LCSW, 9 years of experience
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like life isn’t quite yours? I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California, helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, generational trauma, perfectionism, codependency, people-pleasing, and relationship or family challenges. I take an integrative, personalized approach, blending compassion, humor, and practical strategies to help you regain clarity, confidence, and a life that truly feels like your own. Whether you’re struggling with stress, feeling lost, or ready for meaningful change, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to make life feel a little lighter… and finally stop arguing with your own brain at 2 a.m. Online therapy in California available.
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 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 while navigating the pressures of life.
I help adults who feel stuck in people-pleasing patterns, struggle to set boundaries, or find it hard to say “no.” If you often worry about being liked, fear making mistakes, or put others’ needs ahead of your own, you’re not alone. I work with people facing challenges like low self-esteem, low self-worth, lack of confidence, chronic guilt, and difficulty prioritizing themselves. Many also feel misunderstood by family or friends, experience loneliness, or struggle with relationship conflict and communication. I also support clients dealing with emotionally unavailable or immature family members, partners, or friends, helping them build healthier relationships and stronger boundaries. Together, we create a safe, supportive space to foster self-compassion, confidence, and the skills to make yourself a priority.
Many of my clients come to therapy because they feel disconnected from their emotions or ashamed of how they feel. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gently explore and accept their true emotions (even the ones that feel uncomfortable), like guilt, shame, or fear. Together, we challenge the belief that certain feelings make you a “bad” person and work toward greater self-acceptance, compassion, and emotional freedom.
Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help people recognize and shift unhelpful thinking patterns that often show up with anxiety and depression. Many of my clients are surprised to learn how much their thoughts can impact how they feel. Together, we bring awareness to these patterns and practice replacing them with healthier, more balanced thoughts. This process can reduce emotional distress, ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, and create more space for calm and confidence in everyday life.
I use Attachment-Based Therapy to help clients understand how early experiences with caregivers shape the way they relate to others today. Many people notice patterns in their relationships like conflict, disconnection, or fear of closeness without realizing where they began. Through exploring these patterns together, you can better understand the “why” behind your emotional reactions and develop healthier ways to connect. This approach is both insightful and action-oriented, helping you build stronger, more secure relationships with yourself and others.
Shame, self-criticism, and negative self-talk often show up alongside depression and anxiety. In our work together, I use Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) to help you build a kinder, more supportive relationship with yourself. We’re often taught to be caring toward others but rarely learn how to offer that same compassion to ourselves. Developing self-compassion can make it easier to accept your emotions, recognize your needs, and move through difficult moments with greater understanding and ease.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) helps people find balance between emotions and logic, rather than getting stuck in black-and-white thinking. Many of my clients describe feeling pressure to always make the “right” choice or fear being wrong, which can lead to emotional overwhelm. DBT teaches skills for staying present, regulating emotions, tolerating distress, and communicating more effectively. These tools help reduce emotional rollercoasters, improve relationships, and build lasting confidence and stability.
3 ratings with written reviews
June 2, 2025
Ara is amazing, super kind, and insightful. I always feel seen whenever I meet with her. In the couple of months that her and I have met she has gained my trust and offered valued feedback.
May 2, 2025
I cannot say enough positive things about Ara.Thoughtful, deeply intelligent, and kind, she creates a space that feels both safe and empowering. She is able to challenge me when I need it, never pushy, always perceptive, and authentic at the heart of every conversation. She listens with full presence, asks insightful questions, and helps me see patterns I hadn't noticed before.If you're looking for a therapist who combines empathy with depth and wisdom, I can't recommend her highly enough.
March 4, 2025
I have felt very safe expressing my day to day encounters. I feel she gives me attainable goals to meet & proper guidance on how to approach situations. Also, giving me facts about how to approach people & set boundaries.