Desiree Moreno

Hello, I’m Desirée!

I provide therapy for children, teens, adults, and families using a person-centered approach to psychotherapy. This means that I see each client not as “flawed” or defined by their struggles, but as someone with the potential for positive change and personal growth. My role is to offer empathy, support, and guidance—empowering you to find your own strengths and solutions within the therapeutic process.

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I am passionate about promoting emotional health, self-awareness, and mental health education, while also incorporating spirituality for those who wish to integrate it into their healing journey. My goal is to meet you exactly where you are, helping you strengthen your relationship with yourself as well as with the people who matter most in your life.

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In addition to my person-centered approach, I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Seeking Safety, an evidence-based practice designed for individuals experiencing trauma and substance use. I incorporate a variety of techniques, including stress and anxiety management, self-esteem building, and tools to reduce depressive symptoms, always tailoring treatment to your unique needs.

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Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients, including children and adolescents, individuals with developmental disabilities, adults, justice-involved clients, and survivors of crime. No matter who I work with, my focus remains the same: creating a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.

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Credentials: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #116320 – California Board of Behavioral Sciences

My approach to therapy focuses on my client's capacity for self-healing in a safe, validating therapeutic environment. I strive to provide empathy - trying to understand your world, unconditional positive regard - accepting you as you are with no judgement, and congruence - helping you to understand your inner feelings and how they match your outward behaviors. I trust my clients to lead the way through their journey of self-discovery and healing. I aspire to create a safe space for self-awareness, introspection, and personal growth.

As a person-centered therapist, my clients can expect a warm, non-judgmental space where they are in the driver's seat. Instead of launching straight into a rigid questionnaire or clinical interrogation, my client leads the conversation with their present mental health concerns while being encouraged with empathy, active listening, and unconditional positive regard. My clients are viewed as the experts on their own life, not a patient waiting to be diagnosed or "fixed". There is no pressure to share deep trauma right away, client's share only what feels safe in the moment.