Hi there! I’m Dr. Noosha Niv.

I’m the founder of Tools4Families, and I wear many hats in life—clinical psychologist, educator, researcher, daughter, sister, wife, and proud mom to an amazing kid and two lovable, slightly mischievous dogs.

I earned my doctoral degree in clinical psychology from UCLA and completed an NIMH predoctoral fellowship in psychosis and a NIDA postdoctoral fellowship at the UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs. Before launching Tools4Families, I spent over two decades working within the Department of Veterans Affairs, UC Los Angeles, and UC San Diego, where I held leadership and academic positions that deeply shaped my career and clinical philosophy. I served as the National Education Director for the VA Mental Health Centers, Deputy Director of the VA VISN 22 MIRECC (focused on improving outcomes for individuals with psychosis), Associate Research Psychologist at UCLA, and Associate Clinical Professor at UCSD. Today, I bring those years of experience to my independent work — creating programs, courses, and resources that help families navigate mental health challenges together.

I have a small private practice specializing in family and couples therapy, trauma, and serious mental illness. I’ve completed Level 3 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and primarily use Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Behavioral Family Therapy to support couples and families in strengthening their relationships. For individuals who are uncertain about their relationship and considering whether to stay or separate, I offer discernment counseling to help them navigate this complex decision. Additionally, I have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), enabling me to tailor treatments to meet the unique needs of the individuals, couples, and families I work with.

My expertise lies in helping clinicians bring evidence-based practices to life in healthcare systems and community care settings. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of training more than 3,000 clinicians across the country, as well as conducting research in family and couples therapy, psychosocial treatments for serious mental illnesses, and healthcare informatics.

When I’m not busy teaching, researching, or designing programs, I love spending time with family and friends—sharing good food, laughing over board games, crafting something new, or planning the next Girl Scout adventure. I’m happiest outdoors, especially when rafting, hiking, or exploring new places. At home, I’m usually trailed by our two lovable (and slightly mischievous) dogs. If you’re curious about my academic work, feel free to check out some of my publications here.