LCSW, 1 years of experience
My name is Carmen Donato and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use disorders, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling and managing better.
What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about how you’ve been feeling recently, and me asking questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get a sense of where we should go from there. Each individual is different, and I like to listen first before assuming I know what will work best for you moving forward.
I have worked in substance use since 2011 and as a therapist since 2016. My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable. I enjoy seeing individuals become the best versions of themselves. My approach to goal setting with clients is all about collaborating to define what you want to accomplish and what are your desired outcomes. This often starts by building trust between us, and getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy, and being honest. Over time, we’ll work together to set goals and create a plan to track your progress.
I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use disorders. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life and circumstances.
I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use disorders. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life and circumstances.
I have experience working with Christian groups in different communities; whether it’s something you want to integrate into your treatment, or have experience in religious trauma you would like to address, this can be accommodated.
My approach to Short Term Solution Focus with clients is all about collaborating to define what you want to accomplish and what are your desired outcomes. You are your own expert of your life, and sometimes being guided to problem solve current issues may be a short term need.
I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to actively listen without judgment, while gently challenging in areas to help reach goals. Exploring personal values and how this applies to personal boundaries and true feelings, are ways we can discover your true self.
1 rating with written reviews
June 12, 2025
Carmen has been my therapist for over a year now. She has helped me work through much of my childhood trauma, depression, anxiety and adhd. When she moved to Grow Therapy - I had to move with her because she is an amazing therapist and I don't think I can find someone who gets me as much as her.