Member Highlight — Sipan Nazaryan, Prelicensed Associate

Stephanie Kavoulakos, LMFT

Stephanie Kavoulakos is a psychotherapist specializing in trauma, PTSD, and addiction, with a unique focus on serving the creative community. Operating out of her Sherman Oaks office, she also offers Telehealth sessions for added convenience. To connect with Stephanie for therapy, reach out via email at stephanie@stephaniektherapy.com or call 818.262.5990.

After 20 years as a publicity director in the music business, Stephanie Kavoulakos transitioned into her second act as a psychotherapist—a move she describes as a natural evolution. Guided by her own journey through personal trauma, she returned to grad school, driven by an intuitive sense that this was her calling: "If you know, you know," she says.

Specializing in addiction and trauma, Stephanie has found a niche in treating creative individuals—actors, dancers, writers, musicians—a population she understands deeply given her prior career. A graduate of Pacifica Graduate Institute, her therapeutic approach is an eclectic blend of Psychodynamic theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and she’s even EMDR certified, crafting a holistic treatment tailored to each unique individual.

In addition to her robust career, Stephanie Kavoulakos has been an active member of the San Fernando Valley CAMFT since 2007, initially joining as an MFT trainee. The organization has been instrumental in her professional development, particularly appreciating the networking opportunities and wealth of information gained from attending its sessions. Stephanie's involvement didn't stop at membership; she served as the VP of Programs from 2012 to 2013, and later, leveraging her background in public relations, initiated and stepped into the role of VP of Marketing and Public Relations from 2014 to 2015. She has also been a member of the diversity committee. Although she had to step away due to her commitments as a clinical director at multiple centers, Stephanie underscores the importance of professional networking and organizational involvement. "From a business standpoint, it's crucial to know people for referral sources and to solidify one's reputation," she states, affirming the value of organizations like SFV-CAMFT in nurturing professional growth.

Stephanie Kavoulakos has combined her skills from two different worlds—public relations and psychotherapy—in her role as a clinical director focusing on family addiction recovery. Here, she's not only responsible for overseeing, hiring, and training staff but also for the creation and development of group programming. Stephanie supervises a range of professionals including case managers, drug counselors, and Marriage and Family Therapists, while also running group sessions and working one-on-one with individuals. Even with the weight of these administrative tasks, she finds the role deeply fulfilling. On a personal note, self-care is a critical part of Stephanie's regimen to maintain her own well-being. Her approach includes a blend of physical and mental activities—working out, practicing yoga, walking, engaging in guided meditation, and unwinding at the beach. She also finds joy and relaxation in attending comedy shows and concerts, reminding us all of the essential balance between professional dedication and personal rejuvenation.

Sipan Nazaryan is an associate therapist at Avedian Counseling Center, with locations in Sherman Oaks and Glendale, holding a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. Specializing in both child and adult therapy, he has extensive experience working with diverse clients on issues ranging from ADHD and behavioral challenges in children to couples counseling and anger management for adults. Sipan employs a mix of Psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based techniques, offering a culturally sensitive, down-to-earth approach in both English and Armenian. For consultations, Sipan can be reached at 818.399.1961 or sipan@counseling-centers.com.