Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 7 ratings

Desiree Gonzalez

LMFT, 16 years of experience

Empowering
Solution oriented
Direct

About me

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in substance use disorders, trauma, and family systems, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My approach is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between mental health, addiction, and relational dynamics. I specialize in the following areas: Specializations Substance Use Disorders: Expertise in treating various forms of addiction, utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies. Trauma: Skilled in trauma-informed care and other therapeutic modalities to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. Family Systems: Proficient in family therapy techniques, focusing on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening family bonds. Therapeutic Approach: Client-Centered: Emphasizing a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and valued. Integrative: Combining different therapeutic methods tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. Collaborative: Working closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote long-term recovery and well-being. Professional Experience: Over 16 years of clinical experience in diverse settings, including private practice, outpatient clinics, and community mental health center with a proven track record of helping clients achieve significant improvements in their mental health and relationships.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In the first session, clients can expect a warm and welcoming environment where they will feel heard and respected. We'll begin by discussing their reasons for seeking therapy, exploring their goals and any specific challenges they're facing. I prioritize building rapport, so there will be ample opportunity for clients to share their experiences and concerns.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where clients feel truly heard and understood. Building genuine connections is at the heart of my work, allowing clients to share openly without fear of judgment. I use a personalized, integrative approach that draws on evidence-based practices to meet each client’s unique needs—whether they’re working through substance use challenges, healing from trauma, or navigating relationship struggles. My experience in family systems therapy also helps families strengthen communication, set healthy boundaries, and find meaningful ways to reconnect.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I love working with those who are motivated to explore the underlying dynamics of their mental health and relational challenges, as well as those seeking to cultivate healthier connections and a deeper understanding of themselves and their loved ones.

Specialties

Top specialties

Other specialties

AnxietySelf EsteemTrauma and PTSD

I identify as

Serves ages

My treatment methods

Trauma Informed Care

I am a licensed therapist with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate challenges related to substance use disorders, trauma, and relational dynamics. I am passionate about providing compassionate, client centered therapy that empowers clients to heal, grow, and thrive. My therapeutic approach is holistic and client-focused, integrating proven modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Relapse Prevention, and Trauma-Informed Care. I believe in addressing the complex interplay between mental health, addiction, and family systems to promote long-term recovery and well-being. Specializations ✅ Substance Use Disorders – Expertise in addiction treatment using CBT, motivational strategies, and relapse prevention. ✅ Trauma Recovery – Skilled in trauma-informed practices to help clients process and heal from past experiences. ✅ Family Systems – Experienced in family therapy techniques to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. Therapeutic Style ✔ Client-Centered: I create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel supported and understood. ✔ Integrative: I tailor treatment plans to each client’s unique goals, drawing from multiple therapeutic approaches. ✔ Collaborative: I work closely with clients to build personalized strategies that foster resilience and lasting change. Professional Experience With a background in private practice, outpatient treatment, hospital organizations and community mental health, I bring a wealth of expertise to every session. My work focuses on helping clients manage substance use, cope with trauma, improve relationships, and regain confidence in their ability to lead fulfilling lives.

Location

Virtual

Licensed in

Accepts

Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 7 ratings

1 rating with written reviews

July 1, 2025

She’s wonderful. Desiree empowers me to look at my options from different angles & provides support as I explore what they mean to me. She’s compassionate and understanding. She creates a safe space for me to process my emotions and provides support as I find my way through them.

Verified client, age 45-54

Review shared after session 22 with Desiree