Nicole Whaley, CEO

LCSW (26811), LPCC (472)

My experience spans 20 years working with children, adolescents and adults providing social services, psychotherapy and education. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work from San Diego State University and a Master of  Social Work degree from California State University, Los Angeles. I have successfully treated clients of all ages from many different ethnic, cultural, sexual- orientation, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.

I have worked with those who suffer from depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, and disruptive, impulse control and conduct disorders. Also, I treat other mental and behavioral health challenges such as low-self esteem, complicated bereavement, self-harm, social limitations, outbursts of aggression and race-based traumatic stress. Much of my experience has been focused on helping individuals who have experienced traumatic, confusing, and/or stressful life events, such as physical, sexual and/or emotional abuse, abandonment, neglect, the death of a loved one, and relationship issues. I have provided these services in agency settings and on university campuses as well as through private practice. I have managed and clinically supervised clinical and MSW interns, taught as a professor at several universities in the social work, psychology, early childhood education and child development departments, and served as a subject matter expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

My goal is for Proverbs Counseling Services to work with you to help you identify your desires and empower you to make those positive changes in your life. I understand that making the decision to seek help can be difficult, so we use an approach that is compassionate and non-judgemental to help create an environment where you feel supported in your counseling journey.

Joseph Arsanious

AMFT (147776)



I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Engineering from the University of California Riverside and Master’s degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Riverside, in Theological Studies from St. Athanasius and St. Cyril Theological School and in Counseling from California State University, East Bay. I have been a dedicated Orthodox Christian priest since 2018, serving and supporting over 200 families in the East Bay. I am passionate about counseling, especially with adults and couples, and I believe in the profound impact that a strong family unit can have on leading a richer and more fulfilling life. As a family man myself, with a loving wife and three children, I deeply understand the importance of nurturing relationships and fostering personal growth. My approach to therapy goes beyond just solving immediate challenges; I focus on uncovering the underlying causes and guiding individuals through self-discovery and growth.

Before my ministry, I worked as a Software Engineer in the Bay Area, contributing to the development of various medical devices. This unique blend of technical expertise, spiritual guidance, and understanding of underlying human psychology allows me to connect with clients on multiple levels, offering a holistic approach to their well-being.

Dionne Brooks

LCSW (25868)



I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Louisiana Technical University and a Master of Social Welfare degree from Louisiana State University. In the last 20 years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families with treatment modalities based on Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I also specializing in EMDR and trauma informed care.

I am a Navy veteran and I have experience treating PTSD, depression, daily stressors, life changes, anxiety, racial trauma, mood disorders and Military Veterans. I have provided services in hospitals, child welfare agencies, Veteran’s Affairs and private practice. I have worked with various clients of different ages, ethnic backgrounds, sexual-orientation, and religious and socioeconomic backgrounds. My purpose will be to support you and guide you through this journey and empower you to be your best self!

Jason Bueno

LMFT (120386)

*Accepting New Patients*

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with nine years of experience as a clinician serving the greater Los Angeles area. I earned a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a Spiritual and Depth Psychology specialization. For six years, I have worked in an intensive outpatient program supporting adolescents, young adults and their families persevering through depression, suicidality, anxiety, family dysfunction, developmental/relational trauma, low self-esteem, grief and loss, addiction/addictive behaviors, and identity issues.

Having grown up in a military family and lived in various parts of the country, I have a deep appreciation for diversity and the richness of our personal and collective stories. This multicultural perspective and experience has made a significant impact in the way I connect with clients from all walks of life, respecting and honoring each person’s unique culture and identity.

My approach to therapy is to empower and collaborate with clients to be their most authentic self. I inform clients that, ultimately, they are the experts of their own lives and for me to bear witness on each step they take on their journey of healing, growth, and transformation. I draw upon various theoretical orientations that are crafted to the needs of each client that can include Jungian-based analytic psychology, mindfulness-based therapy, trauma resiliency model, attachment theory, family systems theory, humanistic psychology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy. Moreover, I view that the relationship between therapist and client is key to meaningful progress. As your therapist, I am committed to cultivating a safe, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to share your story.

