Madalina Stancu

Hi, I’m Madalina, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California (LPCC #16412). I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2020 and have been in private practice since 2024. Prior to entering private practice, I gained experience working in inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient partial hospitalization programs, supporting adults through a wide range of mental health challenges.

I believe that life can be both beautiful and difficult, and that none of us are meant to navigate its challenges alone. My passion for becoming a therapist grew from a desire to help people who may feel alone, overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves find their voice, build confidence, and reconnect with a sense of purpose.

My approach is warm, down-to-earth, person-centered, and collaborative. I believe that you are the author of your own story, and my role is to walk alongside you, offering support, guidance, and practical tools to help you create meaningful and lasting change.

I strive to create a judgment-free space where you can feel safe being your authentic self. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is an important part of my work, and I meet each client where they are with empathy, compassion, and respect.

I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic, Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) approaches, incorporating mindfulness and strengths-based techniques when appropriate. Together, we will identify the patterns and challenges that may be keeping you stuck and develop practical skills to help you move forward.

I work with adults, ages 18 and older, who may be navigating anxiety, depression, day-to-day stressors, relationship difficulties, family conflict, grief and loss, trauma, low self-esteem, or challenges with boundaries and people-pleasing.

I especially enjoy helping clients develop healthier interpersonal skills, learn to prioritize their own needs, build confidence and assertiveness, and create relationships that feel more balanced and fulfilling.

Whether you are seeking therapy for the first time or returning after previous therapy experiences, reaching out for support is an important step. You deserve a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported.

I understand that meeting with a therapist for the first time can feel a little nerve-wracking, so I strive to make the process as comfortable and approachable as possible. During our first session, we will get to know one another, review the therapy process and informed consent, and talk about what has brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from our work together.

From there, we will collaboratively identify your goals and create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Therapy is not about having all the answers—it is about having a supportive space to explore, grow, heal, and discover the tools that can help you create the life you envision.

I look forward to meeting you and walking alongside you on this journey of healing and growth.