Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Long Beach, CA covered by Aetna

I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change. With over 25 years of experience in youth mental health and 11 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school settings, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct problems, family conflict, and autism.

Seeking therapy is acknowledging you are allowed to take space, time, and care for yourself. Finding the right therapist is an important first step. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy for adolescents, adults, and seniors experiencing anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, grief, and stress. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in genuine connection. I believe healing begins when people feel understood without judgement. Together, we will work to increase insight, strengthen resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change that aligns with your values and goals.

Welcome! I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years, and I love my career. I received my Masters in Social Work degree from UCLA in 1991 and specialize in healing trauma. I offer the following interventions: Psychodynamic Therapy, Trauma Resiliency Model, Cognitive Behavioral skills, and EMDR. I also provide services in Spanish.

INDIVIDUAL THERAPY & PSYCHOANALYSIS

I invite you to say what you would never say in ordinary conversation. I specialize in anxiety, depression, difficult to describe dissatisfaction, work/career difficulties, low self-esteem, sexual problems, imposter syndrome, men's issues, creative blocks, sexual abuse, and relationship issues.

You may have spent years trying to make sense of painful experiences, feeling disconnected from yourself, or struggling in relationships without fully understanding why. Childhood and sexual trauma can leave lasting imprints on how we see ourselves, experience emotions, and connect with others. You may have learned to survive by putting others first, staying strong, or keeping your feelings hidden. But surviving is not the same as feeling safe, connected, and truly at peace. You deserve the opportunity to heal.

If you are navigating the quiet weight of relationship wounds, identity

questions, or emotional patterns that have followed you for years without

fully understanding why, I specialize in exactly this kind of work. I am a

Latina therapist who provides services in Spanish and English, bringing a

culturally affirming lens to every session. I practice in Santa Clarita with

specialized tools including Brainspotting and IFS for deeper healing.

I’m currently accepting new clients! If anxiety, depression, loss, loneliness, or life changes have left you feeling stuck, you don’t have to navigate them alone. Even if you’ve struggled for years, there may still be room for greater confidence, connection, and enjoyment in life. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than nine years of experience as an LCSW, and I especially enjoy helping adults and seniors find practical ways to improve their well-being.

My approach is warm, calm, down-to-earth, and open-minded. I listen first, respect what matters to you, and work with you to find solutions that fit your life. You can expect honest conversation, encouragement, and manageable steps toward meaningful change—with room for laughter and appropriate humor along the way. You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. We can start where you are today and work together toward where you’d like to be.

You're here! Right here, right now! You may not be where you want to be yet, but you have already taken a step towards facing challenges with a strength you never knew you had. Besides, it doesn't hurt to get a little assistance on the way. I'm here to help you. Let me tell you something. Nothing is as remarkable as seeing positive change in my client! Helping you make even the smallest steps towards your goal every day brings me joy and I make sure to let you know when I've noticed your progress. Even when they seem too small to notice, I'll notice! You’ll be surprised how much a little positivity can help.

I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified rehabilitation counselor with additional experience in helping individuals get back to work to attain the highest success possible after experiencing any life changing issues. I have helped people with almost everything you can think of. I have helped those with mild and severe mental health concerns.

When I counsel, my style is energetic, compassionate, and supportive. I praise your progressions, and I can show you how to be proud of your efforts and steps in the right direction. I am client-centered and I want to listen to you and be as helpful as is humanly possible. I love to empower my clients. I can't wait to meet you!