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Gender dysphoria is a diagnosis that describes the distress or discomfort associated with the incongruence between one’s assigned sex and gender identity. What the diagnosis does not represent, and is often poorly understood, is the experience of dysphoria. Physical or social role dysphoria, and what I call “gender dysphoria noise” can lead to anxiety, depression, and isolation. I can help you explore what your gender means to you, and what, if anything, you may want to do about it, including accessing medical care and letters for surgery. There isn’t a “right” wayy to transition; there is only the way that is right for you.  I also specialize in working parents and partners of trans and non-binary individuals. Too often, services and supports are focused only on the trans or non-binary person, leaving out the other members of the family. Research shows that supportive families are the number one predictor of overall health and well-being of transgender and non-binary youth. Many parents are fearful and have a lot of questions that their child may not be able or willing to answer. Combining my clinical experience, as well as my own as a transgender man, I can help provide insight into the themes that are common for transgender individuals, aiding parents and partners to move from questions and fear to acceptance and celebration.  I provide short term, solution-focused therapy. If you are seeking long-term, depth work, I am happy to give a referral to a gender specialist who can assist you with that.  Aydin Olson-Kennedy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW 82313. ​ Aydin earned his Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, with an emphasis on Social Work, Sociology and Multi-Cultural and Gender Studies, and his Master’s Degree in Social Work from California State University, Chico. He has offices in South Pasadena and Studio City.    [Read More]

We realize contacting a therapist can be anxiety-provoking. At Cauley & Associates, we cover a wide range of services/issues that are common in everyday life. Prior to scheduling an appointment, we will have an initial consultation over the phone to get a sense of the issue and determine if we are a good fit or if a referral should be provided. My goal is for my client to set measurable, achievable goals for themselves. We will work together to create an interactive therapeutic process. This method will allow the client to develop healthy coping skills to overcome obstacles in their life after therapy has terminated and not foster dependency. [Read More]

Dr. Strayhorn believes it is natural for children and teenagers to push boundaries and challenge rules. That is their job. When working with this age group, it is his job to help families reconstruct and organize into a healthy and functional being. This can be achieved by combining cognitive behavioral interventions with an emphasis in psychodynamic awareness. While working with the dual diagnosed teen population and the pregnant teen population, he has had the opportunity to help families with small children, from newborns to age five, in the attachment and bonding relationship between mother and child. [Read More]