Ellen Urtecho

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I have supported individuals struggling with dual diagnosis—mental health and/or substance use primarily in Residential Treatment settings. I have worked at high levels of care where some individuals are struggling to acknowledge the impairments caused by mental health/substance use. I also specialize and work closely with family members of loved ones struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Use Disorders.

I have experience working with clients of all ages (5+) and bring extensive experience working with teenagers, families, and parents, particularly in dual diagnosis mental health and substance use challenges among adolescents and young adults. When working with families or couples, I take a family systems approach to focus on the unit as a whole rather than on one particular individual. I strive to meet clients where they are at and tailor the therapy process to their goals. If behavior change is central, I often incorporate dialectical and cognitive behavioral therapies with practical psychoeducation. I also help clients identify patterns that impact relationships, work, or personal life. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, ensuring we progress at your pace while fostering insight and growth.

In our first session together individuals can expect to get oriented to the therapeutic process, identify their goals for treatment, and begin discussing any impairments that they may be facing in their lives. This will be the foundation that we build upon to begin working towards your goals.