Hi there! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I show up with authenticity, compassion, a bit of humor and yes, always with a cup of coffee or tea in hand. I work with adults navigating the following challenges: depression, anxiety, complex ADHD/ADD, generational trauma, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and family or relationship conflict. If life has started to feel overwhelming or you have being feeling lost, I’m here to support you in making meaningful changes to live a life you truly want to live. As an Integrative Therapist, I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. I tailor my approach to fit you, your story, your needs, your goals because no two journeys are the same.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session we'll talk about what brought you to therapy at this point in your life and explore the areas you feel comfortable sharing. We'll also discuss any challenges you're currently facing or those you faced in the past. My goal is for you to feel heard, supported, and safe as we start this journey together.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My approach to therapy is honest, direct, empathetic and often infused with a bit of humor. I'm genuinely interested in your life, your experiences, and how I can support you in creating meaningful, lasting change. I bring a truly non-judgmental presence, which helps people open up and explore things they may not have voiced before. My Hispanic cultural background also gives me a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics within families and cultures where loyalty, expectations, and unspoken roles can be both powerful and challenging. I especially enjoy working with individuals who are learning to honor their own wants and needs (perhaps for the first time), all while navigating the pressures of living a life shaped by others.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I’m especially passionate about supporting people who often feel stuck in patterns of people-pleasing, struggling to set boundaries, or finding it hard to say “no.” If you tend to worry about being liked, fear making mistakes, or constantly put others' needs ahead of your own, you're not alone, and you don’t have to keep carrying that weight by yourself. I work with individuals who grapple with self-esteem, self-worth, confidence, chronic guilt, and the challenge of making themselves a priority. Many of my clients feel misunderstood by family or friends, experience loneliness, or find it difficult to navigate conflict and communication. People who are self-critical or believe they are never doing “good enough” are common issues with the people I help. I also support people who have emotionally immature or unavailable family members, partners, and/or friends which can add another layer of pain in relationships.
About Ara Espinoza
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I use ACT therapy because people I speak with tend to have difficulty recognizing and accepting their true emotions. There is often guilt and shame associated and believe they are not allowed to or have reason to feel specific emotions. There tends to be difficulty with shame, guilt, and fear of being seen as a "bad" person.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
With the use of CBT I help people recognize unhealthy thinking patterns that are common with depression and anxiety. My role is to help bring awareness and support in shifting unhealthy thoughts to healthier ones to reduce depressive and anxious symptoms. Often times people are unaware of thinking patterns they engage in that leads to significant emotional distress.
Attachment-based
My experience with using Attachment-based treatment is by understanding relational patterns which stem from childhood relationships with caregivers. Common issues that arise impact interpersonal relationships, family conflict, and connection. Through understanding of patterns being repeated it helps provide people the "why" and direction in what needs to change, and becomes an action focused approach.
Compassion Focused
Common issues with depression and anxiety are shame, self-criticism, self-doubt, and negative self-talk. With the use of Compassion focused treatment there is an understanding and development of self-compassion. We are often taught to be kind and caring to others but are rarely taught how to do that for ourselves. Self-compassion is helpful by supporting a person accept and recognize wants and needs or difficult moments with easier ability.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
DBT as a treatment method helps people reduce black and white thinking with the healthy balance of emotions and logic. People sometimes seek the "right" answer and are fearful of making a mistake. DBT focuses on understanding the present moment, developing ways to regulate emotions, building tolerance in difficult situations, and learning to communicate with others. This technique helps reduce "emotional rollercoasters", improve communication in relationships, and builds confidence in the ability to manage emotions.