamic therapy for trauma healing. My therapeutic style in relationship counseling is LGBTQIA supportive, sex positive, kink-informed, and is available for all relationships along the monogamous to non-monogamous spectrum.

  • • complex childhood trauma

    • post-traumatic stress disorder

    • addiction and substance abuse

    • disordered eating

    • relationship counseling and support

    • non-monogamous relationships

  • Undergrad: Western Illinois University, 2013

    Graduate: Master of Social Work, Aurora University, 2018

    Neuroscience of Mindfulness-Based Meditation, 2019

    Mindfulness-Based Compassion Cultivation, 2019

    Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Certification, EMDRIA, 2020

    Dancing Mindfulness Certification, ICM, 2023

    Registered Expressive Arts Therapist Training, ICM, 2023

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!

TELEHEALTH ONLY


COLLEEN WOODALL, ASW

  • My therapeutic focus is on kids ages 4-18 and young adults. I utilize a strengths based approach and base treatment on a client's interest. This may include play therapy, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I enjoy building rapport with clients through humor, fun, and providing a safe space for growth.

    Additionally, as a former school social worker, I have extensive experience and knowledge on Section 504 and IEP plans. I would be happy to work with a family or school to fully support a child/young adult. Thank you for taking the first step in helping to support your kiddo through counseling. Please reach out to me for a free consultation.

    Has your child or teen recently been experiencing issues that leave you feeling down? Possibly anxiety, fear, or depression? Maybe they are struggling at school academically or with friends? Have they gone through trauma, grief, separation, or major life changes? Or maybe you feel they could use someone to talk to that values their feelings, opinions, and goals. I would love to provide a safe space for your child or teen.

  • Populations:

    Kids (4-10)

    Teens (15-18)

    Young Adults

    Women

    First Responders

    LGBTQ community

    Focuses:

    Play therapy

    Anxiety

    OCD

    Life Changes

    Identity

    Women's Health/Maternal Health

  • Play Therapy Techniques for Anxiety. Bibliotherapy for kids

    University of South Carolina, BA, 2013

    University of North Carolina at Charlotte, MSW, 2018

    Prior experience as a School Social Worker with a PPSC degree.

    Experience working with kids ages 4-18 and young adults

    Experience with IEPs and Section 504 plans

    Play, art and DBT therapy

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!


DR. PAOLA OSUNA,PSYD

  • Psychological Associate

    Are you finally ready to take control of your life? Are you ready for support? Maybe you're experiencing new challenges or changes in your life. These experiences don't have to rob you of your sense of joy. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where we can develop a trusted bond. My holistic approach allows me the flexibility to adapt to your specific needs.

    I believe in the power of self care and have a passion for supporting people on their journey of nurturing themselves. I have extensive experience working with adults, children, teens, and families in various settings. My experience provides me insight on trauma, grief, healing, anxiety, depression, and relationships.

    My hope is that by working together you will achieve a healthy and thriving life. I will support you in navigating through our judgement-free space. Most importantly I will support you through your experience of growth and healing.

  • Children

    Adolescents

    Adults

    Couples

    Individuals with neurodivergent qualities

    Trauma

    Anxiety

    Depression

    Post-traumautic stress disorder

  • University of California San Diego, B.A. 2002

    Ryokan College, PsyD 2018

    20+ year supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

    Individualized Education Plans

    Positive behavioral strategies

    Positive parenting approach

    CBT

    Mindfulness

    EMDR Certification (In Progress)


ANNA NELSON, AMFT

  • MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

    Are you feeling stuck or unmotivated? Do you feel like there is something blocking you from moving forward in life? My hope in therapy is to empower people. Whether that is to empower them to find new solutions to old problems, a better way of managing their anxiety or depression; or a whole new way of being in relationships. We all need to feel empowered in our own lives but often find road blocks that keep us from reaching our potential.

    I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relational issues, substance/alcohol use issues, and many different forms of trauma. I practice several statistically effective therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. These can often provide a sense of assurance for clients and a clear road map of therapeutic goals. I also incorporate Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and experiential therapies. These forms of therapy often help me individualize therapy to help heal the underlying traumas, attachment issues, and biopsychological factors that are part of your experience.

