Hello and welcome—I'm so glad you're here. My name is Dr. Vanessa M. Armas, and I'm a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. I approach my work as an Integrative Therapist, blending the wisdom of mental, emotional, and physical wellness to support healing in a holistic, meaningful way. I specialize in working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, self-esteem struggles, work-life balance, and major life transitions. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply seeking more alignment in your life, my goal is to walk alongside you—offering guidance, compassion, and practical tools to help you thrive. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach your emotional and physical wellness goals—at your own pace and in a way that feels authentic to you.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session, my priority is to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. We'll take our time getting to know one another, and while I may ask questions to better understand your story, you're always in control of what you choose to share. There's no pressure—only an open, welcoming space for you to begin at your own pace. If you're navigating a history of trauma, I’ll invite you to share just a brief sense of what you’ve experienced—only what feels manageable—so I can better understand your needs and ensure that we’re a good fit. As we move through the therapeutic journey together, I’ll support you in accessing your inner strengths, gently exploring the past, facing fears with compassion, and discovering deeper self-awareness through mindfulness and curiosity. Healing takes courage, and you don’t have to walk that path alone.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

No matter where you are on your journey—whether you're working to optimize your emotional and physical well-being or simply maintain the balance you’ve already cultivated—I’m here to support you in reconnecting with your passion, purpose, and zest for life. With over a decade of experience, I offer an integrative approach that thoughtfully blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I also incorporate principles from nutritional psychiatry, honoring the deep connection between what we consume—both physically and emotionally—and how we feel. At the core of my work is the belief that healing is a personal, empowering process. My goal is to meet you where you are, and walk alongside you as you build greater resilience, clarity, and emotional well-being—on your own terms, and at your own pace.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I take a holistic approach to mental health, honoring the deep connection between mind, body, and spirit. I find that healing happens best when all parts of us are acknowledged and supported—and I love working with individuals who value that same interconnectedness. With the ever-evolving landscape of mental health, it can be overwhelming to find the right support. If you’re feeling unsure or stuck, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I also have experience working with relational stress rooted in narcissistic abuse. These kinds of relationships—whether with a parent, partner, friend, or even a colleague—can leave you feeling confused, drained, and doubting yourself. If any of this resonates with you, I can help you gently uncover and understand those unhealthy dynamics, and begin building stronger, healthier connections—starting with the one you have with yourself.

About Dr. Vanessa Armas