LGBT therapists in Santa Maria, CA

I believe each person deserves a space to be seen and valued for their authentic self. As a bilingual (Spanish), bicultural, first-generation Latina born and raised in Boyle Heights, my worldview is deeply shaped by the resilience of marginalized communities, the weight of generational survival, and the intricate dance of navigating multiple cultures. As the daughter of Salvadorian immigrants who fled conflict in the 80s in search of a better life, I understand firsthand the invisible loads, systemic complexities, and profound courage it takes to build a path forward.

It's hard to find non-judgmental therapy, especially when dealing with subjects that evoke shame. That's why I collaborate to create a therapy that meets you as you are. I hold an affirming space for marginalized orientations, neurotypes, and relationship styles. We can work to navigate major issues like trauma, sexuality and life changes, or an ongoing condition like depression or anxiety. I am also passionate about supporting people through their gender journeys. My therapy is not just inclusive, but is LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity affirming. I also enjoy working with couples or relationship groups as they navigate challenges.

I believe therapy should feel like a collaboration, an honest, safe space where you don’t have to have everything figured out before you walk in the door. My goal is to help you find clarity, strength, and connection in the places that matter most: within yourself and in your relationships.

I have been working in private practice for a few years and before that I worked in non-profits with a variety of individuals and groups. I am the parent of two adult sons and have three grandchildren that I thoroughly enjoy spending time with. I have an educational background in the study of philosophy, spirituality and counseling psychology. I have experience with helping people with histories of trauma, severe mental illness, as well as, symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have experience and some expertise with clients struggling with substance use.

I am a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years of clinical experience working with anxiety, depression and complicated relationships among many other concerns. I tend to use a more logic-driven, analytical structured approach with my clients where together we try to understand and analyze patterns of behavior that are causing problems and getting in the way of their lives. As a result, neurodivergents and people who work in the hard sciences, technology fields, or are business executives tend to respond very positively to my style and approach. I also work with mood disorders, unconventional or complicated relationships, historical spiritual abuse and military veterans.

Specialty in AI and technology:

I also specialize in the psychology of AI, technology and how it affects society and relationships. For 7 months last year, I spent extensive time within AI-user online communities to learn about their firsthand experiences involving AI-related harm and parasocial relationships. I was featured in the 2026 title How to Talk to AI (And How Not To) by BBC journalist and author Jamie Bartlett, where I discussed parasocial relationships in AI use.

Hobbies:

I love the outdoors, backpacking and going on road trips with my dog. I teach outdoor skills in a wilderness class each winter. I also love California native plants and am a trained naturalist.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a master’s degree and over 20 years of experience working with a wide range of clients and concerns. Over the years, I’ve worked in clinics, run my own private practice, and provided therapy to enlisted Navy personnel and their spouses. For the past five years, I’ve primarily provided therapy through telehealth.

Therapy can sometimes feel unfamiliar or intimidating, especially when you’re meeting a new therapist, but I don’t believe it has to feel that way. I try to create a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel like yourself. I bring genuine curiosity, warmth, humor when appropriate, and most importantly, authenticity to my work. I want therapy to feel like a real conversation and a genuine human connection—not like you’re being analyzed or judged.

I HAVE 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE WORKING IN MENTAL HEALTH. I HAVE TRAVELED THE WORLD STUDYING CULTURES AND RELIGIONS AND HAVE A LIFETIME OF PERSONAL EXPERIENCES THAT GIVES ME A CLEAR INSIGHT INTO WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. I WILL BE THERE FOR YOU 24/7 AND I ACTUALLY CARE. I AM INTERESTED IN YOU AS A WHOLE PERSON AND NOT JUST A CURRENT PROBLEM, MY GOAL IS TO GET YOU FEELING BETTER QUICKLY AND ENRICHING YOUR LIFE FOR A FUTURE FILLED WITH POTENTIAL AND JOY.

I'm a Southern California-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist here to tell you that therapy doesn't have to be an utter drag. Think of me as your personal guide through the chaos that is life. I’m your therapist, but also your transformative guide to help uncover your authentic self. Whether your brain is running on 50 open tabs (hello, to my fellow ADHD/neurodivergence folks!) or you're navigating the beautiful complexity of your LGBTQIA+ identity, I fully embrace a "come exactly as you are" approach. No masks, no scripts, just raw authenticity.

I help teens and adults untangle the messy webs of anxiety, depression, and those oh too stressful family or relational dynamics. Therapy shouldn’t just be check boxes, that is why we will mix and match tools until we find the perfect recipe for your growth. Life is a wild ride, but you don't have to navigate the shadows alone. Let's empower your journey and find some light in the cosmic weirdness of it all.