Dr. Melina Foden, Psychologist

Hi there! My name is Dr. Melina Foden, I am the founder and clinical director of Sentir Therapy. I specialize in providing collaborative, evidence-based therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults ages 5-25 and their caregivers in California. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I use my strong clinical background to select developmentally appropriate techniques individually tailored to my clients’ needs. I focus on the therapeutic relationship to create a safe space of reflection and growth. I take pride in working collaboratively with my clients and families to nurture their mental health and work toward their treatment goals. My clinical approach is client-centered and trauma-informed. I use an integrated and strengths-based approach to meet the unique needs of my clients and families. I am proud to provide affirming care for both LGBTQIA and neurodiverse individuals.

My therapeutic style is described as warm, authentic, and compassionate. I am committed to consistent, introspective work to honor the various intersecting cultural identities of my clients. I am proud to provide thoughtful care that recognizes and respects the unique lived experiences of each individual and family I serve.

My prior clinical settings include: UCLA Medical Center, UCLA Semel Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Stanford Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stanford Autism Center at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, USC UCEDD at Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), and Children's Health Council.

Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of positive treatment outcomes. I want to ensure I'm the best fit for you and your family. Please visit my website to learn more about me and to schedule a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation so we can get to know each other!