Courage Restored Counseling

Here at Courage Restored Counseling, we believe that growth and healing begin when you find compassion in a safe and non-judgmental setting with someone you trust. My name is Rika Matoba Lopez, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California dedicated to providing both in-person sessions and telehealth (online counseling) to teenagers, adults, couples, and families.

With a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, which I earned from Azusa Pacific University in 2009, I bring years of experience and expertise to my practice. I am a proud member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) and am registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California.

I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Therapists (IITAP), equipped with specialized training in working with couples experiencing betrayal trauma, as well as addressing sex, porn, love, and relationship addiction in both men and women.

Over my nearly 15-year career, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse clientele using a variety of therapeutic approaches. My expertise extends beyond sex addiction and encompasses areas like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and bereavement, parenting issues, boundary setting, and relational conflicts.

Assessment Tools for Deeper Understanding

As a CSAT candidate, I offer high-quality, research-based assessment tools that provide valuable insights into problematic or compulsive sexual behaviors, trauma, and the complex interplay of addiction. These tools are designed to empower you with knowledge about your behaviors, fostering clarity and focus on the root of the issue. Some of the assessments I utilize include:

• SDI 4.0 (Sexual Dependency Inventory)
• SDMI (Sexual Dependency Media Inventory)
• PTSI (Post-Traumatic Stress Inventory)
• IPAST (Inventory for Partner Anxiety, Stress, Trauma)
• SAST (Sexual Addiction Screening Test)

A Holistic Approach to Healing

My approach as a licensed marriage and family therapist is centered on providing quality mental health care that is both professional and effective. I believe in treating each individual as a unique and holistic being, recognizing the interconnectedness of the heart, soul, mind, and body. When challenging experiences or painful situations arise, these parts of ourselves can become fragmented and disconnected. Through my therapy sessions, I aim to uncover your story, helping you identify those gaps and work towards greater wholeness within yourself.

Couples/Betrayal Trauma

Experiencing betrayal within a relationship can be deeply painful and leave you feeling uncertain and vulnerable. If you're struggling with trust issues or navigating the aftermath of infidelity, know that you're not alone. I offer specialized support for couples impacted by betrayal trauma, providing a safe space to explore the complexities of your situation and work towards healing and rebuilding your relationship.

Sexual Addiction Recovery

If you find yourself struggling to control your use of pornography, sexting, casual hookups, or other sexually impulsive behaviors, it's crucial to seek help. You may be caught in the throes of sex addiction, porn addiction, love addiction, or unhealthy relationship patterns. Explore the root of these behaviors through therapy and learn to develop healthier coping mechanisms and cultivate fulfilling relationships based on authentic connection.

Spiritual Healing

Have you experienced pain or trauma within a religious or spiritual context? If shame, guilt, or feelings of abandonment by God linger after negative experiences with religious institutions or leaders, know that healing is possible. I offer a compassionate and judgment-free space to explore your spiritual wounds, untangle distorted beliefs, and rediscover a sense of wholeness and connection to yourself and a higher power.