About

Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf is a Doctor of Psychology and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 29 years of clinical experience. She brings insight, empathy, and a sense of humor to her work, helping individuals and families reshape the thoughts that influence their emotions and behaviors.

Working primarily from a cognitive behavioral framework, she helps clients identify what she calls 'stinking thinking' - the automatic negative thoughts and early-formed beliefs that keep people stuck in repeating patterns. She explains how childhood experiences shape a lasting worldview and shows how those beliefs, even when irrational or harmful, can be reframed into more constructive, affirming perspectives.

In addition to cognitive work, she encourages mindfulness as a practical tool for recovering from anxiety and depression, guiding clients to notice what is working in their lives rather than dwelling on what is not. Beginning psychotherapy takes courage, and she approaches the process as a collaborative effort to rebuild a more loving and accepting sense of self.

Clients can expect a therapist who values their resilience, honors vulnerability, and has witnessed meaningful transformation through sustained therapeutic work.
Location:
California, United States
Years Experience:
29
Gender:
Female
Languages Spoken:
English
Therapist of Color:
No
Communication Options:
Phone • Video • Live Chat • Messaging

Specialties

Primary area of focus:Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Depression
Other areas of experience: Addictions, LGBT, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Sleeping disorders, Anger management, Abandonment, Attachment issues, Blended family issues, Body image, Codependency, Commitment issues, Communication problems, Control issues, Family of origin issues, Fertility issues, Forgiveness, Infidelity, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Postpartum depression, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Workplace issues, Young adult issues
Therapeutic approach:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy

Credentials & Verification

  • Credentials: CA LMFT 35314, CO LMFT MFT.0000569
  • NPI Number: 1982771127
  • License: LMFT (California), LMFT (Colorado)

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf uses evidence-informed approaches adapted for remote work, including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors - it is useful for anxiety, depression, relationship patterns, and many everyday struggles. Mindfulness therapy teaches grounded attention to present-moment experience, helping people reduce rumination, manage stress, and reconnect with what is working in their lives. Psychodynamic ideas may also inform her work by exploring how early experiences and attachment shape current patterns and relationships, offering deeper insight into recurring emotional themes.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process. She collaborates with each client to determine which methods fit their goals, needs, and preferences, adjusting strategies as the work progresses so therapy remains responsive and practical.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility - clients can meet by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging depending on what fits their schedule and comfort level. These options make it easier to maintain consistent care, integrate therapeutic tools into daily life, and access licensed professionals from different locations.

How much experience does Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf have?

Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf has 29 years of clinical experience.

Is Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds the LMFT credential - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - and is licensed in California (CA LMFT 35314) and Colorado (CO LMFT MFT.0000569).

In which languages does Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf provide therapy?

She provides therapy in English.

Where is Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf located?

She is located in California.

How can I work with Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf as my therapist?

You can work with Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf work with international clients?

Yes, Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf works with international clients.

How much does therapy with Dr. Vanessa Prestridge Graf 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.