Therapists in California

English: Dr. De Anda is bilingual in Spanish and comes from a bicultural background as he completed his formative years of education in Mexico. He earned his Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, in San Diego, CA. Dr. De Anda has worked extensively with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including Latinos/as, in diverse settings, including homes, clinics, hospitals, schools, and forensic settings, including a maximum-security state prison. He has worked with pre-adolescents, teenagers, adults, couples, and families of low income who have experienced different struggles, such as substance use, anxiety, depression, aggression, trauma, dementia, and psychosis (such as auditory and visual hallucinations). Dr. De Anda incorporates compassion and mindfulness in his therapeutic approach with people. Dr. De Anda seeks to establish collaborative relationships with patients that promote freedom for them to express themselves in sessions what is most important or conflictual for them. Dr. De Anda also helps people to identify and note peoples’ strengths and overall emotional resilience as a way of facilitating change and promoting a sense of empowerment. Español: El Dr. De Anda es bilingüe en español y proviene de un trasfondo bicultural ya que completó sus años formativos de educación en México. Obtuvo su doctorado en Psicología Clínica de la Universidad International de Alliant, en San Diego, CA. El Dr. De Anda ha trabajado extensamente con personas de diversos orígenes étnicos, incluyendo latinos/as, en diversos entornos, incluyendo hogares residenciales, clínicas, hospitales, escuelas y prisiones estatales de máxima seguridad. El ha trabajado con preadolescentes, adolescentes, adultos, parejas y familias de bajos ingresos que han batallado con distintos aspectos de salud mental como uso de sustancias, ansiedad, depresión, agresión, trauma, demencia y psicosis (como alucinaciones auditivas y visuales). El Dr. De Anda incorpora la compasión y la atención plena en su enfoque terapéutico con las personas. El busca establecer relaciones de colaboración con los pacientes que promuevan la libertad para que se expresen en sesiones lo que es más importante o conflictivo para ellos. El Dr. De Anda también ayuda a las personas a identificar y observar las fortalezas de las personas y la resiliencia emocional general como una forma de facilitar el cambio y promover un sentido de empoderamiento.

Welcome, I'm Michelle Ulloa. Life can sometimes feel heavy, leaving us disconnected from ourselves, our relationships, and the joy we once felt. If you’re noticing that spark fading, I want you to know you don’t have to go through this alone. In therapy, my goal is to walk alongside you as we explore the challenges holding you back and uncover the strengths within you. Together, we’ll discover what’s not working in your life and build on what does, so you can move toward greater balance, clarity, and fulfillment.

Hello, my name is Paola Leon and I am a Bilingual Marriage Family Therapist. I am a Latina, first generation female who specializes in Children, Teens and Young adults up to 25 yrs old. I have extensive knowledge and training in working with neurodivergent populations specifically children, teens, and young adults. I am an advocate of the LGBTQIA+, and LatinX community. I utilize evidence based modalities in treatments such as CBT, ACT, Play therapy and EMDR. My commitment to my clients is to offer a safe and nonjudgmental place in where any and all feelings are allowed.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Art Therapist based in California. I have two masters degrees one from Notre Dame de Namur University in Counseling and Art Therapy, CA and an MA from Hunter in NYC. Most of my experience is with children, couples, families and severe mental illness, also PTSD, Military Trauma, Substance use and ( for children ) parental imprisonment. I have also worked extensively with teenagers and sexual abuse. My style is attachment based and i may use art therapy directives if this is something you would like to explore. Apart from Trauma and especially sexual trauma, sex addiction and substance use i am also well versed in Perinatal, Post Partum and Parenting.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) fluent in both English and Spanish. With a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges, I have been dedicated to the mental health field since 2017, working with adults and children from diverse communities. I embarked on my journey in mental healthcare driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact in people's lives. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from California State University, Bakersfield, which equipped me with the knowledge and skills to provide effective therapy services.

Hello! I am bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have 12 years of experience providing individual and family therapy to residents in the Los Angeles area. I earned my Bachelors degree in Sociology in Spanish from Loyola Marymount University in 2007 and Master of Social Welfare from University of California Los Angeles in 2012. I have extensive experience providing community mental health with a strong emphasis on depression and anxiety disorders, including trauma and perinatal/postpartum conditions.

I offer individual therapy grounded in an attachment-oriented framework, tailored to support a wide range of mental health concerns and personal challenges. I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating complex emotional and relational challenges. Much of my work has focused on people living with chronic medical conditions, including those impacted by HIV/AIDS, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community. I also bring an attachment-based lens to therapy, helping clients explore how past relationships shape their current experiences. I am currently gaining training in Sex Therapy to become a certified sex therapist. In our work together, we’ll explore how the past informs the present, while also focusing on building new, more secure patterns of connection, regulation, and self-understanding.

Hello, I’m Giovanna. Whether you have been struggling with mental health problems most of your life or are experiencing some personal hardships and are looking for help, you have come to the right place. Be proud of yourself for reaching out for support. The journey might not be easy but the goal is to help you have a life that you find meaningful and fulfilling. I have experience working with adolescents, transitional age youth, adults and older adults dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, personality disorders, developmental disorders, and substance use as well as with those going through life transitions and struggling finding their way.

Hi there! My name is Marlene. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had the pleasure of working in mental health for over 7 years. I specialize in working with adults navigating major life transitions—such as starting college or becoming a parent—while also exploring how these experiences intersect with aspects of identity, including being first-generation students, parenting in ways that break cycles of trauma, and identifying as people of color. I provide trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive care. It is always my goal to create a space where you feel safe and understood during our time together.

Everyone needs support;have you been dealing with life with no support from friends or family? Are you dealing with childhood trauma,estrangement and or abandonment from your family of origin?Are you having difficulty attracting and keeping a healthy intimate relationship?Do you feel you are repeating generational patterns? Maybe you have been coping all these years without really exploring and understanding your pain.We help clients understand themselves with compassion rather than shame and self judgment.I help you to change generational patterns that are not serving you .We are sensitive to your values ,needs and are culturally sensitive. My work mainly consists in solution focus with collaborative efforts from the client in order to attain goals . Todo el mundo necesito ayuda,aqui le ofreceremos la terapia totalmente en espanol para que pueda entender.

Bianca Golondrino, LCSW As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California and Florida, I am passionate about helping individuals achieve their mental health goals. Currently, I am expanding my expertise through training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) while also utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and various other therapeutic modalities. I enjoy working with both adolescents and adults, providing compassionate support and guidance tailored to each client's unique needs. My goal is to empower clients on their journey to mental wellness and resilience.

My name is Marissa Ruiz, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. Some of my other titles include mother, wife, ex-wife sister, daughter, niece, grandmother and friend. Sharing these titles are important to me because they represent current relationships and past relationships. My past relationships include grief, trauma and growth. I survived obstacles in my life with the help of a therapist. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, empathetic, supportive, good listener and working together with yourself to make a goal. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles.

Hi there, I'm Randy, Are you tired of being triggered, being reminded of stressful events, feeling edgy, irritable, anxious, panicky, angry, depressed, isolated, fatigued, numb and not knowing what to do about it? I am here to help! Si hablo espanol. I have helped our nation's finest heal from the battlefield, and survivors of military sexual assault find a better balance. I have also worked with our men and women in fire and police service, and with gold star families grieve the loss of their loved ones. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or have had multiple therapists in the past, I acknowledge your courage in seeking help. What you will find with me is a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together I will treat you with compassion, and techniques, to help you overcome your issues. Together we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance.

Hi! Welcome to my practice. I am a bilingual (Spanish/ English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and proud first-generation Latina. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from California State University, East Bay in 2016 and have experience in this field for close to 10 years. I am committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to individuals across the lifespan.

Hello! My name is Abby, I have been working in the mental health field for 8 years. I have worked in a variety of settings assisting people in overcoming a multitude of challenges. I am a Latina therapist and am passionate about discussing ways that culture plays out in our everyday lives. I believe in the power of therapy, and the healing nature of processing feelings and emotions. I use an eclectic style of therapy modalities to fit your needs. I am currently accepting patients over the age of 18 for individual therapy. Prior to beginning treatment we will meet for a consultation to make sure you are a good fit for my practice.

Do you feel unseen or unheard? Do you struggle with feeling like you don’t quite belong—or maybe feel disconnected from yourself entirely? Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, juggling societal pressures and cultural and familial expectations. Others carry the weight of childhood or intergenerational trauma. Some struggle with imposter syndrome in their workplaces or post-grad programs, while others long for healthier, more fulfilling relationships—with themselves and those around them. As a professional therapist, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, humor, and empathy. I aim to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. If you value honest, direct feedback and compassionate encouragement, I am ready to help you navigate life’s challenges confidently and clearly. Are you ready to embrace self-acceptance? To unlock your full potential? To experience more profound healing and fulfillment? I’m ready when you are. Together, we will identify your stressors, develop practical coping skills, and build the resilience to move forward with strength and purpose. I offer therapy in English and Spanish. Let’s connect! Schedule a FREE 15-minute phone consultation or book your first session today to begin your healing journey. I offer a sliding scale for therapy sessions. Contact me to check eligibility. For Kaiser members, Complete a mental health intake with Kaiser and request an external referral to Grow Therapy. Once approved, call Grow Therapy and provide my name. Feel free to reach out with any questions!

I am Nelly Johnson, I am licensed in California and Nevada as a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I want you to know that although I am a therapist, I am a real person and my approach to therapy is more of a mentor and coach versus "your therapist." I love helping people heal from childhood trauma, relationship wounds and couples relationship challenges.

Hi there, I'm Mercy. My job is to hold space for you; space to calm the storm, room to communicate with your commitment to self, and freedom to recognize the courage it took to get this far. I have over 29 years of experience working in various fields within the scope of psychology. I have worked with foster/adoptive parents and children. Social service work with Prevail (previously known as The Women's Center), various volunteer groups, community organizations, clinics, treatment centers, group homes within San Joaquin Co, San Diego Co., Sacramento Co., and more. I bring that level of experience and offer that knowledge base when relevant to our sessions. I have been both a client and a therapist. I believe in healing, helping and hope.

Hello, my name is Yesenia Segovia, with an LCSW based in California. I really value listening, being a warm presence, bringing a sense of calm, understanding where you're coming from, validating your experiences, and empowering you to make changes. Seriously, this is a judgment-free zone! Feeling safe and comfortable in therapy is super important to me. We'll team up and work through whatever you're facing together, and I'm here to support you in reaching your well-being goals. Over the years, I've helped many people just like you find healing and achieve what they're aiming for.

Gracias por estar aquí, thanks for being here! Entiendo que pedir ayuda puede ser difícil, sin embargo, es una experiencia muy humana sentir inseguridad sobre cómo seguir adelante en tiempos difíciles. I understand that asking for help can be difficult, and it’s a deeply human experience to feel uncertain about how to move forward during challenging times. Life's struggles can make it hard to manage daily responsibilities, often filling your mind with worries and overwhelming emotions. Therapy can offer a supportive space to process your feelings, gain clarity, and develop strategies that support your well-being. By seeking support, you're making an important commitment to yourself.

I have over 10 years experience working with adult male and females experiencing various problems with severe mental disorders as a licensed psychologist. I am well experienced with treatment planning for various mental health programs, identifying treatment outcomes, and assessing and treating patients in support of their recovery. Other experiences include diagnostic evaluations, structured clinical interviews, intake assessments, crisis / emergency response services, and individual therapy.

Hello, I’m Cesar. Do you feel overwhelmed with life’s challenges and feel you are being pulled in a million directions? Are you looking to restore balance to your life and mind? Has your self-esteem taken a hit due to the constant changes and expectations of society? Are you looking to improve or change the trajectory of your life? I work with adults who experience mental health concerns that range from anxiety, depression, impulse control, inattentiveness, trauma, behavioral concerns, relationship challenges and difficulties with establishing healthy boundaries. Together, we can restore your psychological and emotional health along with devising a plan to help achieve your goals. We will explore underlying concerns that are driving destructive behaviors and develop effective ways to improve overall functioning in all environments.

Hello! I am Jackeline Balarezo- Ruvalcaba. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about helping individuals from all walks of life. I have 14 years of experience working within the school district, foster system and young and older adults in mental health. I am very passionate in guiding individual to reach their full potentials and empowering them to meeting their goals.

Hello. Are you experiencing low energy, low motivation, trouble sleeping, irritability, poor concertation? or feeling sad, worried, anxious or stressed about your negative/intrusive thoughts? The truth is, that everyone experiences Anxiety or Depression at some point in their life, but these conditions are treatable and you do not have to go through them alone. I am here to help. My name is Tina. I am a Latina, a mother and a therapist with 20 years of experience treating children and adults with Anxiety and/or Depression. I also specialize in Maternal Mental Health and/or any other issue related to pregnancy and motherhood. I would love to help you find calmness, balance and a more positive approach to coping with life stressors that often create Anxiety and/or Depression.

Hello! I’m Jose Galindo, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and seasoned psychotherapist with more than 20 years of experience in mental health and child welfare. Based in California, I provide compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals, couples, families, and groups who are ready to navigate life’s complexities and take steps toward meaningful growth. I’m here to help you nurture your emotional well-being, build resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies in a safe and supportive space. Whether you're struggling with personal challenges or seeking stronger relational connections, I will walk alongside you—empowering you to explore, heal, and transform. Therapy is a unique and personal journey. My role is to meet you where you are and help shape the process with care, flexibility, and respect for your goals. Together, we’ll work to uncover insights, cultivate strengths, and move toward lasting change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and I value using a whole-person and empathic approach in every session. As an LCSW, my goal is to help individuals improve their mental health, address relationship difficulties, and adjust to challenging life changes. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and client-centered perspective, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused and Strength-Based interventions

Hello! My name is Diana Marquez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I have been extremely fortunate and have had the honor to work in the fields of mental health, substance addiction and social work for the last 17+ years. I have a passion for helping others as well as a passion for collaborating, supporting and walking alongside the healing journey of those I serve, through the implementation of nurturing, compassionate, non-judgmental, respectful and supportive mental health treatment approaches.

I am a highly empathetic, positive individual that seeks to assist my clients in finding their worth, self love and myriad of abilities to thrive within life challenges. I enjoyed walking with my clients to find the best version of themselves and who they want to be. I meet my clients where they are and walk with them through awareness and healing process.

I have experience working with children, families, and individuals as a social worker since 2003, and as a licensed clinical social worker since 2017. Prior to training as a therapist I worked as an advocate for children, youth, and families in various community based non-profits. Witnessing families succeed as I helped ease their burdens led me to the path of clinical social work! I consider it a privilege to be invited and entrusted with the task of walking alongside you during a challenging moment in your life. Seeing you grow and succeed is one of the best rewards I could ask for.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in helping those in need of healing and coping with life issues and struggles that may interfere with daily living. My therapy approach is to build a relationship with my clients and create a safe space to allow clients to feel comfortable enough and trust in when sharing difficult emotions.

Welcome to my page! My name is Claudia Candelas-Prado, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I am originally from the Bay Area and obtained my Masters degree from San Jose State University in 2015. For the past 9 years, I have ben working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families in a variety of settings (community agencies, hospitals, schools). It is important for me to create a safe and welcoming environment for my patients to openly share their day to day challenges and discover their best version of themselves.

As a working mom and therapist, I understand the intricate balance of managing personal and professional responsibilities. My experiences as a parent inform my practice, allowing me to connect deeply with clients who face similar challenges. I create a supportive and empathetic environment where we can explore the complexities of your life, including the demands of work, family, and self-care. Together, we will navigate your journey toward balance and fulfillment, honoring your unique experiences and aspirations. I am here to help you develop strategies that fit your life, fostering resilience and personal growth along the way.

I come to this work with a deep respect for the healing process and the vulnerability that my clients bring to the space. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is critical for change to occur. While I understand that embarking on the journey of therapy can be painful and challenging, I also know that it can be joyful and ultimately bring grounded levity and ease to your life.

Hello, I’m Maria Fernanda Perez, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked in a helping capacity for over 19 years. I specialize in working with violence and trauma survivors, teens, adults who have experienced challenges in their lives. I support couples and families who desire to develop a deeper connection to their body. For many of my clients this looks like symptoms of high sensitivity, anxiety, depression, and trauma interfering with their ability to connect with themselves. My traditional mental health background has given me a solid foundation in helping others to better finding their inner self.

I am a bilingual LMFT. In 1991 I obtained a B.H in Social Psychology from The Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (Mexico). In 2008, I graduated from University of Phoenix with a M.A in Marriage, Family, and Child therapy. I have more than 20 years working with patients (adolescents, parents, adults, and couples) to improve relationships, mental and/or emotional issues related with depression, anxiety, phobias, traumas, psychosocial stressors, life challenges, and goals.

Welcome! I am Silvia Gudino, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My mission is to provide a positive experience where you feel empowered! Therapy should feel like a meaningful conversation allowing you to breathe a little better each time. I strive to provide a space where you feel heard, supported, guided, and safe. With my humanistic approach, it is important that you feel that our time is valuable and meaningful.

Hi, my name is Kristy De Leon. Are you successful at work, but unable to have success in your personal life? Have you tried the "self help" books, but finding its not helping? Do you finding yourself scrolling social media for too long? Is there a constant worry that things will not change? Are you finding yourself in a lifeless or sexless marriage and wondering if things will ever change? I empower high performing adults to overcome the obstacles that are keeping them from actualizing their potential. We will work in the here-and-now and use your strengths. I integrate a holistic approach that takes into consideration mind, lifestyle habits, emotions, and spirituality. Each component has an integral part in goal achievement, but more importantly in strengthening the relationship with yourself. Whether you want to enhance your communication skills, have a better handle on overwhelm or heal wounds from relationships - I'm here for you. In our sessions, I will met you will a solution-focused approach that is based in compassion and hope. We will co-create a roadmap with measurable goals and realistic coping skills. You do not have to look further for a safe space. Let's schedule an appointment.

Raquel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing mental health services for the past 8 years. Overall, she has 15 years of experience in the social work field. Raquel has worked in several settings such as child welfare, mental health agencies, and in the public school setting as a school social worker. Raquel's experiences have provided her with skills and tools to understand the needs of her clients. On a personal note, she has been married for 15 years and is the mother of 4 children.

Good day to you, my name is Mario Palacios I am a LMFT. I have been a therapist for over 25 years. I have had my practice since 2011. In that time, I have learned and have continued to learn what it takes to become a more effective therapist. During this time, I have treated many people with various issues/challenges that have resulted in positive outcomes. The most important impact for me is being able to see when my client has been able to make changes in their lives where they have improved themselves, found more clarity and continue to seek more improvement.

My name is Arakel Aristakessian and I am a first generation American of Armenian immigrants. There is never a lack of drama in my family and I think it is important to be mindful of cultural expectations and norms when navigating conflict. In this fashion, I use an individualized approach to meet my clients' needs. My style of therapy is grounded in the person-centered approach. I practice listening with empathy to my client’s lived experiences. I remind myself that it is not my place to judge anyone for their past choices. It is my responsibility to respond honestly and respectfully. My hope is to mediate shame, so that people feel comfortable and safe in opening up about what is troubling them. Once the therapeutic space feels safe, only then can various treatment methods truly be effective.

Hello! My name is Erika and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I can imagine that deciding on who to trust with your story can be overwhelming but I want to explain a bit about what my intentions are as your therapist. Ultimately, I truly believe that our perceptions can either help us or hinder our day to day lives. What we think/believe can negatively impact our feelings and our actions or even keep us in situations or relationships that are not healthy for us. Whether it’s increasing your self-awareness, creating balance, or improving your ability to cope, I will guide you through that process. Seeking help for your self-improvement is already a great first step! Opening up to a stranger is very scary and I prioritize creating a safe space for you. I plan to meet you where you are and guide you along the way to hopefully get you to where you aspire to be! My priority is to empower you to be the best version of yourself.

Hello, my name is Salomon Garcia, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in southern California. I have been practicing for over 6 years. I have worked with a broad range of individuals ranging from teen to older adults. I have helped clients struggling with anxiety, depression, work-stress, low self-esteem and life transitions. My aim is to provide a relaxing and safe space to help people to be the best version of themselves.

Hi, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the mental health field 15+ years, went back to graduate school in 2013. In the process of completing my hours for licensure, I worked with children, youth, adults, and families. I utilize a person-centered approach to help individuals identify their goals and help them navigate this journey. Starting therapy can be challenging. We start where you are and go from there.

Hi, I am Yeny! I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist, Latina (ablo espanol). I have worked in the communities of Los Angeles for 20 years, with different socio-economic status and age groups from as young as 3 years to end of life. I am a passionate, compassionate psychotherapist, counselor and life coach who wants to empower people in their journey of becoming a better version of themselves. In a safe space that will navigate with clients the areas of depression, self-esteem, culture, family, and relationships.

Personal discovery and growth are one of life's greatest challenges but also provide one of life's greatest rewards. I have been a Marriage Family Therapist for the past 12 years. Empathy, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard are key to establishing that trust. I specialize in anxiety, depression, coping skills, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress syndrome, and women's issues, which are a few symptoms I specialize in. During my time as a therapist, I've worked with children, adolescents and adults. I believe that therapy is beneficial by targeting underlying concerns that are causing stressful situations and maladaptive behaviors. Through active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental standpoints, my objective is for positive change to occur.

Hello. My name is Deborah. I live in California , where I received my masters degree in social work. I worked in Medical Social work for 14 years. During that time, I had the opportunity to assist clients and families during their times of crisis, stress, transition and loss. At Grow, I see adults and seniors. I appreciate that I can assist clients in times when they need support.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from California State University, Fullerton and have been practicing for 4 years. However, I have worked in the mental health field since 2017. I help children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, and overall life stressors. I work with each client on becoming the best versions of themselves. ¡Hola! Soy una terapeuta licenciada en matrimonio y familia (LMFT) con base en California. Obtuve mi maestría en la Universidad Estatal de California, Fullerton, y he estado ejerciendo durante 4 años. Sin embargo, he trabajado en el campo de la salud mental desde 2017. Ayudo a niños, adolescentes y adultos que enfrentan depresión, ansiedad y factores estresantes de la vida en general. Trabajo con cada cliente para que puedan convertirse en la mejor versión de sí mismos.

Hello! I am a bilingual Latina Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in California. Se habla espanol. I received my Masters from Brandman university! I have been practicing for 5 years. I have experience working for children and adolescents as well with adults who have struggle with anxiety and/or depression. I am passionate about meeting my client where they are at and assisting them in their process of healing increasing ability to face life in a different way.

I was born and raised in California, the daughter of immigrants from Mexico, they came to the United States hoping for a better future and opportunities. I am a first-generation college graduate and understand the sacrifices many parents make to give their children a better future. I attended California State University Dominguez Hills and have a background in Child Development and Human Services. I recognize that it takes courage and vulnerability to embark on a journey of self-discovery through therapy. I have a strong background in Critical Race Theory, which offered me a lens to analyze critically how systems of oppression affect people in underserved communities. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach. I have worked in community mental health for six years, helping individuals recognize their potential and greatness. My values and beliefs embody my Mexican culture and spirituality. They align with the core values of the social work profession of service, respect, justice, dignity, the worth of a person, self-determination, integrity, importance of human relationships, and competence (National Association of Social Workers [NASW], 2017). I believe individuals can rebuild their lives, change, and recover. Effective helping constitutes the ability to believe that people can change by showing empathy, showing them that you care, respecting their culture, and by showing people that what you do is consistent with what you say.

Hello, my name is Mario and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2021 but have been working in the mental health field since 2011 in various roles (e.g., Child Specialist, Intensive Care Coordinator) for different programs including Wraparound, IFCCS, Outreach Triage Team and others. Since 2021, I have worked with children and teenagers struggling with PTSD, anxiety and depression. I have also worked with adults all ages starting from 2024 for workers compensation cases, marital problems, men's issues, PTSD, anxiety and depression. I am bi-lingual speaking (English and Spanish) and was raised in Los Angeles.