Darla Lynn Gale, MA, LMFT
Founder, Executive Director, Author
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#92413)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Trained Therapist
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Imago Trained Couples Therapist
Certified First Responder Counselor
Darla is a professional therapist who operates her own private practice corporation, offering healing and positive change to those in need. With a deep desire to provide resources and insight, she aims to create a brighter tomorrow for her clients. Darla holds a Master's Degree in Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Brandman University. In addition, she has completed the "First Responder Counselor Training" and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Training with a specialized focus on trauma.
With her expertise, she assists individuals dealing with various challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and more. Further, Darla provides counseling for couples facing difficulties in conflict resolution, communication, and healthy relational patterns. Adopting a creative and engaging approach, she combines spiritual, mindful, cognitive, and behavioral principles in her therapeutic process.
Darla values the client-therapist relationship and strives to guide individuals on a personal journey of awareness, offering hope, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. She holds to the belief that you cannot change the past, but you can be strengthened by it. One of her favorite quotes is 'It's okay to look back into the past, just don't stare." Outside of work, Darla enjoys reading, writing books, swimming, and embarking on road trips with her husband and their two dogs.
Rachael Uchison, MA, APCC
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor #13200
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Rachael is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor diligently working towards her licensure. With a passion for helping young adults, Rachael has been a valued member of the Heartstrings Counseling team for over 2 years. With 9+ years in the mental health field, she possesses extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, including teenagers, children, and adults.
Utilizing a person-centered approach, Rachael tailors her counseling techniques and modalities to meet the unique needs of each client. Collaborating closely with clients, she aims to enhance productivity, foster positive emotions, and cultivate a wholesome perspective on life. Having witnessed firsthand the profound impact of mental health challenges, Rachael is committed to empowering her clients to find peace of mind.
Rachael's expertise encompasses a range of areas, including ADHD, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Personality Disorders. Additionally, she boasts a wealth of experience in anxiety, depression, trauma, and family relationships.
With Rachael's professionalism, expertise, and compassionate care, you can trust that she will be a valuable asset in your journey towards well-being.
Dixie Ocampo, MA, AMFT
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #144715
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Dixie is a compassionate and dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, holding a BA in Psychology from California State University, Sacramento, and a Master's degree in Psychology from University Massachusetts Global.
Dixie possesses exceptional qualities such as empathy, respect, active listening, and nonjudgmental demeanor. With prior experience working with youth and adolescents at a local high school, she is particularly passionate about helping those struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, and stress management. In her therapeutic sessions, Dixie creates a safe and trusting environment for clients to express themselves and embark on their healing journey.
When she's not supporting clients, Dixie enjoys traveling, reading books by the beach, hiking, and cherishing quality time with family, friends, and her adorable dog, Mushu.
If you're seeking guidance on your personal journey, Dixie looks forward to providing you with the support you need. She believes that therapy is a collaborative process and strives to empower her clients by helping them cultivate self-awareness, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build stronger relationships with themselves and others. With Dixie's assistance, you can work towards achieving your goals and living a fulfilling life.
Danielle Dechavez
Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Danielle Dechavez is a Pepperdine University graduate with a B.A. in Psychology. She is now further pursuing her interest in the field by studying at Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology. She will be getting her M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and is expected to obtain licensure after the completion of the program to become an LMFT fall of 2024.
She has experience working closely with neurodivergent children and teens (ages 3-17 years old) who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, speech and language delays, sensory processing disorder, and other conditions that impact brain development, while utilizing a progressive model of Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy. Her experience involves working in home, school, and clinical settings.
Danielle is open to working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families impacted by depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, stress, or relationship issues. While she takes an integrative approach to therapy, she draws techniques primarily from cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. Her focus will help you understand the powerful connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while gaining the tools to challenge negative thinking patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and make positive changes in your life. Her focus also helps you find solutions, build on your strengths, and discover practical steps to help move forward.
Danielle is dedicated to empowering you on your journey towards personal growth and enhanced well-being. She will create a safe, warm, and welcoming environment where trust will be built, and hope will be encouraged. Throughout the therapeutic process, she ensures that each individual feels heard, valued, and supported.
