We’re strong believers that we can become our best selves when we feel understood and encouraged.

Our mission is to co-create an inclusive, humanistic, curious, and empowering space so that transformative change can begin.

book a consultation

Walk with our clients on their journeys, be their beacon of light and guidance through their darkest times, help couples find love, stay in love, and make it easier to be in healthy, loving relationships that foster growth, acceptance, and longevity.

Our goal

Our vision is to facilitate generational healing by de-stigmatizing mental health and creating a legacy of deep care, connection, and purposeful action.

Our Values

request an appointment

Inclusivity

Cultural humility

unapologetically bold

Empathy

Community care

person-centered

dedication

transformative practices

Every member of the TALA Mental Health team embodies our values, mission, and vision, chosen intentionally to ensure you receive the exceptional care you deserve. At TALA, we’re committed to offering care that’s not only professional but also profoundly inclusive, empathetic, and attuned to your experiences.

At TALA Mental Health, we’re changing that. Every provider on our team is a woman of color, chosen with the intention to create a community that truly reflects and understands those we serve. 

Meet our Team

Did you know that less than 18% of mental health providers are women of color? 

Elaine Raif-Reyes

Lead Clinical
Social Worker

Lead Clinical
Social Worker

Hi, I’m Elaine, and I’m a 1.5-generation Filipino-American woman. In my practice, I value the importance of co-creating a space to explore your unique experiences, challenge unhelpful cycles, and learn to be more compassionate with yourself. I believe that personal growth can be achieved by understanding our vulnerabilities, our intergenerational dynamics, our relationships, and the multiple truths that come with them.

I’m passionate about helping clients understand their relationships, set boundaries, and honor their needs. Using the Gottman Method, Discernment Counseling, and trauma-informed approaches like EMDR, I work with individuals, couples, and youth, addressing grief, family challenges, and PTSD. I also incorporate art and play, especially with children and teens.

Grief & Loss, Complex Trauma, Life Adjustments, Relational/Spousal Conflict, Self-Esteem & Self-Worth Concerns, Asian-American Identity, Intergenerational Family Dynamics, Relational/Communication Issues, Burnout, Boundary Challenges

credentials

Lead Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist (LCSW #130535), EMDR Therapist, Gottman Level 1 & Level 2 Couples Therapist, Discernment Counselor

About Elaine

specialties

credentials

Noemi Alsup

Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker

About Noemi

Hi, I’m Noemi. I’m a Latinx first-generation bilingual woman. In my practice, I bring my own cultural experiences to allow me to connect authentically with clients from diverse backgrounds. My approach draws from an attachment and trauma-responsive perspective, where I help clients navigate the challenge of expressing themselves through a safe, empathetic space.

I see children, adults, men and couples at TALA Mental Health. In my work with men, I focus on breaking down the societal pressures that often make emotional expression challenging. I create a space where they can explore their feelings openly, encouraging personal growth and a healthier emotional life. Across all my work, I’m dedicated to helping clients strengthen their relationships and move toward a more fulfilling, connected life.

specialties

Affair Recovery, Children & Adolescent Challenges, Men's Mental Health, Complex Family Dynamics, Self Compassion, Self Esteem & Self Worth Concerns, Existential Concerns, Equity & Social Justice Issues

credentials

Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #80816), Sand Play Therapist, Reflective Clinical Supervisor, Gottman Level 1 & Level 2 Couples Therapist, Spanish Speaking Therapist

Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Jessica Guillen

Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker

about jessica 

Hi, I'm Jessica, a licensed Clinical Social Worker identifying as a Queer Latina Woman. Growing up as a first-generation American of immigrant parents from Central America, I deeply understand the importance of finding a therapist who acknowledges the unique intersectionality within Los Angeles’ diverse communities. Because of this, I have committed my practice to creating a safe space for my clients to bring their whole selves and facilitate a therapy space where we can collaboratively address the hard questions, explore their culture, and work on their trauma.

