About Us
Rooted in Purpose. Guided by Heart.
Ascend & Thrive was built on the belief that healing is possible for everyone — and that the right support makes all the difference.
Meet the Founder
Larry — Group Practice Owner
Larry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned his Master of Social Work degree from California State University, Long Beach in 2002. His clinical career began with a deep focus on children and adolescents navigating trauma, substance use exposure, gang involvement, and psychosocial developmental challenges — before expanding to serve adults facing acute mental health crises, substance abuse, and homelessness.
Over the past 20+ years, Larry has held numerous leadership positions across Los Angeles County with community mental health organizations. In 2010 he joined the faculty at California State University Los Angeles (CSULA) as an Adjunct Lecturer of graduate studies in the School of Social Work, teaching human behavior, mental health recovery systems, clinical assessment and diagnosis, and trauma and substance abuse treatment — a role he continues to hold today.
Today Larry is focusing on placing on his passions together in one group practice as the founder of Ascend & Thrive Counseling Services, Inc. This includes providing therapy, clinical supervision, guiding new practitioners in the profession he loves, and supporting organizations in their training needs to be able to provide quality care.
Our Mission
Why We Do This Work
“To provide accessible, affirming, and culturally responsive mental health services that empower individuals to heal, grow, and thrive — on their own terms.”
Authenticity
We show up fully — no masks, no jargon. Just honest, human connection in service of your healing.
Cultural Humility
Your identity, background, and lived experience are not just acknowledged — they are centered in every session.
Empowerment
We believe you are the expert on your own life. Our role is to walk alongside you, not lead the way.
Accessibility
Quality mental health care should not be a privilege. We are committed to making support available to those who need it most.
Our Approach
Therapy That Meets You Where You Are
Every person who walks through our virtual door brings a unique story, set of strengths, and set of challenges. We do not believe in one-size-fits-all therapy.
Drawing from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based approaches, we tailor each treatment plan to you.
Therapeutic modalities we draw from:
“Healing is not linear — and neither is the path to it. We meet you exactly where you are.”
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Whether you are seeking therapy, supervision, or professional training — we are here to support your next step.