Meet Our Team

1500 Palma Drive, Ventura, California 93003, United States

(805) 289-1500

Lakeside Family Counseling & Intervention Services

Currently accepting clients with Carelon, Cigna, Optum, and Cash

Meet Our Team

Heidi R Johnson

Robert "Ken" Riedl, PhD., R.A.S

Heidi R Johnson

I believe you are the expert on your own life.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

#108676

Everyone has a past but we can't let it define us. Regardless of the reason(s) that bring you to therapy, I believe you are the expert on your own life so providing you with a healing environment where you feel safe, respected, supported and valued will always be the first goal. I focus on helping clients gain personal insight, identify problematic patterns, improve coping skills, develop feelings of self-acceptance and satisfaction and uncover strengths.

My training has allowed me to work in a variety of settings and with a diverse group of individuals, families, and couples ranging in ethnicity, socioeconomics and age. These experiences have taught me that we have much more in common than we sometimes are willing to admit.

Making the first call takes courage (1st uncovered strength). In becoming the best version of ourselves, it often requires us to pull out old suitcases "baggage" from the back of our mind's closet, dust them off and remove the items that are no longer needed.

Not accepting new clients at this time.

Nicole Kanke

Robert "Ken" Riedl, PhD., R.A.S

Heidi R Johnson

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

#94241

It is completely normal for us to lose control of our emotions when exposed to abnormal circumstances, and the year of 2020 has been quite abnormal to say the least. There is a safe space to process any painful thoughts and emotions you may be experiencing. A space where you will not be judged, but understood, heard and respected. I serve as a guide in helping you identify the barriers within yourself that prevent you from experiencing peace, serenity and love. "We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated " Maya Angelou"

And if you cannot find your way out of the darkness, I will sit with you and point out the stars". Please take this step towards healing your pain. If I cannot help you, I will direct you to someone who can, as there are many therapists available to fit your specific needs and we are all here to help. There is always HOPE.

Not accepting new clients at this time.

Robert "Ken" Riedl, PhD., R.A.S

Anger Management Specialist

I attended Breining Institute and became fully engaged in recovery work because I believe in the meaningful and important mission of helping people find their way back to a life before addiction or find the kind of fulfillment they need to achieve sobriety.

My training has allowed me to work in a variety of settings and with a diverse group of individuals, families, and couples ranging in ethnicity, socioeconomics and age.

I am passionate about giving my clients the tools to support healthy coping skills and helping clients gain agency of their lives. When working with clients I like to meet the client where they are in their journey to healing.

Teaches anger management groups in person every Saturday at $45 per class. Anger group meets probation requirements.

Meet Our Team

Judy marquez

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

#129817

Judy graduated from California Lutheran University in 2015 with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. It is a passion she has had for a long time, to work and help other's. She is especially interested in working with people who have experienced pet loss. It is loss that has gone neglected and ridiculed. Our pets are as important as our human family.

A person who seeks therapy is a strong person, willing to step up and look at what issues they are being faced with. Have faith and trust in yourself and you will find what you are needing.

Not accepting new clients at this time.

Nydia Mendez

Judy marquez

Licensed Marriage and Family

Therapist # 125811

I am passionate about working with couples to transform relationships from isolation to intimate connection, together building a safe haven. Relationships can get stuck in destructive patterns leaving couples feeling isolated in their marriage. As couples grow in self-awareness and share their more authentic and vulnerable feelings they can build a haven of safety, including increased compassion, ability to comfort each other and resolve arguments. Through the process couples discover they feel more secure with themselves and other relationships are enhanced as well. Let this be your story.
I assist in the process by working with couples to identify their current relational pattern. I also help couples access and share their core emotions and personal stories. As they share they gain a new, deeper understanding of each other. This new experience changes the emotional climate of the relationship.
I use attachment theory to provide a scientifically based framework for relationships and emotion focused therapy (EFT) to change the emotional climate of the marriage. The end result is more than simple behavior change that has to be remembered and practiced, but deep-rooted heart change with transformational power.

Not accepting new clients at this time.

Taylor ALDERETE

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #155936

I am Taylor and I'm passionate about working with all individuals, but particularly adolescents. I received my B.S. in Biology at UCLA and my M.A in Clinical Psychology at the University of Antioch Los Angeles.

I have worked with various individuals from adolescents, their families and adults. I spent a year working at a middle school and found an immediate draw to want to help our youth. My background in sports has made me the person I am today and therefore hope to provide my clients with the same empathy, patience, support and compassion that I developed through my years in sports, life experiences and education.

