Matthew Figueroa
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I received my Master of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University and have been practicing therapy for 6 years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, ADHD, and trauma.
One of the best ways I do that is by creating a place where the individual feels understood, supported, and valued, no matter where you're at in life.
I love working with individuals who struggle with the deep existential issues in life such as death, responsibility, meaning, and isolation. I don't believe that there is a "cookie cutter" approach to therapy. I love to draw from other theoretical approaches and fields to create a specialized treatment plan that is suited for your specific needs and goals.
First session
I love to start where the person is at. Sometimes, therapy can be scary and uncomfortable for people at first. My objective is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to share their story. From there, we'll work together to tailor an action plan on how we'll proceed for our follow-up sessions.
Strengths
One of the reasons why I enjoy being a therapist is working together with my clients. One of the best ways I do that is by creating a place where the individual feels understood, supported, and valued, no matter where you're at in life.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. In addition, I love working with individuals who feel stuck in life and unable to find meaning or purpose. I love to work collaboratively with individuals to help guide them to a place where they can learn about themselves, their strengths, and use their personal beliefs to find purpose for their lives.
Treatment methods
Existential
I've used the Existential Therapy in my practice for the past 3 years. It's helped many people who struggled with core issues such as meaning, isolation, death, responsibility, and freedom. Together, we can explore and potentially come to terms with these life issues. This approach helps the individual find purpose, gain self-awareness, facilitate authenticity, and promoting a more active engagement with life.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I've used CBT in my practice for the past 5 years. I consider this approach as one of my "go-tos" as a therapist. It's helped many people manage their struggles with anxiety, depression, phobias, and trauma. CBT encourages self-awareness and empowers individuals to take control of their mental health by changing faulty thinking patterns.
Location
Virtual sessions