Therapist Directory

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Dr. Stephen Lovato, LMFT

Experienced California marriage and family therapist
  • LGBT and relationship care
  • Tailored client-centered approach
  • 45 years experience

About Dr. Stephen Lovato

Dr. Stephen Lovato is a California-licensed LMFT with decades of clinical experience helping adults and families navigate complex life challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, he brings 45 years of practice to work with individuals facing concerns such as LGBT-related issues, relationship and parenting difficulties, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, addictions, and intimacy-related problems. He also addresses a broad range of related concerns including sleep difficulties, anger, self-esteem, career transitions, caregiver stress, ADHD, and aging and geriatric issues.

Dr. Lovato emphasizes respectful, sensitive, and compassionate care, shaping conversations and treatment plans around each person’s unique circumstances. He draws on client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic approaches, and solution-focused techniques to tailor interventions that match clients’ goals and preferences. Beginning therapy is often a courageous step, and he acknowledges that process while offering practical support to help clients move forward.

Located in California, Dr. Lovato is accepting new clients and works with people seeking thoughtful, experienced guidance on personal and relational concerns. His approach balances empathy with evidence-informed strategies, focusing on clear goals and collaborative problem solving to help clients find meaningful change.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

LGBTRelationship issuesParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression

Also Specializes In

Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional Focus Areas

Aging and geriatric issuesAntisocial personalityAttachment issuesAutism and Asperger SyndromeAvoidant personalityBDSM, kink, and alternative sex cultureBody imageCaregiver issues and stressCodependencyCommitment issuesControl issuesDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)DissociationDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHIV / AIDSHospice and end-of-life counselingImpulsivityInfidelityIntellectual disabilityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMood disordersMulticultural concernsNarcissismObsessions, compulsions, and OCDParanoiaPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPostpartum depressionPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual assault and abuseSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Psychodynamic Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Dr. Stephen Lovato have?

Dr. Stephen Lovato has 45 years of professional experience.

Is Dr. Stephen Lovato a licensed therapist?

Yes. He holds the credential LMFT, which stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. His license is registered in California as CA LMFT 21379.

In which languages does Dr. Stephen Lovato provide therapy?

Dr. Stephen Lovato provides therapy in English.

Where is Dr. Stephen Lovato located?

Dr. Stephen Lovato is located in California.

How can I work with Dr. Stephen Lovato as my therapist?

You can work with Dr. Stephen Lovato through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Dr. Stephen Lovato work with international clients?

Dr. Stephen Lovato does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Dr. Stephen Lovato cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Could Online Sessions Be the Right Fit?

Many people wonder whether meeting with a therapist remotely will make a meaningful difference. For many common concerns - including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions - online therapy is often comparable in effectiveness to traditional in-person sessions and can deliver practical, goal-oriented support.

One of the main benefits is flexibility. A person can connect with a therapist in the format that fits their life best - by video call, phone session, live chat, or text-based messaging - which can make it easier to keep regular appointments alongside work, family, or other responsibilities.

Licensed professionals provide care through these remote options, and clients are able to change therapists if they seek a different fit. For those weighing whether online therapy is suitable, it can offer accessible, consistent support from trained therapists while allowing each person to choose the communication style that feels most comfortable.

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