About Dr. Rashelle Hakak, Ph.D.
Dr. Rashelle Hakak is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience providing therapy across the lifespan, offering developmentally attuned support for children, adolescents, college students, young adults, and adults. She tailors her approach to meet individuals where they are—helping children build awareness, guiding teens through identity formation, supporting college students in managing transitions and stress, and empowering adults to navigate relationships, career challenges, and personal growth. She offers a warm, collaborative space where clients feel safe to explore challenges, foster resilience, and connect with their authentic selves.
Dr. Hakak’s therapeutic work is grounded in evidence-based modalities, including:
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Trauma-Focused CBT
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Functional Family Therapy (FFT)
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Her approach draws from ecological and family systems frameworks, allowing her to support individuals and families not only as they are, but also within the broader context of their relationships, communities, and environments. Clients are encouraged to reflect, grow, and reconnect with their inner guidance.
Areas of Specialization
Dr. Hakak works with a wide range of concerns, including:
• Life transitions and adjustment-related stress
• Anxiety and mood disorders
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Trauma and intergenerational trauma
• Complex learning and neurodevelopmental profiles
• Family, interpersonal, and intergenerational cultural conflict
• Academic and school-related challenges
She has unique expertise and works with twice-exceptional (2e) individuals—those who are gifted and also experience learning differences or neurodivergence. She also works closely with families managing complex medical and genetic conditions, including PANS/PANDAS.
Educational Consultation & Advocacy
With deep knowledge of the educational system, Dr. Hakak provides:
• Forensic consultation to school districts
• Private educational consulting and advocacy services for children and families navigating IEPs, 504 plans, and school accommodations
Her goal is to empower families and help ensure that the individual student receives the support and services they need to thrive both emotionally and academically.
Professional Background
Dr. Hakak earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the APA-accredited California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego. She completed her APA-accredited internship at Western Youth Services, where she gained broad training in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment for youth and families.
During her Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Los Angeles Veterans Affairs, Dr. Hakak co-developed a Family Therapy Treatment Program and provided training to psychiatry residents and fellows. She pioneered and led the development of the Telepsychiatry Regional Center Research Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Other clinical and research includes positions at University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Psychiatric Hospital and The UCLA Help Group.
Dr. Hakak has provided care in a wide range of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, schools, and private practice, offering a comprehensive and compassionate approach to treatment.