Our Story
Daybreak symbolizes change: the moment when the first light
of morning breaks through the darkness of night. At Daybreak
Counseling Center, we believe in the power of human potential
to bring healing, growth, and meaningful transformation.
Our Mission
At Daybreak Counseling Center, our mission is to provide
exceptional psychotherapy and counseling that supports
both mental health treatment and personal growth through
a holistic, client-centered approach. Our compassionate
therapists are committed to helping every client find the
support and understanding they need to move forward.
Patrick founded Daybreak on one conviction: therapy works best when it feels like a genuine human exchange. His eclectic, culturally attuned approach draws on psychodynamic theory, attachment science, and client-centered practice, always shaped by the individual in the room. He brings warmth, directness, and a deep respect for each person's story.
Therapy works best when it feels like a genuine
human exchange.
— Patrick Cleveland, Founder
Education
Certifications
Advanced Training
Therapeutic Approach
Focus Areas
Experience
Licensure
Each of our 17 experienced practitioners is trained in root-cause, whole-person
care and brings their own areas of expertise. We’ll match you with the provider
who best aligns with your needs, personality, and goals.
That’s why we accept most major insurance plans, helping
you get the support you need with fewer barriers.
Two convenient offices in the LA area, plus secure telehealth
throughout California, including evening appointments.
Primary Office
Serving Lakewood, Los Alamitos,
Rossmoor, Signal Hill, Bellflower &
nearby cities.
Second Office
Serving Downey, Cypress, Norwalk,
Lakewood, Bellflower, Buena Park &
nearby cities.
Statewide · California
Secure video appointments from the comfort of your home, no commute, no waiting rooms. Available throughout California, with evening slots open.
Abraham B.
Yadi
Jesse
I started seeing Patrick because I was doubting my own thoughts and unable to trust my own feelings. I needed someone to talk with and not burden my family or friends with lengthy complaints. He helped me to see what ... I can and cannot control. And that out of my control - I can accept it or move on. This took some time to implement but it has brought me great inner peace. Since then, I have learned to take time for me and my needs so that I am able to support others. He is a trusted supporter that will listen without judgement.
Read moreCindy K.
Unbelievable how much Patrick has helped me in a short period of time, and continues to do so, in this wonderful life that presents us with a ton of obstacles. He gave me the courage and the tools to understand myself, boost my ... confidence and my inner strength. I've been in therapy before, but I have never, ever been given the tools to manage situations with ease. My life is so much better because of him and will continue to be with his support! If you're looking for a safe place to explore whatever is troubling you, Patrick can help. I highly recommend him! Thanks Patrick.
Read moreJesse S.
Krista Sabados has been the most empathetic person i've ever met. She's kind, funny, and you can tell that she's passionate about her work and clients. It made opening up to her a lot easier, especially since she's such a great listener.... ANY place would be lucky to have her and I can vouch that. I've been going through some tough battles myself, and her knowledge and empathy have brought me to become a better/stronger person. She's a delight to be around and will work with you in any way just to get the mental health care you need.
Read moreAndrea G.
I’ve been working with Patrick for almost 5 years now and I’ve never been happier than I am today. He’s helped me so much in my journey and my relationships with myself and with others. I had experienced a lot of trauma... he helped me overcome. I’m so thankful for him and his patience to help me. The best part about him is that he truly cares to help you become the best version of yourself.
Read moreKarishma P.
Sarah Hackett, L.M.F.T.
Sarah takes a psychodynamic and trauma-informed approach, integrating family systems, attachment theory, and mindfulness to help clients understand and work through deeper, often unconscious patterns. She works with individuals facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, substance use, and compulsive behaviors. In couples therapy, she focuses on improving communication and strengthening connection by exploring relational dynamics both past and present. Sarah creates a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can build insight, feel supported, and move toward meaningful and lasting growth.
Victoria Ramsperger, A.M.F.T
Victoria Ramsperger, A.P.C.C., is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering therapy for individuals and couples. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Temple University and her Master’s in Counseling (Marriage and Family Therapy) from California State University, Fullerton. Victoria works with clients navigating identity exploration, trauma, stress, relationship and attachment challenges, grief, self-esteem, and life transitions, and has experience supporting diverse ages and backgrounds.
Victoria takes a holistic, collaborative approach to therapy, grounded in Relational Cultural Therapy and parts work. She helps clients explore how past and present experiences, relationships, and broader social contexts shape their well-being, while building emotional awareness and a stronger mind-body connection. In her work with couples, she draws from Emotionally Focused Therapy to improve communication, strengthen attachment, and support meaningful connection or conscious uncoupling. Victoria creates a supportive space where clients feel empowered to access their inner strengths, grow, and move toward the life they want. She is bilingual in English and German and can offer services in German.
Emily Brangwin, L.M.F.T.
