Hello. My name is Ana and I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (128445), in the beautiful state of California. I have been in the counseling and social work field for 25+ yrs. Simply stated, I was born to do therapy. I am a safe, trusting and caring person, that is able to connect with a diversity of people. I understand the wanting to understand yourself better, as I too have done much of the work in my own life. I know now, that it is OK to be just me, no longer fearing to live the life that I have earned. I would love the same for you.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
First session primarily consists of us getting to know each other better. I think the first session can always cause a little rattling of the nerves so I like to be as comfortable and natural as possible. My goal is always to obtain a good history of when the challenges began. However, I am never in a hurry and encourage the patient to set the pace.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I think my greatest strength as a therapist is my own life experience. We have all experienced set backs in life, some we saw coming and others we did not. I have had my fair share of life's ups and downs. It is with that wisdom of those experiences, and a strong pinch of common sense, that I approach my work. I am non-threatening, relatable and make others feel as if they are talking to an old friend.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I work well with anyone who is hurting inside. I have treated a long list of people of all ages, shapes and colors. I love all people and care very delicately for the trust they extend me as they share their life stories. I am reality based, humble, funny at times and always very confidential.
About Ana Godoy
Identifies as
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I like to teach people to think about their thinking. Its simple to do, observable and produces results! Once you're aware of the pattern, you get to make the decision to change it or leave it alone.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Our culture plays such an important role in how we are raised and grow up to perceive the world around us. I am first generation Latina, growing up in LA & Riverside County. My parents were immigrants to California and came to work hard chasing the American dream. I have the same story that so many California's share being that we are a border state. I am proud of my heritage. Yet, at the same time, I am aware of its great impact, strengths & limitations, on personality development, traditions, gender roles, family dynamics and more. I enjoy having deep conversations with others, about their childhood experiences, examining how their culture influenced who they became. I love all people, but have a special understanding of the diversity of California, especially for people of color, women, and the LGBT communities.
Reality Therapy
I am a very humble down to earth type of person. However, as a child, I was very shy and often felt inadequate asking for what I needed. As I grew up and entered the adult work world, I learned that assertive communication and critical thinking were necessary to survive and thrive. I enjoy passing along these skills to others to find real solutions to everyday problems. Reality therapy is about problem identification and considering the options or choices. It can be that simple.