Gomez, Monica

Monica Gomez is a compassionate Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. She provides care in both English and Spanish and brings a patient-centered approach to therapy that emphasizes empathy, cultural sensitivity, and emotional safety.

Monica earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University, with a specialization in Medical Family Therapy. She has experience working with diverse populations, including those in underserved communities, and is skilled in mental health assessment, treatment planning, and crisis support.

With a background in early childhood education and healthcare, Monica brings a well-rounded and nurturing perspective to her work. She is dedicated to helping her clients build healthier relationships and achieve personal growth in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Our Mobile Care fleet is equipped to provide a variety of medical, dental, behavioral health, and nutrition services to families and individuals at various locations throughout North County, including shopping centers, community resource centers, schools, and parks.

Our Mobile Care fleet is equipped to provide dental services to families and individuals at various locations throughout Lake Elsinore and beyond, including shopping centers, community resource centers, schools, and parks.

Our Mobile Care fleet is equipped to provide a variety of medical and dental services to families and individuals at various locations throughout La Habra and the surrounding communities, including shopping centers, community resource centers, schools, and parks.

Dr. Carol Lynn Trippitelli is a board-certified psychiatrist with over two decades of experience specializing in adult and adolescent mental health. She provides both in-person and telehealth psychiatric services at VCC, offering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Dr. Trippitelli has an extensive background in outpatient psychiatry, program development, and medical education. She previously served as the Director of Collaborative Care and Community Development at LifeStance Health, where she helped bridge the gap between psychiatric and pediatric care to enhance mental health services for adolescents. She has also held faculty positions at Georgetown University Hospital, where she contributed to training the next generation of mental health professionals.

Her expertise includes general psychiatry, adolescent mental health, and eating disorders, with a longstanding commitment to improving access to high-quality psychiatric care. Recognized for her excellence in patient care, Dr. Trippitelli has received multiple accolades, including the JL Houston Shining Star Award for Performance Excellence and peer-nominated honors such as Washington Post Magazine’s Top Psychiatrists and Top Doctors Washington, DC.

Dr. Trippitelli is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services, helping patients navigate challenges and achieve overall well-being.

In simple terms, “behavioral health” is how a person thinks, feels and acts when faced with life’s situations. Sometimes life can get difficult and our emotions or thoughts can be overwhelming. If you or someone you know is having difficulty behaving in healthy ways with others or themselves, they may benefit from behavioral health services.

Aine Karstetter, ACSW, is dedicated to supporting individuals and families through compassionate, person-centered care. With seven years of experience across residential care, trauma recovery, and hospice services, Aine specializes in evidence-based therapies to help patients navigate complex mental health challenges.

She provides therapy at VCC: Vale Terrace and through virtual Telehealth visits, focusing on trauma recovery, crisis intervention, and interdisciplinary care. Aine is passionate about promoting healing and resilience while addressing each individual’s unique needs with cultural humility and professionalism.

Ashley Villarreal, ACSW, provides compassionate mental health services at VCC: Lake Elsinore and through virtual Telehealth visits. With over four years of experience, she is dedicated to supporting individuals and families in navigating challenges and improving their well-being.

Ashley brings expertise in crisis intervention, family support, and therapeutic care, with a focus on empowering clients to build healthier relationships and achieve stability. Her commitment to helping diverse populations makes her a trusted partner in fostering resilience and growth. Ashley is also bilingual in Spanish and ready to help you get on a successful journey to health.

Associate Clinical Social Worker, Andrew Mendez, provides compassionate mental health support at VCC: The Gary Center and through virtual Telehealth visits. With a focus on helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, Andrew offers a personalized approach to care, incorporating problem-solving and motivational interviewing techniques.

He has extensive experience supporting vulnerable populations, including students, veterans, and individuals transitioning from homelessness. Andrew specializes in case management, therapy, and connecting clients with resources to improve their well-being and stability.

