Grief counselors and therapists in Murrieta, CA

Sometimes life gets hard and we lose track of who we are. The things we used to handle with ease can suddenly feel like an overwhelming challenge. In those moments, you deserve a safe space to process, heal, and rediscover your footing.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my goal is to walk alongside you in your healing journey and meet you where you are. I hold a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC) and bring extensive experience working with adolescents, families, and individuals navigating complex medical and emotional crises in hospital settings. Whether you are facing a major life transition, family conflict, or acute stress, I provide a compassionate, collaborative environment tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will work to restore your sense of self and build a path forward at your own pace.

I work with anyone navigating adjustment/mood challenges, stress, trauma, grief, and co-occurring disorders. Using an integrative approach, I help clients make sustainable progress toward their goals and overall wellness.

Sometimes you don’t need someone to simply ask, “And how does that make you feel?” You need a therapist who can listen, understand the bigger picture, help you connect the dots, and work with you on what to actually do next.

That’s the kind of space I strive to provide.

I work with adults who may look like they’re holding everything together while privately feeling overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, angry, disconnected, grieving, or simply tired of carrying so much. Some of my clients come to therapy because of a specific crisis or life transition. Others arrive saying, “I don’t even know where to start—I just know something needs to change.” Both are perfectly valid places to begin.

I'm Susana, a bilingual LCSW with over 20 years of experience working alongside adults and seniors during the moments that matter most: loss, illness, major life change, and the quiet overwhelm that builds when you're holding too much for too long. Before focusing on psychotherapy, I spent years as a medical social worker, which means I understand what it's like to navigate the healthcare system while also carrying real emotional pain, and I know how to help you do both. I offer sessions in English and Spanish, entirely via telehealth, so wherever you are in California, consistent care is within reach. Please note that I am currently not treating ADHD or providing couple’s counseling.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years experience. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work with focus on Children and Families, a Master's Degree in Sociology with a Certificate in Criminology and Corrections, and a PhD in Social Work (all but dissertation) with focus on trauma, sexual abuse and assault, and domestic violence. I was the Director of a private, non-profit Foster Care and Adoption Agency, I worked in a women's shelter for domestic violence and sexual assault. I worked in a Level 4 men's prison, and I worked as a Supervisor for mental health therapists serving school systems. I have always had a private practice as well. I have worked in teletherapy for approximately 8 years.