About Mat Chirman

Mat Chirman, licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

My approach to therapy….

Since 1999 I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues, drug and alcohol abuse/dependence, and other relationship and mental health concerns. I specialize in and enjoy working with challenging problems that have been resistant to change. I have specialized training in Cognitive Therapy and Schema Therapy, and I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, skills building, stress reduction and psycho-education, and "anything that works", all within a context that is supportive, client-centered, and recovery focused.

I respect the strengths and knowledge that my clients bring with them to the therapy process. You are the expert in what will work in your life situation. I see my role as one of offering alternative perspectives, helping you develop life and relationship-enhancing skills, and supporting you in making positive changes in your life.

I have been happily married for 32 years and have two children, both adults. My interests include hiking, natural history, cooking and baking, and organic gardening.

My education and training....

I completed my Masters of Science Degree in Community Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I hold a second Masters of Science in Educational Leadership.I am a Diplomate in Cognitive Therapy of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I am a Standard Level Certified Individual Schema Therapist. I have additional specialized training and experience in the treatment of mental illness.

Awards

I am recipient of the prestigious 2025 Mary Riemersma Distinguished Clinical Member Award, given for 25 years of support and service to clients with Borderline Personality Disorder. "A Distinguished Clinical Member is a clinical member or Life clinical member who has given outstanding service in the field of marriage and family therapy and the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists." The award is presented by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Nomination is by peers in Marriage and Family Therapy.

My specialized experience....

I am trained in treating both victims and perpetrators of intimate partner abuse and violence, and in the related field of anger management. Over the last 20 years I have facilitated treatment groups for clients with Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Panic/Anxiety Disorders. I worked for 11 years at San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health and have extensive experience working with clients who have mental illness. I have developed and facilitated Borderline Personality Disorder Family Support groups, psychoeducational support groups for family members and those supporting someone with Borderline Personality Disorder.

My licensing and professional affiliations…

I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist (# 39579) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (#551). I am licensed in Oregon as a Marriage and Family Therapist (#T2923). I am a National Certified Counselor through the National Board of Certified Counselors (Certificate # 57159). I am a Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy (#01049), and a Certified Individual Schema Therapist (#1122-S). I maintain a clinical membership in the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (#59707), the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and the International Society of Schema Therapy (#US000711) .