About Me
I am an Associate Psychotherapist and researcher with a deep passion for helping people access their inner wisdom and resilience. I am committed to guiding individuals in accepting and embracing all parts of themselves.
Offering
Connection
I strive to connect with you, human being to human being, soul to soul. I see you, I hear you, and I listen to you.
Curiosity
My goal is to remain curious about the presenting problem and to tailor different approaches to delve into it.
Flow
I strive to help you explore whatever you are experiencing without fighting or judging, by simply noticing and coming to peace with it. By embracing this state of being, all will be well, and you will become the creator of your own life.
Hi I am Helma Jafari
Life’s journey is filled with both joy and challenges. Sometimes, the weight of those challenges can feel overwhelming, leaving you searching for a sense of peace and clarity.
My Journey
My journey into psychology began with a deep curiosity about the human mind and a passion for helping others navigate their emotional landscapes.
Education
Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
Azad University
Thesis: “Alexithymia and Fibromyalgia: Systematic Review”
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
Pepperdine University
Research Assistant
Culture & Trauma Lab, Pepperdine University
Training
Psychodynamic Approach
Maple Counseling Center, Los Angeles, CA
Received comprehensive training in psychodynamic therapy, working with diverse clients to explore unconscious processes, unresolved conflicts, and their impact on behavior and emotions.
Compassionate Inquiry
Training in Compassionate Inquiry, a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Gabor Maté. This method involves a deep exploration of the root causes of a person’s pain, focusing on uncovering suppressed emotions and past traumas. It emphasizes the mind-body connection, guiding individuals to become aware of bodily sensations to access and process underlying issues. The approach fosters insights into emotional and psychological struggles, leading to healing and transformation.
Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB)
Mindsight Institute
IPNB is an interdisciplinary approach developed by Dr. Dan Siegel that integrates neuroscience, psychology, and social sciences. It explores how relationships and the brain interact to shape mental and emotional well-being, emphasizing mindfulness, empathy, and compassion in fostering healthy relationships and brain development.
Certification
Certified as an Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Clinician through training and work at Opica, a center focused on elderly populations diagnosed with dementia.
Publications
- Habibi Asgarabad, M., Salehi Yegaei, P., Jafari, F., Azami-Aghdash, S., & Lumley, M. A. (2023). The relationship of alexithymia to pain and other symptoms in fibromyalgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. European Journal of Pain, 27(3), 321-337. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.2064
- Ashouri, A., Fadaei, Z., Jafari, F., Ghalenovy, F., Darharaj, M., & Ghaednia Jahromi, A. (2019). Comparison of Anxiety and Quality of Life in Patients with Severe and Mild Depression. Alborz University Medical Journal, 8(4), 333-342. https://doi.org/10.29252/aums.8.4.333
- Habibi Asgarabad, M., Garcia, D., Jafari, F., Taghizadeh, M., & Etesami, M. S. (2023). Affective Profiles, Ethnic Identity, and Life Satisfaction in Iran. In The Affective Profiles Model: 20 Years of Research and Beyond (pp. 225-244). Springer.
Scholarships and Awards
- Member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, recognized for ranking in the top 5% of the class.
- Merit Scholarship, Pepperdine University.
- Scholarship from the Department of Healthcare Access and Information (HCAI).
- License agreement to translate the Adult Behavior Checklist (ABCL) into Farsi with the Research Center for Children, Youth & Families, Inc., ASEBA, in collaboration with Dr. Thomas M. Achenbach from the University of Vermont and Mojtaba Habibi from Iran University of Medical Sciences.A
Special Approach To Every Client!
I am here to guide you through those difficult moments, helping you uncover the strength and resilience within.
Faqs
In your first session, we will discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, and any concerns you may have. This is also an opportunity for us to get to know each other and ensure that you feel comfortable and supported. Together, we will begin to outline a plan for your therapy journey.
Each therapy session typically lasts 50 minutes. However, session length can be adjusted based on your needs and preferences, with longer sessions available upon request.
The frequency of sessions depends on your individual needs and goals. Many clients start with weekly sessions, but we can discuss and adjust the frequency as we progress.
Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of therapy. Everything you share in our sessions is kept private, with the exception of certain situations where there is a legal obligation to report, such as imminent risk of harm to yourself or others.
I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, Compassionate Inquiry, and mindfulness practices. My approach is tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals, ensuring that our work together is as effective as possible.
Yes, I specialize in treating a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. My trauma-informed approach is designed to help you process and heal from past experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
Therapy can be beneficial for anyone looking to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a supportive setting. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply want to better understand yourself, therapy might be a helpful step. I offer a complimentary video consultation to help you determine if therapy is right for you.
Yes, I offer sliding scale fees for those who are deserving. If you are facing financial difficulties but still wish to receive therapy, please reach out to discuss your situation. We believe that mental health support should be accessible to everyone, and we are committed to working with you to find a fee that fits your budget.
Aetna
BlueCross and BlueShield
Carelon Behavioral Health
Cigna and Evernorth
Elevance
Health Net
Health Plan of Nevada
Humana
Inland Empire Health Plan
Magellan
Medi-Cal
Medicare
Molina Healthcare
Optum
TRICARE
TriWest
I charge $110 for individual, and $140 for couple’s sessions.