    If you step into a session with me, my hope is that you find that you are not alone in this journey of healing and understanding. You are brave for seeking to better yourself, your relationships, and your life. And when you leave therapy, I hope you will feel more empowered to take on the bright new challenges of tomorrow.

  • Teens

    Trauma

    Anxiety

    Depression

  • PCIT - Parent Child Interaction Therapy

    EMDR Training

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!


EMILY NGUYEN

  • Seeking support for yourself or for your child is a courageous act, and one that is full of hope. Childhood and parenting can be tremendously challenging, and you do not need to figure out all of the pieces alone. I would be honored to work alongside you, providing a safe environment to share your story, gently face and move through challenges, and develop solutions that will bring you and your child relief and allow you both to thrive.

    I see play as the language of children, and as a portal for healing in childhood. Our sessions together will involve play, art and creative expression, and finding ways to name and hold a variety of emotions so that they can be honored without overwhelming your child or adolescent. I will help them learn to regulate emotions and regain a sense of balance.

    As a mother of three, I am intimately aware of the difficulties our children and adolescents face, and those we face as parents (and as people!). I work to help children and individuals make sense of their experiences and strengthen their relationships.

  • Play and Art Therapy

    Mindfulness - Dialectical Behavior Therapy

  • University of San Francisco, MS in Counseling Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, 2005

    University of California at Davis, BS in Human Human Development, 2002

    Brazelton's Touchpoints Training for children 0-5

    I have experience working across multiple settings with children birth through adolescence, including Prevention and Early Intervention, Early Childhood Education settings, adolescents in a high school setting, Children with Dyslexia in a remediation setting, as well as private practice experience working with children, parents, and adult individuals.

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!


JULIA JERMYN, APCC

  • I am a therapist with a passion for fostering positive change, growth, and healing within my clients. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for individuals seeking support, building rapport through humor, empathy, and genuineness.

    My journey as a therapist has been shaped by a deep belief in the power of healing through connection with oneself and others. I strive to bring a holistic approach to my practice, recognizing the intricate interplay between personal experiences and societal influences.

    I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, and families, while holding a deep fascination for couples’ work. Much of my practice is informed by a social justice perspective, and my culturally informed training included working with diverse populations.

    Whether you're navigating challenges related to disorders such as anxiety and depression, or just seeking to enhance your relationships and well-being, I'm here to travel with you on your journey. I am passionate about creating a collaborative and affirming therapeutic environment, one where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations without fear of judgment. Together, we will uncover your strengths, work through obstacles, and co-create a path towards the positive changes you envision.

    When I'm not in the therapy room, you might find me at yoga, connecting with nature, or trying new restaurants with friends - all which remind me of the importance of balance and self-care. I especially enjoy integrating my passion for clinical work with my personal interests such as meditation and mindfulness practices. If you feel ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, I invite you to reach out and start this transformative process together.

  • Adolescents (10-24)

    Adults

    Relationship counseling

    Mindfulness

    Chronic Pain

    Anxiety

    Trauma

  • Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy

    Springfield College, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, 2023

    Research Project Manager, Addiction Studies in Psychiatry Department at Duke University Medical Center 2019-2021

    Clemson University, BA in Psychology, 2019

    I have experience working across multiple settings with many different populations, most recently in private practice with children, adults, and couples. I have significant past experience working with youth in many settings, including prevention for at-risk youth, residential treatment centers, educational settings (IEPs/504s), and providing intensive in-home therapy for children and their families.

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!


AMY EISENHOWER-OMHOLT, AMFT

  • Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

    AMFT #142458

    If you are experiencing a rough patch in your life where the difficulties seem relentless and insurmountable, know that you are not alone. Life is problematic. We all get caught in a stress loop at some point in our lives. We want to feel less stressed and more alive but most of us aren’t taught how to digest our stressful emotions properly and end up stuck on the hamster wheel. Being in a relaxed and energized mind and body is the experience of self-regulation. As an experienced counselor and teacher, I teach self-management skills to help you learn how to self-regulate in the here and now. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, depression, addictions, grief, or struggling in relationships, I provide a safe and compassionate space for growth and transformation using experiential and process-oriented methods combining psychotherapeutic approaches that involve the integration of body and mind. With a creative, empathic, and holistic approach to emotional health, together we can navigate the path towards resilience and well-being. Let's embark on this journey of self-discovery together.

