I'm Rhonda Bernstein and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I earned my Master's in Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work and have over 30 years of clinical experience helping clients with a variety of issues including relational problems, trauma, depression, stress and anxiety disorders, life transitions, low self-esteem, partner betrayal, substance abuse, sexual dysfunction, and compulsive behaviors.

My approach

My therapy is client-centered, strengths-based, and solution-focused. I provide both individual and couples therapy. If you choose to work with me you can expect a combination of traditional "talk therapy" informed by emotionally-focused interventions and attachment theory along with cognitive-behavioral strategies, problem-solving techniques, and psychoeducation, tailored to each client's individual needs and goals.

My focus

Clients frequently contact me due to my expertise in dealing with a range of issues that negatively impact their sexual functioning and pleasure, and if partnered, the couple's sexual health and satisfaction. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I'm a Certified Sex Therapist credentialed through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist credentialed through the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP).

My communication style

I'm committed to providing an affirming and safe space for individuals from all walks of life and self-identification, with special sensitivity to those who embrace marginalized and non-traditional lifestyles, racial, sexual, and gender identities.

My goals for you

Clients engage in therapy for many reasons, but often they're seeking symptom relief, guidance in making difficult life decisions, understanding why they persist in harmful behavioral patterns, and adjusting to painful situations, particularly those that are outside their immediate control, such as loss, illness, or betrayal. I help clients identify, in specific terms, their longer-term goals, and together we formulate a logical sequence of concrete steps they can take to achieve their goals. Clients become aware of alternative perspectives and self-limiting beliefs, enabling them to make informed choices, and effectively navigate and address both internal and external obstacles.

My first session with you

In our first session I'll want to learn as much as I can about your situation -- the concerns that prompted you to come to therapy, the challenges you face, and the current resources and support that's available to you. I'll also ask for some relevant history to begin formulating a treatment plan. I'll provide you with preliminary thoughts and you can let me know if these resonate with you. If we're in agreement we'll set a next appointment date and time.