Shirley Semel, LMFT
- Relationship and family support
- Addiction and relapse prevention
- Trauma and grief care
About Shirley Semel
She creates a therapeutic atmosphere where individuals can explore their concerns without judgment and begin to identify the patterns that keep them feeling stuck. Her approach emphasizes helping people discover what brings them joy and contentment across relationships, family life, work, and personal identity. Shirley partners with clients to clarify goals and move toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Her clinical interests include addictions and co-occurring disorders, relationship and family challenges, supporting families with a mentally ill loved one, and Christian counseling for those who want faith integrated into treatment. She takes particular satisfaction in helping people pursue their potential through a faith-informed perspective while also addressing practical day-to-day struggles. Shirley draws on a range of therapeutic methods to tailor care to each person’s needs and strengths, aiming to provide a caring, nurturing space for honest exploration and growth.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
Therapeutic Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Shirley Semel have?
Shirley Semel has eight years of clinical experience working with individuals and groups.
Is Shirley Semel a licensed therapist?
Yes. She holds the credential LMFT, which stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Her license is listed as CA LMFT 93363.
In which languages does Shirley Semel provide therapy?
Shirley provides therapy in English.
Where is Shirley Semel located?
Shirley is located in California.
How can I work with Shirley Semel as my therapist?
You can work with Shirley through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Shirley Semel work with international clients?
No. Shirley Semel does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Shirley Semel cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care
Shirley frequently uses client-centered therapy, which focuses on creating a respectful, empathetic space where the client’s goals and lived experience guide the work; this approach is helpful for building self-understanding and strengthening relationships. She also incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a practical method that explores how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and teaches skills for managing anxiety, depression, and stress. When useful, she draws on psychodynamic ideas to examine how past experiences and relationship patterns influence current struggles and to deepen insight into long-standing issues.
Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Shirley works with each person to assess needs, preferences, and goals, adapting techniques and pacing so the plan fits the individual. Clients and therapist make decisions together about which methods to emphasize.
Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These formats make it easier to access consistent care from licensed professionals, support continuity during life transitions, and allow people to receive therapy in ways that fit their everyday lives.