Providing my clients with the tools and skills to help them develop a healthy mind and body is something that is important to me. I believe in never rushing the process, as everyone has a story to tell, but when it’s told is up to you.

Meet Our Team

Angela Williams

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #138085

As a therapist I place a tremendous amount of value on the therapeutic relationship. Our work together is a collaborative partnership, where I hope to serve as a guide on your journey to fulfillment, or your pathway to healing.

My goal is to provide a safe, non judgmental environment where one can feel treated with respect and dignity. Whether your struggle is with stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, aging, teenaging, young adulting or something else…the common denominator is that we ALL have something at some point in our lives that could benefit from the care of a mental health professional.

As a woman of color, I consider myself to be one who is culturally sensitive, and practices from an integrative and eclectic therapeutic approach. My goal is to cultivate my interventions to the needs of each individual client. Some clinical approaches used include Person-Centered Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).

As a therapist I’m committed to aiding you in achieving your personal, relational, and healing goals. Congratulations on taking this courageous step in your journey!

Daniel Carlos

Angela Williams

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #142358

Hi! I am Daniel, a California native originally from Los Angeles but have been in

the Ventura County area for 13 years. I have attended Grand Canyon University in

2017 as a psychology major in which I received my Bachelors in 2018.

As an Associate, I have had the privilege

of working with families, couples, and individuals who are culturally diverse, from

various age ranges, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds who are experiencing

challenges from vast areas of concern.

The issues include family issues, marital

challenges, young adults transitioning into the world of adulthood, career choices,

and adolescents trying to discover their place in the world. In the height of these

challenges, families, couples, and individuals can benefit from a safe, calm,

empathic, and judgement free environment while gaining the tools that can help

support their efforts in learning, healing, and promoting hope and change for a

brighter future.

Ariadna Puchiu

Angela Williams

Ariadna Puchiu

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #146399

I am a passionate professional and my mission is clear: to empower individuals, families, and couples to navigate life's challenges and cultivate resilience, growth, and well-being.

As a seasoned therapist, former schoolteacher and dedicated parent partner, I bring a unique perspective and wealth of experience to my practice. With a specialization in working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, individuals, families, and couples, I am committed to tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.

Throughout your journey with me, you can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and empowering space for healing and growth. Whether you're seeking support for your child's anxiety, navigating relationship challenges with your partner, or exploring personal growth opportunities, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.

Additionally, as a parent partner, I recognize the importance of family dynamics and the role parents play in their children's lives. I'm here to support parents in navigating the ups and downs of parenthood, strengthening family bonds, and fostering healthy communication and relationships.

I am here to help you explore how to live a fulfilling life, overcome obstacles, and embrace your true potential. Together, we will work towards creating meaningful change and cultivating a life filled with joy, purpose, and authenticity.

Thank you for considering me as a partner on your journey toward healing, growth, and well-being. I look forward to the opportunity to support you.

Meet Our Team

Vanessa Cordova

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #153323

Vanessa is currently a graduate student with Grand Canyon University and always had a passion for helping others.

Vanessa has extensive experience working with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and is excited to learn and grow her skillset as she continues her journey in becoming a licensed therapist.

Vanessa's training allowed her the privilege of working with families and individuals who are culturally diverse, from various age ranges, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds who are experiencing challenges from vast areas of concern. The issues include family issues, young adults transitioning into the world of adulthood, career choices, and adolescents trying to discover their place in the world. In the height of these challenges, families and individuals can benefit from a safe, calm, empathic, and judgement free environment while gaining the tools that can help support their efforts in learning, healing, and promoting hope and change for a brighter future.

Vanessa is also fluent in Spanish and able to offer sessions in both English and Spanish.

Alyssa Aguilar

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #159198

Growing up in a large family in the San Fernando Valley, I developed a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives and an understanding of complex family dynamics.

I hold a B.A. in Psychology from CSU Channel Islands and an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from California Lutheran University.

My experience working with children, families, and adults has reinforced my commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all. I believe that empathy and compassion are essential for fostering self-exploration, developing effective coping skills, and achieving personal goals in therapy. I look forward to supporting clients on their journey toward growth and healing!

Shany Kull

Associate Professional Clinical Counselor

#18896

My name is Shany, I am a Ventura County native. I am passionate about working adolescents, individuals, and couples. I have my B.S. in Psychology from Life Pacific University and my M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University.

I see my role as a therapist is to collaborate with those I work with. Together, we will explore the why’s, what’s, and how’s that have sculpted and influenced you and your life. We will seek out answers to questions, insight into places of confusion, empathy to places of shame, and freedom in the places that have felt stagnant. I bring in knowledge and expertise, but I rely heavily on your own perspective, intuition, and insight in this process.