In her personal life, Danielle values spending time with her friends and family. She loves going to the beach, is a huge animal lover, and enjoys watching reality TV shows.
Kwei Akuete
Professional Clinical and Counselor Trainee
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Kwei (pronounced Quay) is a Professional Counselor Trainee currently in his final year in Pepperdine University’s Masters in Clinical Psychology program. Prior to changing careers, Kwei was a management consultant for several years after graduating from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Masters in Public Policy) and Northwestern University (BS in Social Policy). He also graduated from the US International University in Nairobi, Kenya, with an Executive MBA degree.
Through his life journey so far in diverse business and cultural settings, he believes that many of our issues stem from our varying abilities to communicate effectively. This is compounded by the stories we tell ourselves before, during, and after any interaction and the meanings we may inaccurately attribute to them. As a result, we may see the world from altered perspectives that cause us to experience anxiety, depression, and isolation. In the process, our relationships become strained or completely break down due to apathy, neglect, or conflict.
As a proponent of narrative therapy, Kwei seeks to help you delve deeper into the beliefs, meanings, and actions that create your perspective and contribute to your communication style. Kwei strongly believes that challenging these constructs and behaviors can yield valuable insights that yield new meanings, more balanced perspectives, congruency, and peace of mind. The benefits continue with the creation of more helpful communication patterns, and, ultimately, an improvement in the quality of your personal and professional relationships.
When not in school or in session, Kwei enjoys reading biographies, listening to audiobooks, enjoying a good cheeseburger, and playing tennis...but not after having a cheeseburger.
Brittany Richards
Professional Clinical and Counselor Trainee
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Brittany is training to become a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). She is currently a graduate student at Touro University Worldwide.
Brittany’s therapeutic approach is collaborative and strength-based. She will guide and empower you to be the author of your life. Brittany will encompass developmental, spiritual, and behavioral principles to help you reach your goals. She believes that therapy is a process of recognition, healing, and change and that everyone has a unique perspective and journey. Brittany will listen with empathy and compassion and create a safe space of non-judgment.
Brittany is excited to work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents as they navigate challenges. She wants to help you strengthen and build connecting, healthy, and trusting relationships. She has a passion for helping others resolve conflicts and repair what may be broken.
On a personal note, Brittany is a mom to four amazing children and one super hyper and lovable dog named Blu. She loves to travel with her husband, exercise, explore the outdoors, and cheer her children on as they participate in different activities.
Professional Clinical and Counselor Trainee Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Ryan is a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Trainee and a Professional Clinical Counselor (PCC) Trainee in his final year of graduate school at the University of Massachusetts Global. Ryan holds an Associate’s degree in Administration of Justice from Folsom Lake College and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in child psychology from Brandman University.
Ryan was in the United States Air Force for six years as a Security Forces Officer and Combat Arms Instructor. He deployed overseas while serving our country. Ryan has a passion for first responders and their families. His experience as a law enforcement officer and weapons instructor has given him insight into understanding trauma, mental health crisis, adaptability, cultural competence, resilience, communication skills, and understanding transition. Ryan understands the stigma for military members, first responders, and their families receiving help in therapy, but he would love to break the stigma.
With a warm and empathetic approach, Ryan creates a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. He believes in the power of collaboration and works closely with each individual to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Whether you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, Ryan is here to support you on your journey toward healing and transformation.
Ryan is married and a father of two girls. He enjoys family time, working out, golfing, and being outdoors.
Aly Prokes
Professional Clinical and Counselor Trainee
Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Aly is a dedicated and passionate individual who is deeply committed to helping others. She obtained her B.A. in Psychology from Sacramento University, where she developed a strong foundation in understanding human behavior and mental processes.
Driven by her desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families, Aly is currently enrolled in a dual program of personal clinical counseling and marriage and family therapy at the University of Massachusetts Global. She is eagerly pursuing her M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy with an expected graduation date in the fall of 2025. Aly's dedication to her studies and genuine interest in counseling are evident in her academic pursuits.
