Rachel Malvaez

Hello, my name is Rachel Malvaez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I earned my undergraduate degree in Art History from the University of California, Santa Barbara, before building a successful career in the FinTech industry throughout the Bay Area.

Over time, I realized I was seeking deeper fulfillment in my work, which led me to pursue a Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Palo Alto University. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of supporting adults, young adults, children and families seeking change and growth.

I bring a respectful and open-hearted approach to my work, and I believe that each person is the expert of their own life. My role is to support you in discovering clarity, building resilience, and moving toward the life you want to lead.

When we work together, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and truly understood. Building trust and a strong connection is really important to me because I believe healing happens best in relationships where you can just be yourself. I used an integrated approach, and I understand you know your story, your strengths, and your struggles better than anyone else. In our sessions, you get to set the pace. We can focus on the goals and topics that feel right to you, and I’ll meet you wherever you are in your journey. Along the way, I’ll offer tools, insights, and space for you to grow, reflect, and heal in a way that feels authentic and empowering.

I focus on clear, direct, and open communication. I lead with kindness and provide a space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Therapy with me is collaborative; I believe in working with you, not talking at you. While we do deep and meaningful work, I also bring warmth, empathy, and a sense of humor into the room.

I believe that meaningful change starts with goals that reflect who you are and what you want to accomplish. I take time to explore what’s important to you and from there, we’ll create clear, realistic goals that feel both challenging and achievable. I’ll support you with practical tools, insight, and ongoing reflection to help you stay connected to your progress.

Our first session will be an opportunity for us to get to know one another. We’ll discuss your background and what brings you to therapy, discuss your goals, and present challenges to achieving them. Therapy is a process, and we’ll continue to build our work together over time.