(she/her)
Hi there! I'm Cindy Nguman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I’m so glad you’re here. I work with clients all across the state through the convenience of Telehealth, creating a safe and supportive space, wherever you are. I specialize in supporting young adults and adults who are navigating life’s many ups and downs, whether that’s anxiety, stress, depression, dating, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. You're not alone in what you're going through, and together, we’ll work to help you feel more grounded, confident, and understood. My style is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I use a person-centered approach, which means I deeply value who you are and what you bring to the table. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy to help us make meaningful progress toward your goals. Reaching out is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. 💛
I bring a blend of clinical expertise and a genuine, down-to-earth personality to our work together. My goal is to help you feel better about yourself, develop a more positive outlook on life, and equip you with the tools you need to thrive. I believe in creating a space where you feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. I really like to use humor and banter, and I am a very down to earth, real and open minded therapist. I like to make therapy fun and provide a safe space for you to feel heard and validated.
I believe my greatest strengths lie in my kindness, humor, empathy, and ability to be silly and personable. I am culturally sensitive, open-minded, and honest, which helps me build rapport with my clients effortlessly. I also try to bring a lot of creativity and fun into our sessions and meet you where you are at and go at your own pace.
HEY THERE! Nice to meet you. This is generally who i like to walk alongside with: I enjoy working with young adults and adults who are dealing with life stressors, complex relationships, dating, existential crises and all that jazz. I find I work best with individuals who are ready to explore: The Heart & Connections: Navigating the world of modern dating, weathering the growing pains of marriage, or finding your footing again after a difficult breakup. We will work together to build healthier patterns and deeper connections. Life in Transition: Stepping into the "real world," facing the uncertainty of a career pivot, or processing the weight of a layoff. These pivots are exhausting, but they are also powerful opportunities to redefine your path. The Journey of Identity: I provide a safe, celebratory space for the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you are navigating the complexities of "coming out," exploring your gender identity, or balancing the unique stressors of your cultural heritage, your whole self is welcome here. Coming Home to Yourself: If you struggle with a loud inner critic, we will work on quieting that voice. We’ll focus on healing self-esteem, building genuine self-worth, and helping you feel "at home" in your own skin. If you feel overwhelmed by the weight of the world or are standing at the edge of a major life shift, please know you don’t have to carry that transition alone. Together, we will navigate these changes with kindness, building the resilience you need to not just survive the shift, but to thrive within it.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
During our sessions, we'll team up to pinpoint the specific challenges you're facing and delve into how you view these situations. Together, we'll identify any negative or distorted thoughts—what we call cognitive distortions—that might be adding to your emotional distress. My goal is to help you see these patterns clearly and guide you towards more balanced and supportive ways of thinking.
Humanistic
In our sessions, I use Humanistic Theory to guide our work together. This means I focus on you as a whole person, rather than just your symptoms. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and self-improvement. My role is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
Motivational Interviewing
In our sessions, I like to use a technique called Motivational Interviewing. This approach is all about collaboration and helping you find the motivation within yourself to make positive changes. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to support you in discovering your own reasons for wanting to change.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
In our sessions, I like to use a Person-Centered Approach. This means that you are at the heart of everything we do. I believe that you have the capacity for self-healing and personal growth, and my role is to provide a supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. I’ll be here to offer empathy, understanding, and unconditional positive regard. This means I’ll accept and value you just as you are, creating a safe space for you to be your true self. Our work together will be guided by your needs and goals, and we’ll go at a pace that feels right for you.
Gender-affirming therapy
My approach to gender-affirming care is rooted in the belief that every individual is the primary expert on their own gender identity and expression. I provide a trauma-informed, celebratory space where clients can explore their identities without the pressure of conforming to traditional binaries or societal expectations. I want my clients to feel safe, heard and validated as well as feeling seen when they see me. I try my best to provide an open mindset. I am very welcoming to hear my clients' thoughts and feedback and i really try to meet them where they're at.
3 ratings with written reviews
March 14, 2026
It felt so good to open up about what I was going through and just get some of these big feelings off my chest. Cindy is warm, understanding, and just the right amount of relatable. I felt safe being vulnerable and heard, even when I felt I lost my train of thought.
June 10, 2025
Cindy seems overall super authentic to herself, and I think that's so important when it comes to receiving therapy because it's reassuring trust and support. I am looking forward to receiving more guidance by her again soon.
April 7, 2025
My sessions with Cindy were great. She listened without judgement; guided me to make my own decisions; was understanding and yet firm, which is what one needs with therapy. She's definitely wise beyond her years.