I start with where you are in this moment, using therapeutic modalities adapted to your individual life experience. You'll notice me focusing on present moment awareness, as that's exactly where life happens. We'll also process the past in a way that makes it meaningful now. I am passionate about helping people tap into their inner wisdom and resilience to overcome life's challenges and live fully. I will use a multi-cultural lens in our work together, honoring your unique values and perspectives as I learn about what makes you "you".
Hi! I'm Angelica, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Mount St. Mary's University in Downtown Los Angeles. I work with adults struggling with symptoms of anxiety and depression as well as with clients who are having issues with low self-esteem and trouble in relationships with friends, family, coworkers or partners.
With over 10 years of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life’s most challenging and transformative moments. My work is rooted in a deep commitment to putting clients first by creating a safe, collaborative space where people feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow.
I have extensive expertise in postpartum mental health, women’s issues, and family conflict, and I’m passionate about helping clients reconnect with their strengths, navigate identity shifts, and build more balanced, fulfilling lives. Whether supporting someone through the emotional complexities of new parenthood, relationship challenges, or burnout, I approach each client with compassion, curiosity, and respect for their unique story.
My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and integrative drawing from solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, and family systems approaches to create personalized, effective care. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and I strive to ensure every client feels supported, seen, and truly understood.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here and ready to cultivate and nurture a better you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over six years of clinical experience supporting children, transitional-aged youth, adults, and families. I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals as they navigate painful challenges, life transitions, and periods of healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative process grounded in compassion, safety, and growth. It is truly an honor to support clients as they build resilience, gain insight, and move toward meaningful change. Being part of your healing journey is both fulfilling and joyful, and I am committed to meeting you where you are with empathy and care.
Hello, my name is Diana De La Torre.
I am a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping people (children, teens, adults) with the difficult parts of their lives. I'm compassionate, understanding, and patient, and I'm committed to helping you reach your goals. I know how difficult it can be to open up to someone. But I'm here to listen without judgment, and I'll help you work through your problems in a safe and supportive environment. I'm confident that we can work together to make a difference in your life. I believe that everyone has the potential to heal. I'm here to help you find your inner strength and resilience, so you can overcome whatever challenges you're facing. I'm committed to helping you reach your full potential.
My name is J.P. De Oliveira Estevão, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (L.P.C.C.). I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful change. I use proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic approaches, and Adlerian ideas to customize treatment just for you. My goal is to help you understand yourself better, find ways to cope with challenges and build a happier life.
I’m Dr. Claudia Nuñez a licensed clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. I believe therapy is not about reliving pain for its own sake. It is about understanding what your suffering has been signaling, and bringing that understanding into the present so you can live with more clarity, self compassion, and choice.
Many of the people I work with feel caught in anxiety and overthinking, people pleasing, guilt, burnout, or a deep sense that something needs to change but they cannot quite name what. Others are moving through grief or life transitions that have shaken their identity, relationships, or sense of direction. Some are navigating a spiritual calling or values shift, and feeling both pulled toward meaning and exhausted by the weight of it all.
My approach is integrative and evidence based, with Internal Family Systems as a foundational framework. We work with symptoms and patterns as strategies that once helped you get through something difficult. Together we identify what those strategies have been protecting, understanding your unique history, what you truly need now, and how to respond in ways that feel more aligned and sustainable.
Alongside talk therapy, I incorporate mindfulness, somatic awareness, and narrative reflection so insight becomes change you can feel in real life. When helpful, we use grounding and breath practices to support nervous system regulation, not to bypass pain, but to build steadiness and stay present with what is true. My style is warm, collaborative, trauma informed, and culturally responsive. We move at a pace that respects your boundaries while supporting meaningful growth.
Angelica has a passion for helping young children and adolescents, as well as couples and families. She works with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, adjustment, grief, family conflicts and sever medical diagnosis. Angelica has specialized experience working with those who have suffered extreme trauma or have unresolved feelings about past experiences. Angelica also specializes in support for children and adolescents with serious behavioral difficulties (including: cutting or other self-harming behaviors, anger outbursts, defiance, dis-respectfulness, etc) Angelica believes that understanding, respect, and honesty are at the heart of the therapeutic relationship. She works with clients to explore past experiences and practice real life challenges, providing clients with the tools to better manage themselves towards their goals.
As a Clinical Licensed Social worker with over 10 years of experience, I bring deep understanding of the complexities of mental health to my work with clients. With a strong background in social services, I have developed a particular expertise in working with adolescents struggling with severe mental health. My experience as a foster parents has given me a unique perspective on the challenges faced by vulnerable population, and I am passionate about advocating for the well-being of children and families. My work with veterans has allowed me to develop a specialized understanding of unique needs and challenges faced by military families and veteran. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence based therapy that empowers clients to achieve their goals and improve their overall well being.
