A quiet corner of the therapy room with a linen armchair and warm afternoon light
Alma Hartwell writing session notes beside a window
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sheer fabric curling upward in warm light above a stone plinth
Bare feet stepping into shallow water, sending gentle ripples across a misty shore
A small cloud drifting above a round reflecting pool in a warm, sunlit room
 

(Rooted in Science)

 

(Rooted in Science)

 

(Rooted in Science)

Credentials

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), California

Master’s in Clinical Social Work, University of Southern California

Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Trained in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

Trauma-Informed Care Certification

10+ years of clinical experience in individual and couples therapy

Specializations

High-Functioning Anxiety & Burnout

Perfectionism & Imposter Syndrome

Relationship Dynamics & Communication

Life Transitions & Identity Shifts

Grief & Loss

Depression & Mood Regulation

Professional Memberships

National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)

 

(My Story)

 

(My Story)

 

(My Story)

A still, sunlit room used for one-to-one sessions

2011

Choosing a career in therapy

I studied psychology and began volunteering with a local mental health service. That early experience showed me how much honest, consistent support can change someone’s daily life.

A calm interior with soft shadows, reflecting the early years of practice

2015

Training and supervised practice

I completed my graduate training in counselling and worked under clinical supervision in community settings. I learned how to support anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, and major life changes.

An open landscape at dusk, representing a season of wider training and travel

2020

Opening my private practice

After several years of clinical work, I opened my own practice in 2020. I wanted to offer thoughtful therapy in a calm, personal setting where clients could speak openly and work at a realistic pace.

Alma Hartwell today, in the room where she meets clients each week

NOW

Working with individuals and couples

Today I support adults and couples with anxiety, recurring relationship patterns, difficult transitions, and feeling disconnected from themselves or each other. Sessions are practical, collaborative, and tailored to each client.

 

(My Mission)

 

(My Mission)

 

(My Mission)

 

(My Values)

 

(My Values)

 

(My Values)

You don't have to pretend here. No polished answers, no "right" way to feel. I show up as myself, and I invite you to do the same. Real healing happens when we stop performing.

Authenticity Always

I'll meet you with warmth and understanding, but I won't let you stay stuck in patterns that hurt you. Growth requires honesty. I'll challenge you because I believe you can change.

Honest Compassion

This isn't a doctor-patient relationship. You're the expert on your life. I bring training and tools, but we're partners in this work. Your voice, goals, and pace matter most.

True Partnership

What you share stays between us. Always. The only exceptions are immediate safety concerns. This space is yours to be honest, messy, and real without fear of judgment.

Complete Privacy

You don't have to pretend here. No polished answers, no "right" way to feel. I show up as myself, and I invite you to do the same. Real healing happens when we stop performing.

Authenticity Always

I'll meet you with warmth and understanding, but I won't let you stay stuck in patterns that hurt you. Growth requires honesty. I'll challenge you because I believe you can change.

Honest Compassion

This isn't a doctor-patient relationship. You're the expert on your life. I bring training and tools, but we're partners in this work. Your voice, goals, and pace matter most.

True Partnership

What you share stays between us. Always. The only exceptions are immediate safety concerns. This space is yours to be honest, messy, and real without fear of judgment.

Complete Privacy

 

(My Process)

 

(My Process)

 

(My Process)

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Reach Out

Use the contact form to book a free 15-minute introductory call. No credit card required. Just a simple step to say hello.

The Vibe Check

We’ll chat briefly about what you’re navigating and what you need. This isn’t therapy yet. It’s a chance to hear my voice and see if you feel comfortable.

Zero Obligation

The therapeutic relationship is everything. If we aren’t the perfect fit, there is absolutely no pressure to continue. I can even help point you toward other resources.

The Journey Begins

If we align, we’ll schedule your intake session. From there, we build your roadmap and begin the work of reclaiming your peace.

Guided

through it

through it

Life can feel like an open ocean. I provide the compass to help you navigate the waves and find your direction.