Skip to Content
Therapists answer…

Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?

Kendall Leon WalkerK

Kendall Leon Walker

Registered Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?

April NandigamA

April Nandigam

PMHNP-BC,FNP-C
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by addressing both mental and physical health challenges. My motivation comes from seeing patients overcome obstacles, regain control, and thrive. Helping individuals navigate their unique paths to wellness inspires me to stay at the forefront of my field and provide the highest quality of care.
Meet April H. Nandigam, a dedicated healthcare professional with a rich background in family, neurology, and mental health care. April is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with education from reputable institutions like Liberty University and East TN State University. April has experience managing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. She has also worked in a busy neurology practice, where she specialized in complex neurological care, including managing chronic migraines, Multiple Sclerosis, and dementia. As an active member of numerous professional societies, she stays up-to-date with the latest in psychiatry, family medicine, and neurology. Driven by passion and expertise, April Nandigam is here to provide compassionate care tailored to your needs. Whether it’s depression and anxiety medication management or help implementing natural and holistic treatment options, she’s devoted to helping you every step of the way. Treatment philosophy: My treatment philosophy centers on compassionate, patient-focused care. I believe in treating the whole person, considering both mental and physical health. I engage with my patients through open communication and empathy, ensuring they feel heard and understood. My expertise in neurology and psychiatric mental health allows me to tailor treatments to each individual’s unique needs. I utilize evidence-based practices and advanced procedures to provide effective management of complex conditions. My goal is to empower patients on their journey to wellness, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. Together, we will navigate the path to better health with trust and understanding. Treatment approach: Behavior Modification Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) Collaborative care with Primary Care Providers Evidence-Based Management of Mental Health Conditions and Integrative Treatment Options Integrated Psychiatric Assessment & Management Motivational Interviewing Neuropsychological Testing Patient-Centered Care for Mental Health Issues Psychoeducation for Patients & Families Psychological Testing and Evaluation Relational Telehealth for Mental Health Treatment & Support
Kylee GonzalezK

Kylee Gonzalez

Kylee Gonzalez, PMHNP-BC, MSN
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner because I wanted to help vulnerable populations who often fall through the cracks of the healthcare system. My experience working with those facing significant mental health challenges inspired me to focus on compassionate, holistic care. I am continually motivated by seeing people regain their sense of self and well-being through our therapeutic relationship.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health. I can provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications and be a part of your support system. The majority of my experience has been with very vulnerable populations, those with chronic and persistent mental illness, people experiencing homelessness or substance use disorders, and those who lack access to healthcare. I was trained in New York City, received my Bachelors from NYU and my Masters from Hunter College. I specialize in mood and anxiety disorders, and have a special interest, and certification, in perinatal mental health. Pregnancy and parenthood bring forth a unique set of mental health concerns, and I am passionate about helping new parents through this time in their lives. I believe in treating the person as a whole person. I take a collaborative approach and utilize shared decision making in your treatment. My goal is to help you feel well, and like yourself. As a nurse, I believe that healing happens through our therapeutic relationship, and feel very privileged to be a part of your healing journey. Specialties & Conditions: • Mental Health • Adult Psychiatry • Psychiatry • Anxiety • Behavioral Issues • Bipolar disorders • Borderline Personality (BPD) • Depression • Dual Diagnosis • Emotional Disturbance • Female Psychiatry • Grief • Insomnia • Medication Management • Mood disorders • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Panic attacks • Parenting • Personality Disorders • Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum • Psychosis • PTSD • Sleep or Insomnia • Stress • Substance Use • Suicidal Ideation • Thinking Disorders • Trauma • Trauma and PTSD • Women's Issues Treatment philosophy: I believe in treating the person as a whole person. Medication is an important tool in our toolbox. So is therapy and nurturing healthy relationships and a healthy lifestyle. I subscribe to the nursing theory of healing through a relationship and feel very privileged to be able to do that with my clients. Every person is different, and it is important for me to learn exactly what makes you your own person. It is important for me to develop trust with you so that we can work together to get you back to feeling like yourself. Treatment approach: • Person-Focused • Culturally Sensitive • Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) • Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) • Motivational Interviewing • Strength-Based
Dominic SchmuckD

