Counseling

Our agency began providing counseling to the people of the San Fernando Valley in 1970. Since that time, we have helped thousands of individuals, couples, and families to cope with the stresses in their lives and to strengthen their relationships. Therapy is provided by trainees and interns in Master’s Programs in Marriage and Family Therapy. We emphasize work with at-risk youth and their families in order to reduce the likelihood of substance abuse and other unsafe behaviors. In addition we work closely with the Departments of Children’s and Family Services and Probation to address the issues presented by their families in need.

Positive Alternatives for Youth is pleased to offer low cost counseling services based on a sliding scale.

Support Groups

Therapist Training Program

We have long enjoyed a fine reputation as a training center for Marriage and Family Therapy interns and trainees. Counseling Services are provided by Master’s level or by individuals working on post-graduate hours needed for licensure. All trainees and interns are under the supervision of a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist or Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

We are committed to assisting clients in enhancing their sense of self-worth, as well as strengthening their relationships. It is possible to experience a richer, fuller life. It is possible to grow and learn new ways to cope with the stressors that abound in our lives.

Counseling can and does make a difference!
Families come to us in crisis; parents often feel that their children are out of control and they don’t know what to do. Counseling, a Teen Group and Parenting Classes, Tuesday evenings 6-8pm can and do help! People can learn new ways to build positive relationships in the family, new methods to communicate that foster mutual respect among all family members, and parents can learn to set limits, healthy consequences and share family values in ways that their children understand.

Staff

Director of Counseling Services: Karissa Provost, MA
Clinical Supervisor: Vickie Parker, MA
Clinical Services Coordinator: Aida Medina, MA
Counselor: Lori Dodson, MS