Bernous Psychological Services

President / Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Behzad Bernous is a Licensed clinical psychologist, licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Certified Life Coach (LC) practicing in Southern California. He is also a professor of psychology and teaches at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and National University, as well as being the president of the Bernous Psychological Services in Newport Beach, CA. Dr. Bernous also specializes in psychological testing and evaluation and conducts testing and evaluations such as memory and cognitive assessments, intellectual and academic abilities assessments, and many more for a variety of sources including forensic evaluation for courts, fitness for duty, and Department of Defense (DOD) evaluations.
Dr. Bernous’ extensive knowledge and experience in psychology and art (photojournalist for more than 15 years) enables him to be an avid observer, a good listener, as well as a creative solution finder. Dr. Bernous is among the leading psychologists utilizing photo therapy in his practice which is an innovative use of photography to reduce mental health symptoms. You can find out more about phototherapy by visiting our services page. 
Dr. Bernous’ theoretical approach in therapy is psychodynamic, which involves the various forces of the mind that are in motion. This approach considers different psychological factors as having effects on an individual’s life. These factors could be known or unknown to us. The goal of psychodynamic therapy is to make us aware of unknown thoughts, feelings, and desires. This way, we can develop new ways of thinking about ourselves and new ways of relating to others, while learning to be more flexible in dealing with our problems. This method of therapy allows for a new aspect of our personality to grow; in other words, it allows us to become the best person we can be.
​Dr. Bernous provides therapy both in English and Farsi.

Alexandre Kargar,  Psy.D.

Psychological Associate

Dr. Alexandre Kargar has a doctorate in Clinical psychology and is currently working under the supervision of Dr. Bernous. He has a teaching background in clinical psychology at university and is a licensed clinical psychologist in France. He has worked as a therapist and psychological assistant with a variety of emotional, cognitive and conduct-disordered children and adults in a multi-cultural backgrounds. His expertise is working with developmentally disabled adults and children and family management. 
Dr. Kargar is also a certified life coach focused on transitional and crisis interventions.
Dr. Kargar provides therapy in English, French, and Farsi.

Ariana Ahani, Psy.D.

Psychological Associate

Dr. Ariana Ahani is a psychological associate currently working under the supervision of Dr. Bernous. Dr. Ariana received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in general psychology and her doctoral degree in clinical psychology. She conducts psychotherapy with individuals suffering from addiction, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. She also works with immigrants facing acculturation problems as well as individuals seeking personal growth. Dr. Ariana provides a safe, respectful, and growing space for her clients to build inner strength in facing difficulties and find meaning in life. ​Dr. Ariana believes that a human’s true wealth is the ability to fully experience life, which is the cornerstone of her approach to helping her clients live life to the fullest. Dr. Ariana provides therapy both in English and Farsi.

Soheila Norolouni, LMFT 

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Soheila Norolouni a licensed marriage and family therapist with seven years of experience treating individuals, couples and families to overcome and manage their daily stress, anxiety, depression, substance use, behavioral issues, relational distress, anger, compulsiveness, complex grief, unresolved past trauma, attachment wounds and other mental health and behavioral challenges. 

Soheila’s approach in therapy is to be present as a healthy attachment figure for the wounded and detached individual who feels left out and isolated in this world. By listening empathically and taking a nonjudgmental stance, she provides a trusting environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable to share their inner struggles. Soheila moves with client’s pace and will work with what they bring into the session. Soheila admires people who seek therapy for the purpose of gaining insight into their relational issues with self and others. They choose to embrace vulnerability and work steadily to reach their goals. Despite the discomfort and ambiguity of the process, they stay focused on their intention of creating a healthier life. ​Soheila believes that not every modality works for all. By catering to each client’s specific needs, Soheila utilizes the appropriate approach in order to help them move past their struggles and to gain a sense of strength to fulfill their mental health needs. 
​Soheila provides therapy both in English and Farsi.