My therapeutic approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy and gender-affirming therapy. In my practice, I support adults, couples, and families in discovering their inner strength and maintaining healthier relationships.

specialties

Children & Adolescent Challenges, LGBTQ+, Sexual Identity Challenges, Latiné Mental Health, Chronic Relationship Concerns, Complex Trauma, Family Conflict

credentials

Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #88600), Parent Child Interactive Therapist, Gottman Level 1 & Level 2 Couples Therapist, Reflective Supervisor, Spanish Speaking Therapist

Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Kristiana Guzman

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

About kristiana

Hi, I’m Kristiana. As a Latinx woman, I understand how generational influences can shape who we are and how we relate to others. With this perspective, I guide individuals and couples in navigating cultural expectations, resolving conflicts, and strengthening meaningful connections. My goal is to help clients build skills that support healing now and provide lasting tools for a resilient future.

I use an eclectic approach, blending cognitive-behavioral, narrative, systems theories, and the Gottman Method for couples therapy. I aim to empower clients to recognize their strengths and harness them as catalysts for personal growth.

specialties

Chronic Relationship Concerns, Trauma Recovery, Complex PTSD, Infidelity and Rebuilding, Latiné Mental Health, Children and Adolescent Challenges

credentials

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #152965), Gottman Level 1 & Level 2 Couples Therapist, Discernment Counselor, ART Therapist (Accelerated Resolution Therapy)

Olufunmiké Salami

Associate Clinical Social Worker

Associate Clinical
Social Worker

Hi, I’m Olufunmiké, a first-generation Nigerian American. My experiences as a black woman and a professional of seven years have deepened my appreciation for the diverse influences that shape our identities. I’m passionate about helping clients break generational patterns that may hold them back from growth. In our work together, I strive to create an environment where you feel genuinely heard, with an approach that honors your individuality and embraces diverse therapeutic practices.

In my practice, I aim to guide individuals and couples through life’s challenges with empathy, helping you build confidence and autonomy. For couples, I focus on enhancing communication and connection, creating a safe space where both partners feel valued and heard as they work toward a stronger, more resilient relationship.


Self Esteem & Self Worth Concerns, Chronic Relationship Issues,  Children & Adolescent Challenges, Identity Exploration, Religious Trauma & Recovery

supervised by:

Jessica Guillen, LCSW

credentials

Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW #115623), Discernment Counselor, Gottman Level 1 Couples Therapist, EMDR Therapist (Kids Ages 5+ & Adults)

about Olufunmiké

specialties

Olufunmiké Salami

Porschia Coleman

Associate Clinical Social Worker

Associate Clinical Social Worker

Hi, I’m Porschia. I intentionally embrace diverse environments to develop cultural competence in my practice continuously. My goal is to provide an environment where you feel understood, can be your authentic self without fear of judgment, and leave each session feeling supported and validated.

In therapy, I take a person-centered, trauma-informed approach focused on client empowerment. I encourage curiosity and gentle challenges, allowing you to lead the process. With couples, I foster a collaborative environment to disarm conflict, deepen understanding, and build resilience for a more fulfilling relationship. When working with children, I incorporate creative modalities to enhance communication and maintain a supportive partnership with parents, recognizing their essential role in their child’s growth.

Family Conflicts, Identity Exploration, Child and Adolescent Challenges, Self Esteem & Self Worth Concerns, Boundary Challenges, Chronic Relationship Issues, Perinatal and Postpartum Support

supervised by:

Junie Abito, LMFT

credentials

Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW #120591), Discernment Counselor, EMDR Therapist (Kids Ages 5+ & Adults)

about POrschia

specialties

Cat Nguyen

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Associate Clinical Social Worker

Hi, my name is Cathy, but I go by Cat. I am a Vietnamese- American, queer woman. My mission as a therapist is more than individual change—it’s about creating a culture of mutual care, resilience, and shared progress that extends far beyond the therapy room. I am committed to working specifically with a diverse community who are seeking personal growth and is driven to positively impact their communities. I believe that in order for the connection with others to happen, we need to be able to form a relationship with ourselves first. 

My approach integrates culturally sensitive practices with a focus on creative expression, challenging stigmas, generational trauma, child of immigrant experiences, and connection to the self, relationship with others, and the body. 

