Hey there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I show up with authenticity, compassion, kindness, humor, and coffee. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety, complex ADHD/ADD, generational trauma, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and family or interpersonal conflict to improve their overall quality of life. I help people take back ownership of their lives and support with difficult changes necessary for a healthier life. I am an Integrative Therapist meaning I tailor my approach to each person's individual needs because every person has their own story and journey.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
What you can expect from our first session together is getting to know you and aspects of your life you feel comfortable sharing, as well as what brought you into therapy at this point in time. We will work together on understanding what you want to focus on, current and/or past issues faced, and discuss the outcomes you are hoping for.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I am honest, direct, empathetic, and use humor. I am genuinely interested in your life and how I can support you in improving it. I am also truly non-judgmental which helps people feel safe and comfortable, and allows for more vulnerable conversation in therapy. My hispanic cultural background helps people from cultural backgrounds that have a strong emphasis on family and difficulties faced within them. I support people identify wants and needs to live the life they want instead of living a life for others.
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.