This process also often involves working with people and their younger selves - those younger versions of all of us whose wounds we still carry, whose belief systems may have been shaped by harmful or oppressive experiences, whose wonder can still guide us. Through working with our younger selves, positive change often gets unlocked. My objective is for you to be informed of your true self.

In terms of theoretical approaches, my work heavily draws upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Self-Compassion, Gestalt Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Somatic Therapy.

Meet Our Team

Milytza Wilson

Alexandria Warrender

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #150929

Hi / ¡Hola! I'm Mily. I’m a bilingual therapist (English & Spanish) with a Master's in Counseling Psychology and a specialization in trauma.

I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals and couples, as well as school-based experience, providing services for grades K-12. These experiences have taught me the value of meeting people where they are, honoring their unique stories, and showing up with compassion every step of the way. I’m passionate about creating a space where people feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in empathy.

Whether you're navigating a life transition, carrying the weight of trauma, or exploring therapy for the first time, I'm here to walk alongside you with curiosity and care. Together, we'll explore what healing looks like for you and work toward your goals at your pace. I'm so glad you're considering this journey—and I’d be honored to be part of it.

Alexandria Warrender

Associate Marriage and Family Trainee

Hello there! My name is Alex Warrender, and I am a Ventura County native. I recently graduated from California Lutheran University with my Master's in Counseling Psychology, with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy. I've had the pleasure of working with adults from various cultural backgrounds and underserved communities. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community, and strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment for clients to collaborate with me on beginning their journey.

As a person-centered, solutions-focused therapist, I believe in collaborating with my clients to provide empathy and compassion in addressing various struggles and conflicts that can arise in one's life. Together, I truly believe that we can begin to practice mindfulness and growth as a team, and I look forward to meeting you soon.

EMILY cISNEROS

Alexandria Warrender

EMILY cISNEROS

Heidi's House of Hope

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Hello, I’m Emily! I am a trainee in the M.S. Counseling Psychology program at California Lutheran University, with experience supporting individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

My cultural background plays a central role in how I connect with and understand my clients. My experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and cultural awareness, and I strive to provide support that honors each client’s unique identity and story.

I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I enjoy supporting clients in whichever language feels most comfortable. Estoy aquí para ofrecer un espacio seguro y comprensivo donde pueda explorar sus pensamientos y emociones.

I believe in creating a collaborative and non-judgmental space where growth happens at your own pace. My goal is to help clients build resilience, develop coping skills, and feel empowered to navigate life’s challenges while embracing who they are.

Thank you,

Emily

Meet Our Team

Ralieen Morales

Diego Ruizvelasco

Heidi's House of Hope

Marriage &Family Therapist Trainee

Hi, my name is Ralieen. I was born and raised in Ventura County, and my deep connection to this community has inspired my passion for helping others heal, grow, and thrive. I hold a Master of Science degree in Marital and Family Therapy with a specialization in Trauma from California Lutheran University. My education and training have allowed me to integrate both evidence-based practices and a compassionate, person-centered approach to therapy.

Over the course of my professional and personal journey, I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds and diverse life experiences. I believe that everyone’s story is unique, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients as they explore their challenges, strengths, and paths toward healing. My own life experiences, including times of adversity, have given me a deep understanding of what it means to overcome pain and find resilience. These experiences have shaped the way I connect with others — with empathy, authenticity, and without judgment.

In my work, I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and safe environment where clients can feel seen and heard. I believe that trust and genuine connection are the foundations of effective therapy. My approach is collaborative and supportive, helping clients explore their emotions and experiences while developing coping tools that empower them in their daily lives. Whether someone is navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, family or parental issues, or simply searching for balance and clarity, my goal is to provide a space that promotes growth, understanding, and hope.

I draw from several therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, while tailoring my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. I also place great emphasis on helping clients develop emotional awareness, strengthen communication skills, and foster self-compassion.

Ultimately, my mission as a therapist is to walk beside my clients on their personal journeys — to support them in rewriting their stories, rediscovering their strengths, and finding healing in their own time and way. I am deeply committed to honoring every individual’s process and creating an atmosphere where they can feel safe to grow and transform.

Diego Ruizvelasco

Heidi's House of Hope

Associate Marriage &Family Therapist #154147

Hello, my name is Diego Ruizvelasco, and I am a bilingual (English & Spanish) Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I hold a master’s degree in counseling psychology along with countless hours of experience.

As a therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, helping them navigate life's challenges, improve communication, and build stronger relationships. I believe that healing is a collaborative process, and I am here to guide and empower you on your journey toward growth and healing.

