Jessica Alfaro

Hi. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my Masters from St. Mary's College of California and have been working with clients for 17 years. I have worked extensively with teenagers and parents, as well as individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, parenting and relationship issues. I am passionate about helping clients be the best version of themselves. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. It can also be a valuable tool in learning new coping skills and strategies to manage difficult emotions and situations. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck in life, counseling can support you in finding the clarity and direction you need to move forward.

As a therapist, my approach to therapy is rooted in integrating both person-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. I firmly believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients where they can freely express themselves and feel heard and understood. In practicing person-centered therapy, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic alliance with each client by fostering empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard. This allows clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive environment that promotes self-discovery and personal growth. Additionally, I draw upon CBT strategies to help clients identify and challenge maladaptive thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms. By combining these two approaches, I strive to empower my clients to make positive changes in their lives by gaining insight into themselves, fostering self-acceptance, and acquiring practical skills to effectively manage their mental health concerns.

Seeking therapy is a brave and important decision that can bring about positive changes in your life. In our first session together, we'll start with introductions, then dive into the specific challenges you're facing that brought you to therapy. We will discuss your goals and formulate a plan so I can help you reach those goals.