Juan Coca

ACSW (102289)

*Accepting New Patients*

I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. In my 10-year experience in this profession, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and skills. Whether through textual learning or contextual direct practice in mental health, I have provided case management, counseling services, referral sources, psychoeducation, and individual and family therapy in English and Spanish. This diverse experience equips me to handle a wide range of situations and provide the best care for my clients. In the past, I have provided services in the medical setting, at a community clinic, and in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a hospital. I have also provided services in the K-12 school setting and have completed the hours required to obtain the Pupil Personnel Service Credential within the state of California.

As a U.S. Army veteran, I have also assisted fellow veterans through case management to ensure access to veteran benefits, including mental health services. Moreover, in recent years, I have provided community-based outpatient mental health services through various programs, ranging from lower-level care to more intensive programs such as Wraparound and Full-Service Partnership. As a mental health clinician, my goal is to embark on a journey with the client, in an atmosphere that is client centered and goal oriented, where self-discovery, improvement, and redefining of self is always a viable option towards the success of the client. My commitment to ethical principles is unwavering, ensuring that every step we take is in the best interest of the client. Moreover, in working with clients towards self-fulfillment and recovery, my commitment as a professional is to always uphold ethical principles while exercising cognitive behavioral modalities under an evidence-based framework.

William Elliott

AMFT (12209)

*Accepting New Patients*

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families from various cultures and backgrounds utilizing treatment modalities based on the individual’s needs. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Sociology and furthered my education by acquiring a Master’s degree from Pacific Oaks College in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in working with diverse individuals, families, children and adolescents.

I began my career working in residential facilities, where I obtained experience working with adults, children, adolescents and families coping with complex traumas. From there, I supervised for a variety of non-profit agencies providing expertise in the areas connected trauma, anxiety, and depression.

My experience includes working with children and adults suffering from mental health disorders, including emotional and/or behavioral. My passion for working with youth, adults, and their families is highlighted in my lifelong service to others. I volunteer yearly by partnering with local parks working directly with community members by engaging them in activities and providing resources for mental health services. 

Cheyenne Emery

LMFT (116584)

*Accepting New Patients*

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Simpson University and a Master of Counseling Psychology degree from National University.

In this life there will be hardships, challenges, and pain and I understand that we all have a unique story to tell. I believe that as a therapist I am simply a guide to encourage and support each individual to formulate their own solutions to challenges and achievement of goals. The therapeutic atmosphere is one of non-judgment and empathy. Kindness and genuineness are the therapeutic tools I hope to convey as the individual and I travel the road to healing.

I specialize in Dual Diagnosis, Relationship Issues, Grief and Loss, Trauma/PTSD, Woman's Issues, Addiction, Anxiety and Depression and Christian therapy. I offer a space to uncover the root of the symptoms or challenges that may be occurring in your life. My goal is to walk alongside you with kindness and encouragement as you address what you feel is most important. I know that life can be very stressful and challenging at times. Life is not meant to be traveled alone, you are worthy of support!

Maria Mousa

LMFT (139605)

*Accepting New Patients*

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I was born and raised in a close-knit community and developed a strong sense of empathy and understanding from an early age. This innate ability to connect with others, combined with a natural curiosity about the complexities of the human mind, led me to pursue a career in therapy. After completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, I went on to earn a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, solidifying my foundation in the field.

Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings, gaining invaluable experience in both individual and group therapy. I have provided counseling services to diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, each with their unique set of challenges and needs. I have also worked with individuals facing a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relationship difficulties. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach to therapy. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can freely express themselves, explore their thoughts and emotions, and work towards personal growth and healing.

With a deep understanding that each individual is unique, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the specific needs and goals of each client. I draw from a diverse range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). By combining these approaches with empathy, active listening, and genuine care, I empower clients to navigate life's challenges, develop coping strategies, and achieve meaningful change. With a deep understanding of the human experience, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to professional growth, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and personal transformation.

Andres Ruiz

LMFT (135430)

*Accepting New Patients*

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree and a Master of Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Community Psychology from  Antioch University, Los Angeles.

