OUR TEAM
Our Hive of Hope team is highly qualified to meet your needs.
Bahareh Talei, Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist | PSY21252
Founder Diagnostic & Counseling Center (DCC)
Founder, PsychEval, Inc.
Founder, Hive of Hope (501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization)
Dr. Bahareh Talei is a licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University’s APA-accredited program. With over two decades of clinical experience, she has established herself as a leader in psychological assessment, diagnostic evaluations, and clinician training. Dr. Talei is the co-founder of the Diagnostic & Counseling Center (DCC) and founder of Hive of Hope, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable, accessible mental health services and high-quality training to future clinicians.
Dr. Talei specializes in comprehensive psychological and neurodevelopmental assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. Her expertise includes the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, attention-deficit disorders, and complex neurocognitive conditions. Her reports are frequently used to guide academic accommodations, disability claims, and treatment planning, and she regularly provides Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) and forensic assessments for legal and governmental agencies.
A passionate educator and supervisor, Dr. Talei serves as adjunct faculty at Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology, where she teaches graduate-level courses in psychological assessment and psychotherapy. She has trained and supervised postdoctoral fellows, associate therapists, and doctoral practicum students across a range of clinical settings, with a focus on assessment proficiency and ethical clinical practice.
In addition to her clinical and academic work, Dr. Talei is actively involved in the community through Hive of Hope and other outreach initiatives aimed at reducing mental health stigma and expanding access to care.
Alexandra Theodoulou
Farokh Doctormajdi, AMFT, APCC
Farokh is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. He earned his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.
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Farokh believes therapy works best when clients feel genuinely heard, respected, and free to move at a pace that feels manageable to them. He strives to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences, recognize their strengths, and develop practical ways of responding to life’s challenges.
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He works with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, relationship concerns, and life transitions. Farokh also has experience supporting neurodivergent clients and values adapting therapy to each individual rather than expecting the same approach to work for everyone.
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His approach is collaborative, person-centered, and strengths-based. Depending on each client’s needs, he incorporates evidence-based interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness. Farokh believes meaningful change does not always need to happen quickly; lasting progress can develop gradually as clients gain insight, practice new skills, and build confidence in their own abilities.
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Before becoming a therapist, Farokh studied and worked in chemistry and spent years teaching mind-body practices. This background contributes to both his analytical perspective and his whole-person approach to therapy, helping clients build greater self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change.
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Farokh is bilingual in English and Farsi and provides therapy in both languages.
Registered Associate MFT #164977
Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor #23582
Under the supervision of Dr. Bahareh Talei, Psy.D., PSY #21252
Jaiden Seehoffer
Hello, and welcome.
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I am currently completing my doctoral training in clinical psychology at a university in Los Angeles, California, where I am furthering my passion for providing thoughtful and compassionate care. My clinical experience has primarily focused on working with children and families, particularly in assessment services for neurodivergent youth. Through this work, I have developed a strong appreciation for each child’s unique strengths, challenges, and ways of engaging with the world.
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In my therapy work, I have had the privilege of supporting children navigating selective mutism, autism spectrum disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and trauma-related concerns. I approach each child with patience, and warmth, striving to create a supportive environment where they feel understood and empowered.
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Prior to this, I completed practicum training at an adult inpatient facility, where I worked with individuals experiencing severe and persistent mental illness. This experience strengthened my ability to remain grounded, empathetic, and collaborative even in complex and high-acuity situations, and it continues to inform my trauma-informed approach to care. My style is warm, attuned, and strengths-focused, emphasizing helping children feel safe, understood, and capable of navigating challenges.
It is truly an honor to be part of each client’s journey, and I look forward to creating a space where you and your child feel heard, supported, and hopeful.
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Under the Supervision of Dr. Bahareh Talei, PSY#21252
Maria Gardner
My name is Maria Gardner and I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee with Hive of Hope. I’m earning a Masters of Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology, graduating summer 2026. At Hive of Hope, I see clients from diverse backgrounds and all ages. I work with clients who are neurodivergent, experience anxiety, depression, and trauma, and also help clients experiencing both personal and professional hardships and life events. My expertise lies not only in my education and training, but also in my creative background and through my own personal experience of healing from trauma through therapy. I have a deep understanding of how difficult it can be for those seeking therapy, and that understanding allows me to practice with the utmost empathy and compassion for those I work with. I bring creativity and nuance into the therapy room and practice through a Humanistic/Existential lens, and am well-versed in Client-Centered Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy. My goal is to provide a warm and comforting space for my clients where they can feel seen and heard, allowing for deeper introspection using evidence-based practices through an integrated approach.
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Under the Supervision of Tyler Elias, LMFT#132823
Brittaney Frenner
Britt is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student at Concordia University Irvine, currently completing her internship with Hive of Hope. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology from UC Davis and dual certifications in Health and Life Coaching from the Health Coach Institute.
She works primarily with teens and adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, with a particular focus on trauma and substance use concerns. Britt takes a direct, supportive, and collaborative approach, offering honest feedback while fostering a safe and respectful space for growth.
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Her work is informed by psychodynamic and existential perspectives and integrates evidence-based approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and strengths-based therapy.
Under the Supervision of Tyler Elias, LMFT#132823
Kaitlyn Fahey
Kaitlyn Fahey is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis
in Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University. She is completing her traineeship at
Hive of Hope, where she is passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate life’s
challenges, better understand themselves, and work toward personal growth.
