Licensed to practice in California and accepts 38 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Self Esteem, Trauma and PTSD and 10 more.
(she/her)
Clients say this provider is
Sydelcis Mendez (Syd) is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in crisis, trauma, anxiety, and stress management as it relates to individuals, couples, and families during life transitions. Raised in the Bronx by her Dominican family, she witnessed the gaps in resources and opportunities for individuals of different backgrounds. Syd became a therapist after seeing the mental health strains in her community and noting the underrepresentation of qualified providers who provided culturally-sensitive treatment and systems-oriented support. Throughout her career, she has served individuals grappling with substance use challenges, homelessness/transient issues, health concerns, developmental needs, sexual assault, domestic violence, addiction, military service/veteran affairs issues, as well as family or marital challenges.
The first session is an opportunity to begin getting to know one another. Clients are welcome to share as little or as much as feels comfortable, there is no pressure to tell their entire story right away. Sessions move at a pace that feels supportive and appropriate for each individual. Confidentiality and its limits (including safety-related or legal exceptions) are reviewed so clients have a clear understanding of how their information is protected. Time is also spent discussing realistic expectations of therapy and how meaningful change develops over time through collaboration and consistency. Because therapy is relational, finding the right fit is important. Clients are encouraged to notice how they feel during and after the session. A strong therapeutic relationship should feel safe, supportive, and aligned with personal goals. The first meeting typically concludes with a brief exercise or reflection. A follow-up email is sent with any relevant resources or materials discussed. If clients choose to continue, they are welcome to self-book future appointments at their convenience unless alternative arrangements have been made.
The approach includes resilience training, narrative frameworks, and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques while focusing on practices of seven collective values shaping our world experience. Individuals can observe, reflect, and realign with their values regardless of the adversities present.
Syd uses a strength-based approach to promote intentional mental, emotional, physical and spiritual practices that support resilience and overall well-being. Those involved reflect on their values, disciplines, and barriers influencing their heightened stress responses. Collaboratively, there is the identification of patterns of thought and behaviors shaping unwanted results, increased self-awareness, and tools to manage arising issues and desired goals.
Syd traditionally works with individuals who are navigating trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, or significant life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, emotionally exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. Perhaps you’ve been coping on your own for a long time and are ready for deeper support. Areas of specialization service clients who are: Processing past traumatic experiences Managing persistent anxiety or heightened stress Adjusting to major life changes (career shifts, relationship changes, identity development, relocation, grief, etc.) Seeking healthier coping strategies and emotional regulation skills Wanting to better understand patterns in relationships or behaviors Motivated for insight, growth, and meaningful change You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Whether you’re looking to stabilize, gain clarity, build resilience, or process difficult experiences, we can work collaboratively toward your goals at a pace that feels safe and manageable. If you’re curious about whether this might be a good fit, happy to start that initial conversation.
16 ratings with written reviews
August 19, 2026
Syd has definitely helped me to go through one of the worse moments of my life and also help and encourage me to work on myself. Her direct and gentle guidance have been a gift for me.
August 13, 2026
I continue to be so thankful for how Sydelcis meets you right where you are, and helps you to face what the surrounding voices are saying, and doing in your life internally, and how to navigate through it all with such clarity and courage etc. She is an excellent therapist, because she is an excellent listener, and always has very helpful insights to learn and grow from.
June 17, 2026
I feel way better after talking to Syd. She is very knowledgeable and takes the time to understand your feelings and thoughts. She also takes the time to explain the process.