Emily Brangwin, L.M.F.T., is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach. She specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples therapy, and holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. She also earned dual Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Family Studies and Human Development from the University of Arizona. Emily has experience working with diverse populations, including adolescents, adults, couples, families, LGBTQ+ individuals, and communities of color, across a range of clinical settings and levels of care.
Emily takes an integrative, holistic approach to therapy, drawing from psychodynamic, schema, mindfulness-based, and person-centered modalities. She works with clients navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and more complex concerns such as self-harm, eating disorders, and substance use. In couples therapy, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy, attachment-based work, and conflict resolution strategies to strengthen connection and communication. Emily creates a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore underlying patterns, build meaningful relationships, and move toward greater self-awareness and authentic growth.
Ashley Boren, L.M.F.T.
Ashley Boren, L.M.F.T., is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Director at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach. She specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples therapy, and holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Communication Studies from California State University, Long Beach. As part of the Daybreak leadership team, Ashley brings extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and the LGBTQ+ community across a wide range of mental health concerns and life transitions.
Ashley takes a post-modern, psychoanalytic, and person-centered approach, focusing on understanding each client’s unique story while creating a safe and supportive space for growth. She is known for her ability to attune to her clients and meet them where they are, recognizing that therapy is not one size fits all. In couples therapy, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy to strengthen communication and connection. Ashley is committed to helping clients find their voice, build resilience, and move forward with clarity and confidence while continuing to expand her expertise to best support those she works with.
Amanda Navarro, L.C.S.W.
Amanda Navarro, L.C.S.W., is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering virtual therapy sessions, specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, she brings a compassionate, culturally informed approach to her work. Amanda earned her Master of Social Work from New York University and is bilingual in English and Spanish. As a woman of color and first-generation college graduate, she is deeply committed to creating an inclusive, supportive space where clients feel understood and respected.
Amanda takes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, integrating cultural awareness and acknowledging systemic influences that may impact each client’s experience. She has worked with a wide range of populations including veterans, teens, foster youth, Latinx communities, newly immigrated individuals, previously incarcerated individuals, parents, and LGBTQ+ clients. Amanda creates a nonjudgmental, empathetic environment where clients can process their experiences, build resilience, and move toward their personal goals with confidence and support.
Soleil Amarelo A.C.S.W.
Soleil Amarelo, A.C.S.W., is an Associate Clinical Social Worker at Daybreak Counseling Center with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She provides both virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach, specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma. Soleil earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master of Social Work from California State University, Long Beach, and has worked with diverse age groups, cultures, and clinical settings. Her early involvement in peer support and mentorship shaped her passion for helping others heal, grow, and reach their full potential.
Soleil takes an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and emotional awareness. She integrates modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, helping clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and relational patterns. Influenced by the work of Carl Jung, she explores both personal and environmental factors that shape mental health. Soleil creates a safe, grounded space where clients can build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and reconnect with their authentic selves at their own pace.
Sarah Whalen, A.C.S.W.
Sarah Whalen, A.C.S.W., is an Associate Clinical Social Worker at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering both virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach. She specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma, and brings a diverse academic background with dual Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Women’s Studies from Clark University, as well as a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Smith College. With experience across a wide range of clinical settings and populations, Sarah is passionate about helping clients better understand themselves and develop tools for lasting emotional well-being.
Sarah takes an eclectic, relational approach to therapy, grounded in psychodynamic principles and a strong belief that the client is the expert in their own experience. She practices from a trauma-informed perspective, recognizing how both past experiences and unmet emotional needs can impact present challenges. In her work with couples, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method to improve communication and strengthen connection. Sarah creates a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore, learn, and grow with guidance and care.
Giselle Cabrera, A.C.S.W.
Giselle Cabrera is a therapist at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach. She specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, and working with teens. Giselle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University, Northridge and a Master’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Dominguez Hills. She has experience working with diverse populations, including survivors of human trafficking, and brings a culturally informed and compassionate approach shaped by both her professional background and personal experiences.
Giselle uses an eclectic, client-centered approach that integrates psychodynamic, humanistic, and mindfulness-based techniques to support meaningful and lasting change. She works with a wide range of concerns including trauma, relationship challenges, grief, family conflict, and life transitions. In couples therapy, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy to improve communication and strengthen connection. Giselle creates a safe and empowering space where clients can build resilience, find their voice, and take control of their personal narrative. Giselle also speaks Spanish.
Jocelyn Contreras A.P.C.C.
Jocelyn Contreras, A.P.C.C., is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Cerritos. She specializes in anxiety, depression, and working with teens, and holds a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Children and Adolescence from Azusa Pacific University, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Saint Mary. Jocelyn brings experience from both community mental health and private practice settings, including work as an ABA behavioral technician supporting children and teens with developmental and neurological needs, which strengthened her collaborative and compassionate approach.
Jocelyn’s therapeutic style is rooted in humanistic, person-centered care, creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. She works with individuals navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, and integrates approaches such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method in couples work to improve communication and emotional connection. Jocelyn is dedicated to walking alongside her clients with empathy and authenticity, helping them build resilience, gain clarity, and reconnect with a stronger sense of self.
