Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters from the University of La Verne and have been practicing for 7 years. I strive to help clients reach their full potential by fostering emotional healing and resilience through evidenced-based practices. Ultimately, my goal as a therapist is to empower clients to heal, grow, and improve their overall quality of life.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session together, we''ll focus on getting to know each other, exploring what brings you here, and creating a safe space where you can share your thoughts and feelings without judgment, while I guide us toward setting some initial goals for our work together.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
With extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults navigating the challenges of the foster care system, I specialize in adapting therapeutic interventions to address the unique needs of my clients. My approach supports them in managing complex emotions and fostering resilience when facing life stressors and/or transition.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults who are navigating the healing process from trauma. I find it deeply rewarding in supporting them in building resilience and developing healthy coping skills.
About Erica Mendez
Erica Mendez offers therapy covered by CalViva Health (Medi-Cal), Community Health Plan of Imperial Valley (Medi-Cal) and Health Net (Medi-Cal) in California.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns that influence their emotions and behaviors. I help my clients understand that CBT is grounded in the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are interconnected, and by changing unhelpful or distorted thoughts, we can improve emotional regulation and develop healthier behavior patterns. I also incorporates CBT skills training, such as teaching clients how to use relaxation techniques, problem-solving strategies, or communication skills to manage stress and improve relationships.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
As a therapist, I often integrate mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) into my practice, particularly when working with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress. My goal with this approach is to help clients develop greater awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations without judgment.
Eclectic
In my practice as a therapist, I use an eclectic therapy approach, which means I draw from a range of therapeutic techniques and models to best fit the unique needs of each client. This flexibility allows me to tailor the treatment to what resonates most with the individual, ensuring the process is personalized and effective.
Grief Therapy
As a therapist, I approach grief therapy with the understanding that each person’s experience of grief is unique. My role is to create a safe, compassionate space where clients can express and process their emotions without fear of judgment. I typically use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and person-centered approaches to help clients work through their grief.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
In my practice, I use person-centered therapy (PCT) as a foundational approach to help clients feel understood and empowered. This method is rooted in the belief that clients are the experts in their own lives, and my role is to provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings. I strive to provide a compassionate and understanding environment, that helps clients reconnect with their authentic selves and fosters a greater sense of self-worth and empowerment, ultimately promoting personal growth and healing.