“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.”
– C.S. Lewis
About Andrew Simmerling, AMFT
Training and Specialties
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California under the supervision of Elise Stark, LPCC (#4458). I earned my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have experience working with adults navigating trauma, adolescents in school-based counseling settings, and families facing emotional and relational challenges.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, emotional overwhelm, relationship conflict, and disconnection from themselves or others. My approach integrates psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS/parts work) to help clients understand the deeper roots of their struggles while creating meaningful and lasting change in their lives and relationships.
My Mission
My hope is to create a space where people feel genuinely seen, understood, and safe enough to be honest about what they’re carrying. I believe there is deep strength within the human spirit, especially when someone no longer has to struggle alone or hide parts of themselves. Together, the work is about slowing things down, making sense of the deeper patterns shaping your life, and helping you move toward greater clarity, connection, healing, and meaningful change.
My faith has deeply influenced the way I show up in the therapy room, shaping my view of compassion, dignity, and the value of every person. For clients who desire it, I also welcome integrating faith and a Christ-centered perspective into our work together.
When I’m Not Doing Therapy
Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two young boys, running, lifting weights, and being outdoors.
AMFT #162957