Learn how MILIKA can help you thrive | Watch Video
In a society that often equates success with self-worth, imperfection and failure can feel like a devastating blow.
Whether it's a setback, a disappointment, or a challenging circumstance, adversity can create fear and erode your resilience. This can hold you back from achieving your aspirations, nurturing meaningful relationships, and living a fulfilling life.
Therapy in Encino, Los Angeles, CA and Online Across California
Our Services
Specialties
We offer mental health treatment and resilience skill-building programs to target a wide range of symptoms and challenges.
- Resilience Training in Encino, CA -
BUILDING RESILIENCE IN CHILDREN & TEENS
CBT in Encino CA and Online Across California
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)
CBT is one of the most effective, research-backed therapies for anxiety, depression, stress, and more. At Milika Center, we help children, teens, and adults step out of old, stuck patterns—and build healthier ways to think, feel, and respond. By reshaping how we think and react, CBT helps rewire the brain’s response to stress—making space for calmer reactions and healthier emotional patterns.
Learn how CBT can help you or your loved one.
TESTIMONIALS
"Dr. Kanchi and her team are life savers...
As a UCLA provider, I need trusted referral sources for my most vulnerable patients. The MILIKA Center provides patient-centered, comprehensive, and evidence based care for youth and families who are facing medical stress and/or anything else that life throws our way. Look no farther this private practice. They will work with your family, patient and/or team and provide ACTUAL GOOD MENTAL HEALTH CARE!! Worth every penny!"
Dr. Natacha Emerson | Clinical Psychologist, Ph.D.
Co-Director for UCLA Pediatric Psychiatry Consultation-Liaison (C/L) Service at UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center and the Pediatric Psychology C/L Service at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital
"The therapists and team at MILIKA are fantastic...
As a pediatric neurologist i see many patients who would benefit from mental health care for school related anxiety, stress over college applications, difficulty coping with a chronic illness, and various other reasons. I never hesitate to refer patients to MILIKA. And all my patients who have worked with MILIKA therapists report a wonderful and beneficial experience. I also like that MILIKA will work with patients' insurance companies to reduce out of pocket costs."
100% recommend the MILIKA Center.
- Dr. Lauren Waldron | UCLA Pediatric Neurologist, M.D.
"Dr. (Kanchi) Wijesekera has been a trusted expert in trauma therapy, offering evidence-based approaches that foster deep healing...
Milika Center for Therapy and Resilience is a testament to her commitment to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care. With a team of skilled professionals and a welcoming environment, the center specializes in trauma recovery through innovative techniques that are family focused, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed. Whether for individual healing or community support, this center is a beacon of hope for those seeking to reclaim their well-being. Highly recommended!"
- Dr. Blanca Orellana | Ph.D. | Co-Director UCLA Stress, Trauma & Resilience Clinic
"I've had the pleasure of referring patients to Dr. Kanchi and her team at the MILIKA Center...
...and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive! As a psychiatrist, I'm always on the lookout for top-notch resources to support my patients' mental health journeys. Their comprehensive therapy and resilience training programs for children, teens, and adults have made a tangible difference in the lives of my patients. I highly recommend the MILIKA Center!"
-Linslee Egan, M.D. | Board Certified Psychiatrist
"Dr. Kanchi and her team at MILIKA have been phenomenal!
They have gone above and beyond in caring for the patients I have referred."
-Dr. Juan Alejos | MD |
Medical Director of UCLA Pediatric Heart Transplant/Cardiomyopathy Program. The Director of the UCLA Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension program.
"Dr. Kanchi is one of the most gifted therapists that I have ever worked with...
Dr. Kanchi Wijesekera is one of the most gifted therapists I have ever worked with. Not only is she aware of the latest evidence-based modalities, but she has the secret ingredient of being able to attune to her patients in such a meaningful way. She truly is an absolute gem of a human and I would trust her to treat any one of my family members."
-Dr. Misty Richards | MD
Co-Founder and Medical Director of UCLA Perinatal Psychiatry for the Maternal Outpatient Mental Health Services (MOMS) Clinic |
Associate Medical Director of the UCLA Maternal Mental Health Partial Hospitalization Program|
ABOUT US
Why Work With Milika Center For Therapy & Resilience
Here at Milika Center for Therapy & Resilience, we understand that seeking help for mental health concerns is a courageous and transformative step.
Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, depression, significant life changes, or are on a quest for personal growth, know that you are not alone. Our team is here to offer support and expert guidance every step of the way. Together, we can work towards building unshakable resilience, fostering self-awareness, and unlocking the potential for positive change.
As the MILIKA Founder and Clinical Director, I am committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
Thank you for choosing us as your partner in your mental wellness journey. We are so honored and excited to be here for you and help you unleash your inner resilience!
Warmest Regards,
Dr. Kanchi
Meet The Team
Clinical Director
Kanchi Wijesekera, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
Venus Mirbod, Psy.D.
Clinical Psychotherapist
Shilloy Sanchez-Lomeli, Ph.D., LMFT
Clinical Psychotherapist
Estela Cabrera, LCSW.
Associate Clinical Therapist
Lindsay Merrill, AMFT.
Associate Clinical Therapist
Matthew Banooni, AMFT.
Associate Clinical Therapist
Jasmine Chow, AMFT.
Doctoral (Psy.D.) Clinical Trainee
Isabella Vigna, M.A.
Care Coordinator
Hailee Strong, M.A.
Yoga Instructor
Laily Gallo
HOW OUR THERAPY WORKS
Step 1
Get In Touch
Schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation to explore our services. This session allows you to ask questions, familiarize yourself with our approaches, and determine if we're the right fit for you.
Step 2
Get Personalized Support
We tailor our support to meet you where you are, building upon your current strengths as we work together towards healing and growth.
STEP 3
Embrace Positive Change
Begin making meaningful shifts in your life, paving the way for resilience and fulfillment, and creating the life you've always wanted.
STEP 4
Graduate With Confidence
Graduating from therapy is not an end, but a new beginning. You'll leave therapy with the tools and confidence to continue thriving and growing, long after our work together is complete.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Therapy Solutions for Every Californian
Online/Virtual Sessions Across California
Online sessions offer excellent flexibility in accessing therapy in a timely manner and help skip the LA traffic! Online sessions are delivered on a secure and HIPPA-compliant platform, and they can be accessed on a mobile device, iPad, laptop, or desktop with camera access.
If you are a resident anywhere in California, this is a great option for you!
In-Office Sessions in Encino & Brentwood, CA
In-office sessions can be scheduled in Encino and Brentwood, CA.
Our office suites offer bright, airy, and cozy therapeutic spaces with private waiting rooms and breathtaking, serene views. Both offices are steps away from restaurants and shops where you can stop before or after for a quick recharge.
Phone Sessions Across California
Per client requests, sessions can be delivered over the phone when needed.
Featured Articles
"HAPPINESS IS NOT SOMETHING READY MADE, IT COMES FROM YOUR OWN ACTIONS"
Dalai Lama
ready to get started?
If you’re looking to get started with Milika Center for Therapy & Resilience, please get in touch with us.
You can book directly online using the "Book a Free Consultation" button below. If you prefer, you can also send us a message or call us, and we will get you scheduled.