Kelli Simmerok, BA (starting August 18th)
Kelli Simmerok, BA
Professional Clinical Counselor Trainee
(408-317-2481
Supervised by Mariana Nenadic-Shanks, MA, LMFT 40783
Education/Degrees
BA Psychology 1996 Azusa Pacific University
In process: Concordia University, Irvine Masters in Counseling, estimated grad date: August 2026
Memberships
Chi Sigma Iota, Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International
My Background
Kelli Simmerok is a dedicated therapist-in-training with a heart for helping individuals navigate trauma, grief, and emotional pain. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Counseling at Concordia University, Irvine, on the path to becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
For over 25 years, Kelli has also worked in the real estate industry, guiding individuals and families through major life transitions such as buying or selling a home, relocation, loss, and change. Her experience in this field has given her a unique perspective on the emotional impact of transitions and the stressors that often accompany them.
Kelli brings a strong background in working with at-risk youth and has extensive experience in educational outreach and client support. She served as Co-Director of Education at Real Options, where she led and presented STD and abstinence education programs to middle school, high school, and college students. As a longtime volunteer and client advocate at Real Options, Kelli has walked alongside many individuals facing life-altering decisions with compassion and care.
She has a special interest in working with individuals who are navigating trauma, traumatic loss, grief, depression, and anxiety. Her approach is empathetic, relational, and rooted in a desire to provide a safe and healing space for her clients. Kelli has completed advanced training in Smart Stepfamily Therapy, equipping her to support blended families and complex relational dynamics.
Areas of Focus
I focus on: Trauma and traumatic loss, Depression and anxiety, Grief, Life transitions, At-risk youth, Family relationships, Step/blended families, and Faith-based counseling.
Fun Facts About Kelli
Kelli has been married since 1996 and is a proud mother to a daughter and son, mother-in-law to a wonderful son-in-law, and a joyful grandmother to a precious granddaughter. Her personal and professional experiences deeply inform her compassionate and practical approach to therapy.
