Welcome! I’m Helen Valenstein, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist in California.

Philosophy: My approach balances insight—deepening your understanding of yourself, relationships, and the world around you—with action, creating a clear path for meaningful change. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where your goals shape our work together. My hope is you feel supported and seen, knowing I’m truly “in your corner” as we work to address what’s bringing you to therapy.

Training and Experience: I earned my undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Washington. Currently, I am a therapist supervisor and consultant for a national mental health technology company while running my private telehealth therapy practice. Previously, I was an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Minnesota, and I have worked in academic medical centers and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

I’m committed to staying up to date on current evidence-based therapy practices to ensure I’m providing high quality care. My past research, published in peer-reviewed journals, focused on what makes therapy effective and how therapists can be best trained (you can find my Google Scholar profile here).

On a personal note, I enjoy spending time outdoors, singing (formally in choir, now in the car), and seeing live theater and comedy.

I look forward to getting to know you and supporting you on your path.