Kayli Peterson, MA

Kayli is in her third year of clinical training and enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life. She believes therapy is a collaborative process and strives to create a warm, welcoming environment where clients feel safe to be themselves, share openly, and work toward the changes that matter most to them.

Kayli chose a career in psychology because of her lifelong passion for helping others. She understands that reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable and overwhelming, and she considers it a privilege to walk alongside clients through life's challenges. Whether someone is managing everyday stress, navigating a major life transition, or seeking greater self-understanding, Kayli's goal is to provide compassionate support, practical tools, and evidence-based care tailored to each client's unique needs.

Education & Training

Kayli is currently pursuing her Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) at California Baptist University. She earned her Master of Science in Psychology from Purdue University Global and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from California Baptist University. Her education and clinical training have strengthened her commitment to helping individuals build resilience, overcome obstacles, and recognize their own strengths.

She values the therapeutic relationship and believes that meaningful change begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood. By fostering a collaborative and trusting partnership, Kayli empowers clients to gain insight, develop effective coping skills, and create lasting, meaningful change.

Outside the office, Kayli enjoys spending time at the racetrack, where she and her husband share a passion for motorsports and the racing community. She also loves traveling to sporting events, spending time with her two dogs and cat, and making memories with family and friends. These experiences have deepened her appreciation for perseverance, connection, and maintaining balance—values she brings into her work and hopes to help every client cultivate in their own lives.

Book dr. Melissa for your event

Dr. Melissa is a sought after presenter who engages her audience with energy, charisma, and critical information. She regularly speaks on the topics of ADHD, trauma, foster and adoption, attachment, child development, parenting, mental health, and faith. Inquire for more information.

Words from the families
we’ve walked alongside.

I had an amazing training experience with Therapy SoCal. Dr. Jinariu is an excellent supervisor and utilizes a strengths-based approach with her practicum students. I feel very confident in my skills working with trauma, adoption, and ADHD thanks to the... More

Erica Kirk, MA

former Masters level Associate

Dr. Melissa Jinariu is amazing to work with and I really enjoy collaborating with her. She works with families in high conflict divorce to help them heal and move forward. She is wonderful with children and incredibly intuitive. I appreciate... More

Emily Robinson, Esq.

Minor's Counsel

Dr. Jinariu is one of the most compassionate and knowledgable clinicians in the field of pediatric psychology. She truly cares about her clients and is an expert in trauma and trauma-informed care. Her standard of excellence is bar none.

Brooke Angaga

LMFT

Dr. Melissa Jinariu is amazing to work with and I really enjoy collaborating with her. She works with families in high conflict divorce to help them heal and move forward. She is wonderful with children and incredibly intuitive. I appreciate... More

Emily Robinson, Esq.

Minor's Counsel

Answers to your mental health questions

Faq

Need More Questions?

Yes. Therapy SoCal’s multilingual team offers services in English, Spanish, Cantonese, Armenian, and Russian. Language availability may depend on the clinician and type of service requested.

Yes. Christian and faith-sensitive counseling is available for clients who would like their beliefs incorporated into therapy. Faith integration is optional, client-led, and offered alongside evidence-based psychological care. Clients do not need to request faith-based services to receive treatment at Therapy SoCal.

Child therapy may help with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism-related needs, OCD, trauma, grief, disruptive behavior, emotional regulation, social challenges, family transitions, attachment concerns, and school-related difficulties.

The recommended treatment approach depends on the child’s individual needs and the results of the initial consultation.

Therapy may be helpful when emotional, behavioral, developmental, or social difficulties interfere with your child’s daily life. Signs may include persistent worry, sadness, withdrawal, intense emotional reactions, changes in sleep, school difficulties, family conflict, avoidance, or trouble recovering from a stressful experience.

An initial consultation can help determine whether therapy, psychological testing, parent support, or another service may be appropriate.

To request therapy or psychological testing, complete the form on the Contact Therapy SoCal page or call 661-904-0088.

Please include the type of service you are seeking, the client’s age, your preferred location or telehealth option, and a convenient way to reach you.