Hello! It is truly a pleasure to have the possibility of working with you. Anxiety, trauma, and depression can make us feel lost and the road through is muddy and overwhelming. This is why having a guide that can understand you and meet you where you are, is incredibly important. It is my goal to help you navigate this voyage as well as hold and work through complex emotions as they fight with each other while at the same time cohabitating in the same space. I look forward to taking those first steps with you and take this journey together.
I work towards building trust with clients. My practice focuses on helping those who struggle with managing stress, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and women's issues. People tell me often that i have a calm presence. I do enjoy providing realistic skills, people enjoy practicality and need immediate relief from distress at times. Why wouldn't i teach my clients to find relief from the overwhelming stress.
Hi, I am Miriam, a Latina Licensed Therapist with over a decade of experience working with adults as they navigate some of life's most difficult moments. I know first hand that reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, and I strive to offer a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly understood. My approach is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I believe healing happens through a trusting relationship, where you are met with empathy and respect. Together, we will move at a pace that feels right for you, creating room for reflection, insight, and gentle growth.
Hi, I’m Nelly Rico Blustajn, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults, couples, and parents. I specialize in relationships, parenting, and co-parenting, and I take a solution-focused approach to help you move forward with clarity and intention.
With over 35 years of experience supporting families, I bring a warm, collaborative style and a deep understanding of real-life challenges. As a Spanish-speaking therapist with a strong connection to Latino families, I value culture, connection, and helping you feel truly understood.
My name is Jennifer Macias, LCSW and I specialize in providing therapy to adults experiencing grief and loss. I also support clients experiencing relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and problems with self-esteem or personal growth. I approach therapy with compassion and curiosity. As a Latina of Mexican-American descent, I also see clients who prefer to do sessions in Spanish.
My therapy style supports those struggling with symptoms of anxiety, grief and loss, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, parenting, communication, and low self-esteem. My practice is inclusive, non-judgmental, culturally responsive, and affirming of LGBTQ+ communities. I offer services in English and Spanish.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; I earned a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. I have worked with adults, children, families, and couples in different settings.
I hope to join you in your current process and together increase self-awareness, unlearn unhelpful responses to triggers, and increase agency in your life. Whether it is a new stage in life, relationship issues, anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, self-doubt, or something else, we can work towards improving your mental and physical health.
On a personal note, I enjoy hiking, spending time with my family, and exploring new cities. I also enjoy visiting coffee shops, propagating plants, and photography.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I received my Doctorate Degree from Alliant International University in Fresno. I was born in Southern California and raised in the Bay Area. I have been practicing for 10 years and I enjoy empowering adults in their journey of overcoming their mental health challenges. I motivate clients for change and promote their personal growth.
Hello! Nice to meet you.
I'm Adilene and I began my career in the mental health field in 2015 because I profoundly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to create a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I hope to inspire others to develop practical skills and build meaningful support systems that promote lasting change. I am driven by a deep commitment to helping individuals overcome generational trauma and break free from cycles of pain and suffering. Advocacy, growth, and integrity are the principles that guide my work in the mental health field.
I am a first generation daughter of immigrant parents. On a personal level, my own journey through adversity and growth has provided me with empathy and insight into the challenges my clients may face. Whether navigating life transitions, managing stress, or confronting generational patterns, I understand the courage and vulnerability it takes to engage with a therapist.
Hi, welcome! I am Jennifer Soriano. I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, and a range of emotional or relationship challenges. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or unsure how to manage daily stressors, transitions, or expectations in their personal, academic, or professional lives.
I strive to create a warm, supportive, and culturally responsive therapeutic space where clients feel safe, understood, and respected. I believe therapy is most effective when clients feel empowered and actively involved in their own growth. In our work together, I offer practical, evidence-based tools to help strengthen emotional regulation, increase self-awareness, build confidence, and improve day-to-day functioning and relationships.
My therapeutic approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to each client’s unique developmental stage, background, and cultural identity. I recognize the impact of life experiences, family systems, and culture on emotional well-being, and I integrate these perspectives into treatment. My goal is to support clients in developing healthier coping strategies, fostering resilience, and creating meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels comfortable and sustainable for them.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist who helps people understand themselves on a deeper level and change patterns that keep showing up in their lives. Many of my clients appear to have it together on the outside but feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck internally. They often find themselves repeating the same cycles in relationships, overextending themselves, or struggling to manage their emotions in a way that feels grounded and consistent.
