People who listen closely.

Shadi Haddad, MSW, ASCW, is an experienced social worker, psychotherapist, and program coordinator with extensive experience practicing in San Diego since 2008. He currently serves as a psychotherapist at Palm Mental Health, providing various treatment modalities. Since 2000, he has dedicated himself to supporting orphaned children, managing mental health programs, and enhancing elderly care and nonprofit initiatives. His work with SOS Children's Villages, supporting orphans, highlights his deep commitment to vulnerable populations. Holding a master's degree in social work from Western Kentucky University, he specializes in cultural dynamics and bridging societal divides. Additionally, he has specialized in working with adults and older adults, providing tailored mental health support to meet their unique needs. As a multilingual professional, he is able to connect with diverse populations, ensuring inclusive and effective care across different communities. He is also a licensed-eligible clinical social worker with the Board of Behavioral Sciences of California, demonstrating his qualifications and dedication to professional excellence. Furthermore, he is trained and skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), applying evidence-based techniques to support individuals through their healing journey. Beyond his professional contributions, Shadi enjoys soccer, outdoor cooking, biking, and morning jogs. A devoted husband and father, he embodies compassion and a commitment to meaningful change.

Born in Italy and immigrating to the U.S. as a child, I bring a unique cultural perspective to my work as a psychological associate and psychotherapist. I hold a Master of Science degree, am a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and am currently pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology. I am practicing under the supervision of Dr. David Tweedy. My clinical work focuses on supporting individuals experiencing behavioral and emotional difficulties, navigating life transitions, processing trauma, and building positive momentum toward their goals. I have experience treating a range of mental health concerns including generalized anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I work with a wide range of ages and cultural backgrounds and value the richness that diversity brings to the therapeutic space. My approach is always client-centered and tailored to the individual's unique needs and symptoms. I draw from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed care, strength-based therapy, internal family systems, motivational interviewing, exposure therapy, and solution-focused strategies. With a foundation in applied behavior analysis, I bring a practical understanding of behavior change for those seeking concrete, goal-oriented support. I'm passionate about helping people develop self-awareness, process difficult experiences, build coping skills, and move through periods of change with resilience. I also have a strong commitment to supporting neurodiverse individuals in understanding themselves more fully and strengthening their relationships with others. I understand that entering the mental health space can feel intimidating, whether it's your first time in therapy or a return to the process. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported as we explore what matters most to you. Together, we'll work to draw meaning from your past experiences, take intentional action in the present, and build toward a more hopeful and empowered future. Therapy is not always easy, but it can be deeply rewarding, and I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Farooque Azam's extensive expertise in psychiatric and mental health care is evident from his comprehensive background. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), he has a decade's experience in providing specialized care to psychiatric patients across various age groups. His areas of specialization include treating adults and adolescents suffering from a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and other related conditions. Farooque's approach to treatment is holistic, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive care in managing these illnesses. His professional journey has taken him through various psychiatric settings, including inpatient and emergency units across different facilities. This experience has been instrumental in shaping his focus on achieving successful outcomes for his clients. One of the key insights Farooque gained through his practice is the significance of providing individualized care and the power of listening to patients' "unlived life," the aspects of their experiences and desires that have not been fully expressed or realized. Farooque is a strong advocate for combining medication management with therapy. He believes this integrated approach not only helps in treating the immediate symptoms but also contributes significantly to motivating patients to explore new directions in their lives. This philosophy is rooted in his understanding of the complexities of mental health and the uniqueness of each individual's journey. His commitment to his patients is unwavering. Farooque views each patient as a dynamic, unique individual with their own set of life experiences. His primary goal is to provide the best possible care, ensuring that the needs, voices, and opinions of his patients are at the forefront of his practice. This patient-centered approach underpins his dedication to the field of mental health and psychiatric care.

