Donna Regalado, LMFT Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Specializing in Gottman Method Couples Therapy My name is Donna Regalado, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 28 years of experience in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine in California. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working in diverse settings, providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, an approach rooted in over four decades of research that helps couples strengthen their relationships, improve communication, and deepen their emotional connection. I am a Level-2 Certified Gottman Therapist and a Certified Gottman Couples Workshop Trainer, as well as Certified in Gottman Treating Affairs and Trauma, and Gottman Couples and Addiction Recovery. These advanced certifications allow me to bring a deep understanding of the dynamics that impact relationships and help clients navigate challenges with scientifically proven techniques. I recommend 90-minute sessions for couples, as they allow for deeper exploration of issues and more time to practice the tools and strategies learned during therapy. However, 60-minute sessions are available if that better suits your schedule or needs. 60-Minute Session: $225 Recommended 90-Minute Session: $300 Over the years, I’ve been honored to witness the transformative power of therapy in helping clients heal, grow, and build stronger, healthier relationships. Whether working with couples, individuals, or families, my goal is always to provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore, heal, and achieve the life and relationships you desire.

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

Initial Session & Goal Setting During your initial session, I will gather important information to understand the purpose of your engagement in therapy. We will explore your current life circumstances, including both personal and relationship dynamics, and take a look at relevant history to help provide perspective on your situation. This comprehensive approach helps create a clear understanding of where you are now and where you want to go. Goal setting is a crucial part of the therapeutic process, as it provides both direction and a measurable benchmark for progress. I collaborate closely with each couple to identify and clarify their priorities, ensuring that your goals align with your unique needs and desires. Together, we will explore different approaches and strategies to create the best path forward. By setting clear, actionable goals, we can evaluate progress throughout therapy and ensure that you are making meaningful strides toward building a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

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

My Strengths as a Therapist My journey as a therapist has been shaped by my own personal experiences, as I believe many therapists' journeys are. Overcoming personal challenges and finding my own path to healing has deeply influenced how I approach therapy. As John Wooden wisely said, “If you do enough small things right, big things can happen.” This philosophy underscores my belief that even the smallest shifts in perspective can lead to profound transformation. I take a humanistic approach in my work, rooted in the belief that people are innately good and capable of growth. I see my role as a guide, helping clients reconnect with their inherent strengths and cultivate a sense of self-worth. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to explore new ways of thinking and being. As Theodore Roosevelt said, “Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” I believe this is the foundation of a successful therapeutic relationship—demonstrating care and empathy before offering guidance. A core principle of my practice is the belief that curiosity is a transformative tool. I encourage clients to shift from negative judgment—whether directed at themselves or others—to a mindset of curiosity and self-compassion. This approach fosters growth, as clients can explore their thoughts, behaviors, and patterns without fear of criticism. By embracing curiosity, clients can uncover deeper insights and build healthier perspectives on themselves and their relationships. I have honed my ability to offer compassionate yet direct interventions tailored to each client’s unique needs. My goal is to help you navigate challenges with clarity, explore new perspectives, and ultimately find healing and personal growth. Whether it's through listening, reflecting, or guiding you to explore new ways of thinking, I am here to help you move forward on your path to wellness.

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

Couples Therapy I am continually inspired by the transformative potential that Couples Therapy offers. Through an evidence-based approach, I work with couples to navigate challenges such as communication breakdowns, trust issues, intimacy struggles, and stressful life transitions. My goal is to help each couple build a stronger foundation of mutual understanding and create lasting, positive changes in their relationship dynamic. I recommend 90-minute sessions for couples, as they allow for deeper exploration of issues and more time to practice the tools and strategies learned during therapy. However, 60-minute sessions are available if that better suits your schedule or needs. 60-Minute Session: $225 Recommended 90-Minute Session: $300

About Donna Sue Regalado