MENTAL HEALTH

The Ed Asner Family Center Mental Health Department offers various approaches to therapy. Neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals are offered sessions in a safe and quiet space whether in person or online to explore life with a professional clinician. Our clinicians are experienced to assess the clients needs and offer professional help when challenges arise.

OUR SERVICES

Individuals, families, and couples often face daily challenges in maintaining healthy relationships, particularly with a neurodivergent family member. We offer in-person and telehealth sessions where clinicians help clients explore these issues and discover productive ways to get back on track and encourage positive change.

Family therapy

This program supports all family members, including grandparents and caregivers, in expressing feelings and improving communication. Families learn to understand neurodivergence and tackle challenges in home, school, and community settings. Clinicians collaborate with families to define goals, teach essential skills, and promote healthier relationships and a higher quality of life.

Individual Therapy

We provide one on one therapy for everyone, including neurodivergent individuals, neurotypicals, and those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Clients learn to express feelings, improve communication, and solve problems. Therapists help define clear goals and teach skills to foster healthier living and better relationships at home, school, and in the community.

Caregiver Therapy

Focus is placed on supporting the caregivers, who often feel overwhelmed or isolated, especially when caring for a neurodivergent child or adult. This includes step-parents, grandparents, and extended family members facing intense behaviors and emotional challenges. Through one-on-one counseling, caregivers receive the support they need, reducing anxiety and depression while promoting understanding and self-care.

Sibling Art Therapy

We offer a unique program for siblings of neurodivergent children/teens, combining therapeutic support with creative expression. Led by a therapist and an art teacher, sessions address siblings' feelings of being overlooked and their struggles with guilt or anger. Participants engage in games and activities, providing a safe space to express their emotions through art.

Relationship Coaching

This service supports neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals aged 18+ in dating or relationships. A coach helps clients set goals, clarify their ideal relationship, reflect on experiences, and overcome personal blocks. Coaches do not dictate choices, find dates, or impose their views. We foster personal growth and self-discovery in relationships.

Life Coaching

Life coaching helps individuals to achieve personal goals and learn what their barriers are. Through tailored sessions, coaches help clients clarify their goals, develop action plans, and enhance self-awareness. This supportive partnership fosters growth, resilience, and motivation, guiding clients to create fulfilling lives and navigate challenges with confidence, ultimately leading to greater happiness and success.

MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALISTS

We're a dynamic group of individuals who are passionate about what we do and dedicated to delivering the best results for our clients.

  • Chrisa Sadd

    Director of Mental Health
    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

    A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience supporting children, teens, and young adults with Autism. Her client-centered approach incorporates family systems, CBT, solution-focused techniques, mindfulness, and somatic therapy.

  • Michelle Tapia

    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

    Michelle recognizes that trauma and anxiety can be overwhelming but believes in healing's power. She provides a safe space to process experiences, develop coping skills, and build resilience, helping clients find hope and create a healthier future.

  • Kathy Khorramian

    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

    As a solution-focused therapist, Kathy empowers clients to overcome limiting beliefs and achieve their goals. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and hypnotherapy, she helps clients reframe negative thoughts, tackle career challenges, and develop positive habits for a fulfilling life.

  • Meaghan Sanders

    Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT)

    Meaghan, an AMFT with 15 years of experience in the special needs community. She is dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental therapy environment at The Ed Asner Family Center under the supervision of Chrisa Sadd, LMFT.

  • Blanca Areas

    Certified Life Coach

    Blanca has a degree in psychology and is currently pursuing her master’s in social work. Her passion for this work is deeply personal as she grew up alongside her younger brother who was born with down syndrome. She aims to make a positive impact in other people's lives.

WHAT OUR PARTICIPANTS ARE SAYING:

TEAFC is unlike any program I've been part of; it's unique. The staff really supports each of us in a special way, showing they want to connect and genuinely support me. Working at the Funko museum has been incredible, teaching me independence and helping me aim for my first job.

Armand
Academy Participant

TEAFC is like a second home where I'm warmly supported and can meet new friends. I don't have to worry about problems here. Art class has improved my skills, and music has let me create original songs. Learning K-pop and break dancing in dance class has been so much fun. It's a place where I feel truly comfortable and supported.

Spencer
Academy Participant

Since the academy's beginning, I've been part of TEAFC. Jacqi's animation class has been a step towards my dream of making my own movies. With acting in my family, Max's improv and Scott's voice acting classes have sharpened my skills. I cherish making new friends, reuniting with old ones, and the invaluable life skills learned through unique opportunities like working at the Funko museum.

Atticus
Academy Participant

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