About Dr. Mina Hah and Synapse Association

My name is Anny Baker, I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor under the supervision of Dr. Hah. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of California, Davis (UCD) with highest honors for my contribution to the field of psychology. While attending UCD, I conducted research on the neural pathways involved in the development of empathy in children. I went on to receive my Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Sacramento where I conducted research on social justice in couples therapy, disenfranchised grief in the coming outprocess of trans people, and non-suicidal self-injury.

I am dedicated to creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity for all patients. I use a person-centered approach in my treatment as I believe the connection between you and myself is the foundation on which all great things can be built from. I come from a place of unconditional positive regard, am genuine in my interactions, and hold a judgement-free space for you to explore your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. Using cognitive behavioral methods, we can see how thoughts are directly linked to our emotions and learn tools to understand and organize the thoughts that influence our behaviors. I enjoy working together to identify harmful thought patterns and collaborate to come up with ways to challenge these thoughts. Overall, I believe that you are the expert in your own life. Only you know how you think, feel, and experience the world and I am here to listen so we can both get a better understanding of what it means for you.

View my profile on Psychology Today

• 2022 – Research on Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
• 2022 – Introduction to Brainspotting
• 2022 – The Culture and Process of Foster Youth in and out of Home Placement for Professionals Working with Foster Youth and Their Families
• 2021 – Research on Socio-Emotional Relationship Therapy in Couples Therapy
• 2021 – California Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training
• 2021 – Strategic Planning Approach to Suicide Prevention
• 2020 – Improving Cultural Competency for Behavioral Health Professionals
• 2019 – Research on Neural Pathways Involved in the Development of Empathy in Children
• Phobias
• Psychotic disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Schizophreniform disorder, Brief Psychotic Disorder, Mania, Psychosis)

•   California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)

Anny Baker is a delight to work with and facilitates a welcoming and inspiring environment. While working as the lead medical assistant, I received direct patient feedback about the work that Anny Baker does at Synapse Association. Her patients love working with her and have made comments such as “She is such a great listener” and “She is the best therapist that I’ve ever had”. Anny works diligently to provide the best personalized care to each individual patient. She is experienced with children, adolescent patients and adults, and would be a great fit for anyone seeking quality therapeutic services.

Hello! My name is Esmeralda. I am passionate and centered on creating a welcoming and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and have experience providing therapeutic services in both languages. I am open to working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I utilize research-based interventions to cater to a diverse population across all age ranges. I have a background in CBT, Art Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Play Therapy, and more. I am committed to fostering emotional well-being through a compassionate and inclusive approach. I have experience helping clients navigate grief, self-esteem issues, anger, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. I am empathetic, kind, and understanding. Thank you for taking your time to read through my bio! If you are interested in booking a session, please feel free to reach out to Synapse Association.