Marika Yakumithis
Licensed Marriage + Family Therapist # 156448

Associate Professional Clinical Counselor # 13481

Supervised by Nicole Desamparo, LMFT #48275

Individual Adult Therapy
Child + Adolescent Therapy
Couples Therapy

Benicia Office

• Grief & Loss 

• Caregivers & Hospice Care

• Family Dynamics & Conflicts

• Anxiety 

• Trauma

• Depression

• Survivors of DV

• Kids & families with behavioral struggles at home & school 

• Body Positivity

• Children of Alcoholics & Adult Children of Alcoholics

• Bullying

• BIPOC allied

• LGBTQ+ allied

• University of San Francisco, Bachelor of Art in Sociology

• Dominican University, Master of Science in Counseling Psychology (MSCP) from Dominican: concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (PCC).

• California State University, East Bay, Certificate in Pre-Health Sciences

• Certified Nursing Assistant, Inactive

I find deep fulfillment in supporting individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life. I value the diverse backgrounds, cultural identities, and lived experiences each client brings, and I strive to create a welcoming space where we can collaboratively explore their unique journeys. Whether working with adolescents, adults, or couples, I approach therapy with empathy, curiosity, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for growth and healing.

My clinical experience spans a wide range of settings and age groups. Most recently, I worked in a local community agency where I had the privilege of supporting clients across the lifespan with various mental health needs. I have extensive experience working with children from preschoolers to teenagers through school-based and individual counseling, and find particular meaning in supporting Bay Area youth as they navigate life’s complexities. I also bring experience supporting individuals with persistent and severe mental health conditions, providing guidance around symptom management, crisis stabilization, and long-term healing.

In addition to individual work, I support couples in strengthening communication, fostering connection, and navigating life’s transitions. I recognize the importance of each individual’s voice and offer a space where relationships can be explored and rebuilt with care.

Earlier in my career, I worked in hospice care, providing both therapeutic and direct caregiving support. My work with grief, loss, and end-of-life transitions continues to inform my compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to therapy. I believe in honoring all parts of life’s journey, from its beginnings to its most difficult chapters, and helping clients find meaning and resilience along the way.

It’s an honor to witness the strength and vulnerability my clients bring into the therapy room. I look forward to walking alongside you as we explore what healing, growth, and connection can look like for you. 

I see my role as a therapist as a collaborative partner, someone who helps individuals and couples recognize their inner strengths while creating a nurturing and affirming space that supports growth, healing, and connection. My approach is grounded in a client-centered and trauma-informed perspective, honoring each person's or relationship’s unique needs and experiences. I tailor the structure of our work together based on what feels most supportive to my clients, whether they are seeking guidance, reflection, or specific tools. I draw from a range of modalities including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and strength-based approaches. Having worked across the lifespan and with diverse family systems, I believe that every therapeutic relationship is unique and so should be the approach. I bring warmth, compassion, and a deep respect for the people I work with, and I strive to hold a space where growth and healing can truly take root.

As a Bay Area native, I’m deeply connected to the communities I serve and committed to making a meaningful impact. My path into mental health began as a Certified Nursing Assistant in hospice and long-term care, where I learned the value of empathy, presence, and human connection.

I earned my M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Dominican University of California and went on to provide bereavement counseling for individuals and families through a hospice agency. Most recently, I’ve worked in school-based and community settings in Marin County, supporting children, teens, and individuals through a wide range of emotional and relational challenges. These diverse experiences continue to shape my warm, compassionate, and client-centered approach with individuals across the lifespan.

Having the honor of experiencing a small part of an individual’s life is a privilege for which I am thankful each day. I love being able to help clients identify issues, work through difficulties, and progress through their own unique journeys. It is amazing to see my clients discover their strengths and foster an environment that empowers them to grow and move forward.

Sharing meals with family and friends, especially when trying new foods, refuels my soul. Most weekends, you’ll find me out in nature walking my two dogs and discovering delicious new spots to eat. I love exploring parks and hiking trails, but my true passion is cooking with loved ones, accompanied by good music and even better conversation.

“Love Marika! She’s been so helpful navigating our relationship strains, and has been really understanding and flexible with some issues that has allowed us to continue getting the support we need.”

“Our child enjoys her sessions with Marika very much! I am happy that Marika takes such care with her!”

“I am really enjoying my time with Marika! She really helps me feel seen, and has given me many tools to help with my anxiety.”