Helen Youmans, AMFT 161167

Helen Youmans is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, (#161167) specializing in working with individuals, couples, and families both in-person and via telehealth at Affirming Relationship Therapy. Helen earned her B.A. in Psychology (Honors) from University of California, Santa Cruz and her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palo Alto University.

She uses a compassionate, relational, collaborative, and client-centered approach to help clients navigate life transitions, strengthen relationships, and build resilience.

 Helen values authentic human connection and is passionate about creating inclusive, affirming spaces where clients feel safe exploring grief, relationships, identity, and personal growth.

Specializations

  • Relationship challenges

  • LGBTQ+ affirming therapy

  • Grief and loss counseling

  • Anxiety, depression and OCD

Helen Youmans, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #161167

Strengths

 Anxiety and OCD, teens/young adults and adults, grief and loss across the life span, life transitions, relationship challenges, group facilitation, crisis prevention and intervention, culturally responsive care, and creating affirming spaces for clients navigating identity, relationships, and emotional challenges.

Work experience

  • Therapist Intern at Hospice of Sunnyvale (2024–2026) providing individual grief counseling, co-facilitating grief groups, and supporting adults navigating loss and major life transitions.

  • Counseling associate at Oak Grove School District (2025) providing therapy to diverse elementary-aged students, conducting crisis intervention, facilitating groups, and collaborating with families and school staff.

  • Education Outreach Coordinator at Suicide Prevention Service of the Central Coast (2002–2005) providing crisis counseling, suicide prevention training, and volunteer supervision.

More about me …

I enjoy spending my free time with family and friends.  My partner and I are “parents” to three goofy and adorable cats!

For relaxation I enjoy dancing, listening to live music, and reading – especially mysteries (I am a huge Sherlock Holmes fan)! I am also a Martial Artist and close to testing for my black belt.