Irene Akther, M.A., RPA

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Meet Irene Akther, Registered Psychological Associate, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, and third-year Clinical Psychology doctoral student at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Mount St. Mary’s University. Irene works under the direct supervision of seasoned professionals, Heather Hettinger, Psy.D. #PSY35580 and Neda Safvati, Psy.D. #PSY25346.

Irene has clinical experience in community mental health, residential treatment, and private practice, supporting clients across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, identity development, and relationship challenges. She believes clients are the best authors of their own lives and offers warmth, curiosity, and collaboration while gently challenging them to recognize their resilience. Her approach integrates a humanistic foundation with evidence-based methods such as CBT, ACT, and DBT, helping clients embrace authenticity, build resilience, and break free from unhelpful patterns.

As a South Asian therapist, Irene is passionate about reducing cultural stigma around mental health and empowering women to embrace independence and self-confidence. Her goal is to help clients align choices with values and move toward meaningful growth. She is committed to creating a safe, collaborative space where clients feel understood, supported, and capable of lasting change.