About
Heal & Thrive
Personalized therapy for your well-being
We are here to support you through life challenges with professional psychological testing and therapy services tailored to your specific needs. Whether your are seeking clarity about a mental health condition, coping with stress or looking for strategies to enhance your emotional well- being, we are committed to providing you with the tools and insight you need to thrive.
As we partner in this journey, we will provide you with a supportive and non-judgmental environment where healing can take place.
Take the first step toward healing and self-discovery. Contact us today to begin your journey towards positive change.
Dr. Silvana Charison
Licensed Psychologist in California | Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in CA, MD & VA
Helping individuals, families, and first responders heal, rebuild, and thrive.
About me
A Trusted Clinician With Over Two Decades of Experience
Welcome, I’m Dr. Silvana Charison, a Licensed Psychologist based in Newport Beach, California, and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Serving clients online across California, Maryland, and Virginia. With more than 20 years of clinical experience, I’ve dedicated my career to helping children, teens, and adults overcome emotional pain, rediscover balance, and create meaningful change.
My approach to therapy and assessment is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based care. Every person who walks through my door carries a story one that deserves to be heard, respected, and healed. My role is to walk beside you through that process, helping you build strength and clarity so you can move forward with confidence.
Education and Clinical Expertise
As a graduate of The Johns Hopkins University, I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and specialize in:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Trauma and PTSD Recovery
- Attachment and Family Systems Therapy
- Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
- Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
I integrate these modalities within an eclectic, holistic framework, tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs and values. I believe therapy should not be “one size fits all” it should be as unique as the person it serves.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Dedicated to Serving Those Who Serve Us
Since September 11, 2001, I have worked closely with law enforcement, firefighters, and other public safety professionals, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological impact of their service.
My work with first responders has included providing trauma therapy, post-incident support, and psychological evaluations for fitness-for-duty and critical incident recovery.
I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with numerous fire departments, police agencies, and organizations, including the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation, where I’ve supported firefighters and their families in coping with line-of-duty deaths and the complex grief that follows.
Through these experiences, I’ve come to deeply understand the culture of first responders, the unspoken codes of courage, the quiet suffering, and the unique resilience that defines those who protect others. My approach is built on respect, cultural competence, and genuine care for the heroes behind the badge or uniform.
Therapy and Assessments made Simple
Comprehensive Psychological and Neuropsychological Services
At Charison Counseling, my practice is designed to meet a wide range of psychological needs. I provide both therapy and specialized psychological assessments that help bring clarity, diagnosis, and direction for treatment, education, and occupational needs.
Services include:
- Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations
- Psychoeducational Assessments for learning and attention difficulties
- Fitness-for-Duty Evaluations
- Immigration Evaluations
- Disability and Social Security Assessments
- Personal Injury Evaluations
- Testing for Academic or Professional Accommodations (SAT, GRE, LSAT, GMAT)
- Individual and Relationship Therapy for trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions
- Christian Counseling
Each assessment and therapy plan is personalized, thorough, and aimed at helping clients gain meaningful insight that leads to lasting growth.
A Philosophy Rooted in Compassion and Collaboration
I believe that every person has the innate capacity for healing, transformation, and resilience. My role as a clinician is not to “fix” you, but to help you rediscover the strength and wisdom you already possess.
I approach each client with empathy and humility, viewing therapy as a partnership, a shared journey toward self-awareness, balance, and peace. Together, we work to uncover the patterns that keep you stuck, strengthen the parts of you that feel broken, and restore a sense of connection with yourself and those around you.
A Multicultural and Bilingual Perspective
As a bilingual clinician (English and Spanish), I understand the importance of culture and language in shaping emotional experience and healing. I’ve worked with individuals and families from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds, providing care that is inclusive, sensitive, and respectful.
Beyond the Therapy Room
When I’m not in the office, you’ll often find me spending time with my family, walking along the beach with my husband, practicing yoga with friends or attending hockey games. I’m passionate about giving back to my community, volunteering for organizations that support orphaned children and serving as a parent volunteer at Santa Margarita Catholic High School.
I also find joy in simple things Like watching hockey, reading books and spending time outdoors. I appreciating the quiet moments that remind us how healing connection can be.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Caring. Skilled. Reliable
Why Clients Choose Charison Counseling
- Over 20 years of professional experience
- Extensive background in trauma, PTSD, and first responder mental health
- Advanced training from The Johns Hopkins University
- Expertise in therapy, psychological assessment and civil forensic evaluation
- Culturally competent and bilingual (English/Spanish) care
- Warm, compassionate, and results-oriented approach
- In-person sessions for some evaluations and assessments in Newport Beach, CA, and online therapy throughout California, Maryland and Virginia
At Charison Counseling, you’re not just another client, you’re a whole person deserving of understanding, respect, and care.
Start Your Healing
Begin Your Healing Journey Today
If you’re ready to take the next step toward emotional wellness, clarity, and peace, I invite you to reach out. Whether you are a first responder, a parent, a professional, or someone simply trying to find balance again, I am here to help.
Your healing starts with one conversation.
- Located in Newport Beach, Orange County
- Serving clients online across California
- Contact Charison Counseling to schedule your Initial Session
