Meet the Joyful Therapy Group Team

Dr. Moreen Rubin

Dr. Moreen Rubin is a highly esteemed therapist with a rich experience of over 15 years, dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate through life's complexities. Her credentials as a board-approved supervisor and the owner of the practice elevate her reputation, presenting her as a leader in her field.

Her clients, who affectionately refer to her as "Dr. Mo” unanimously speaks of her warm, non-judgmental, and compassionate approach. This inviting and nurturing attitude, coupled with her vast professional expertise, creates an environment of trust and open communication.

Megan Poupard LMFT

Megan Poupard is a licensed therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, OCD, trauma, and various anxiety and mood disorders. She previously served as Clinical Director of a prominent eating disorder facility in Southern California, where she oversaw all clinical programming and provided training and supervision for pre-licensed therapists.

Megan enjoys using a humanistic-existential approach with clients while also incorporating evidence-based practices, such as Exposure and Response Prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. Megan strives to create an authentic and non-judgmental space for each client with whom she has the honor of working.

Amanda Avila LMFT

Amanda Avila is a licensed Marriage and Family therapist. Prior to joining Joyful Marriage and Family Therapy, Amanda was an Assistant Clinical Director at a prominent treatment center in Southern California. Amanda's uses an approach that is integrative to treat each client's individual concern. She is described by her clients as humorous and empathic. She specializes in treating eating disorders, body image issues, life transitions, mood disorders like depression and anxiety, as well as trauma and PTSD. Amanda is a board approved supervisor for pre-licensed therapists and works with individuals, couples and families.

Madeline Reams AMFT

Madeline holds a Master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Madeline is devoted to holding a safe space for individuals, couples, and families to break down their thoughts, emotions, and struggles and then guiding them to rebuild their lives and relationships using new scaffolding.

Because she trusts that everyone has the answers within them, and it is her role to guide you to those answers. She attends every session with full presence and dedication to collaboratively working with you on your journey, whatever that may be for you.

Stephanie McAfee LMFT

As a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Brandman College, I specialize in offering compassionate virtual therapy services across California. My expertise lies in supporting individuals grappling with domestic violence, depression, childhood trauma, and body image issues. My extensive experience includes years of dedicated service as a Social Service Practitioner at Adult Protective Services, where I worked with a diverse range of clients, including dependent and elderly adults.

My approach to therapy is grounded in non-judgmental, genuine, and empathetic listening, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for clients. I am deeply passionate about empowering individuals to navigate and overcome their unique challenges, facilitating personal growth and resilience. Whether you are seeking support for mental health issues, coping with life transitions, or looking for a therapeutic partner to guide you through your healing journey, I am here to help you on your path towards well-being.

Amy Ryk LMFT

Amy received her master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado. She has worked in the mental health field as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in eating disorders, anxiety disorders, couple’s dynamics and trauma, since 2006. Her roles have included facilitating individual, group and family therapy and has supported clients through challenges around distress tolerance, emotion regulation, attachment-related trauma and disordered eating/eating disorders.

Amy is a certified Complex Trauma practitioner, certified in the DARe therapeutic Model (Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience) as well as trained in DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Intuitive eating, and somatic healing modalities. I work with Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Relationship issues, Career difficulties, Life changes, Attachment issues, Codependency, Communication Problems, Divorce and Separation, Family of Origin Issues, Guilt and Shame, HSP, Impulsivity, Isolation/Loneliness, Life Purpose Struggles, Post-traumatic Stress, Women's Issues, Workplace Issues, and Young Adult Issues.

Karyn Noel, LMFT, LPCC

Karyn is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma recovery, eating disorders, anxiety, and relationship counseling. She uses a combination of Compassion Focused Therapy, Feminist Therapy, and somatic practices in her work.

“I believe that we each have wisdom built into our bodies. Throughout our lives, the systems we are a part of relentlessly attempt to dismantle our trust in ourselves, but we can regain this trust and heal our relationships with our own minds and bodies and with each other. I truly love this work and I would very much like to share that with you.”

Karyn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Dramatic Art from UC Davis and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Santa Barbara. She is also trained in Somatic Psychotherapy and EMDR. She is still very invested in the arts and when she’s not in session, you may find her directing or designing the set for a local play.

Abby Rock LFMT

Abby is a licenced clinical therapist with over a decade of experience. She is also a board approved supervisor for other therapists.

“The world often paints those with eating disorders with a wide brush. But I recognize different people come to their eating disorder by different roads, and living with an eating disorder means the road you travel is a lonely one. This disconnection can lead you to believe you can’t enjoy what others take for granted – friends, family, food, life. I am passionate about showing you that you are not alone and that each of us has the strength, courage, and wisdom to live a fully recovered life.

Lisa Strawn AMFT

Lisa holds a Master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Lisa has completed the Gottman Method Couples Certification through Level 2. She has completed the Gottman Addiction and Recovery certification. Lisa gained invaluable experience working at a prominent addiction treatment and recovery center in Costa Mesa. Lisa completed Dr. Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry professional training. She is also certified in Somatic Breathwork. Lisa is in progress with a two-year Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher program.

Lisa draws on many different therapeutic approaches to facilitate growth with her clients. The underpinning of her therapeutic approaches are grounded in narrative therapy, mindfulness-based practices, trauma informed and humanistic models.

