LCSW, 7 years of experience
Hello, my name is Gabriela Aguilar and I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master's Degree in Social Work and have been practicing for 5 years. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults and assist them in their journey toward a happy and fulfilling life.
My approach begins with building rapport and establishing a safe place where clients can openly talk about their feelings, thoughts, and emotions. I believe once a partnership has been developed and trust is built we can work together to address current challenges.
As a provider, I try and guide my clients by setting realistic therapeutic goals for themselves while also being their biggest cheerleader. I want my clients to feel listened to and understood without any judgment during our time together.
I love working with school-aged children, adolescents, and their families dealing with anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, family conflict, school problems, and interpersonal conflict that lead to emotional distress. I also have experience working with young adults dealing with life transitions, difficulty with setting appropriate boundaries, and stress management.
I've been using psychodynamic for the past 5 years to assist with changing negative behaviors that are impacting interpersonal relationships by gaining insight and understanding of early unresolved/unconscious issues, defense mechanisms and exploring transference. By gaining a better understanding of unresolved issues, we can determine unhealthy behaviors and begin developing new skills to enhance positive relationships.
I have been using Trauma- Focused CBT for the past 3 years to assist with childhood trauma. I have utilized this method for children under 18 years of age to help confront fears and prevent avoidance as it relates to trauma. Utilizing a combination of trauma sensitive interventions, cognitive- behavioral principles, empowerment and family therapy we can begin your healing journey.
I have been using Solution Focused treatment for the past 5 years. It has helped clients who are experiencing recent stressors and are looking for a goal- oriented approach. I utilize this method to create change through accessing your strengths and resources.