LMFT, 7 years of experience
¡YO HABLO ESPAÑOL! I am an immigrant who has dedicated herself to achieving both educational and career goals, striving not only to make myself proud but also to honor the sacrifices of my family. Now, I feel it is my turn to give back to the community that has given me so much. In 2017, I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from San Diego Christian College, and in 2019, I obtained my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from National University. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations throughout San Diego County who struggle with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions, ranging from mood disorders to psychotic disorders. I have also supported individuals in acute mental health crises across the country, gaining a deep understanding of the complex challenges people face. Through these experiences, I have witnessed firsthand how our environments shape and impact every one of us. This insight fuels my commitment to serving others with compassion, cultural sensitivity, and a dedication to fostering resilience and healing within the communities I serve.
Our first session will be different from the sessions that follow. During this initial meeting, we will focus on discussing what brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from our time together. It may feel a bit like an interview, with more questions and answers, as I work to understand your background, needs, and goals. Please don’t worry — future sessions will feel more natural and will be conducted in a way that helps you feel safe, supported, and comfortable. If this is your first time in therapy, I kindly encourage you to attend at least one additional session after our first meeting. This allows us to build a stronger connection and gives you the opportunity to experience the therapeutic process more fully.
I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel safe to share your life experiences openly. Together, we will explore how those experiences have shaped you into who you are today. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Humanistic principles, with an emphasis on unconditional positive regard, empathy, and authenticity. I believe in honoring your unique perspective and working collaboratively to manage the symptoms or challenges that may be causing you distress. Above all, my goal is that you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted — no matter what emotions or experiences you bring into our work together.
If you are reading my profile, it means you’ve taken the courageous step to begin your healing journey. Whether this is your first time exploring therapy or you’ve been on this path before, I understand that it can feel overwhelming, and you may not know where to start. My role is to guide and support you along the way. I am here to listen with compassion and to collaborate with you in finding the approach that best supports your growth. I am not here to tell you how to live or what to do — rather, I will walk alongside you, creating a safe and supportive space for you to continue your healing journey at your own pace.
I have used and taught DBT in different populations and work environments.
CBT and DBT are ideally intertwined in combination to provide the best individualized treatment for each client.
A person is not only an individual; everyone is composed of multiple layers. You have your own experiences, your beliefs, your culture, your environment, and other layers that make you the unique individual you are. Using a multicultural approach, I can tailor our sessions and journey directly to you.
Everyone has experiences that have been negative or positive. A lot of them have caused us trauma. I am not here to judge or impose my beliefs; rather, I create a space where you can feel safe and share. This can only be done by meeting you where you’re at and creating rapport that will allow you to continue with this journey called life.
Carl Rogers identified that everyone is an individual, and therefore, we can’t lump everyone into a category. This means creating a safe space where you can share and discuss challenges. This is done by not judging you rather acknowledging your experiences and perspectives.
1 rating with written reviews
August 15, 2025
Cathy has been very patient with me, she’s empathetic, a good communicator, and skilled at simplifying complex thoughts and emotional responses without making me feel small. I appreciate that she values honesty, makes me feel fully seen, and consistently helps me find clarity even when i become a little defiant. She has been consistent, showing up even when im not at my best and really tries to connect. She doesnt just throw words out there, she makes them matter, she is very authentic