LPCC, 10 years of experience
My name is Mayra Torres and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing services in Southern California. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from San Diego State University and my Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have 10 years of professional experience providing services to individuals working through various life challenges. I utilize evidence-based therapeutic modalities that are tailored to the individual's needs.
In our initial session, we'll explore the specific challenges you're encountering and expectations of therapy. We will go over an initial assessment and work on a personalized plan for treatment, ensuring focused and effective support tailored to your needs.
Throughout my experience, I have used a strength-based and whole-person approach that honors my client's experience, beliefs, and values, understanding that everyone has a unique story and perspective they bring to the table. I listen to the client's ideal vision and assist them with techniques to help them reach their highest goals. I take pride in using an approach that is warm and supportive while also inviting clients out of their comfort zone to foster growth and resilience. I use humor when appropriate as well as active listening to ensure my clients feel heard and respected.
Throughout my experience, I have discovered particular fulfillment in supporting individuals during stressful life transitions and traumatic events. I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have applied these modalities both as the primary treatment method as well as components within a broader treatment plan. With my training and experience, I am best positioned to serve clients that are looking to gain significant insights and make profound changes in their lives.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based treatment that uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements) and is effective at reprocessing trauma and distressing life events. EMDR offers a reduction in the vividness and emotion of that memory and allows for integration of positive belief statements. EMDR therapy offers natural restoration and adaptive resolution to life's triggering events, offering individuals improved cognition and emotional regulation.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment modality that works by identifying maladaptive thinking patterns and challenging/reframing beliefs to improve overall wellbeing and functioning of the individual. I completed specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as CBT for trauma treatment in 2017 and have since been actively incorporating CBT into my practice with clients. Implementing CBT techniques and interventions has allowed me to witness profound transformation with my clients, often leading to behavioral changes that promote growth, resilience, and improved mood.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy is a modified form of cognitive therapy that incorporates mindfulness practices that include present moment awareness, meditation, and breathing exercises. Throughout my practice, I have applied these principles in various capacities, both as the primary treatment method and as components within a broader treatment plan.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based treatment that allows clients to explore and resolve ambivalence to change. While utilizing MI, I have witnessed many clients gain significant insights and take action into making positive behavioral changes that are reflective of their goals and values.
Trauma can lead to a fragmented sense of self, where different aspects of a person's personality, emotions, and memories become compartmentalized as a way to cope with overwhelming experiences. These fragmented parts are not inherently negative but rather represent survival strategies developed during trauma. These parts often show up in therapy, especially during trauma work. Internal Family Systems (IFS), or parts work, is an evidence-based treatment approach that acknowledges these parts can be in conflict, but they also have the potential to collaborate under the guidance of the core Self. IFS therapy aims to understand and heal these parts, fostering inner harmony and balance. IFS is effective when used alone or integrated into EMDR reprocessing work.
2 ratings with written reviews
May 5, 2025
I have been in therapy for many years and had a good amount of therapist in my life. Mayra has been the best fit for me. She is smart, kind, warm and funny. She just gets me and helps me through my challenges while always challenging my thoughts and helping me to see things and life in a different approach. She has been a big help in my mental health journey and I highly recommend her!
April 29, 2025
Maya is one of the best therapists I've ever had. She's so kind, so caring, so sweet, so supportive, so understanding, so empathetic, so loving, so patient, so gentle, so compassionate: she really puts her heart in her care. I always wish I had more time with her, but she is so encouraging and makes me feel like I can live on. She provides an open ear to listen and is so supportive, I'm really thankful for her. I love Maya and would highly recommend. She's great