I am direct and honest in how I show up. I create a space where you feel supported while also being challenged to grow. I pay attention to patterns, beliefs, and behaviors that may be keeping you stuck, and I help you begin to shift them in a way that is realistic and sustainable. My focus is not just on talking through problems, but on helping you build awareness and take action so that change happens outside of session as well.
My work centers on anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I support clients in building emotional awareness, strengthening regulation, setting boundaries, and understanding how past experiences influence current patterns. Many of the clients I work with are ready to take a deeper look at themselves and move out of survival mode into a more intentional way of living.
I use approaches such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy, and I tailor the work to each client's needs. Whether you are just starting therapy or returning to continue your growth, I meet you where you are and support you in doing the work to create meaningful change.
Welcome, I'm glad you are here today. I'm first generation Mexican American of immigrant parents and I bring professional sensitivity to immigration issue. I'm licensed clinical social worker offering therapy in both English and Spanish. I graduated with a master's degree in social worker from California State University, Long Beach. I've been a clinical social worker for the past 8 years and trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. I started my career in mental health community clinic working with adults of severe mental health disorder. I have worked with underserved community, including students, parents, immigrant families, and incarcerated population. I am most comfortable working with mild to moderate client experiencing depression and anxiety.
My name is Jennifer Limon and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I’m also a proud first-generation college graduate, raised by migrant worker parents who came to this country in search of a better life. Their journey shaped my values and inspired my passion for helping others navigate life’s transitions with resilience and purpose.
I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults who are facing major life changes starting college, entering the workforce, dealing with stress or burnout, becoming a parent, or adjusting to a new life stage. These transitions can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel anxious, lost, or stuck.
My goal is to help you build the tools and confidence to manage these changes, reduce anxiety and depression, and move forward with more clarity, calm, and self-compassion. You don’t have to go through this alone . I’m here to support you as you find your footing and create a life that feels meaningful and manageable.
Hello, I am Coralia Valdez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working in the mental health field for over 25 years. Throughout my work as therapist, I believe that real change happens when you feel truly heard and supported. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can explore your challenges, discover your strengths, and move toward the life you want.
I am a clinical therapist dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. My approach focuses on helping individuals recognize and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and modify behaviors that may be interfering with their well-being.
I work collaboratively with clients to strengthen problem-solving skills, build emotional awareness and regulation, and foster resilience. My goal is to support each person in gaining insight, developing practical tools, and moving toward meaningful and lasting personal growth.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience based in CA. Although I specialize in perinatal mental health (pregnancy, prenatal, postpartum), I also see clients for a variety of reasons such as life transitions, depression, anxiety, parenting, grief and loss, stress management, relationship challenges, trauma, immigration, life goals, and people wanting to be the best version of themselves.
Are you experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, feelings of abandonment, depression, low self-esteem, childhood trauma, or parenting challenges?
With over 18 years of experience in evidence-based therapies, I am confident in my ability to customize my approach to meet your individual needs and support your healing journey.
As a mental health professional, I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable discussing concerns such as anxiety, depression, women's issues, past trauma, or emotional exhaustion. My aim is to assist clients in establishing healthy communication boundaries with themselves and others, which can significantly enhance their overall well-being.
I also have extensive experience working with children who face emotional, mental, and behavioral challenges, understanding that their treatment needs differ from adults due to developmental differences. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to your child's age and specific situation. These methods can help your child develop coping skills, enhance social interactions, and better manage their emotions.
Depending on your child's age and needs, I may work directly with you or other caregivers to enhance parenting skills or address particular behaviors.
Counseling can foster personal growth and improve various aspects of your life. If you're ready to start your journey toward better well-being, I am here to support you every step of the way.
**Hablo Español**
Hello, my name is Melisa Santacruz. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the states of California and Florida, and have been practicing for 7 years. My work focuses on supporting individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, professional stress, parenting challenges, relationship concerns, self-esteem struggles, and life transitions. I specialize and am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, Person-centered (Rogerian) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am proficient in Spanish and English.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself? You don’t have to go through it alone.
Hi, I’m Gustavo—and I’m here to help you take the next step toward feeling more grounded, empowered, and in control of your life. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, or patterns that keep holding you back, therapy offers a space to explore what’s going on—without judgment.
Together, we’ll focus on building confidence, setting healthy boundaries, and strengthening your relationships—starting with the one you have with yourself. Your story matters, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.
