Yolanda Turner, RPA

Hello all, let me introduce myself. My name is Yolanda Turner, I am here to provide, guide, and support my clients with a well-rounded mental health experience by creating a safe space for them so they may speak freely and feel heard. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix, Costa Mesa, and my master’s degree in School Psychology from National University, Los Angeles, my doctorate from The Chicago School of Professional Psychologist, Los Angeles. I pride myself on my innate abilities to care for people and help those with mental health challenges. My education background, personal qualities, and life experiences enable, strengthen, and empower me to be a strong, dedicated, flexible, and effective psychologist.

1am an Afro-American psychologist with 10+ years of experience working with a variety of clients from diverse populations, and socio-economic backgrounds; adapting my therapeutic approach to ensure cultural sensitivity and relevance. I’ve worked with children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population; in individual and group settings. I have had the opportunity to be able and work with many diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, Trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, sexual abuse, psychosis, self-harm issues, autism, grief, anger issues, behavioral problems and self-esteem issues, and sex offenders. While working with such diverse populations, I have been able to use various modalities with my main approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness.

I began my clinical experience working with clients experiencing homelessness and substance misuse, to achieve and maintain self-sufficiency in a substance misuse in a homeless shelter, offering assistance with emergency services, safe sleep & crisis support, women’s crisis and bridge center, healthy living program, education & workforce development, 12-2tep recovery program, and transitional & family housing. I provided group/individual therapy, crisis management, and resources; | also worked sex offenders who were court ordered to attend therapy as part of their probation requirements, and with the geriatric population, living in convalescent homes; providing psychotherapy, medication compliance, probation compliance, and providing various resources to help with their daily living needs.

My previous experience is working as a school psychologist, in various school settings; I’ve worked with elementary, middle school, and high school age students. I collaborated with all stakeholders to ensure students achieve the best education afforded to them. I conducted a broad range of assessments to assist with students’ education planning, provided direct counseling, and interventions to meet students’ needs. My previous experience is working with clients that have experienced trauma, grief and loss, anger management, depression, anxiety, substance use, bipolar, and schizophrenia. I was born in Houston, Texas, and my family and I uprooted to Los Angeles, California in 1989 which has been my home state since.

As a psychologist, I offer psychotherapy with a warm, welcoming presence that helps people feel genuinely seen and supported from the very first conversation. My approach is grounded in transparency and collaboration, making it easy for clients to understand the process and feel empowered throughout their healing journey. I prioritize cultural sensitivity and relevance, honoring each person’s lived experience and adapting care to meet the unique needs of individuals, families, and communities. With compassion, curiosity, and deep respect, I create a safe space where anyone facing mental health challenges can explore their story, build resilience, and move toward meaningful growth.