Dr. Amon Benavides

I am a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist who believes that meaningful therapy begins with a genuine, trusting connection. I strive to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe, understood, and comfortable being their authentic selves.

I earned my Master of Arts from National University and completed doctoral-level training at Pacifica Graduate Institute. My clinical training and professional experience have provided me with a strong foundation for working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns.

My experience includes working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation settings, where I supported individuals navigating substance use, trauma, and co-occurring mental health challenges. I also have experience addressing men’s mental health concerns, including emotional regulation, identity, relationships, and the pressures that can make it difficult to express vulnerability or seek support.

My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Therapy. I help clients address present-day challenges while also exploring deeper patterns, experiences, and beliefs that may be influencing their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, substance-related issues, and major life transitions. My goal is to help clients develop greater insight while building practical tools that support meaningful and lasting change.

Outside of my work as a therapist, I value staying active and maintaining a strong mind-body connection. I enjoy weightlifting, boxing, jiu-jitsu, CrossFit, Olympic lifting, and running. These practices help me stay grounded and continually deepen my appreciation for discipline, resilience, consistency, and balance—qualities that also inform the way I approach my work with clients.

My approach to therapy focuses on helping clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and underlying patterns. I use evidence-based techniques to identify what may be contributing to current difficulties and support clients in making meaningful, sustainable changes.

In our work together, we develop practical tools and strategies that can be applied to everyday life while also creating space for deeper self-understanding. My goal is to help clients strengthen emotional awareness, respond more effectively to challenges, and develop skills that support greater resilience, healthier relationships, and long-term growth.

In my private practice, I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds who are navigating a wide range of emotional and mental health concerns. I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel respected, understood, and supported.

My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and client-centered. I encourage clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and life experiences with curiosity and openness. Through this process, I help clients develop greater self-awareness, strengthen coping skills, and work toward meaningful and lasting personal growth.