Lindsay Knight-Moreno, A.M.F.T
Lindsay Knight-Moreno, A.M.F.T., is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Cerritos. She specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma, and has over five years of experience supporting individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families through a wide range of mental health concerns and life transitions. Lindsay earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University, and her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Child and Adolescent Studies from California State University, Fullerton.
Lindsay takes an integrative, client-centered approach, creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. Her work is informed by psychodynamic and humanistic traditions, attachment-based frameworks, and evidence-based modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS). In her work with couples, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to strengthen communication and deepen connection. Lindsay is passionate about helping clients understand how past experiences shape present relationships, while fostering emotional resilience, self-compassion, and meaningful personal growth.
Jorelle Javier, A.M.F.T.
Quynh Tran, A.M.F.T.
Quynh Tran, A.M.F.T., is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Cerritos. She specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma, and brings over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families through her background in social work. Quynh earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Fullerton. Her extensive experience working with diverse populations has shaped her compassionate, relationship-focused approach to helping clients navigate life’s challenges.
Quynh takes an integrative, strengths-based approach tailored to each client, combining psychodynamic therapy with modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and solution-focused techniques. She works with adolescents, adults, and couples on a wide range of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, cultural challenges, and relationship issues. In couples therapy, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to improve communication and deepen connection. Quynh provides a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can build self-awareness, develop practical tools, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Seema Bakshi, A.M.F.T.
Seema Bakshi, A.M.F.T., is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach. She specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma, and earned her Master of Arts in Psychology from the University of the West. With experience working in a variety of mental health settings, Seema brings a compassionate, insight-driven approach to helping clients understand how past experiences shape their current emotional patterns and sense of self.
Seema creates a supportive space where clients can slow down, regulate their nervous system, and explore unresolved emotions with care and curiosity. Her approach integrates mindfulness, inner child work, art therapy, and trauma-informed techniques to help clients build self-awareness, reclaim personal agency, and develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves. In her work with couples, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to improve communication and deepen connection. Seema is dedicated to walking alongside her clients as they reconnect with their authentic selves and create a more meaningful, fulfilling life.
Luke Shackelford, A.M.F.T.
Luke Shackelford, A.M.F.T., is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Cerritos. He specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges, and works with teens, adults, and couples. Luke earned his Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacifica Graduate Institute and his Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Biola University. His diverse background includes experience in the tech and information security industries, as well as teaching internationally, which has shaped his adaptable, culturally aware approach to working with clients.
Luke takes an integrative, depth-oriented approach to therapy, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, existential and logotherapy frameworks, and concepts from depth psychology. His work is informed by interests in neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, allowing him to explore both the biological and meaning-driven aspects of human experience. In couples therapy, he utilizes Emotionally Focused Therapy to strengthen connection and communication. Luke creates a thoughtful and supportive space where clients can explore their inner world, build self-understanding, and move toward a more meaningful and authentic life.
Jesseca Martinez, A.M.F.T.
Jesseca Martinez, A.M.F.T., is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist offering virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach. She specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma, and holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Human Services from William Penn University, where she was also a four-year collegiate athlete. Jesseca has experience working with individuals facing a range of challenges including trauma, relationship issues, and sexual abuse, and brings a compassionate and grounded approach to her work.
Jesseca uses an attachment-based, client-centered approach rooted in psychodynamic and humanistic therapy. In her work with couples, she incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy to improve communication, strengthen connection, and navigate conflict. She is dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel supported, understood, and empowered. Jesseca believes healing happens through connection and works collaboratively with each client to help them process their experiences, build resilience, and move toward meaningful growth.
Annie Rutkowski, A.M.F.T.
Annie Rutkowski, A.M.F.T., is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Daybreak Counseling Center, offering virtual and in-person sessions in Long Beach. She works with teens, adults, couples, and families, and specializes in anxiety, OCD, identity exploration, relationship challenges, self-esteem, trauma, and life transitions. Annie earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from California State University, Fullerton. Before becoming a therapist, she spent several years working as a reading specialist supporting children with learning disabilities, an experience that strengthened her passion for helping others feel understood, empowered, and supported in their growth.
Annie takes a warm, collaborative, and holistic approach to therapy, tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs and experiences. Her approach is grounded in narrative therapy while also drawing from attachment-based, psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and relational perspectives. She is especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ clients and individuals navigating identity development, relational challenges, and questions surrounding self-worth and belonging. She believes people are not defined by the struggles they face and works to help clients build self-understanding, reconnect with their strengths, and develop more compassionate relationships with themselves and others. In her work with couples, Annie incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help partners strengthen communication, deepen emotional connection, and better understand patterns within their relationships. She strives to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe exploring their experiences and moving toward meaningful, lasting change.