Kaitlyn has experience working with children, adolescents, neurodivergent individuals, and
young adults. She enjoys helping clients recognize their strengths, gain a deeper understanding
of themselves, develop tools to navigate challenges, and feel more confident in their everyday
lives. While much of her experience has been with younger populations, she welcomes working
with individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Kaitlyn believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is an important part of the process.
She strives to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel
comfortable being themselves and sharing their experiences openly. She believes in approaching
each client with empathy, authenticity, and collaboration, while taking the time to understand
their individual experiences, needs, and goals.
Kaitlyn understands that starting therapy can feel vulnerable, and she is committed to meeting
each client where they are with compassion and understanding. She hopes to create a space
where clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward meeting their therapeutic
goals.
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Under the Supervision of Tyler Elias, LMFT#132823
Alex Theodoulou is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at Touro University Worldwide and is expected to graduate in Summer 2027. As an MFT Trainee at Hive of Hope, Alex is committed to creating a supportive and compassionate environment where clients feel safe to explore life's challenges at their own pace.
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Before pursuing a career in mental health, Alex earned a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship for the Fashion and Design Industries from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), a SUNY college, and worked as a Marketing Director in the fashion industry. These experiences fostered creativity, adaptability, strong interpersonal skills and an appreciation for each person's unique strengths and experiences.
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Alex's passion for helping others is deeply rooted in personal experience. Growing up with dyslexia and attending Westmark School in Encino provided firsthand insight into the importance of feeling understood, supported, and encouraged. These experiences continue to shape Alex's empathetic, patient and strengths-based approach to therapy.
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Alex welcomes children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, grief and trauma. Alex has a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults, including individuals with ADHD and learning differences. Drawing from both personal experience and clinical training, Alex understands the importance of helping clients recognize their strengths while navigating life's challenges.
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Alex believes therapy is a collaborative, client-centered process that empowers individuals to build resilience, deepen self-understanding and create meaningful change. As an MFT Trainee, Alex is dedicated to providing a warm, welcoming and nonjudgmental space where clients feel supported and empowered to grow.
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Under the Supervision of Dr. Bahareh Talei, PSY#21252
Amanda Seat
Hello! My name is Amanda, and I am currently serving as an Individual Living Skills Specialist. I am an undergraduate student at California Lutheran University, pursuing my education in psychology with an emphasis in family and child development. I hope to earn my master's degree to work in school and clinical settings in the future.
During my time at CLU, I have served as a Peer Health Educator with the Wellness Resources Department, educating college students on topics related to physical and mental health, and helped create a supportive campus environment. This role strengthened my communication, leadership, and advocacy skills while reinforcing my passion for helping others improve their overall well-being. I have also gained valuable experience through summer camp counseling, helping and supporting children and adolescents with autism and/or behavioral challenges.
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As part of the Hive of Hope team, I am excited to bring that same passion for education, encouragement, and person-centered support to the individuals I serve. My goal is to empower others by creating a safe, positive environment where they feel respected, heard, and supported as they work toward greater independence and confidence. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of Hive of Hope and look forward to learning from each individual while helping them achieve their personal goals.
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​Under the Supervision of Dr. Bahareh Talei, PSY#21252
Summer McStravick
Summer McStravick is an MFT trainee working with adults, couples, and families.
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Summer’s style is warm and direct when necessary. She'll tell you what she notices and ask the right questions instead leaving you endlessly circling.
She works particularly well with those with ADHD, OCD, or autism. Much of her work is with people who are neurodivergent, suspect they might be, or have simply spent a lifetime as the outsider looking in and who are tired of performing “normal.”
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She’s also experienced helping those in the "sandwich generation,” and with individuals experiencing major life transitions, burnout, grief, job loss, health diagnoses, and parenting, family or partnership conflict.
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With couples, her aim is making each person's actual needs heard by the other, and figuring out if closure or doubling-down is the right move.
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Before therapy, Summer spent a decade in publishing and two decades in mindfulness and personal growth. She's been married thirty years and has two adult children.
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Summer is completing her master's in Marriage and Family Therapy at Touro University Worldwide, drawing on narrative, affirming, ACT, and CBT approaches.
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Under the Supervision of Tyler Elias, LMFT#132823
Sage Innes
Sage Innes is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy through the Graduate School of Education and Psychology at Pepperdine University. As a Clinical Intern with Hive of Hope, Sage is committed to creating a warm, supportive, and compassionate environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.
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Sage has several years of experience working with children and adults, including individuals with special needs. Through her work supporting children, families, and individuals with diverse needs, she developed a deep appreciation for meeting each person where they are and recognizing the unique strengths they bring. While she has a special interest in working with children and families, she looks forward to supporting individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan.
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Sage believes that every client has a unique story and that therapy should be tailored to each person’s individual needs, strengths, and goals. She values building genuine therapeutic relationships and strives to provide a safe, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and experience meaningful personal growth.
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When she’s not in the office or the classroom, Sage enjoys making memories with family and friends, staying active at the gym, spending time with her pets, and discovering new coffee shops. She believes meaningful connections, a good cup of coffee, and moments of joy can make a big difference in everyday life, and she feels grateful to be part of the Hive of Hope team as she begins her journey of supporting others.
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​​Under the Supervision of Dr. Bahareh Talei, PSY#21252