“THERE IS LIGHT, BUT THERE'S A TUNNEL TO CRAWL THROUGH”
FRIGHTENED RABBIT
ABOUT ME
ABOUT ME
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with an expertise in treating anxiety and mood disorders using both cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and acceptance-based treatment frameworks. I take an active approach in therapy to help my clients understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as social circumstances and context can perpetuate negative emotions. As a CBT therapist, I am committed to employing evidence-based psychotherapy treatments, those approaches that have scientific research showing their effectiveness. Together, our goal is to develop a deeper understanding of pain and suffering, its origin and present function, while learning healthy ways of coping. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be foundational in creating a space to promote emotional growth and change.
EDUCATION
-
Boston University, 2006, PhD in Clinical Psychology
-
Postdoctoral Fellowship, 2007, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior
-
CA License Number: PSY 21867
EXPERIENCE
I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology from Boston University where I received extensive training in the assessment and treatment of anxiety and mood disorders at the world-renowned Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders. Here I trained with some of the leading researchers and developers of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for anxiety and depression. I completed a one-year APA accredited clinical internship at the West Los Angeles VA where I worked with individuals with a wide range of mental health (e.g., anxiety, mood disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse) and physical health (e.g., smoking cessation, cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation) concerns. I completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at UCLA’s Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior where I was involved in clinical research and treatment pertaining to adolescent health, depression, and suicidality.
​
Currently, I am the Clinical Director of UCLA’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), one of the largest counseling centers in the country, that serves approximately 20% of the 44,000 UCLA student body.As the Clinical Director, I oversee clinical service delivery and clinical operations, I provide supervision and consultation to a large clinical staff, and serve as a member of the teaching faculty for the center’s APA accredited training program. Early in my career at CAPS, I introduced a new treatment approach for treating anxiety disorders in a group format using a modified version of an approach known as the Unified Protocol for emotional disorders, a program that continues to thrive at CAPS over a decade later. I am also a member of the teaching faculty for the Masters in Student Affairs Program where I teach an Introduction to Counseling Skills course.
I have over 20 years of experience applying cognitive behavioral and acceptance-based treatment strategies to a variety of clinical concerns including anxiety (panic disorder, generalized anxiety, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, compulsive hoarding), depression, stress, and substance use disorders. I provide short-term skills focused therapy as well as long-term supportive counseling to teenagers and adults.
​
​
SPECIALTIES
-
Anxiety Disorders
-
Mood & Depressive Disorders
-
Stress
-
Trauma
-
Relationship Issues
-
Sexuality & Identity
-
Adults, Adolescents
CONTACT ME
If you are interested in learning more about services offered by Dr. Cherian, complete the service inquiry form.
PHONE
424-279-3610
ADDRESS
1554 S. Sepulveda Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90025