LCSW, 15 years of experience
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California with over 15 years of experience in the field. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from California State University, San Bernardino, and have dedicated my career to supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, and depression, which are among the most common challenges people face. My approach emphasizes education, insight, and the development of practical skills that empower clients to manage their symptoms effectively. I am committed to helping individuals strengthen their resilience, enhance their well-being, and move toward living their best possible lives.
In our first session together, we will begin with introductions and a discussion of your reasons for seeking therapy. We will complete an intake process that explores your past history as well as your current mental health symptoms to gain a comprehensive understanding of your experiences. Together, we will also identify your goals for therapy so that we can establish a clear roadmap for our future sessions and ensure the work we do aligns with your needs and priorities.
With 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I have developed a broad range of skills to support individuals in navigating life’s challenges. I genuinely enjoy problem-solving and deeply value the opportunity to listen to and learn from my patients. Over the years, I have cultivated an open, patient, and non-judgmental approach, recognizing that we all face difficult experiences in different ways. I consider myself empathetic and culturally competent, having worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities, and I am proud to offer bilingual services to meet the needs of a wider range of clients. Above all, I view myself as a lifelong learner, continually open to growth and to the insights I gain from my patients every day.
I am passionate about supporting individuals during times of struggle and uncertainty. Since stress and anxiety often arise unexpectedly, I work with clients who are eager to learn effective skills and techniques to better manage uncomfortable symptoms and regain a sense of balance and control in their lives.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment model that focuses on identifying and restructuring unhelpful thought patterns while addressing the behaviors that stem from them. Throughout my years in practice, I have utilized CBT with patients who have reported meaningful relief in their mental health symptoms. In collaboration with each patient, I work to introduce and strengthen skills that support the replacement of maladaptive behaviors with healthier, more effective coping strategies, allowing for improved responses to triggers and greater overall well-being.
As a therapist I utilize Existential Therapy as a way to help my patients understand their purpose in life and how they fit in this world. I explore how choices influence the future and how they affect the individual who struggles with anxiety, fear and possibly addiction.
In utilizing the Motivational Interviewing core skills of open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, and summaries I have assisted patients in giving and finding a voice to their personal reasons for change. Patients are able to explore and resolve any uncertainties they may be experiencing as a result of stress and anxieties including change.
I have strived to provide psychoeducation to all my patients as well as answers to any questions they may have about their mental health condition. Education and knowledge are power therefore I strive to educate my patients as much as possible as this often leads to a better understanding of treatment.
As a therapist I strive to provide respect, compassion, and empathy to all my patients as often what they are needing/seeking is support. Providing the support that is needed during a time of struggle is key to treatment and growth for many. Therefore, by providing a supportive psychotherapy experience that assist with uncomfortable symptoms often leads to a healthy recovery.
7 ratings with written reviews
May 6, 2025
Mrs. Alcantar has been such a breath of fresh air for me. My life is so unpredictable with many ups and downs and she has helped me navigate through these times
May 1, 2025
Great therapist! I really enjoy my sessions with Esmeralda.
April 28, 2025
Shes the best !