Dominic Schmuck

Psychologist
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of my fascination with human nature and my desire to understand what makes us who we are. Originally, I pursued a Ph.D. in counseling psychology with the intention of becoming a researcher. However, during my training, I discovered the art of therapy and found that I truly enjoyed working one-on-one with individuals. What motivates me to continue as a therapist is seeing the positive changes that clients can experience by learning to live authentically and in line with their values. Witnessing newfound freedom and life satisfaction in my clients is what inspires me to keep practicing psychology and helping others.
You are exhausted from constantly holding things together, even when everything inside is falling apart. You're overwhelmed by stress, disconnected from your relationships, and questioning beliefs that once felt certain. These struggles can leave you anxious, burnt out, and unsure of who you are or what comes next. That’s where reaching out to a professional can help. Dr. Dominic Schmuck is a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience helping adults through life transitions, relationship trauma, and religious shifts (including from high-demand faiths like Mormonism, which he personally left). He works with thoughtful, driven individuals ready to face what’s not working and create a more grounded, meaningful life. Dominic’s style is practical, collaborative, and direct—with a touch of humor when it helps. Sessions focus on real change, not just talk. Clients appreciate his ability to hold space for hard emotions while offering clarity, tools, and support to move forward. If you’re ready to feel more like yourself again and take the next step toward growth, Dominic is here to help. Call, email, or visit his website to schedule a free consultation. Note: Dr. Dominic Schmuck accepts Aetna insurance (excluding Medicaid, Medicare, and Aetna CVS plans) or private pay. Superbills available for out-of-network reimbursement. Therapy hours: Mon–Fri, 9am–2pm.
Jessica PasseroJ

Jessica Passero

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I'm a spiritual and highly empathetic person. I was naturally drawn to becoming a therapist due to interest in helping and healing others. I empower my clients to make changes to improve their lives and have great success stories of people who truly transformed their lives while working with me.
I'm a clinical social worker with 10 years of experience. I have a upbeat, creative, warm and non-judgmental personality which clients report make it easy and natural to open up to me. I believe that therapy is an avenue to self improvement, healing and transformation. I see myself as a guide who supports clients in their journey of personal and emotional growth. I help clients become more self-aware, improve self regulation and coping skills, heal from previous stressful/traumatic experiences, enhance their communication skills, and understand their emotions at a deeper level. I see clients across the lifespan and provide counseling to children, adolescents and adults. I use traditional counseling techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing and solution-focused therapy, as well as complementary therapy approaches such as mindfulness and meditation to help clients work towards greater happiness. Please reach out to me via email, phone call or text if you are interested in becoming a new client. I respond to texts and e-mails within 24 hours. Once we connect, I will set up the 15 minute phone consultation to discuss my availability, answer questions, and help you determine if working with me is a good fit for you and your goals.
Jennifer GriffithJ

Jennifer Griffith

DNP, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because I believe in the transformative power of mental health care. Helping individuals regain control over their lives, especially when dealing with anxiety or depression, is incredibly rewarding. What motivates me to continue is seeing clients grow, heal, and thrive through compassionate care and personalized treatment plans.
Why Choose Cultivate Joy Psychiatry? Online sessions from the comfort of your home or office. Flexible scheduling with early morning or evening hours available. A caring approach where taking the time to listen to your needs is priority. Working together to find a path to better mental health that works for you. All-in-one, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy, and addressing lifestyle changes. I specialize in medication management and therapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and more. My approach is holistic, addressing mental, physical, and social health through care plans tailored to your individual needs. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with seven years of experience dedicated to helping adults improve their mental health and quality of life. I have extensive experience working with patients from diverse backgrounds, providing culturally competent and accessible care. Through continuous professional development, evidence-based practice, and the latest telemedicine technology, I strive to provide high-quality and compassionate care. I want you to feel empowered, comfortable and supported on your journey to better mental health. Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming and affect every aspect of your life. I believe each of us has the power to take control of our mental health and learn to find joy and balance. I am here to help you learn to not just survive, but thrive, in your everyday life!
Maria ZabetiM

Maria Zabeti

Maria Zabeti, LMFT
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to make mental health care accessible and inclusive for diverse communities. Seeing my clients overcome challenges, improve relationships, and thrive motivates me to continue this meaningful work.
Hello, I'm Maria Zabeti, a dedicated mental health therapist based in Chino, CA. I have a rich background in providing compassionate care through various therapeutic techniques, and I work with clients via Telehealth only. My approach is personalized, ensuring that each session is tailored to your unique needs. I am proud to offer services in both English and Spanish, as I believe in breaking down barriers to access for everyone. With a Master's in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. I also have a special focus on helping people who have had troubling experiences such as trauma in the past. My extensive training, including certifications in Brain-spotting and Suicide Prevention, equips me to handle complex issues with empathy and skill. My work doesn't stop at individual therapy; I also provide couple therapy. I thrive in helping improve relationships and communication through evidence-based practices. Throughout my career, I've been committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. If you're seeking someone to walk with you on your journey to better mental health, I'm here to support and guide you every step of the way. Let's work together to build a brighter, healthier future. Treatment philosophy: In my practice, I believe in a compassionate, client-centered approach to mental health care. I prioritize collaboration, ensuring that each treatment plan is tailored to the unique needs of my clients. By using methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques, I create a safe space for individuals and couples to explore their challenges. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am seeing clients through Telehealth sessions only. My bilingual skills enhance communication, making therapy accessible for Spanish-speaking clients. Together, we work towards healing, growth, and improved relationships, supporting each person's journey to wellness.