Getting Help Starts with You
We specialize in psychotherapy services that acknowledge your past while providing a safe space to explore your future
Central Counseling Services is a group practice with locations in Riverside and Murrieta, California. Our team, including LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCCs, and registered associates, provides individual, couples, and family counseling in a safe, comfortable, and confidential setting. We are a very diverse team with a diverse set of expertise.
Including helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, shame, guilt, and relationship challenges. Our specializations include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Couples/Marriage Therapy, Family Therapy, DBT, etc. Whether you're waking up at 3 am feeling alone, carrying pain you can't put down, or just ready to build a better life — we're here for that.
Our therapists take the time to get to know you. We work with you at your pace, helping you feel better, regain control, and move forward. If you've been waiting for the right time to get support, this is it.
Client Centered
Proven Methods
Client Centered Proven Methods
What We Do Best
Central Counseling Services is made up of professionals who have received extensive training in methods meant to meet your specific needs. We specialize in multicultural and multi-generational experiences. Our therapists are equipped to find balance in evidence-based approaches while focusing on prioritizing a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
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We treat anxiety that shows up as constant worry, panic attacks, physical tension, and avoidance that limits daily life, including generalized anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, separation anxiety, social anxiety, and phobias—like fears of vomiting, injury, needles, or blood.
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We treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that shows up as distressing obsessions, compulsions, and intrusive thoughts. This includes contamination fears, harm OCD, and any overarching compulsive behavior that may cause trouble to your daily life.
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Experiencing trauma can leave lasting emotional wounds. Whether you’ve endured childhood trauma, intimate partner violence, or other distressing experiences, we provide trauma-focused therapy, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction to help you regain control and find healing.
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Relationships can be challenging when communication breaks down. Whether you and your partner feel unheard, disconnected, or stuck in constant conflict, we can help. Using expert communication strategies, we guide couples in rebuilding trust, understanding values, and creating deeper connections. Even if your partner won’t attend, we can still help you strengthen your relationship.
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Losing a loved one—whether through illness, sudden loss, or other circumstances—can be overwhelming. Our therapists specialize in grief and loss counseling for all ages, including grief from dementia, chronic illness, pet loss, and intimate partner loss. We offer compassionate support using evidence-based techniques to help you process your grief and find meaning in your journey forward.
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Trauma can affect anyone. EMDR’s goal is to help you heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. EMDR recognizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body and relies on two core components: bilateral stimulation and the mind-body connection. EMDR is proven to help individuals who may find traditional talk therapy challenging, as it offers a structured and experiential approach that focuses on processing memories and alleviating associated distress.
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Low self-esteem and self-doubt can hold you back from living fully. Whether you are recovering from past trauma, struggling with anxiety, or feeling stuck in life, we provide therapeutic support to help you rebuild confidence, set healthy boundaries, and embrace a more fulfilling future.
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Parenting is rewarding, but it also comes with challenges. We provide therapy for parents dealing with child behavioral issues, teen anxiety, blended family dynamics, and communication struggles. Our goal is to help parents create a nurturing, structured, and supportive home environment.
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Dementia affects not only those diagnosed but also their loved ones. We offer specialized support for individuals with dementia as well as therapy for caregivers, helping them navigate the emotional and practical challenges of this condition. We also provide grief counseling for those coping with the loss of a loved one due to dementia.
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Adoption is a meaningful journey, but it comes with unique emotional complexities. We offer therapy for adoptive parents, adoptees, and foster families, helping them navigate identity, attachment issues, and post-adoption challenges. Our experience in working with child welfare professionals and social workers allows us to provide well-rounded, informed support.
Jill Johnson-Young, LCSW
Jill is the author of Your Own Path Through Grief, a workbook for those in the grief process to work toward recovery, which can be used individually, in a group, or with a therapist. She’s also the author of children’s books “Someone is sick- how do I say goodbye?” “Someone I Love Just Died: What happens now?” and “My Pet Is Sick; It’s Time to Say Goodbye”.
Founder/Clinical Director
Sherry Shockey-Pope, LMFT,
I began my career in this field because I wanted to help people find their passion and zest for life. My goal working with clients is to help them find their voice and get out of pain as quickly as possible. It is my privilege to work with my clients as they walk their life's journey.
Founder/OwnerTracy Shockey-Pope, LCSW,
I started working in the mental health field because I wanted to make a difference in people's lives. I have worked with many people who struggle with significant mental health problems. They are stuck, feeling like they have nowhere to turn, unsure how to fix the problem, or blaming themselves for being ________________ (fill in the blank).
Founder/OwnerOur Locations
Riverside
Murietta
Downtown Riverside (Wellness CSS)
Book Your Appointment Today
Trauma healing is not about “getting over it.” It begins with safety, support, and compassion. Learn how trauma can affect the nervous system, relationships, and daily life.