Psychiatrist, Dr. Nubia Chong, specializes in helping adults heal from the effects of trauma. She blends traditional psychiatry with holistic approaches, including mind-body and somatic techniques, to support mental health and well-being. Dr. Chong’s compassionate and empowering care focuses on respecting each patient’s strengths and self-determination.

As a bilingual and bicultural psychiatrist, she is passionate about breaking down barriers to mental health information. Through her Instagram platform, @Dr.Nubia, she shares insights on trauma healing to foster understanding and community empowerment.

Dr. Chong can provide support from VCC: Horne and virtual Telehealth appointments.

Xiyan Shao is a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for her patients. She is dedicated to helping individuals and families feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive decisions about their health and well-being.

Xiyan joined VCC because of its reputation as a trusted community clinic, offering patients access to professional psychotherapy services. She believes in ensuring that everyone who needs care receives timely and effective treatment.

With an advanced degree in social work from The Ohio State University, Xiyan is skilled in addressing complex mental health needs. She supports her patients by providing education and helping them weigh the pros and cons of their healthcare decisions, ensuring they feel informed and confident.

Xiyan’s goal is to make a meaningful impact in her patients’ lives by fostering trust and unconditional support, helping them navigate challenges and improve their emotional health.

Fluent in both English and Mandarin, she connects with patients from diverse backgrounds, ensuring they feel seen and heard.

Melvin Segura is a compassionate and experienced Marriage and Family Therapist at VCC: Lake Elsinore. With a Master of Science in Marriage, Child, and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix and over a decade of experience, he specializes in supporting youth, families, and individuals in navigating life’s challenges.

Melvin has extensive expertise in trauma recovery, substance abuse treatment, and comprehensive mental health care. He has worked in diverse clinical settings, including family counseling, recovery programs, and intensive wraparound services. His holistic approach prioritizes individualized care and collaboration, helping clients build resilience and achieve personal goals.

In addition to his clinical work, Melvin has served as a pastor and youth mentor, reflecting his commitment to strengthening communities. Outside of work, he is a dedicated musician and continues to support faith-based initiatives.

Stephanie Kirkman is an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW) at Vista Community Clinic, where she is passionate about providing accessible healthcare and supporting her clients’ mental health journeys. Stephanie is particularly enthusiastic about working with youth, offering a safe, non-judgmental space for them to process their feelings and navigate life’s challenges. She takes a personalized approach to help clients harness their strengths and make informed decisions about their health.

Stephanie holds a master’s degree in social work and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential, bringing valuable experience from working with youth and families in school settings. She also has specialized knowledge from her time as a registered behavior technician working with children with autism and as a case coordinator in a Forensic Department. During that time, she obtained her Domestic Violence Certification and honed her skills in supporting families who have experienced trauma.

In her personal life, Stephanie enjoys weightlifting as a way to unwind after a busy day. She is also a dedicated animal lover and frequently fosters dogs, helping them find their forever homes.

Meet Elizabeth Ketchel, a Clinical Counselor at VCC: Lake Elsinore, dedicated to making a positive impact in the community through enhanced mental health care. Elizabeth collaborates closely with her patients, empowering them to make informed decisions and set achievable, healthy goals. Fluent in English, Arabic, and Chaldean, she ensures effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all. Trust Elizabeth to support you on your journey towards improved mental well-being at VCC.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Cristina Sloan, chose to bring her expertise to VCC because of all the great things she has heard about the organization. Cristina thinks it is important to align herself with care that leaves patients feeling respected, and not marginalized, and that’s exactly why she is a part of the VCC team.

For Cristina, she believes strongly in that power that each person has in making decisions. She wants to help her patients understand the importance in what each of us decide to do amidst, and with, our circumstances.

Cristina is bilingual in Spanish and is located at our VCC: Vale Terrace office in Vista. She can also provide visits via Telehealth.

Introducing Dr. Jennifer Bell, a dedicated psychiatrist at VCC with over a decade of experience in behavioral health leadership and support. Since 2010, Dr. Bell has specialized in child and adolescent psychiatry and addiction treatment. Beyond her professional commitment, she values family time and finds joy in activities such as swimming, biking, cooking, art, gardening, and exploring state parks. Dr. Bell combines expertise and compassion to provide comprehensive mental health care, emphasizing a holistic approach to well-being.

