
About Dr. Edden Agonafer, PsyD, MA
Dr. Edden Agonafer (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who present with a wide range of concerns. Dr. Agonafer is a culturally sensitive, integrative, and holistic practitioner who tends to the needs of “the whole person.” She carefully assesses psychological, emotional, spiritual, professional, and personal needs and implements appropriate interventions and provides helpful recommendations. Dr. Agonafer’s approach focuses on cultural humility and sensitivity, trauma-informed care, assessment of strengths and areas of development, and collaborative care.
Dr. Agonafer has worked in a wide variety of clinical settings, including school-based, community mental health, integrated medical clinic, and college counseling centers. She offers various clinical services to both individuals and groups, outreach and prevention support (workshops, trainings, public speaking), and topic-specific consultation. Currently, she is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California where she provides clinical services to USC students. In addition, she is an Adjunct Professor in the MFT program in Rossier School of Education at USC.
Dr. Agonafer grew up in Texas and relocated to California to pursue her graduate studies. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Development and Family Services from The University of Texas at Austin. She completed her Master of Arts in Psychology, Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies, and Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.
A Note on Therapy vs. Life Coaching
Participating in therapy is not the same as seeing a life coach. Therapy addresses and heals areas of life that are significantly impacted while coaching focuses on enhancing the quality of life without unpacking past experiences and pains. A life coach offers insight and motivation for change while a therapist (e.g., psychologist, social worker, marriage and family therapist) provides treatment to provide support on various and potentially long-standing issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, eating-related disorders, and complex relationship issues.
​
If you are seeking life coaching, please visit Walk Lite Coaching Services to learn more about my coaching offerings.