  • Adolescents

    Young Adults

    Adults

    Couples

    Trauma

    Anxiety

    Depression

    Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

    Relational Trauma

    Self-Esteem

    Addiction

  • MA Counseling Psychology MFT | June 9, 2023

    MA Elementary Education | 2007

    BA Studio Arts | 2000

    Certified Clinical Trauma Professional

    Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health

    Ayurvedic Health Counselor

    Trainings in EMDR

    Somatic Therapy

    Mindfulness & Meditation

    Expressive Movement

    Play therapy

    Art Therapy

    Breathwork & Sound Therapy Techniques

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!


KAREN DOHREN,AMFT

  • Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

    AMFT #421505

    Are you stuck in a cycle that you just wish you could break free? Do you feel constantly disconnected from others, and perhaps also yourself? Do you wish all your problems, large and small, could just go away? Perhaps it feels like a heavy backpack weighing you down. I get it. I know it may feel as if you’re the only one, but you’re not. As humans we have a tendency to cover up worry, shame, and pain, while carrying on about our day. Sometimes that can work, until the weight of it all feels unbearable. Together, let’s diffuse what is already there, and work with it, instead of against it. I’m here to help you lighten that load, and put those puzzle pieces together, to help you feel a little freer, and a little more whole. I’m Karen Dohren, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a masters degree in Clinical Psychology and a masters in Applied Nutrition. I work with individuals and couples navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, disordered eating patterns, addiction issues, burnout, grief, trauma, and relational issues. My passion for this field stems from over a decade in the health and wellness industry with a devotion for helping individuals achieve the best version of themselves, and ultimately recognizing that the root of total well-being starts with the mind. I consider my approach as compassionate and empowering while utilizing techniques such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), SFBT (solution-focused brief therapy), EFT (emotion-focused therapy), and somatic practices. I am committed to gently challenging you into the depth of your emotional experience while cultivating meaningful growth within yourself. All while providing a safe space for you to feel heard, seen, and validated within your individual experience. I look forward to connecting with you, and sharing this journey together.

  • Anxiety

    Burnout

    Grief

    Depression

    Disordered Eating Patterns

    Anxiety

  • Master of Science in Clinical Psychology - Antioch University

    Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!


ASHLEE McINTOSH, ASW

  • Associate Social Worker

    ASW #125166

    Is your child struggling at home, school, or in social settings? Are you having trouble co-parenting? Are you going through a difficult time and would like some help navigating through? When working with clients, I prioritize providing coping tools and collaborating with parents. I look to guide my client on their journey, helping them find meaning in their struggles and nurturing resilience to build a strong sense of self-worth

    I work with children (ages 4-18), individuals, and families, using a strengths-based approach tailored to the client’s interests and needs. I employ various therapeutic methods including Directive and Non-Directive Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based techniques. My approach is both evidence-based and culturally sensitive. My primary focus is on helping clients navigate issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, relational difficulties, and life transitions. 

    With a warm and non-judgmental style, I hope to create a safe and supportive environment, where clients can feel empowered and heard. I highlight the value of building rapport by incorporating humor and a sense of fun, especially with children, using creative expression to help regulate emotions. I aim to empower clients to face future challenges confidently and help individuals and families overcome obstacles, heal from trauma, and develop solutions that promote emotional well-being and personal growth.

  • Master's of Social Work (MSW), Washburn University in Topeka Kansas

    Bachelors in Social Work (BSW), Washburn University in Topeka Kansas

    I worked previously in Foster Care and interned as a child/individual therapist. 

  • Contact Coastal Counseling and get started today!

  • My experience is in Play Therapy, Art Therapy, CBT, and DBT and I specialize in: children, adolescents, young adults, adults, trauma, anxiety, and depression.


Get started with Coastal Counseling, today.