Hi, I’m sonya Rai.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing psychotherapy in the state of California. I have earned a Master of Arts from California State University, Chico in Social Work (emphasis in Gerontology). I also have a Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Northridge in psychology. I have a Ph.D in clinical sexology and am a AASECT certified sex therapist. I have experience working with children, families, individuals in crisis and substance use. I have worked for years providing psychotherapy to individuals with severe behavioral health issues. My therapeutic approach is mainly individualized for each client, though integrative and strength based in nature. You are free to ask questions at any time about my background, experience, and professional orientation.
My practice is designed to empower you to start a journey of healing through introspective communication. My honest, empathetic, caring nature has always been a driving force to provide compassionate care.
It can be difficult taking the first steps in seeking support and scary opening up to a complete stranger. Attending therapy can often times be compared to staring into a mirror and looking at the deepest parts of ourselves. It can be difficult and challenging, but also life changing and rewarding.
I have experience in several areas of mental health, including, anxiety, depression, trauma, crisis, etc, but my current area of interest is sexuality. My path into the mental health profession was inspired by my own experience growing up within a strict South Asian culture that lacked education and conversation regarding sexual health. I learned that sexuality, gender identity, self expression and relationship intelligence are importance concepts when identifying individual life satisfaction. These topics can often times be taboo to discuss in our society, causing feelings of guilt and shame, causing increased isolation and loneliness, but my goal is to normalize these conversations and therapy.