Therapy: Because Talking to Yourself Only Gets You So Far Hi! I’m Jennifer Barrios, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with a master’s degree from USC and nearly a decade of experience in mental health. My journey began in community mental health, where I provided support to individuals and families facing complex challenges. Now, I’ve transitioned into full-time private practice, where I continue my passion for helping others heal and grow. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported as you navigate life’s ups and downs. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, life transitions, past trauma, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to help you reconnect with your true, authentic self. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs—because healing isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re ready to make meaningful changes and build a life that feels more aligned with who you are, let’s connect. You don’t have to do this alone.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we’ll go over housekeeping, I’ll share a bit about myself, and answer any questions you have. As you share your story, I’ll conduct an informal assessment to better understand your experiences and challenges. Your story helps create a full picture of who you are and guides our work together. Above all, I value the therapeutic alliance—our connection is the foundation of this process. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported as we navigate your journey toward healing and growth.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strength as a therapist is building a strong, trusting connection—because healing starts with feeling safe and understood. My second greatest strength? Helping you uncover your unmet needs and the patterns you’ve developed to cope, even when they no longer serve you. Together, we’ll explore healthier, more fulfilling ways to meet those needs and create lasting change. I’m a firm believer in prioritizing self-care and rediscovering the things that bring you joy—because growth isn’t just about working through struggles, it’s about building a life that truly feels good.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I work with adults of all backgrounds, but I specialize in supporting young professionals and millennials juggling the pressures of work, relationships, and personal growth. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burned out from constantly trying to keep up, you’re not alone. Many of my clients struggle to balance their responsibilities, leaving little time for self-care. Together, we’ll navigate the stress, break free from patterns of overwork and self-neglect, and create space for the things that truly matter. Let me help you prioritize you—because thriving is better than just surviving.
About Jennifer Barrios
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have been utilizing CBT interventions with children and adults since 2016. In practice, a CBT session typically involves the therapist and client working together to identify and understand thought patterns, emotional responses, and associated behaviors. The therapist guides the client in challenging and reframing distorted thoughts, developing coping strategies, and implementing behavioral changes. The goal is to empower individuals to manage their symptoms more effectively and cultivate a more positive and adaptive mindset.
Compassion Focused
Compassion-Focused Therapy is often used to address issues such as chronic shame, self-criticism, anxiety, depression, and trauma. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with a harsh inner critic or have difficulty expressing warmth and understanding toward themselves.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Ensuring the client and therapeutic alliance come first is my favorite part of being a therapist. I strive to create a supportive and accepting environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. By fostering trust and understanding, I empower clients to navigate challenges and work toward personal growth. My goal is to provide a space where they feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey.
Trauma Informed Care
My original training as a therapist was in trauma-informed care, and one of the first things I seek to understand about my clients is, “What happened to you?” I focus on identifying the underlying or unmet needs driving maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, working collaboratively to find healthier ways to meet those needs. I want my clients to know that their past trauma does not have to define their present or future. I’m here to help you break free from its grip and move toward healing and empowerment.