My experience encompasses over 15-years of working with children, adolescents, and adults providing psychoeducation, social services, and direct mental health therapy in both English and Spanish. I’ve successfully treated clients from different ethnic, cultural, sexuality and gender, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.

My relevant experience includes working with people experiencing  depression, anxiety, attachment, PTSD, impulse control and conduct disorders. In addition, I’ve also worked with clients experiencing interpersonal violence and marital  challenges. I’ve worked for multiple community based mental health agencies, managing child protective services and probation cases, as well as teaching emotional intelligence classes to youth in juvenile hall. I currently teach court mandated parenting, anger management and domestic violence classes and have given lectures on various topics related to mental health and education at universities such as UCLA, LMU, Antioch University, and LA Southwest College.

My intention as a mental health clinician is to help you find your voice. Seek your path, explore the depths of your inner self, and find your truth. Cut the anchor and recalibrate your compass and allow me the privilege to be a witness and companion to your journey.

Kim Savage

AMFT (115793)

*Accepting New Patients*

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications with an emphasis on radio, television and film from California State University, Fullerton and a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College.

I am a self-published children’s book author and EMDR modality trained therapist with a wealth of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I’ve successfully helped people to better manage their symptoms through psycho-education, relaxation exercises, identifying negative thinking and dysfunctional behavioral patterns, promotion of self-love, self-awareness, and self-compassion. I believe that regiments are road maps to feeling the emotions you would like to feel.

I work with individuals who experience depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, complex PTSD, schizophrenia, suicidal ideation and individuals who are experiencing relationship issues, going through the process of grief and loss and breakups. I have experience working with all ages, backgrounds, different cultures, couples, families, groups and the LGBTQ + community. My approach is nonjudgmental, non-bias, and non-opinionated.

I’ve provided services in locked residential facilities for children, outpatient programs including full service partnership, and on call crisis counselor. I believe that making yourself a priority, setting boundaries, learning what your brain likes, being mindful of your thoughts and emotions, and removing yourself from triggering environments are good mental and emotional hygiene. My focus is to provide support to ensure that you’re not alone on your journey and to help you accomplish your mental health and personal goals.   

Eric Warren Jr.

LMFT (130731)

Clinical Supervisor

*Accepting New Patients*

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Speaker and Certified Batterers Intervention Facilitator. I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and went on to receive my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at Pacific Oaks College. My career began as a psychotherapist working with the Department of Mental Health and soon began working for various programs including Wraparound, Therapeutic Behavioral Services and Full Service Partnership.

In conjunction with providing individual clinical services, I also facilitate court ordered services including anger management and batterers intervention. I have also conducted processing groups for incarcerated youth in juvenile hall to help youth understand the principles of Emotional Intelligence. I am a firm believer that the journey toward individual healing will involve having to travel on unpaved roads that lead to redemption. I am passionate about healing and growing with couples, individuals, and families in hopes they realize their greatness within.

DR. APPOLONIA OLUMBA
DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, APRN

*Accepting New Patients*

(Accepts Medi-Cal, Medicare, Blue Cross, Aetna, St. Vincent, Cigna, Optum and United Health)

I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2008. I am board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I attended Azusa Pacific University for her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and graduated in 2018. I attended California State University Dominguez Hills for my Master of Science in Nursing / Family Nurse Practitioner and graduated in 2008. I obtained a post graduate certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at National University in 2018. I also received my bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) in 1997 from the University of Southern California (USC). I am a hardworking individual who believes in success through hard work and academic excellence. I have an extensive background and wealth of knowledge in several areas of practice in both medical and mental health care over the years. I work as a PCMH primary care provider in an outpatient internal medicine clinic, and urgent care clinic in Los Angeles. I also work as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient mental health clinic. As an individual who believes in education and the future of nursing profession, I have also work as an adjunct faculty with Azusa Pacific University, and National University school of Nursing, training future Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.

Sherry Shahid

I have my bachelor's degree from Chapman University and have been working in the social service and administrative fields for over 20 years.