Additionally, I am committed to creating a warm therapeutic space where you feel truly seen and understood. My practice is built on the belief that meaningful healing begins when we meet people exactly where they are in their journey, without judgment or expectations. Together, we will work at your pace to navigate life's challenges and build a foundation for lasting growth.

Lastly, as a Latino male Therapist, I bring not only clinical training but also a personal understanding of the cultural values and challenges many of us grow up with—including the pressures of machismo. I know how hard it can be for those within the Hispanic community to open up, ask for help, or express emotions in a healthy way.

My goal is to create a safe, respectful space where all can explore their inner world without judgment, break harmful cycles, and build stronger relationships with themselves and their families.

Healing starts with honest conversations—and you're not alone in this.

Carol Ramser

Diego Ruizvelasco

Carol Ramser

Heidi's House of Hope

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

Hi there! I’m Carol and I’m a Marriage and Family Therapy trainee currently completing my graduate training at Antioch University Santa Barbara, where I’m focusing on Somatic Therapy.

Somatic Therapy looks at the connection between the mind and body—how our emotions can show up physically, sometimes without us even realizing it. By tuning into those sensations, we can begin to understand and release what’s been held inside.

I enjoy being with people from all walks of life. I grew up between two cultures in the

Midwest—my mom immigrated from Taiwan and my dad is from here, and that mix

taught me to value different perspectives and experiences. I’ve been here in Ventura

County since 2011.

Starting therapy can feel both exciting and challenging. It’s a brave step toward

understanding yourself and creating the kind of change you want. My approach is

collaborative and supportive—we’ll work together to create a plan that fits you and your

goals.

I’m really glad you’re here and taking this step. I look forward to getting to know you and

supporting you on your journey.

Meet Our Team

Veronica Hernandez

Heidi's House of Hope

Associate Marriage &Family Therapist #153730

Hello! My name is Veronica, and I work with adolescents and adults in varying stages of life. I have a B.A. in Psychology and M.S. in Counseling Psychology from California Lutheran University, with a specialization in attachment theory.

I specialize in working with clients who are struggling to overcome interpersonal conflicts, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual including focus and coping strategies, preventative and maintenance tools, and communication skills. I collaborate with clients to help them gain personal insight, find their inner strength, and increase their self-compassion and self-satisfaction.

I strive to help my clients find a sense of peace, emotional well-being, and empowerment at their pace, in a safe and comfortable environment free of judgement or pressure. I understand how challenging this journey can be and I am here to support you with empathy, compassion, and respect.

Koby Smutylo

Veronica Hernandez

Heidi's House of Hope

Marriage &Family Therapist Trainee

I’m a therapist trainee who shows up with empathy, authenticity, and curiosity. I believe relationships can repair and grow, and I help couples, families, and men relate more effectively to themselves, each other, and life’s challenges. Trained in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) with Terry Real, my style is direct, honest, and compassionate—aimed at reducing conflict and creating closeness. I’m especially drawn to life transitions and to helping people find balance, purpose, and a sense of wholeness.

Before this work, I spent two decades as a business attorney guiding entrepreneurs and leaders, which helps me understand the real-world pressures that affect relationships. My international experience shaped my appreciation for cultural diversity and the importance of community.

I also believe that mental health is supported by a healthy life—nourishing food, movement, quality sleep, time in nature, meaningful work, family and community connection, and moments of stillness. I don’t prescribe one “right” way to live; instead, I collaborate with clients to find small, sustainable practices that fit their culture, values, and season of life. When helpful, I offer practical tools—like routines for sleep, stress reduction, and boundaries—and I’m comfortable coordinating with medical or wellness providers to support whole-person care.

Jen eshenbaugh

Veronica Hernandez

Jen eshenbaugh

Heidi's House of Hope

Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee

So nice to meet you!

I’m a native Californian born and raised in the San Joaquin valley and schooled and settled in Southern California. Prior to joining the mental health field, I was a Human Resources and Operations executive in the creative industries of education, non-profit arts and architectural design.

I’m drawn to attachment-based work, intergenerational patterns and the evolving systems that we navigate as humans. I have experience in trauma, child development, neurodivergence, addictive behaviors, parenting, couples’ work and executive coaching. I’m a LMFT/LPCC trainee currently completing my graduate work at Antioch University, Santa Barbara and I work as a therapist under the supervision of Heidi Johnson, LMFT at Heidi's House of Hope.

I believe that our uniqueness, talent and experience shape our choices, behaviors, and outcomes and when we courageously examine ourselves with compassion and curiosity, we develop the power to heal and thrive.