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David Drake

David Drake

CA Psychologist 36264

Mindful, practical therapy for life's hard moments

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Additional focus areas

Attachment issuesCommunication problemsDrug and alcohol addictionForgivenessGuilt and shameLife purposeMen's issuesMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksPost-traumatic stress

Therapeutic approaches

Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Existential TherapyMindfulness TherapyMotivational Interviewing

Experience

9+ years

Credentials

California

Languages

English

Licenses listed

As listed on the therapist's profile. You can check a license with the state licensing board and an NPI in the national registry.

  • Mindfulness grounded
  • Plainspoken guidance
  • Goal focused

About David

David Drake is a licensed clinical psychologist in California who helps people facing stress, anxiety, grief, depression, and addiction. He speaks plainly and aims to make therapy feel manageable. He focuses on practical steps clients can use between sessions to feel steadier day to day.

He offers a calm, nonjudgmental space where people can talk about life purpose, difficult feelings, and habits they want to change. Sessions emphasize collaboration so people leave with clear next steps rather than vague ideas. He tailors methods to what each person needs in the moment.

David draws on mindfulness approaches to help people notice their thoughts and bodily reactions without getting overwhelmed. He also uses client-centered work to follow what matters most to the person in the room. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tools are used when helpful to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.

Over nine years he has worked with a range of concerns including panic attacks, mood disorders, substance use, and the effects of trauma. He pays attention to communication and attachment patterns that often underlie repeated struggles. Conversations often include looking at values and what gives life meaning.

People who prefer straightforward language and practical tools may find his style helpful. To begin, users complete a short matching questionnaire and schedule sessions according to availability. This helps match goals with the right next step in therapy.

How his approaches translate to online work

David uses mindfulness therapy to help people notice thoughts and bodily reactions, learn gentle attention skills, and reduce reactivity to stress. This approach can be useful for anxiety, panic, and mood concerns. Client-centered therapy guides the pace and focus of sessions by following what matters most to the person, offering empathic listening and support to clarify goals and values. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provides concrete tools for identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing new behaviors to improve mood and day-to-day functioning.

Finding the right mix of methods is part of the work. He collaborates with each person to decide which approaches fit their goals, preferences, and the problems they bring. That means trying tools, checking how they feel, and adjusting the plan together over time.

Confirm the current session options before booking so you know which online formats are offered. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. They also let people use mindfulness practices and skill-building exercises in the situations where they actually happen, helping skills transfer into everyday life.

These summaries are based on the profile information listed on BetterHelp. Listing mindfulness as an approach does not mean a therapist holds a formal mindfulness training or certificate.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does this therapist address?

He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, grief, and depression, plus related issues like panic attacks, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress.

How would you describe his therapeutic style?

Sessions are collaborative and practical, with a focus on mindfulness, clear coping strategies, and steps to try between meetings.

What is his clinical background?

He has nine years of experience as a clinical psychologist working with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.

What are his credentials and location?

He is a California Psychologist, credential number CA Psychologist 36264, and practices in California.

Which languages are supported?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can people outside the U.S. work with him?

International clients are not currently accepted.

How are session costs handled?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How do I begin therapy?

Click the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to the therapist's availability.

Therapists on BetterHelp do not prescribe medication. A doctor can talk with you about medical options. If you are thinking about suicide, call or text 988; in an emergency, call 911.

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