Nazmi Hamid is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a strong background in psychiatric nursing, acute care, and healthcare leadership. His experience across medical, psychiatric, and rehabilitation settings has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between mental and physical health. He is dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive psychiatric care to individuals from diverse backgrounds. His clinical expertise includes psychiatric evaluations, mental health assessments, diagnosis, individualized treatment planning, medication management, and crisis intervention. Nazmi emphasizes understanding each patient's unique circumstances, emotional well-being, and personal goals while developing treatment strategies that support long-term mental health. Throughout his career, Nazmi has gained valuable experience at UC San Diego, Select Specialty Hospital, and Granite Hills Rehabilitation Center, where he served as Director of Nursing. These roles strengthened his clinical judgment, leadership, and commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Caring for patients with complex medical and psychiatric needs has shaped his holistic approach to mental healthcare. Nazmi earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from National University. His advanced psychiatric training included 600 clinical hours in psychiatric settings, focusing on mental health assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, therapeutic approaches, medication management, and crisis intervention across the lifespan. An advocate for personalized and collaborative care, Nazmi recognizes that effective mental health treatment involves more than addressing symptoms alone. He values listening carefully to patients, understanding their experiences, and integrating appropriate medication management with therapeutic support and patient education. Fluent in English, Farsi/Dari, Hindi/Urdu, and Russian, Nazmi is committed to reducing language and cultural barriers in mental healthcare. His multilingual abilities help him connect with patients from diverse communities and foster an environment in which individuals feel understood, respected, and supported. Nazmi's goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their mental health journey through compassionate care, open communication, and individualized treatment. He believes every patient deserves to be heard and treated with dignity, respect, and understanding.

A licensed mental health therapist (LMFT) at Palm Mental Health, where I support individuals in navigating life's challenges, especially during times when things feel overwhelming or stuck. I offer a warm, supportive space to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected. Together, we'll explore what's getting in the way and build on your strengths to create meaningful, lasting change. I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties, and I provide therapy in both English and Arabic. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs and goals. In our sessions, you'll have the space to slow down, reflect, and feel fully seen, without judgment. Wherever you are in your journey, I'll meet you there. If you're ready, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 143406) dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and couples in navigating life's challenges. With a deep commitment to culturally responsive and trauma-informed care, I specialize in helping clients manage stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and the unique experiences of immigrants and refugees. I also work with military families, providing a safe space to address the complexities of their experiences. With specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), couples therapy, and grief counseling, I am equipped to guide clients through transformative healing processes. My approach integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a strong emphasis on empathy, understanding, and respect for each individual's background and experiences. I offer services in both English and Farsi, ensuring that clients from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds feel heard and supported. Whether you're dealing with the weight of past trauma, adjusting to new life transitions, or navigating the challenges of daily stress, I am here to help you find clarity, resilience, and peace.

My name is Ranya Razooky and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor at Palm Mental Health Clinic. I provide individual and family therapy services for children, adolescents (ages 5 to 18), and transitional-aged youth. I hold a Master of Science in Child Development with an emphasis in Early Childhood Mental Health from San Diego State University. With a Middle Eastern background, I am committed to providing culturally responsive and inclusive care that honors each family's values, traditions, and lived experiences. I strive to create a nurturing, supportive, and collaborative environment where every child and caregiver feels seen, heard, and empowered to begin their healing journey. Grounded in trauma-informed care, I understand how early experiences shape our sense of safety, self-worth, and ability to trust and connect with others. I am passionate about working alongside families to build secure parent-child relationships, foster resilience, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to navigate behavioral challenges. My therapeutic approach incorporates evidence-based modalities and client-centered care, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and play-based and art-based interventions. My work focuses on supporting children who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, family conflict, bullying, emotional dysregulation, communication difficulties, and anger management. I believe in the power of relationships in the healing process and remain dedicated to reducing the stigma around mental health, especially within marginalized communities. Together, we will create a compassionate and empathetic space to strengthen connection and restore physical and emotional safety.

Education: Master of Science in Child Development, emphasis in Early Childhood Mental Health, San Diego State University

Angelica Lucia Cervantes Verduzco is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Her dual professional licensure reflects her qualifications to provide mental health counseling and psychotherapy within the scope of these professions. Her professional approach emphasizes compassionate, individualized care and a respectful therapeutic environment where clients can discuss emotional concerns, personal challenges, and relationship difficulties. She recognizes the importance of listening carefully and working collaboratively with each person to identify meaningful goals for treatment. As a marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counselor, Angelica brings perspectives that consider both individual emotional well-being and the relationships and circumstances that shape a person's life. Her patient-centered philosophy emphasizes understanding each client's unique experiences, values, and needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Angelica is committed to helping clients feel heard, supported, and empowered as they work toward improved emotional wellness, stronger coping skills, and healthier relationships. She values trust, open communication, and a collaborative therapeutic relationship as foundations of effective mental health care.