Professional Services
Psychological Services, Consultation, Clinical Training
My approach to treatment and consulting is grounded in learning theory and draws on research from behavioral, cognitive, and emotional learning models, within the context of a biopsychosocial model of stress.
Services Offered
Psychotherapy
My practice includes a range of psychological services. Particular areas of clinical focus include mood disorders, relationship challenges, life stress, family conflict, and life transitions from young adulthood through older adulthood, as well as issues associated with aging and retirement, coping with chronic medical disability, and managing lifelong intellectual or physical disability. • Comprehensive and individualized assessment for adults across the lifespan and for couples. • Personalized treatment planning tailored to your indiviual life story, learning history, goals, and areas of desired change. • Integrated psychotherapy that addresses behavioral, cognitive, emotional, interpersonal, spiritual, cultural, and family factors contributing to your current experiences.
My Unique Approach to Psychotherapy
With nearly four decades of experience, I offer a collaborative, tailored approach to therapy. I understand that your life experiences, strengths, and challenges are unique, and I am here to listen and support you in a way that honors your story. My work translates the latest scientific research into a compassionate, person-centered philosophy, keeping our sessions focused on what works best for you. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, I use proven theories and methods—including cognitive and behavioral therapies, emotion-focused work, schema therapy, interpersonal approaches, and brief psychodynamic strategies to help you understand how past experiences may shape your current thoughts and feelings. Our clinical focus and targets will depend on your initial evaluation and my understanding of how your past experiences contribute to your current life challenges. I also collaborate with other professionals when needed, so you get comprehensive care for more complex concerns. My goal is to create a safe space where you can talk openly about your concerns, gain new insights, and work toward meaningful growth. Together, we will identify your values, recognize your strengths, and set meaningful goals—so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and renewed resilience.
Dr. Chris Maguth Nezu, Ph.D., ABPP
What to Expect
• Privacy: Because my practice is a self-pay practice, I do not share client records with insurance panels, nor do I submit psychiatric diagnoses to external databases, unless you specifically request that I do so in writing. • Commitment to Ethics: I am dedicated to maintaining an ethical practice, as defined by the American Psychological Association and the laws of the state in which I practice. • Personalized Attention: I intentionally limit my caseload to ensure every patient receives focused care, flexible scheduling, and a pace that matches your needs. • Clinical Independence: Our work is guided solely by research and clinical expertise and tailored to your individual concerns—whether you are coping with emotional distress, major life transitions, health challenges, discrimination, loneliness, or aging. • Flexibility: Services are available in my Ventura office or virtually. • Updates on Progress: As an evidence-based practice, I continually monitor and discuss your treatment progress and satisfaction with our work together.
- 01Initial Consultation
At our initial session, you will provide me with an understanding of why you are seeking psychotherapy or consultation at this time. I will share information about my approach, answer your questions, and provide important details concerning confidentiality, record-keeping, costs, office policies, and any other information required by the state in which I practice. If either you or I believe working together is not the best match for your goals, I will recommend an alternative.
- 02Comprehensive Evaluation
Depending on your concerns, I will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your history, strengths, and goals. This may involve structured interviews, standardized measures, and a review of relevant records.
- 03Personalized Treatment Plan
Sessions are usually scheduled as one-hour meetings each week and are held either in person or remotely. We evaluate progress through your feedback, multiple ongoing assessments, and periodic questionnaires about treatment satisfaction. Like most successful treatments, our ongoing work usually involves becoming more aware of your inner experiences, reducing avoidance of certain thoughts, behaviors, and feelings, learning emotional and psychological skills, and practicing those new skills in your life.
- 04Ongoing Collaboration
Throughout our work together, I will regularly check in on your progress and satisfaction. We will adjust our approach as needed, ensuring that therapy remains relevant, effective, and aligned with your evolving goals.
Forensic & Legal Consulting
I provide psychological consultation to legal teams and serve as an expert witness in my areas of specialized expertise, including cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion-centered problem solving, clinical case formulation and treatment, and adaptive assessment of adults with intellectual disabilities.
University & Professional Training
I provide clinical training workshops to university programs, training clinics, and clinical psychology internships in my areas of demonstrated expertise, including evidence-based approaches such as Emotion-Centered Problem-Solving Therapy (EC-PST) and Cognitive Behavioral Assessment and Treatment.
Corporate & Organizational Consulting
Organizations periodically consult me on how best to integrate findings from social problem-solving research, emotional intelligence, or decision-making under stress to improve organizational programs, such as strengthening staff relationships or planning retreats.
Cost
My practice is a self-pay practice. I do not accept insurance. However, upon request, I can provide you with a Superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement, depending on your out-of-network benefits.
“My goal is to provide the highest-quality evidence-based psychological services, consultation, and training, guided by the latest scientific research and my decades of clinical experience.”
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you are seeking psychotherapy, consultation, or training, I welcome the opportunity to connect.
Get in Touch