About Me
Craig Steckowski, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
- B.S Psychology from University of Maryland
- M.A Couples and Family Therapy from Alliant International University
- Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
- California License 123706
- North Carolina License 20922
- Virginia License 0717002381
My Approach
I approach our work with genuine curiosity about your lived experience—to understand what you’re feeling, how it’s impacting you, and to tailor therapy to you, not you into therapy. I want you to be an active participant in this journey. If something I suggest doesn’t resonate or work, I want to know. This is a partnership. I’m an ally walking this healing journey with you. Therapy is rarely linear—it often branches and winds in unexpected directions. We’ll walk that path together.
If you’re new to therapy, learn more about what to expect.
My Background
I am a Retired United States Marine, whose career includes combat tours in Operation Iraqi Freedom I & II. In the few years before retiring, I had the opportunity to serve as a Lead Unit Victim Advocate and Master Trainer. This opportunity and the significant shift within the Military on its view and support of Mental Health, led me to pursue a course of study in Psychology and ultimately to become a Therapist.
I earned my bachelor’s in psychology from the University of Maryland while still on active duty. After retiring, I went to Alliant International University in Irvine for my master’s in couples and family therapy.
Since becoming a therapist, I’ve worked in settings most people don’t think about – forensic therapy with sex offenders, drug court liaison work, behavioral health with unhoused populations, community mental health leadership. These aren’t typical therapy jobs, and they weren’t always easy. But they taught me to sit with discomfort, to meet people in the hardest moments of their lives, and to not flinch when things get real.
Many of the roles I have filled have been unique and, at times, challenging. I bring my diverse experiences and background into my own therapy practice, allowing me to connect with and support a wide range of struggles.
My Philosophy
My philosophy of therapy comes down to two things. First, you have to feel safe enough with your therapist to actually be honest – otherwise we’re just having polite conversations that don’t go anywhere. Second, no two people are the same. Everyone’s lived experience is unique, and therapy needs to fit you, not the other way around.
This philosophy shapes my approach. I work to create connection and trust in our sessions. You’ll never be judged or criticized for your thoughts, feelings, or struggles. I want therapy to be a refuge—a safe space where you can be open and vulnerable in ways that feel difficult in daily life. Our time together is a space where we talk like real humans: unfiltered, uncensored, and unapologetically real. No stereotypical “and how did that make you feel” talk here.
Free Introductory Session
I believe the most important part of therapy is the connection between you and your therapist. It's hard to know if we'll be a good fit from just a profile and photo. That's why I offer a free 30-minute introductory video session—a chance for you to ask questions, get a sense of who I am, and hear more about how I work with clients. There's no pressure, just an opportunity to see if we might be right for each other.