Rick Stoeker, AMFT

Hello. I’m Rick Stoeker, a trauma-informed relational therapist based in Los Angeles. I have an approach that is founded on creating present moment awareness to support you through lifes challenges. I offer a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space to allow healing and self-discovery to naturally unfold.

I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to want change but not know where to begin. Many people try to heal by pushing through their pain, minimizing their struggles, or hoping things will eventually get better on their own. But lasting change doesn't come from forcing yourself to be different. It comes from understanding yourself with compassion, curiosity, and honesty.

My trauma-informed, relational approach integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help individuals heal from the impact of painful experiences, deepen self-awareness, and strengthen emotional well-being. Together, we will explore the parts of you that may feel stuck, overwhelmed, protective, or wounded, while creating space for greater self-compassion, resilience, and internal balance. Through EMDR, we can help your nervous system process and resolve traumatic memories that continue to influence your thoughts, emotions, relationships, and daily life.

For couples and diverse partner relationships, I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Relational Life Therapy (RLT) to help partners move beyond recurring conflict, disconnection, and resentment toward deeper understanding and lasting connection. EFT helps couples identify and transform the negative cycles that keep them stuck, fostering greater emotional safety, vulnerability, and secure attachment. RLT complements this work by helping partners take accountability, communicate more effectively, and develop the relational skills needed to create a healthier, more balanced partnership.

Whether you are seeking individual or couples therapy, our work together will emphasize present-moment awareness, compassionate curiosity, and meaningful change. I will help you uncover patterns that no longer serve you, process unresolved wounds, and develop practical tools for navigating life's challenges. As healing unfolds, you can begin to access your authentic self more fully, strengthen your relationships, and experience greater confidence, connection, and emotional freedom.

Therapy with me is about both deep healing and practical transformation. I provide a calm, attuned, and supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore difficult experiences, gain new insights, and move toward the life and relationships you want to create. If you're ready to begin a new chapter of healing, growth, and connection, I invite you to reach out. Follow the link to my website to learn more about my practice, approach, and experience.