Meet the Staff

Kathleen Wenger, M.A. - LMFT, LPCC, Clinical Supervisor

Kay Wenger

I believe that relationships have the power to shape the quality of our lives. When our relationships are healthy and supportive, we feel more balanced, confident, and connected. When they are strained or painful, it can affect every part of our well-being. Helping people strengthen their relationships and navigate life’s challenges has been the focus of my work for more than 30 years.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and the founder of Laguna Beach Counseling, where I work alongside a team of talented and compassionate therapists who share a commitment to helping individuals, couples, and families create healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Throughout my career, I have also been deeply involved in training the next generation of therapists. For over 30 years I worked at Pepperdine University as the Manager of Clinical Training and Professional Development, where I helped guide and mentor students pursuing careers as marriage and family therapists and professional counselors. During that time, I worked with thousands of emerging therapists as they developed the clinical skills and confidence needed to support individuals, couples, and families.

In addition to my work in private practice, I serve as the Clinical Supervisor for the Behavioral Health Department at Laguna Beach Seniors, where I support the emotional well-being of older adults and mentor clinicians providing care within the community.

I am also the Co-Founder and CEO of the National Registry of Marriage Friendly Therapists, a nationwide network dedicated to helping individuals and couples connect with therapists who are committed to strengthening relationships.

In my clinical work, I focus on creating a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients feel comfortable exploring difficult concerns and gaining new insight into their lives and relationships.

I am available to see you in person at my Laguna Beach office or from the comfort of your own home via Telehealth.

Read more about Kay



Associate: Christy Hill, M.A. - AMFT #139486, APCC #13876

Christy Hill

Call Christy @ (949) 281-6763

I believe that people are remarkably resilient and have an innate capacity for self-healing. Psychotherapy can be a rewarding experience that generates self-awareness, healing, and personal growth. The therapy I offer helps alleviate painful experiences like depression, anxiety, loneliness and relationship conflict. I value my relationship and bond with my clients and know that our therapeutic alliance is the cornerstone of transformation. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, I work with people to help them find the inner strength and resources necessary to confront life's inevitable challenges. I enjoy meeting my clients in person. I am open to doing our sessions while walking at the beach. I want you to enjoy your experience with me as a therapist. I want you to feel comfortable sharing your story. Grab a cup of coffee and come see me!

I am available in Laguna Beach, Irvine and via Telehealth.

Supervised by Kathleen Wenger, M.A., LMFT #38183, LPCC #1450.;

Read more about Christy



Associate: Natasha Gaffaney, M.A. - AMFT #147477

Natasha Gaffaney

Call Natasha @ (949) 423-6380

Natasha has a strong passion for people, exploring purpose, inspiring hope, and empowering change. She provides psychotherapy to individuals, families, and groups under supervision.

Natasha Gaffney has been a director in numerous healthcare industry positions. She is a California State University, Long Beach graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She recently graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. In her career, Natasha has been in charge of teams of nurses, developed and led clinical care programs, and supported the growth of multiple healthcare programs.

Natasha is available in person at the Laguna Beach location and via Telehealth.

Supervised by Kathleen Wenger, M.A., LMFT #38183, LPCC #1450

Read more about Natasha



Associate: Austin Whitman, M.A., AMFT - #145401

Austin Whitman, AMFT

Call Austin @ (949) 345-1886

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist that has dedicated my career to helping people lead fulfilling and healthy lives. My approach is based on humanistic and existential principles, focusing on individuals’ capacity to find meaning, make informed choices, and achieve personal growth. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their emotions and experiences, assisting them in identifying their own path to healing.

I apply various evidence-based methods in my practice, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I also like to incorporate art, music, physical exercise, and games to help foster experiential learning and application of coping skills.

Throughout my career, I have worked with children, teenagers, and adults, aiding clients in navigating a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, anger, substance use, self-harm, grief/loss, and life transitions. Whether you are facing mental health challenges or seeking to enhance your overall well-being, I am here to provide support and guidance. Together we will work towards building resilience, fostering self-compassion, and helping you create a life that aligns with your values and goals.

I am available at the Laguna Beach office and via Telehealth.

Supervised by Kathleen Wenger, M.A., LMFT #38183, LPCC #1450.

Read more about Austin


Associate: Rozy Pishvaiy, M.A. - AMFT #151380

Rozy Pishvaiy

Call Rozy @ (949) 407-9396

If you’re feeling anxious, stuck, or just not like yourself lately, you’re not alone. Life can get heavy, and sometimes we all need a space to pause, breathe, and feel seen. That’s what I’m here for.

I’m Rozy Pishvaiy, a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist offering individual, family, and couples therapy in Orange County and across California. Whether you're going through a major transition, feeling disconnected in relationships, or just trying to make sense of your inner world, therapy can be a place to pause, reflect, and grow. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself, free from masks and pressure, and begin your journey toward who you truly want to be.

I earned my Master’s in Marital and Family Therapy from Alliant International University, and I’m passionate about building real connections with my clients. Therapy with me is collaborative, down-to-earth, and centered on helping you build insight, resilience, and confidence at your own pace.

I am available at the Laguna Beach office and via Telehealth.

Supervised by Kathleen Wenger, M.A., LMFT #38183, LPCC #1450.

Read more about Rozy