Therapy is a practical and collaborative process—one that helps you understand why things aren't working and what you can do differently.
Change requires commitment to action, applying what you learn in therapy, and repetition. My role is to help you gain clarity, make adjustments to your behavior, and maintain consistency throughout the process.
Anahita Kia | JD | MA
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas & Across California
My path to becoming a therapist is somewhat unique. Prior to my career in psychology, I practiced law for eight years in various arenas, including criminal law, litigation, and entertainment. During those years, I spent much of my time painting and writing songs—selling my artwork, publishing albums, and licensing my music for television and film. My work as an attorney and as an artist ultimately clarified what I truly wanted: a profession rooted in critical thinking, creativity, and meaningful connection.
In 2011, I began my Master of Arts program in Clinical Psychology, with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. The transition came naturally and felt deeply rewarding, aligning my personality with my values. Now, fifteen years later, I continue to integrate analytical reasoning with adaptive interventions to support my clients’ objectives.
Clinical Experience & Professional Leadership
I have worked across diverse treatment settings — from residential care to outpatient therapy — both as a Primary Therapist and as a Clinical Director. My experience includes:
• Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology
• Clinical Supervisor to student therapists at the Pepperdine Community Counseling Center
• Certified Mediator for the Superior Court of Ventura County
Trauma-Informed & Evidence-Based Approach
Because of my commitment to trauma survivors, I am a certified counselor for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I completed Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program and I integrate mindful practices with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand and regulate both emotional and physical distress.
My therapeutic approach is collaborative, relational, and solution-focused and I work with clients to identify goals, increase insight, build resilience, and create lasting change.
Education
Pepperdine University
School of Education and Psychology
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Pepperdine University
School of Law
Juris Doctorate
University of California
San Diego
Bachelor of Arts
Professional Affiliations & Honors
California Board of Behavioral Sciences
Psi Chi International Honor Society of Psychology
Pepperdine Outstanding Alumni In Healthcare
The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers
State Bar of California