You may be on the right path, but stumbled, fell, or got lost along the way. Or you may be struggling to find the path. I want to help. In therapy, I aim to create a calm, sturdy, emotionally open, and radically nonjudgmental space where you can be deeply curious about your own experience. A patient, open-ended space where you can take your time. A space where you can slow down, breathe, reflect, be quiet or silent. A space where you can be loud, angry, triggered, upset. A space where you don't have to make sense, but we can try to make sense of things together. A space where we both can be genuinely curious about who you are.
It's easy to overlook our need for self-care when we're busy taking care of other aspects of our lives. Our priorities often revolve around work and our family's well-being, leaving us at the bottom of our list. My aim is to encourage self-determination through therapy. During our therapeutic relationship, we will work together to achieve your goals and find new ways to overcome obstacles and crises. We'll collaborate on identifying your strengths, as it's important to recognize how your current mindset and decisions are impacting the challenges you face in life.
Hi, welcome. I am Maricela, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA. I believe that therapy is a journey of personal growth and healing. It takes courage and can be challenging, but you don’t have to embark alone. My hope is that, as your therapist, I can be the holder of hope and a source of support. After obtaining my Master's in Counseling degree in 2015, I have had a wide range of experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and families as they work through a wide range of issues including traumatic experiences, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Hi I am Alex! As a bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my priority is to support individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding the unique experiences of young adults, immigrants, and multicultural communities. I offer compassionate guidance for challenges like anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and interpersonal communication. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients explore themes of self-love, purpose, and healing from past experiences. My bilingual practice allows me to connect deeply with diverse communities, creating a supportive environment where individuals can develop resilience, process difficult emotions, and cultivate meaningful personal growth.
I'm an LMFT based in California, and for the past 14 years, my passion has been helping adults (18+) break free from the patterns that keep them feeling limited and frustrated. I help you clarify your needs and guide you toward making the responsible choices that lead to deep, sustainable change in your life and relationships. I have a Master's from Hope International University and am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Psychology.
If you're looking for a holistic, decolonized and evidence based approach at managing your mental health symptoms: you've come to the right place.
My approach in therapy is centered around the transformative power of creativity and connectivity. I believe that healing and growth are best achieved through breaking generational patterns, self reflection, and strengthening the skills to navigate the systems in which we live.
I take a relational and evidence based approach to treatment, center your voice, and guide a process of co-creating your healing journey. I encourage clients to explore their inner worlds and express themselves authentically; while also establishing solid supports, and grounding awareness within the context of their lives.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with fourteen years of experience in the mental health field. Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges and work toward healthier patterns of relating. I am deeply committed to helping my clients develop a clearer understanding of their emotional world, recognize the roots of their reactions, and build practical skills to cope with the situations that life inevitably brings. My goal is to create a supportive, collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to grow, heal, and move forward with greater confidence and resilience.
Hi, I’m Gabriel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality-related challenges. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients build emotional balance, practical coping skills, and clarity around their values. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel understood and empowered to make meaningful, lasting changes in their lives.
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 8 years of experience helping adolescents and adults manage and foster positive change through the lens of psychology. Driven by a genuine desire to make a difference, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of their lives, fostering growth, resilience, and meaningful connections. I hold a master's degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Health Psychology from Santa Clara University.
VirtualOffers in-person in Hayward, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I started my professional career in child welfare. I transitioned to mental health and primarily work with adolescents, providing mental health resources and interventions and family supports. I am open to meeting with clients during some weekday evening hours and some weekends as well. I hope to provide you the space and support needed to help guide you through your current distress.
I am so glad you are here. Let me take a moment to introduce myself. As a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I specialize in a strengths-based and person-centered approach. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples to overcome challenges, achieve balance, and create adaptive strategies for personal growth from a trauma-informed perspective. By fostering resilience and meaningful connections, I help clients build fulfilling lives for themselves.
Hola! My name is Brianna and I’m so glad you’re here. The decision to begin therapy is a big one, and I feel honored that you are considering doing that with me. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. On our therapeutic journey, I welcome you just the way you are so that we can work to create an authentic life balance that will support your success, wellness and happiness.
Whatever it is, telling your story to someone who cares and accepts the most authentic version of you, is the first step toward healing. I want to work with you to help you figure out how to solve challenges and find the most authentic version of yourself so that you can live the life you’ve always envisioned.
I received my Masters from CSU San Jose State and have been supporting clients for 8 years.
My name is Patricia Pasillas (LCSW) and I'm a first generation Latina located here in the heart of Southern California. Throughout the last 17 years of my career as a licensed clinical social worker I've build a solid reputation for not only breaking down the barriers within society but it's my eagerness to help open the doors for others that truly separates me from others in this line of work.
