Mike Ornelas

LCSW (he/him)10 years of experienceNext available
4.9 (42)
Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

My values as a therapist include openness, non-judgment, empathy, cultural humility, strength based, and unconditional positive regard. My approach is integrative and centers the needs of my clients; I utilize active interventions involving cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical

My approach is integrative and centers the needs of my clients; I utilize active interventions involving cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused-therapy, motivational interviewing, grief and loss, to name a few.

behavior therapy, solution focused-therapy, motivational interviewing, grief and loss, to name a few. I aspire to cultivate a trusting, safe and empowering space for the people I serve. I place a lot of emphasis on building a therapeutic relationship with patients that allows for authentic self-expression.

First session

Once we decide on the direction of our work, I will invite you into reflection and action, offering tools and resources along the way to assist you in practicing more supportive and sustainable ways of relating to self and others.

Strengths

By fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental therapeutic environment, I ensure my patients feel heard, supported, and empowered in their healing journey. I believe in creating a strong working alliance with my patients.

Ideal clients

As a mental health clinician specializing in depression, anxiety, and trauma to name a few, using evidence based therapies tailored to each individual's needs. I serve individuals ranging from teenagers to adults.

Treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I utilize CBT to help my patients identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, behaviors, and emotional patterns. I have used CBT to treat anxiety, depression, and PTSD with both children and adults.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

I utilize DBT to help patients develop emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness. I have been using DBT to help patients ranging from adolescence to adults living with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and BPD.

Motivational Interviewing

I use motivational interviewing to help my patients find internal motivation to change unhealthy behaviors. I have found MI useful to help with issues such as chronic disease management and lifestyle changes.

Solution Focused Brief Treatment

I find SFT useful for patients who can use help identifying and build on their strengths and resources to create positive change. SFT can help encourage patients to envision their desired future and take small, practical steps towards achieving it.

Location

Virtual sessions

Identifies as

  • Hispanic / Latinx

  • Man

Top specialties

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Recent Hospitalization

Other specialties

  • Chronic Illness

  • Coping Skills

  • Men's Issues

  • Self Esteem

Serves

  • Adults (18 to 64)

  • Elders (65 and above)

Licensed in

  • CaliforniaLicense 92405

Accepts cash

$100/session

Reviews and ratings

4.9 rating (42)8 reviews
October 2, 2026

Having gone through a few bad experiences (deaths) at my work and my family I was advised to consider looking into therapy. In my life I never sought therapy. I was given a list of therapist options to select from that fit my needs and my schedule. Mike was the one I selected and based on my past few sessions I got lucky to have him as my therapist. He is compassionate, empathetic, humorous and knows how to make me feel comfortable and confident about sharing my feelings and experiences.

Verified client, age 55-64Review shared after session 5 with Mike
August 19, 2026

He listened with intent and open-minded. He asked the right questions that led me to share my thoughts and move forward with the session.

Verified client, age 55-64Review shared after session 1 with Mike
April 2, 2026

I always feel a sense of relief that I am able to confide in Mike and know that I can go into sessions feeling one way but always leave session feeling optimistic and having solutions to some of the feelings that were overwhelming me. I am extremely blessed to have found Mike as my therapist and I am excited to continue life with Mike's assistance and reassurance that this life is worth enjoying to its fullest capacity and challenging myself to engage in healthy methods and habits.

Verified client, age 25-34Review shared after session 5 with Mike
Schedule 60 min