I’m Monica Chernoff, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#150951) based in Hermosa Beach, CA, specializing in supporting children, teens, and student-athletes facing academic stress, anxiety, body image issues, behavioral challenges, and the impacts of divorce. I am recieved my Masters in Science of Marriage & Family Therapy at University of Southern California & Bachelors of Psychology at Occidental College. My therapeutic approach incorporates Humanistic techniques, Play therapy (for young children), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Family Systems methods, making me one of the leading therapists for teens and young athletes in the South Bay.

As an advocate for athlete mental health, I actively engage with the community through public speaking at colleges, schools, and parenting groups, as well as hosting workshops and podcasts. My extensive training includes supervision by Macy Grim, LPCC, specializing in child play therapy, and Dr. Jake Insler, a top sports psychologist in California, focused on high-performance training for all athlete levels including Olympians & professionals.

I’ve provided therapy to over eighteen children weekly at South Bay Children's Health Center, addressing ADHD, anxiety, and school refusal, and I worked with USC’s Neighborhood Academic Initiative to support scholarship students facing trauma, depression, and academic stress. As a former student-athlete and member of the National Philippine Water Polo Team, I bring a unique understanding of the pressures young athletes face.

I am also trained in Ericksonian Hypnotherapy by renowned psychologist Dr. Norma Barretta, offering clients additional support for issues like sleep disorders, panic, and stress. My diverse experiences drive my passion for helping children, teens, and their families navigate mental health challenges in sports and school.