Hannah Cobb, LMFT

Hannah is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. She has most recently worked as the Director of Clinical Services for an eating disorder treatment center in Southern California where she oversaw clinical programming. She is a board approved supervisor for other therapists and gained her Masters in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University.

“I use a collaborative approach in regard to treatment because I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences. I will meet you where you are at and help you to approach your goals through compassion, empathy, and humor. I hope to help you have a better understanding of your life’s circumstances and how you cope with everyday stressors. I look forward to aiding you in establishing a healthier relationship with food, exercise, and body image.”

Hannah also loves to spend her time singing in a local gospel choir, boxing, swimming,shopping, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.

Noah Salinas AMFT

Noah Salinas is an associate professional clinical counselor who is dedicated to fostering emotional well-being and personal growth. With a strong educational foundation and a passion for helping others, she’s embarked on a fulfilling journey in the world of mental health counseling.

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Her approach is centered on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore all their thoughts and feelings. She is committed to working collaboratively, tailoring therapeutic strategies to meet the unique needs of each individual. Her aim is to empower clients to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and lead more fulfilling lives.

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Noah is dedicated to providing support that promotes positive change. She believes that every person has the capacity to heal and thrive, and it's her privilege to walk alongside them on that path. She is always striving to keep up with new developments in the mental health field and uses her open mindedness to understand each client.

Emily Rotenberg, RDN

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Commission on Dietetic Registration Registration Number #86079305

Emily completed her studies at San Diego State University and the University of Northern Colorado. Shortly after passing her board exam to become a Registered Dietitian, she went on to help people heal from eating disorders. Since then, she has worked at the residential level of care, partial hospitalization programs/intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient levels of care. Emily is dedicated to providing evidence based interventions and compassionate support.

Heidi Bierlein, Therapist & Clinical Intake Specialist

Heidi holds a Master’s in professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University. She is committed to providing individuals with an open-minded, compassionate environment in order for one to be able to heal and grow. She operates from a place of curiosity as a way to foster the growth of self-reflection for greater personal insight.

Heidi has experience working with adults with dual diagnosis, substance use, and eating disorders. She utilizes a combination of modalities such as Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT). She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.

Lao Tzu once said, “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” Heidi will strive to help you seek the understanding that letting go of what you are now will give you the capacity necessary to grow into the person you could become.

Erin Berenson, Eating Disorder Recovery Coach

Erin Berenson, CCI-Certified Eating Disorder Recovery Coach

Erin Berenson is a Carolyn Costin Certified Eating Disorder Recovery Coach, specializing in guiding individuals towards a life free from disordered eating patterns. Through customized support tailored to each client's unique needs and goals, Erin helps her clients develop sustainable habits and ensures her clients remain consistent in their recovery journey through collaboration and communication with their support team.

Driven by her own experiences overcoming an eating disorder, Erin understands firsthand the challenges and triumphs of the recovery process.

Outside of her coaching practice, Erin is an advocate for eating disorder awareness and mental health education, working to reduce stigma and promote understanding within her community. She is also a public speaker and workshop facilitator, sharing her expertise and insights to inspire hope and transformation in others.

Elizabeth Blake, AMFT

Callie Elizabeth Blake is a strengths-based Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with clients of all ages. Her B.A. from Smith College in Theater and extensive history working with children and families inspired her to pursue a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has been training at the Center for Professional Counseling since May 2023 and is passionate about her chosen path of being of service to others. She honors each client’s individual needs through a customized treatment approach, nurturing respectful relationships that prioritize acceptance, safety, and compassionate care. Her clients speak highly of the heartfelt connection she provides, emphasizing how seen and heard they feel throughout each session.

“I enjoy collaborative conversations with clients to understand the many facets of their life story that have come to shape their perspective and world view. Together we walk through their lived experiences without judgment, shining light onto patterns that may be interfering with daily life. We work together to identify and integrate life-enhancing strategies and coping skills to step into the life they want to be living. Through increased self-awareness and personal agency, we illuminate the potential of possibility for change, clearing a path toward a bright future infused with hope, meaning, and purpose.”

Her integrative approach draws on methods and interventions from Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy.

Kathleen Fabian, AMFT

Kathleen is a registered associate marriage and family therapist. She obtained her master's degree in marriage and family therapy from California State University, Northridge and has experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and eating disorders. She is passionate about helping and understanding her clients and believes in holding a space for them no matter their situation. She believes that therapy is a collaborative experience and that the client is the expert in their own story. Her empathetic and genuine approach to therapy, as well as her experience in the mental health field, develops a safe and open space for clients to process their experiences.

Natalie Keegan, AMFT

Natalie earned her Master's degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University, where she developed a deep understanding of evidence-based treatments with a humanistic approach as her foundation. She has extensive experience working in an eating disorder treatment center, where she honed her skills in addressing complex issues surrounding healing a relationship with nutrition, movement, body image, and self-worth. Along with this experience, she is passionate about helping clients overcome depression, anxiety, and interpersonal relationship challenges, guiding them toward greater self-awareness and emotional well-being.

Natalie is trained in evidence-based treatments including CBT, DBT, and ACT, tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each client. She believes in empowering individuals to explore root causes that may hinder their progress toward true goals, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. Her holistic approach integrates mindfulness, self-compassion, and skill-building techniques to empower clients to lead fulfilling lives aligned with their true values and aspirations. With warmth, empathy, and expertise, she helps individuals navigate life's challenges and cultivate a sense of empowerment and resilience.