Dr. Silvana Aviles

I am a licensed psychologist (PsyD, California Lutheran University, 2019) with experience in community counseling—including specialized training in supporting individuals affected by intimate partner violence—as well as college mental health, inpatient residential care, and private practice. I completed my APA-accredited internship at George Mason University in Fairfax Virginia. I have years of experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns, from mild to acute.

Born and raised in Ventura County, California, as the daughter of an immigrant parent, I bring curiosity, open-mindedness, and deep interest in culture to my work. I am also a wife, a mother, and a bonus mom, which informs my understanding of family dynamics, attachment, and relationship challenges. I primarily work with young and middle-aged adults navigating mood and personality disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship or family concerns.

I take a collaborative, culturally competent approach, recognizing that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I affirm all identities and tailor sessions to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I also believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is foundational—it is in itself a powerful intervention that fosters trust, insight, and growth.

My integrative approach combines psychodynamic, interpersonal, and cognitive-behavioral techniques, helping clients explore unconscious patterns while developing effective coping skills. I aim to guide clients toward insight, self-awareness, empowerment, and long-lasting healing.

In your first session, we will focus on laying the foundation for therapy and establishing the therapeutic setup. I strive to create a warm, safe, and supportive environment, understanding that beginning therapy with someone new can feel challenging.

During this session, I will ask questions about your background, past experiences, current symptoms, and goals for therapy. This helps me gather the information I need to understand you as a whole person and determine how best to support your unique needs. I will also share my initial impressions, and together, we can decide whether we are a good fit to move forward.

The first session is a collaborative process designed to help you feel comfortable, heard, and understood while starting the journey toward growth, insight, and meaningful change.