Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Downey, CA

I’m Elba Alvarado, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My work is rooted in the belief that healing begins in relationships — with ourselves, with others, and with the stories we carry. I hold space for people navigating the quiet weight of expectations, the complexity of identity, and the patterns that shape how we show up in the world.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Vanguard University and my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and I have been providing therapy since 2018.

Hi. I've been working as a therapist for 9 years. I have my AA in Sociology from Miracosta College, my BA in Psychology from Cal State Long Beach, and my MSW (Master of Social Work) from Cal State San Marcos. I assist people in dealing with stress from work, relationships, etc. I help people process unresolved trauma, grief, etc. I can help utilize the strengths you have, develop new strengths, in helping you live the most meaningful life in what that means to you.

Welcome! I’m Marissa Brooks, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience working in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of treatment settings, including crisis residential programs and outpatient mental health services. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Criminal Law and Behavior, as well as a Master’s degree in Social Work. I specialize in working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress management.

I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and OCD in adolescents and adults. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring more than 20 years of nursing experience, including extensive work in critical care and neuro-trauma medicine. My approach combines evidence-based medication management, psychotherapy, and practical lifestyle interventions to help patients achieve meaningful and lasting improvement.

Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, grief, or the transitions that come with different stages of life. You don't have to navigate these experiences alone. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to move toward meaningful change from an eclectic evidenced based approach that promotes hope, stability, and wellness, including faith-based perspective.

I specialize in working with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intimate relationship conflict, and couples counseling.I believes my purpose is to assist individuals to live life healthy and with hope.

I have extensive experience with substance abuse, holding a previous Certified Alcohol Drug Certificate (CADC) in Illinois, previous certification as an Emergency Services Prescreener with mental health, certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional, trained in level 2 of the Gottman Couples Method, experienced with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, and intimate relationship conflict. I received an outstanding excellent therapy award in 2021 and am committed to lives being changed. I am inspired daily by my husband, two adult children, and in love with my five grandchildren. In my spare time I love exercising, running miles, and reading educational/spiritual literature to keep myself sharp to assist others in sharpen themselves.

I am dual board-certified as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a passion for functional medicine. I believe mental health is best addressed by looking at the whole person—mind, body, and soul. I’ve been working in healthcare for over 20 years. Through my experience in mental health, I have the privilege of working with adults aged 21–60. I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and eating disorders, offering a safe and respectful space for growth and healing.

If you are struggling with ADHD and/or symptoms of anxiety or depression or are dealing with difficult relationship issues or life transitions, I could be the therapist for you.

I have experience working with individuals struggling with their mental health issues. Through therapy, we can discuss the areas of support that need your attention.

I am an experienced therapist of many years who feels lucky to be in a career that engages my intellect and my heart. I have always had my own private practice which enables me to be creative and flexible in my approach. People, in all their complexity and shared humanity, continue to fascinate.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 15 years of experience helping individuals heal, grow, and achieve meaningful change. I know that starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I deeply respect the courage it takes to begin. My goal is to create a warm, supportive environment where you feel truly seen, heard, and valued. What drives me most is the belief that everyone has the capacity to grow, adapt, and reconnect with themselves. My work is inspired by a genuine appreciation for each person’s unique story, and by the transformative power of empathy, understanding, and trust.