(she/her)
Welcome! I’m really glad you’re here. Taking that first step toward caring for your mental and emotional well-being isn’t always easy, and it means something that you’ve chosen to do it. I’m Brigitte Macias, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and it’s a privilege to be part of your journey. Whether you’re working through something difficult, navigating a life transition, or just looking for a greater sense of balance, I’m here to support you along the way. With experience working with a wide range of individuals and concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship struggles, school issues, life changes, and parenting challenges, I understand the importance of creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and safe. My approach is grounded in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Person-Centered Therapy, allowing me to tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. As a clinician of color with an Asian American background, I deeply value cultural understanding and inclusivity. Growing up in San Francisco, I bring both my professional training and lived experience to my work, helping clients from all walks of life feel seen and supported. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to build a path toward resilience, self-awareness, and lasting well-being. Together, we’ll explore the complexities of life, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward the positive change you’re seeking. I believe in the power of therapy to foster growth, healing, and a deeper sense of self. If you're ready to take the next step, I’m here to guide and support you. I look forward to being a part of your transformative journey.
In our first session together, we’ll begin with brief introductions and spend some time getting to know each other, as building a strong sense of rapport is important in helping me understand your experiences and how best to support you. From there, we’ll delve into the specific challenges you’re facing, which will assist me in crafting a personalized plan for us to navigate in subsequent sessions. My aim is to establish a warm, non-judgmental, and confidential environment where you feel at ease sharing your deepest thoughts and emotions.
My strengths as a therapist come from my ability to build genuine, trusting relationships and my empathetic, laid-back style that helps people feel comfortable and understood from the very beginning. I focus on creating a space that feels safe, supportive, and free of judgment, where we can build rapport and work together toward your goals. I listen closely, draw from my experience, and stay committed to growing in my work so I can show up for you in the best way possible. I also believe strongly in your resilience and capacity for change, and when it feels right, I like to bring in a bit of humor because sometimes a little lightness can make even the tough moments feel more manageable.
I am passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults, helping them navigate the unique challenges that arise during these important developmental stages. Whether it's managing the ups and downs of adolescence, building resilience in the face of life's struggles, or supporting the transition into adulthood, my goal is to provide a safe and empowering space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we'll work on developing coping skills, fostering independence, and cultivating a sense of self that will serve as a strong foundation for the future.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT focuses on identifying and reframing negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. By challenging unhelpful beliefs and replacing them with healthier, more balanced ways of thinking, we work together to develop practical coping strategies that can alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. Whether managing anxiety, reducing depressive thoughts, or building confidence during transitions, CBT equips you with tools to better navigate life’s difficulties.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
A Person-centered approach emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity, helping you build a deeper connection with yourself. By providing this empathetic environment, I aim to foster self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal growth. This combination of approaches encourages healing, self-compassion, and empowerment, allowing you to move forward with greater clarity and confidence.