Culturally Responsive Therapy, Immigrant & First-Gen Experiences, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, Intergenerational Trauma Work, Mind-Body & Creative Healing

supervised by:

Junie Abito, LMFT

credentials

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist (AMFT #153750)

about Cat

specialties

Junie Abito

Clinical Director & Founder of TALA Mental Health

Clinical Director & Founder of TALA Mental Health

About junie

Hi, I’m Junie. As a first-generation Filipino-American, I was raised not just by my immediate family but by a ‘village’—a close-knit community of relatives and family friends who all played a role in shaping my values. The importance of community and self-sacrifice is at the core of my upbringing. While these values grounded me, they also came with the challenge of balancing my own needs with the expectations of those around me. I bring this nuanced perspective into my work. My goal is to help you understand the unique relational and cultural dynamics that may feel difficult to navigate. At the forefront of my desire is to inspire my clients to break free from toxic relationships and generational patterns that no longer serve them.

I deeply value the comfort and safety needed to facilitate honest conversations in therapy. I believe in creating a non-judgmental environment where you can share freely, and I encourage clients to share their sessions in ways that feel most meaningful to them.

In our work together, we will focus on understanding trauma and nurturing healthier relationships with people around you. 

specialties

Trauma Recovery, Chronic Relationship Concerns, Infidelity & Rebuilding, Personal Growth & Boundary challenges, High Functioning Depression and Anxiety, Toxic Family Dynamics (Filipino)


credentials

 Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT #105987), EMDR Therapist, Gottman Level 1 & Level 2 Therapist, Discernment Counselor, Reflective Clinical Supervisor, Tagalog Speaking Therapist

as featured in





Getting started with TALA is easy

Our diverse and inclusive team makes therapy easily accessible and can be initiated with minimal effort.






work with us

Join the TALA Mental Health Team

Client Love

"It was such a wonderful experience! I absolutely loved working with Kristiana. She has such a warm and calming presence that made me feel immediately at ease. She was comforting, deeply understanding, and provided me with the tools and support I needed to navigate my challenges. Her insightful guidance truly made a difference in my life. I can't recommend her enough."

"I felt completely heard, understood, and supported throughout the entire process. As a black woman I always felt safe expressing myself with my therapist who gets it and gets me. I left each session feeling more confident, equipped, and hopeful."

"As a couple, we felt completely heard, understood, and supported throughout the entire process. Each session helped us grow stronger as a team, leaving us feeling more connected, confident, and hopeful about our relationship. The guidance we received from our couples therapist has truly transformed the way we communicate and support each other."

"Noemi is a great practitioner for my child. She has not only supported my child during sessions but also excelled at facilitating parenting meetings, equipping us with strategies to better support our child at home. Hopefully my child uses the strategies practiced in session for the foreseeable future and if not, they’ll be back to seeing Noemi."

"My child really enjoys his sessions with Porschia. He is teaching us what he is learning in therapy and also calls us out for things that we as a family can improve on. He talks about therapy positively and looks forward to his sessions with her, sometimes he even reminds me when therapy is scheduled."

"Working with Elaine was relationship-changing. We've rekindled the friendship, the very foundation of our marriage, through hearing each other answer her targeted questions. I highly recommend seeing her."

"As a couple, we felt completely heard, understood, and supported throughout the entire process. Each session helped us grow stronger as a team, leaving us feeling more connected, confident, and hopeful about our relationship. The guidance we received from our couples therapist has truly transformed the way we communicate and support each other."

"This my first time in therapy and first session was really positive. It was focused on introductions and the issues I’ve been dealing with. What was encouraging is that she let me know what we’ll focus on in the upcoming sessions. I’m excited for therapy and coming in to see her knowing that we have a plan of action."

"My partner and I committed to a couple's intensive work with our couples therapist. It was such a great investment. We were able to work on our goals at a faster rate and find clarity on the next steps. I definitely recommend it."

"Junie and her team are professional and make the intake process quick and easy. Junie matched my teen daughter to the right therapist. My daughter feels comfortable and happy with her amazing therapist!"

"Junie and her team are super welcoming and on a mission. Women of color centered on mental health work, highly recommend their services."

Stay connected to transformative mental health insights—join the TALA Mental Health newsletter and receive empowering stories directly in your inbox.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Thanks for signing up!
Keep an eye on your inbox .