Dr. Veronica Gutierrez has been dedicated to providing mental health care for nearly 30 years. During her career she has worked with a wide range of ages and circumstances, from young children to adults and families. She also has experience providing therapy to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered clients. Dr. Gutierrez is able to assist patients with therapy for a variety of reasons including mood disorders, behavioral problems, adjustment concerns, sexual orientation, medical concerns, learning challenges, and more. Dr. Gutierrez is able to provide care in both English and Spanish.

If you are interested in receiving behavioral health care with Dr. Gutierrez, please call or text 844-308-5003. We offer both in person and Telehealth visits.

Dr. Patel provides psychiatry services at VCC: The Gary Center, and through our Telehealth, our virtual appointment option.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Christine Dougherty has been working to support the behavioral health of patients since 2000. She has served numerous populations and worked with all ages throughout her career as a therapist, including years of counseling children to improve social skills, confidence and self-actualization.

She is currently providing school based care in North County, and her many years of experience working with children has prepared her well for this position. Christine works well with patients, parents, teachers, and clinicians to create the most well rounded health experience for each person that she sees. She is very knowledgeable and well versed in her field.

If you are looking for behavioral health care for your child, Christine is a great option. She can help you develop strategies and techniques that work for you. You can rest assured that Christine Dougherty will provide a safe environment for you to express your issues and concerns.

VCC Provider Since

• 2020

Education

• Columbia University Graduate School of Social Work

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Vanessa Cruz came to VCC for the opportunity to provide behavioral health treatment to children and families in need of services within the community.

VCC Provider Since

• 2019

Medical Education

• San Diego State University
• California State University, San Marcos

Certifications

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Social Work (PPSC)
• Professional Assault Crisis Training (PRO-ACT)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Adriana Mendez came to VCC for the opportunity to provide behavioral health services to adolescents in local schools. She understands that adolescence is an important period for social and emotional development and that by providing early intervention these students will be more likely to have positive outcomes.

Mrs. Mendez would like to empower patients to be independent and self-sufficient. She will help to idenfity strengths and learn how those strengths can help actualize goals. She also provides coping skills that can be utilized when facing different stressors in life.

How do you help your patients “Choose Health”?

I emphasize to patients the importance of both physical and mental health. I remind them how poor physical health can lead to an increased risk of developing mental health problems and how poor mental health can also have a negative impact on physical health. I encourage patients to regularly go to their preventative medical appointments.”

VCC Provider Since

• 2019

Medical Education

• University of Southern California

Certifications

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Ms. Godinez is here to help you achieve wellness. She has worked with many populations in different settings, and finds her passion to be in working directly with the community. She will help provide therapeutic services utilizing holistic mental approaches as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is currently serving students in the districts of Orange County.

VCC Provider Since

• 2019

Medical Education

• California State University Long Beach

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Carlene Wilson provides caring, attentive services for patients of all ages. She has experience providing therapy services for families, couples, children, and individuals. She received her Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Denver, and specializes in marriage and family therapy training.

Ms. Wilson is very knowledgeable, and has a great deal of experience working with different patient needs. She is particularly passionate about working for patients in underserved populations, and wants to give everyone the chance to choose health.

VCC Provider Since

• 2019

Medical Education

• California State University Los Angeles
• University of Denver

Certifications

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Greta Meyerhof has nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist for both groups and individuals. VCC is proud to have her as one of their own Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists helping our patients choose health. Ms. Meyerhof has had the experience of working in many different clinical settings, as well as having her own practice. Now working with the community, she is able to help those that really need the help to get and stay on track.

VCC Provider Since

• 2018

Medical Education

• California State University, Northridge

Certifications

• Disaster Services Mental Health Provider, American Red Cross Certified
• Certified Batterer’s Intervention Group Facilitator