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Erik Tootell

Erik Tootell, CA Psychologist 21367

Therapist · California · 40+ years of experience

Experienced California psychologist focused on practical support

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  • 40 years experience
  • Practical coping skills
  • Focus and memory help

About Erik

Erik Tootell is a California psychologist with 40 years of clinical experience. He helps people facing stress, anxiety, grief, trauma and abuse, depression, and problems with attention and focus. His approach is straightforward and calm, aimed at helping people feel understood and able to take the next step.

He creates an open environment where clients can share thoughts and feelings without judgment. Sessions focus on practical conversation and problem solving. The goal is to help people regain clearer thinking and more reliable daily functioning.

Erik draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques and tailors them to each person’s needs. He works with clients on coping strategies for loss and grief, ways to manage anxiety and stress, and methods to improve concentration and memory. He also addresses related concerns such as caregiver stress, codependency, and challenges tied to aging or chronic illness.

Over four decades of work in California have given him a broad view of common life difficulties. He supports people through transitions and helps them find manageable steps forward. The focus is on collaboration and steady progress.

People who choose Erik can expect clear communication about goals and practical tools they can use between sessions. He encourages small, achievable changes and checks in on how those changes affect daily life.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD

Additional focus areas

AbandonmentAdoption and foster careAging and geriatric issuesAntisocial personalityAutism and Asperger SyndromeBlended family issuesCaregiver issues and stressChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDependent personalityDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)DissociationDivorce and separationDomestic violenceEating and food-related issuesEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFirst responder issuesGuilt and shameHoardingHospice and end-of-life counselingImmigration issuesImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyMidlife crisisMood disordersMulticultural concernsObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksParanoiaPersonality disordersPhobiasPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPrejudice and discriminationProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSexual dysfunctionSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaSomatizationTraumatic brain injuryTrichotillomaniaWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Experience

40+ years

Credentials

California

Languages

English

How evidence-based approaches fit into online care

Erik uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on talking through problems and building practical coping skills. One common approach is short-term problem solving that breaks issues into manageable steps and teaches concrete tools for handling stress and anxiety. This helps when daily overwhelm or panic gets in the way of work or relationships.

Another approach centers on grief and loss work, helping people name feelings, process difficult memories, and develop routines that support healing. That kind of work is useful after bereavement, major life changes, or other losses that leave people feeling stuck.

Finding the right method is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss options and choose techniques based on each person’s goals, needs, and preferences. This is a collaborative process that can change as progress is made.

If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session formats before booking since they are not listed in the biography. Online care can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when that helps maintain momentum. It can also make it simpler to continue therapy during life transitions while keeping work and family commitments on track.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does Erik commonly address?

He helps people with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, depression, and ADHD-related concentration difficulties. He also works on related issues such as caregiver stress, codependency, and adjustment to aging or chronic illness.

What is his general therapy style?

He uses a straightforward, conversational style focused on practical strategies. Sessions aim to reduce distress and improve daily functioning through collaborative problem solving.

How long has he worked in the field?

He has 40 years of professional experience working with adults in clinical settings in California.

What are his credentials and where does he practice?

He is a California psychologist, licensed under CA Psychologist 21367, and practices in California.

Can I see him if I live outside the United States?

Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.

What session formats are available?

The original biography does not specify session formats; please confirm current session options before booking.

How does payment and cost work?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How do I begin working with him?

Use the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to the therapist's availability.

Erik Tootell Online therapy options on BetterHelp

Continue with Erik