Aly's professional journey has been shaped by her invaluable experiences working with children and teens ranging from 1-18 years of age. She has provided support and guidance to individuals diagnosed with Autism, Down syndrome, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, speech and language delays, and other conditions that impact brain development. Aly has utilized the Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy (ABA) model to help her clients achieve their developmental goals and enhance their overall quality of life.
In addition to her work with neurodiverse populations, Aly has also contributed to a Dialectical Behavior Therapy program for emotionally distressed teens. Through this experience, she has gained valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by individuals struggling with emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships. Aly's compassionate approach and ability to create a safe and supportive environment have made a positive difference in the lives of those she has worked with.
Aly's aspirations include obtaining licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist after graduation. She is eager to continue her professional development and contribute to the well-being of children, teens, individuals, couples, and families needing therapeutic support. Aly's genuine empathy, strong communication skills, and commitment to ongoing learning make her a valuable asset in the counseling field.
In her free time, Aly loves spending time with her two corgis, going to concerts and live shows, painting, and spending quality time with her friends and family.
Damaris Manquera
Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Damaris is a Marriage & Family Therapy Trainee. She is in the final stages of earning her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of San Francisco. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at Vanguard University of Southern California, where she minored in Social Work and Religion. After graduating college, Damaris worked at an acute psychiatric facility where I encountered a variety of severe mental health crises. I also have experience working with unhoused young adults and single-parent families. Growing up in California and traveling to different countries, she has become accustomed to working with a diverse and multicultural population. Additionally, I am bilingual in Spanish and English.
Damaris is passionate about working through trauma, life transitions, and grief and loss with clients. She is also passionate about guiding individuals, families, and couples through conflict and relationship issues. She will help clients cultivate resilience by empowering individuals through hardships and developing coping skills that will strengthen them. Damaris is a learner and is committed to staying open and curious. Most importantly, she is devoted to anchoring herself in the belief that there is hope for every individual.
In her spare time, Damaris likes to go on runs with her dogs, travel to new places with her family, and host gatherings with her friends.
Melanie Ayala
Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Melanie strives for the therapeutic space to be one that is collaborative and flexible. Melanie is excited to work with a wide and diverse range of individuals, especially those within the LGBTQIA+ community and those seeking support with their interpersonal relationships and self-esteem. Melanie works from a Relational framework and loves to bring in interventions that focus on mindfulness and creativity as ways of connecting back to ourselves.
In her free time, you can find Melanie getting lost in the perils of reality tv, spending time with her dog Pearl, and singing her heart out every chance she gets.
IN LOVING MEMORY (February 5, 1964 - December 21, 2020)
Kristen Williams
Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee
Supervised by Darla Gale, LMFT #92413
Kristen Williams is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee who is passionate about helping others through difficult times in their lives. She is compassionate and caring and strives to convey warmth, acceptance, and empathy to those who are hurting. We all have things in our lives that are difficult to deal with but having someone walk beside you to offer support and guidance is a positive step in helping you reach your goals. Kristen believes everyone has value and a purpose and sees each person as a unique individual who is deserving of respect. This will guide her therapeutic treatment. She is drawn to a holistic and integrative approach that addresses the mind, body, spirit, and social aspects of one's life and prefers to focus on strengths, goals, encouragement, and positive qualities while working on the things that need to be changed. Therapy is a team effort and a partnership between the counselor and the client. Therefore, a strong, collaborative therapeutic relationship is a top goal for her in helping clients achieve health in their lives.
It is her desire to provide a comfortable, non-judgmental environment with authenticity, patience, and respect so that her clients may discover the tools and resources that they can take with them to use throughout their lives. She has a heart for those suffering from traumas of all kinds and those struggling with substance abuse and addictions. She has experience in relating successfully with people of all ages and backgrounds, including working with at-risk young adults and teens, women, senior adults, and people with chronic health issues and trauma. She has knowledge and experience with anxiety and depression, trauma, ADHD, has a Christian counseling background, and is pursuing a certificate in Addiction Studies. Having been born with a congenital heart defect, she understands medical trauma, chronic health issues, and how Covid-19 and other risk factors are affecting those who are high risk.