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Headshot of Sandra Barela, LMFT

Sandra Barela

Therapist(She/Her)
9 years of experience
  • Virtual
  • Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Maternal mental health, PTSD
  • Individual therapy, Child or adolescent therapy, Couples therapy, Family therapy

Great to meet you!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adolescents and adults. I provide trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and culturally responsive. I am committed to creating a safe space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to grow.

My approach to therapy

My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools to thrive. I invite you to reach out when you’re ready—I’m here to walk beside you with care and compassion. I adapt my style based on your needs, whether that means providing structured tools, offering space for reflection, or integrating mindfulness and trauma-informed practices.

What you can expect from me

You can expect me to be warm, attentive, and direct in a supportive way. I prioritize active listening and open communication, making space for your voice in every session. Clients often share that they feel both supported and gently challenged, which helps them gain new insights while knowing they’re not alone.

About me

  • I identify as
    Native American, Caucasian, Hispanic, Cisgender Woman
  • My style is
    Empowering, Challenging, Humorous

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    9 years of experience
  • Training
    MC (Masters in Counseling) at California State University, Fullerton, PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) at Northcentral University
  • License type
    LMFT (Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist) (California)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey, Independence Blue Cross Pennsylvania - Virtual National Network

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Maternal mental health, PTSD
  • More specialties
    ADD/ADHD, Depression, Family issues, Anger management, Grief or loss, Relationship issues, Trauma
  • Therapy methods
    Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Solution Focused Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Family Therapy, Attachment Based Family Therapy, Strength-Based, Attachment Based, Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Motivational Interviewing
  • Care types
    Individual therapy, Child or adolescent therapy, Couples therapy, Family therapy
  • Ages served
    Adults
  • Languages
    English, Spanish
  • Location
    1633 East 4th Street 110
    Santa Ana, CA 92701