I have been working with children, adolescents, and families since 1999, and have since dedicated my life work to serving families and children improve their lives. I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2014. My expertise is working with families and children who have behavioral difficulties, mental health, and difficulties within the family dynamics. My experience has been in school settings working with children with autism and behavioral difficulties, in government setting with children who have been marginalized and abused, and in both outpatient settings and hospital settings.
Hola! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who brings a warm, creative, and down-to-earth approach to my work. I show up with empathy, authenticity, and a strong commitment to meeting people exactly where they are.
A little bit about me: I'm a first-generation Mexican immigrant dedicated to breaking generational cycles. I express my creativity through baking, building, and learning strategy games. Sometimes I consider myself a “sit-down" comedian. I enjoy all things DIY, gardening, beach-combing, rockhounding, and exploring nature. I am a certified homebody, yet I love adventure. I'm someone that will always want to bring home every stray animal I meet. I have a weakness for neat secondhand shops and all things decadent. I look forward to meeting you!
I became licensed in the state of California in 2011. Prior to that, I received a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University and a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Women’s Studies from the University of California at Berkeley. I have worked in schools, non-profit agencies, and in private practice, serving diverse populations to include children, adolescents, adult individuals, families, and couples. I have a specific interest in helping individuals achieve greater self confidence, feel more joyful, and experience more meaningful and healthy relationships. ** También hablo español. No dude en comunicarse conmigo si necesita apoyo. Espero poder conversar con usted pronto.
Hi! I'm a California-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for 14 years. I help teens and young adults overcome depression, anxiety, and life transitions. My goal is to inspire my clients to become the best version of themselves by identifying the root causes of their issues and helping them work through them.
Hello, I am Maria Morales, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in San Fernando Valley. I received my Undergraduate Degree in Liberal Studies from Mount Saint Mary's University in 2010 and continued my education at the University of Southern California receiving my Master in Social Work and Public Health in 2015.
Establishing rapport is essential in psychotherapy as well as maintaining confidentiality. I often draws on my shared cultural experiences with clients, fostering an environment where openness and vulnerability are encouraged. I am mindful of the cultural nuances in communication styles that may affect trust and disclosure while we work together in therapy to understand the "why" we need therapy to change life patterns that just aren't working anymore.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have been practicing since 2011. I have experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. I have been trained in a range of research-based practices including Managing and Adaptive Practice, Depression Treatment Quality Improvement, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Military Focus. My passion is working alongside my clients to provide support and help bring healing in their lives. I take a client-centered approach, utilizing strength-based, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral techniques to help my clients improve their overall quality of life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I received my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). I work with adolescent and adult clients statewide via telehealth. I have several years of experience with helping clients improve anxiety, depression, and overall stress symptoms that life and life transitions create. I am a therapist who is passionate about helping people heal, grow and discover their strengths.
Bienvenidos! Soy Norma. Welcome! I am Norma, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specialized in depression, anxiety and life transitions. Culturally sensitive therapist, committed to help older adults (60+) overcome life challenges utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which focuses on identifying and changing maladaptive thought patterns and replace them with more objective and realistic thoughts. As a Latina woman, I have had the privilege of serving the Spanish-speaking community, and my goal is to create a compassionate, supportive space where older adults could feel safe, understood and empowered.
I understand that starting therapy can feel uncertain or even overwhelming — and that's completely normal.
I use practical, straightforward tools to help you understand how your thoughts affect your feelings and actions. More importantly, I help you see the strengths you already have — because you have them, even if no one has pointed them out lately.
I believe every person deserves to be heard without judgment. Whatever brought you here, my goal is to help you find a way forward that works for you.
I was born in the US, but I was raised in Mexico. I lived in Tijuana for 10 years when my parents decided to move us across the border to Chula Vista, California. As a first-generation Mexican-American, I experienced a duality of cultures. I was often judged for either being “not Mexican enough” OR “not American enough.” I also faced enormous pressure to be successful – to justify my parents’ having left their beloved country so my sibling and I could have a better life. This is one of many reasons I decided to follow this path: to help those who feel alone in their journey. That’s how I felt when acculturating to this country.
I earned my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at San Diego State University (SDSU). I was going to go directly into the workforce and eventually go back for my master’s, but an awesome professor challenged me to apply right away so I wouldn’t lose momentum. So, that’s what I did. I ended up getting my Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Southern California. It took some time and courage to finish all my licensing requirements, but it was worth it! I’ve been licensed as a clinical social worker in California since 2019. I am certified in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT.