If you struggle with anxious attachment, people pleasing, setting boundaries, feeling triggered, anger, anxiety, depression, co-dependence, parenting issues, and ADD/ ADHD, then I want to work with you. These symptoms and attachment style are often related to each other and often related to similar childhood experiences of inconstant or abusive/neglectful caregivers. (ADD and ADHD is not cause by caregivers, however, when it goes undiagnosed in children, there is s strong correlation to symptoms described above)
My name is Gertrudis Vargas, and I am a bicultural, bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 16 years of clinical experience. I provide therapy to individuals, children, adolescents, and families, addressing a wide range of concerns, including depression and anxiety across the lifespan, relationship difficulties, family conflict, stress management, life transitions, grief, and trauma. I also have specialized expertise in supporting parents with parenting challenges and assisting families in navigating complex dynamics in a compassionate, culturally sensitive, and collaborative manner.
I’m a therapist who values creating a space where you can show up as you are and feel truly heard and supported. My approach is integrative, drawing from CBT, DBT, EMDR, and strength-based therapy, depending on what fits you best. I also offer the option to incorporate faith into sessions if that’s something you’re looking for. I believe healing is possible, even when it feels far away, and that you already carry strengths we can build on together.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in Southern California. I received my Master's degree from California Southern University and have been practicing for six years. I help those who are struggling in the following areas: mental health, mood disorders, addictions and substance use disorders, young adults, married couples, families, military veterans, men issues, and elderly population. I assist those who are experiencing life difficulties and help navigate through life transitions we all experience at varying times in our lives.
I am a dedicated Licensed Professional in Private Practice in the Los Angeles area, with over 20 years of direct counseling experience. I provide high-quality services aimed at helping clients achieve a balanced perspective on their mental health. My goal is to assist clients in developing the skills needed to maintain emotional well-being through life's challenges. Ultimately, my primary aim is to enhance the overall well-being and mental health of my clients.
I am an African American female Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Los Angeles. I have experience working with clients with issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, panic attacks, divorce, grief and loss, ODD, ADHD, Autism, sexual and physical abuse, crisis, childhood trauma, career challenges, life event changes, social skills, and self esteem.
My specialty is working with adolescents and women specifically due to my professional background and personal experiences which I use to guide my practice. I am a expert in helping adolescents navigate the difficulties and challenges that come with transitioning into adulthood such as: identity formation, sexuality, family issues, peer pressure, and developing short and long term career goals. As a woman of color, I also have a special ability to connect, guide and support women struggling with various interpersonal and intrapersonal issues i.e self esteem, termination of a relationship, communication skills, career changes, sexism, intimate partner conflict or life’s obstacles due to systemic racism that may affect them in various aspects of their daily lives.
My approach to therapy combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic/Person Centered counseling with a socially/ culturally competent and Trauma -Informed lens to help the client not only recognize their strengths, but also utilize existing support systems, develop new coping skills, effectively respond to crisis and empower the client/family/couple to recognize the solution to their problem already exist inside themselves. I am also a EMDR trained clinician.
My personal mantra in counseling is “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” ~Norman Vincent Peale. I look forward to working with you
I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EMDR-certified, and currently completing my Somatic Experiencing certification. I work with a diverse range of clients navigating many different challenges, including complex trauma, a lack of coping resources, anxiety, dissociation, life transitions, and grief.
I am trained in several therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts. I hold a master's degree in Holistic Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University and graduate degrees in Expressive Arts from San Diego University for Integrative Studies and Ecopsychology from Naropa University.
My journey in this profession began with the personal development books I encountered early in life and a deep curiosity about what makes us feel the way we do. Personal and diverse challenges further deepened that curiosity and desire to work with others within the safety and focus of a therapeutic setting.
I am a Psychologist licensed in California and have provided psychotherapy to individuals for over 30 years. I am also a lifelong artist and I am interested in how the creative process functions in our lives. I help people connect with their true potential that may have been ignored or forgotten in their search for meaning and purpose in their lives.
My name is Ana Maldonado and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Ventura, California. I am currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families, and specialize in anxiety, stress, and family conflict. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Strength Based Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
Hi! My name is Ana Maria. I received my master's degree in social work from California State University of Long Beach. I have been practicing social work for the last 17 years. I have worked with adults going through depression and anxiety by providing support and discussing coping skills that can help them improve their mood, relationships and quality of life. I also collaborate with clients helping them to identify clients' strengths and resources to solve their problems.
Please note that I am currently not able to complete any letters, reports or forms including but not limited to leave of absence and FMLA.
Hello and Welcome to the first step toward emotional healing. Healing Through Connection is my personal philosophy and lifelong vision to reach people who feel lost, hopeless, lonely, disconnected, uncertain, and grief ridden. I use a unique blend of professional and personal experiences that drive connection. I believe that we all find ourselves in seasons of life where we need to be reconnected with our worth, understand our experiences, and overcome our battles.
I'm Sheldon like the TV show! (Big Bang Theory). I help analytical high-achieving adults who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety and depression untangle their inner world and reconnect with their deeper self-using insight-driven therapy, dream exploration, and a creative lens that helps them uncover what's been buried beneath the surface.
Do you often say, "I'm successful on the outside but exhausted and anxious inside," "overthinking everything, but still feeling stuck," or being in a "constant sense of restlessness or dissatisfaction," or being a person who "struggles to access or name emotions clearly." I help clients have greater awareness and emotional clarity and begin to feel grounded, self-trusting and more internally connected. I hope to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms through deeper insight and ability to recognize and break unconscious patterns. I help clients discover meaning through creative exploration, and dream work. I want clients to increase their confidence in navigating relationships and decisions and moving from analysis paralysis to self-acceptance and expression.
My areas of expertise are in Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Mental Illness, Risk Assessment, Trauma, PTSD and Substance Abuse Disorders.
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.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California. I have a Masters in Counseling/Marriage, Family, & Child Therapy and have been practicing for 10 years. I help individuals (adults, young adults, adolescents) struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and unresolved traumas. I also work with families and couples struggling with relational distress.
I'm a warm, highly empathetic, personable, high energy, and conscious therapist. I will help you find your power, take charge, action, and create change.
VirtualOffers in-person in Bakersfield, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hi and welcome! Have you been feeling lost, helpless and anxious? Whether youre feeling overwhelmed and want help with adjustments or just need someone to listen, I am here to help. I am an interactive, personable, non judgmental and direct therapist and my goal is to create a comfortable and safe place for you. Taking the first step in seeking therapy can be difficult, but you've made a great decision. I would like to get to know you better and together we can work on managing your current struggles better. We will identify what's not working and get you back to balance. Lets work together!
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.
I am a compassionate and direct therapist who prioritizes building REAL CONNECTION. My approach is anti-diet and rooted in Health at Every Size (HAES) and LGBTQ+ affirmative care. I went through my own journey to heal my relationship with food and my body, and for the past 13 years, have centered my career around helping others do the same. I strive to offer therapy that is grounded in connection, knowledge, and authenticity in order to help my clients develop healthier relationships with food, their bodies, and themselves. I passionately believe my clients CAN experience FREER and FULLER lives.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California and Licensed for telehealth in Florida with five years of experience. I received my master's from Simmons College in Boston. I am here to help you work through your current life challenges with the goal of helping you to be the version of yourself that you can have peace of mind with. I have experience with a variety of populations, backgrounds and needs. I do not believe that people are cookie cutter, instead I feel that I must tailor my therapeutic approach to best suit each client. I am also a great match for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community as I am a CODA who is fluent in ASL as a second language.
I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, trauma, and relationship dynamics, providing a safe and supportive space for growth. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed care, I guide clients in building resilience, improving communication, and gaining confidence in themselves. My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to create meaningful change and lead more fulfilling lives.
My objective is to empower individuals and couples to better understand themselves, strengthen their resilience, and create more peaceful, fulfilling lives. I believe people already carry the capacity for growth and healing, and my work focuses on helping clients recognize, access, and trust their own strengths.
I offer a therapeutic space that is warm, honest, and down-to-earth. I am direct and transparent while remaining supportive and compassionate, and I show up authentically rather than relying on overly clinical language or rigid approaches. My work is collaborative and eclectic, drawing from a range of therapeutic tools based on each client’s needs, including EMDR. I work with individuals and couples to build insight, improve communication, and create meaningful, lasting change within the broader systems of family and society.
Janet Distefan, PhD LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She received a B.A. from the University of California, San Diego; an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from National University and a Ph.D. in Behavioral Epidemiology from the University of California, San Diego. She has been licensed since 2006 providing comprehensive clinical care for issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar disorder, relational difficulties, grief and loss, and major life transitions. Her clinical practice is collaborative and strength-based, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, object relations and attachment theories; and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
My name is Dr. Perynn D'Alba and I am a clinical psychologist. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to make changes. These can be big or small, this is your life and your time, I am here to help you figure out what isn't working quite right. I enjoy being creative in my interventions and really figuring out what will work best for you. I use humor where appropriate because it can be an important intervention and give space to dig deeper. I have had various jobs in my life in quite a few different fields but the common thread was that I enjoy empowering others and helping people figure out what they want and how to get that.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 23 years of experience in psychotherapy. I hold a Master's degree in Social Work and dual MBAs in Finance and Cybersecurity. Based in California, my practice has been enriched by my extensive travels and a deep appreciation for nature and hiking. I have had the privilege of working with a diverse population, providing tailored psychotherapy to meet a wide range of mental health needs. My approach is informed by a blend of professional expertise and personal insights, aiming to offer compassionate, effective care to each of my clients.
VirtualOffers in-person in Inglewood, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hi there!
My name is Kaila Gray and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California. I am excited that you have stopped by my profile & are looking into therapy! Please read some more about me below to see if I could be a good match for you.
I have been working in the mental health field for some time now and I have a wide variety of experiences. I have my bachelors degree in psychology and a masters degree in counseling and guidance. I have spent the first part of my career working with students in the school setting as a school counselor. I started working via tele therapy because I was hearing from coworkers, families, local community and students that I work with that there were no therapist with open availability. I want to do my part to help those that are brave enough to look for help.
I believe that therapy is not a one size fits all. I am flexible and willing to build sessions based around what YOU need. I will provide you a space to learn and grow with no judgement and all the compassion I have to offer. I believe that we can overcome our struggles & I want to help you do that!
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.
I am an LCSW (License Clinical Social Worker) with over 19 years of experience in the field of mental health and I have been licensed since 2010. I have worked in crisis behavioral health hospitals with both adults and adolescents, outpatient community mental health clinics and in hospice. I have also worked at the University of Michigan counseling center with undergraduate and graduate students. I have extensive experience in relationship/communication issues, trauma work, infertility and miscarriage counseling, parenting, grief work, life transitions, depression and anxiety. I studied social work at the University of Michigan and completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Washington.
Hello, my name is Max, and I am an LCSW practicing in California.
My practice is frequently full, but I currently have two openings:
-Bimonthly: Every other Monday from 6:00-7:00pm.
-Weekly: Every Thursday from 6:00-7:00pm (except for the 3rd Thursday of every month).
For many people, the hardest part of the therapy process is getting started. Asking someone to go to all the work of finding not just a therapist, but the right therapist for them, all while in the middle of a mental health crisis? It can be a daunting task. My practice centers around making that process as painless as possible, so that we can get right to the core of what made you decide to seek therapy in the first place, and get to work on working on you.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Michigan and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults struggling depression, anxiety and negative thoughts to become the best versions of themselves. I also like to help people in life transitions and provide support to them. I also incorporate using handouts and introduce materials as needed to help you in your progress is wanted or needed.
Therapy addresses specific problem areas to include issues with ageing: with seniors, retirement, physical and emotional issues as we age, coping with single parents,
parenting, extended family conflicts, divorce, separations and life transitions after the loss of a loved one.
verbal and physical aggressive tendencies, risk taking behaviors, confrontation, independence, depression, anxiety.
Addiction issues will require a referral to a specialist.
Insurance accepted: Kaiser, Aetna, Humana and other insurance providers
My Approach is non judge mental and client centered. I am passionate about helping others grow through mental health and realize that life can be challenging and creating change can be difficult. I have been providing individuals with mental health treatment for 10 years and find my clinical strength is with individuals who struggle with thinking patterns, anxiety, depression, anger, parenting, and marriage discourse. I focus a lot on thinking patterns, emotions, behaviors and their connections as well as building insight and awareness into thoughts and behaviors that create barriers in life or sustain challenges. I utilize CBT, DBT, EFT, SF, and Narrative therapy for the most part and also focus on the nervous system/polyvagal to assist with calming the body and rewiring what it has learned through distress. My objective is to create an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and to allow clients to feel safe while processing their thoughts and feelings while gently providing psycho education and techniques to assist.
Hello, my name is Ella Maffei, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with five years of experience. I work with a diverse range of clients, from young adults facing self-image, anxiety, and adjustment issues to older adults navigating life transitions, aging, and depression. My goal is to empower clients to improve their overall quality of life. I am passionate about providing clients with a warm and nurturing environment where they feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings.
I know that the decision to start therapy is a huge step and that actually going through with therapy can be a cause of fear or anxiety as therapy is not always easy as it takes time, money and ultimately effort to open up to someone who regardless of experience or training is just a stranger at first.
I have over a decade of experience working with a wide variety of clients to address what matters most to them regarding their mental health journey. I work from a collaborative, strengths-based approach. Let's figure out what is going well and build on that.
I have lived all over the country and have had to privilege to work with many excellent mentors who have helped me grow in my knowledge and skills.
Hi, my name is Laurie. I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist for 27 years. I have been able to help a variety of people who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, trauma, family conflict, military-related issues, parenting and couples who want to learn better communication skills.
I have worked with people from a variety of ethnicities and ages, from 5 to 75. I am compassionate, caring, and empathic.
My background includes; working with troubled teens, military members who struggle with deployment, etc., a drug and alcohol treatment center, couples, and those who struggle with trauma from childhood.
I am a compassionate and thoughtful therapist who values collaboration and consistency as essential parts of meaningful progress in therapy. I have had the privilege of working with individuals across the lifespan—from early childhood through older adulthood—and I am deeply grateful for the trust each client brings into the therapeutic space. I believe therapy works best when it is a shared process, grounded in curiosity, respect, and flexibility.
You deserve support that actually feels supportive. Therapy isn’t just talking — it’s being understood, validated, and strengthened. I’m here to walk beside you with warmth and a holistic lens as you navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes, and self‑esteem challenges. My goal is to offer a space where you can breathe, grow, and feel more like yourself again. Whenever you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here.
Hi, I’m Victoria Elena Lane, an LCSW in California. I provide inclusive, affirming care for Queer, Trans, BIPOC, and Women’s rights communities. Specializing in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity-based stressors, I use a client-centered, solution-focused approach to support individuals at every stage of their mental health journey. Together, we’ll uncover clarity, foster balance, and empower growth in a safe, supportive space.
Do you feel unheard or unhappy? Feel as if you're stuck? Whether you're struggling with your own self-doubt, managing your own cultural or familial expectations, struggling to have meaningful or healthy relationships with yourself and/or others, burdened with the effects of past trauma, let me join you on your journey of growth and healing with acceptance, grace, and empathy.
Are you ready to take a step to become the person you've maybe longed to be? Ready to accept yourself and unlock your true potential? Ready to live life fully and embark on a journey of self-growth and acceptance where you can smile and be proud of who you are becoming? If you're ready to take that step and set up a first appointment, it would be an honor to join you on that journey.
Many of my clients feel emotionally overwhelmed from constantly caring for others while neglecting their own needs. Anxiety, overthinking, relationship stress, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion can make it difficult to feel balanced, confident, or connected to yourself.
I specialize in helping women navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and self-esteem difficulties. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I help clients identify unhealthy patterns, strengthen coping skills, develop healthier boundaries, and build greater emotional confidence and resilience.
As a bilingual Latina therapist, I understand the cultural expectations, family dynamics, and emotional responsibilities many women experience while balancing relationships, work, caregiving, and personal growth. I strive to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
Therapy is not about having everything figured out before you begin. It is about creating meaningful change, improving emotional well-being, and learning how to show up for yourself in healthier ways.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. Many of my clients have commented they like my insight and non-judgmental approach when discussing their issues. In my experience, I have observed many are struggling to make changes in their lives because they received the message they are not good enough. However, I am determined to provide a safe environment for all therapeutic participants by ensuring they can embrace themselves and recognize they are good enough.
I am a U.S. Navy Veteran who has personal experience with some of the hardships faced when families are separated due to long deployments. In addition, I have worked with men and women who have recently been released from incarceration. I have experience and training with domestic violence and other traumas as well.
Clients tell me that I have a calm demeanor and approachable character which help them connect with me.
You might be here because you’re feeling stuck — anxious, disconnected, or caught in the same relationship patterns no matter how hard you try to change them. On the outside, it may look like you’re managing, but inside you feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or emotionally exhausted. When you’re ready to stop carrying this alone, I’m here to help.
Schedule your first session today, and let’s take that next step together.
Are you tired of living life defeated, anxious, depressed or just feeling like something is off? Having you been looking for a better way of doing things, but just not quite sure how to get there? Have you been wanting to have a healthy relationship with yourself and others? Then you've come to the right place. Hi, My name is Aaron and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who loves to see people start taking more control over their life and empowering them to become the mature, healthy person that they've always wanted to be. With my 10 plus years of experience I've seen countless clients make consistent, steady and sustainable changes that have helped to transform their lives, and I believe you can transform your life too!
Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's in 2014 and have been practicing for 11 years. I help adults manage their stressors in life and help them reduce their symptoms to be successful in their own life. I have experience working with children from 4 years old to older adults of the age of 80 years old.
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.
Hi, I'm Hazel.
I'm a bilingual Asian mental health therapist fluent in both Vietnamese and English, dedicated to supporting neurodiverse adults, including those with ASD, ADHD, and co-occurring conditions. I am also trained in assessing and diagnosing adult ASD and ADHD, and I understand the importance of accurate identification to inform effective treatment.
I am deeply passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and understanding the unique challenges they face, such as low self-esteem, mood regulation difficulties, relationship struggles, loneliness, stress, executive dysfunction, and rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD). I strive to provide a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore these challenges and develop strategies for growth and healing.
In addition, I have extensive experience working in hospice care, which has given me valuable insight into the complex emotions surrounding grief, loss, and mourning. I also specialize in supporting clients through grief, narcissistic abuse and healing, as well as processing trauma. My approach is holistic, emphasizing compassion and understanding through these profound experiences.
Having endured my own share of trauma throughout my life—including experiences with sudden death, betrayal, and resentment—I bring a deep sense of empathy to my work. With a culturally sensitive approach, I aim to create a safe environment where my clients feel seen and supported. My overarching goal is to empower individuals to navigate their challenges, foster resilience, and promote overall well-being. I am committed to breaking down barriers to mental health care and walking alongside my clients through life’s many transitions with sensitivity and care.
My name is Kendra Archer and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) seeing clients statewide in California. I use eclectic therapeutic approaches such as multicultural, psychodynamic, and behavioral approaches to assist my clients in identifying and developing the tools to meet their goals. My communication style is open, calm, personable, and encouraging. I am a patient listener and I try to create a safe environment where people can feel heard without judgment.
My name is Jesse and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master’s degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and have been in the mental health field since 2008. I understand that life can be challenging, as everyone balances different roles and responsibilities. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand your struggles and empower you to overcome them.
VirtualOffers in-person in Sacramento, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hello! My name is Natasha and I have had the pleasure of helping people with life transitions for 30 years. I am passionate about helping people through the trials and tribulations of life and helping them find the strengths that are often already within. I use a systems based approach, considering all factors that may be impacting a person in crisis - whether that be individual, family, peers, community, work, school, gender, substance use, culture, or social media influences - to help them find a more fulfilling way to live.
My therapy style is eclectic borrowing from many different schools of thought as best fits my clients' needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques for a shorter, solution-focused treatment such as for anxiety or depression. I use a more psychodynamic approach for lengthier and more complex issues such as trauma. I am client-centered and very relational in my interactions.
Some of my guiding principles include Unconditional Positive Regard, harm reduction, kindness and compassion above all. And of course, always a healthy dose of humor which can be found in even the darkest of times.
I look forward to joining you on your journey to a healthier and happier self.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma. I provide a client-centered, warm and non-judgmental space where individuals can feel supported as they work towards improving their mental health and overall well-being. Together, we create a space where you can exhale, speak honestly and begin to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.
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.