Chayla Vazquez
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience supporting clients navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and other challenges that can arise throughout life. I have worked in outpatient settings since becoming a therapist in 2022 and have developed an eclectic, collaborative approach to therapy that is adaptable to each client’s unique needs. I believe therapy is a client-centered process, and I value taking the time to get to know each person, understand their goals, and create a space where they feel heard and supported. I recognize that therapy is a complex and vulnerable experience, and that life continues to happen alongside the work we do in therapy. My goal is to meet clients where they are while helping them remain connected to the goals they are working toward. I draw from several therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which I may incorporate when appropriate. I know that finding the right therapist is an important part of the therapeutic process, and I recognize that I may not be the right fit for everyone. I am committed to helping clients feel supported in finding an approach and therapist that best meets their needs. Ultimately, I strive to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients can explore their feelings, patterns, and relationships while developing greater understanding and meaningful tools for navigating life.
First session
My clients will have a supportive and nonjudgmental space to discuss their symptoms, explore barriers that may be preventing meaningful change, and gain a deeper understanding of their experiences. Together, we will collaboratively identify goals for therapy and develop practical skills and strategies to help them move toward those goals. I strive to meet clients where they are while supporting them at a pace that feels manageable and meaningful.
Strengths
One of my strengths as a therapist is creating a supportive space where clients can slow down, sit with their feelings, and develop a deeper understanding of their experiences. I help clients build practical skills and tools to cope with difficult emotions while recognizing that everyone’s needs and readiness for change are different. I work collaboratively with clients to explore where they are in their journey and identify what changes feel realistic and meaningful to them. My goal is to support clients without rushing the process, while helping them build confidence in their ability to navigate challenges and create lasting change.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who is interested in making meaningful changes in their life and is willing to explore what may be getting in the way. They may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about where to begin. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to identify their goals, explore their readiness for change, and develop practical tools to support them along the way. I believe change is a process, and you do not have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Wherever you are in your journey, I will meet you there and work with you to take steps toward the life you want.
Treatment methods
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach originally developed to help people process traumatic or distressing experiences. EMDR is based on the idea that some highly distressing experiences may not be fully processed by the brain, leaving memories connected to intense emotions, physical sensations, or negative beliefs. When these memories are triggered later, a person may experience symptoms such as anxiety, fear, intrusive thoughts, avoidance, or emotional distress. A major component of EMDR is bilateral stimulation, which may involve guided eye movements, alternating sounds, or tapping. During treatment, the individual briefly focuses on a distressing memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. I help clients process the memory and develop more adaptive beliefs and emotional responses. EMDR is generally conducted in several phases, including treatment planning, preparation, identifying distressing memories, processing those memories, and evaluating progress.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between a person's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT is based on the idea that unhelpful patterns of thinking can influence emotions and behavior, which can then reinforce the original negative thoughts. Therapy helps individuals identify these patterns and develop healthier, more realistic ways of thinking and responding. In CBT, I work together with clients to identify specific problems and treatment goals. I help the client recognize negative or unhelpful thought patterns, such as assuming the worst outcome, blaming themselves for everything, or viewing situations in an "all-or-nothing" way. CBT also focuses on behavioral changes. Clients may practice new behaviors between therapy sessions through activities or assigned homework. These activities can include keeping a thought record, gradually facing feared situations, practicing relaxation skills, scheduling enjoyable activities, or developing healthier routines.
Location
Virtual sessions
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Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 161042