I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California, and I believe therapy should be a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. As a Latinx immigrant, I bring a deep, lived understanding of life transitions, cultural identity, and the complexities of navigating more than one culture. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish, and I’m committed to creating a culturally responsive and inclusive space. With over a decade of experience working in educational settings, I’ve supported students and families through a wide range of emotional, academic, and developmental challenges. That background continues to shape my work—particularly with adolescents, young adults, and parents navigating identity, relationships, or major life transitions. I’m also a parent to a nonbinary child (now an adult), which has deepened my understanding of gender diversity and the importance of affirming, supportive care—not just professionally, but personally. I welcome clients of all identities and backgrounds, and strive to provide a space where you feel genuinely understood and empowered.

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

Clients can expect to leave each session with greater clarity, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of themselves. Whether it's new coping strategies, insights into thought patterns or behaviors, or ways to manage anxiety or life transitions, my goal is to equip you with actionable takeaways that empower you to create positive change. You’ll also gain tools to improve your relationships—both with yourself and others—while leaving with a stronger sense of connection to your own resilience and strengths.

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

One of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to create a safe, compassionate space where clients feel truly seen and heard. I bring cultural sensitivity, deep empathy, and genuine curiosity into every session. I also use humor and a strengths-based, empowering approach to help clients feel more at ease and build confidence in their journey. My lived experience as a Latinx immigrant and parent of a nonbinary adult child allows me to connect deeply with those navigating identity, transition, or marginalization. Clients often share that they feel supported, accepted, and encouraged to grow in our work together.

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

I’m best positioned to serve adolescents, adults, and parents who are navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, cultural identity, or relationship challenges. I especially welcome clients from immigrant, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ communities who are looking for a therapist who understands the impact of culture, family, and intersectionality. Whether you’re exploring who you are, healing from past experiences, or seeking tools to cope with daily stress, I offer a space where you can feel safe, supported, and understood.

About Alba Castaneda