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About me

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (#134013) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am also a State-Certified Sexual Assault Counselor and Advocate. In addition to my clinical work, I serve as Board President of EDRS, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting recovery and wellness for those impacted by eating disorders through support, education, and community connection.

I began my career working across higher levels of care - including residential, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) settings - supporting individuals with eating disorders and co-occurring concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders. This work shaped my ability to hold both the complexity and resilience that clients bring into the therapy space. I have also worked as a school-based therapist, providing individualized mental health support across general education, special education, and alternative school settings.

I am the Co-Founder of SheHerdPower, an Equine-Guided Empowerment Program supporting survivors of sexual assault in reconnecting with their voice, self-awareness, and sense of agency through intentional partnership with horses. This work reflects my belief in healing that extends beyond traditional talk therapy and honors the mind-body connection.

Outside of my professional work, I’m often found reading, drinking tea, listening to live music, creating art, or spending time outdoors with my family, friends and my dog, Nixon. I value presence, creativity, and connection both in and outside of the therapy room.

Identity: she/her/hers

My qualifications: 
  • MA, Clinical Psychology, Pepperdine University

  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist CA #134013 

  • EMDR Trained Clinician

  • Inclusive Eating Disorder Specialist (in progress)

  • Intuitive Eating Trained Clinician

  • SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions; trained)

  • Active Member: California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, EDRS, American Psychological Association 

My in-person practice is based at Pacific Coast Therapy in Santa Cruz, with virtual services available to clients throughout California

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

 (#134013)

Copyright © 2022 Emily Behrs LMFT - All Rights Reserved.

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