Grace Nowzari
Summary
California Associate Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges with greater self-awareness, resilience, and connection. Draws from a holistic, client-centered approach that integrates Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and family systems perspectives. Passionate about creating a collaborative therapeutic space where clients can explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and create meaningful change.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Clinician
New Directions for Veterans
Los Angeles
01.2024 - 05.2026
- Conducted comprehensive biopsychosocial evaluations and formulated evidence-based treatment plans to address clients' presenting concerns and long-term recovery goals.
- Maintained thorough and compliant clinical records, ensuring adherence to legal, ethical, and organizational standards.
- Delivered individual psychotherapy to veterans with PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and co-occurring mental health conditions using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed approaches.
- Partnered with multidisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, social workers, and case managers, to provide coordinated, client-centered care.
- Responded effectively to psychiatric crises by conducting risk assessments, implementing safety plans, and facilitating appropriate levels of care.
- Empowered veterans experiencing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and housing insecurity through therapeutic intervention, resource coordination, and strengths-based support.
Researcher
Ping Pong for Good
Los Angeles
08.2024 - 12.2025
- Developed research surveys and collected participant data to assess the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial benefits of table tennis for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.
- Provided individualized coaching and skill instruction to players of varying experience levels, promoting motor skill development, confidence, and social connection.
- Organized and executed fundraising events to secure program resources, expand community outreach, and attract new volunteers and participants.
Consultant
Innovative Collegiate Consultants
Los Angeles
08.2022 - 05.2024
- Assisted students with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning disorders in strengthening executive functioning skills, improving academic performance, and increasing overall educational success.
- Delivered individualized instruction in research writing, study skills, and organization strategies to enhance academic achievement and foster independent learning.
Research Assistant
UCLA's Microbiology Program
Los Angeles
08.2021 - 05.2022
- Conducted literature reviews and analyzed scientific research to support data interpretation and evidence-based conclusions.
- Applied laboratory techniques, including microscopy and specimen preparation, to contribute to research examining Toxoplasma gondii.
- Communicated complex research findings through presentations to academic audiences, strengthening scientific literacy and engagement.
Education
Master of Arts - Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA05-2025
Bachelor of Arts - Communication and French
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA05-2021
Skills
- Individual Therapy
- Group Therapy
- Treatment Planning
- Crisis Intervention
- Risk Assessment
- CBT
- Motivational Interviewing
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Family Systems Therapy
- Psychoeducation
Professional Credentials
- California Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #159236)
- Passed National MFT Examination (2026)
- North Carolina LMFTA Application in Process
Specialized Training & Certifications
- Gottman Method Training
- Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Motivational Interviewing
- Neurofeedback Research Experience
Languages
- French
- Farsi
Accomplishments
- Magna Cum Laude
- Member, Psi Chi
- Dean's List, Pepperdine University
- Dean's List, University of Southern California
Leadership Experience
- Founded and facilitated a mindfulness-based improvisation program designed to reduce anxiety, strengthen emotional regulation, and build self-confidence among individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Collected and analyzed participant feedback to evaluate program effectiveness and inform ongoing development.
- President, USC Ping Pong Posse: Oversaw operations of a collegiate table tennis organization, directing player development, coordinating team activities, and empowering executive board members to support organizational growth, member engagement, and tournament preparation.
Timeline
Researcher
Ping Pong for Good
08.2024 - 12.2025
Clinician
New Directions for Veterans
01.2024 - 05.2026
Consultant
Innovative Collegiate Consultants
08.2022 - 05.2024
Research Assistant
UCLA's Microbiology Program
08.2021 - 05.2022
Master of Arts - Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Pepperdine University
Bachelor of Arts - Communication and French
University of Southern California