New to Grow
Hi! My name is Serena and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#156502) in CA. I received my Masters of Arts (MA) degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide. I view therapy as a partnership where we combine your lived experience with my clinical training to work towards meaningful and achievable change. Together, we'll set goals, explore challenges, and build strategies that align with what you want for your life.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
We'll take time to review informed consents so you know what to expect from therapy, and then I'll gather some background and current information to better understand what brings you in. It's natural to feel nervous about starting therapy, and those feelings are welcome. You're always encouraged to ask questions about anything you need more clarity on.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My greatest strengths are rooted in combining emotional insight with practical tools. I help clients understand the roots of their anxiety, relationship patterns, and self-doubt while also providing everyday strategies for grounding, boundary-setting, and reducing distress. I offer a calm, validating presence and a collaborative approach that helps clients feel seen, supported, and encouraged.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My ideal clients are individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, are navigating big life transitions, or are struggling to maintain healthy peer relationships. You may be someone who often puts others first, feels unsure of your needs, or worries about disappointing people. I’m here to help you feel grounded, supported, and more confident as you move through the changes and challenges in your life.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use CBT to help you notice and change negative thoughts, and build new habits that support your well-being. Together, we explore what’s getting in the way and practice skills that help you feel more grounded and in control.
Interpersonal
I use interpersonal-focused therapy to support you with understanding how your relationships, communication patterns, and emotional needs shape your well-being. In session, we may explore relational dynamics, build healthier boundaries, and strengthen the ability to express needs openly and authentically.
Psychodynamic
I use a psychodynamic approach to help you understand where your patterns come from. Together, we look at how past experiences influence your current feelings, relationships, and reactions so you can make more empowered choices.
Supportive
I use supportive therapy techniques as my foundation which looks like offering validation, reflective listening, and strengths-based exploration to help you feel heard and understood.