Yuliana Medina

Being the person everyone relies on can leave little room for what you need. You may keep saying yes, replay conversations, or worry that setting a boundary will hurt someone you love. In your relationship, you may be having the same argument again or feeling increasingly alone together.

I work with adults and couples navigating anxiety, family expectations, and relationship difficulties, with a particular focus on first-generation, Latino, and bicultural clients. Together, we can explore how family roles and cultural expectations shape your choices and work toward relationships where your needs have room, too.

I'm a bilingual California Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16 years of clinical experience. As a first-generation Colombian immigrant, I bring an awareness of life across cultures and curiosity about what that experience means for you. I offer therapy in English and Spanish. Faith can be included at your request, and clients of all backgrounds are welcome.

I accept insurance for individual therapy through eligible plans. Couples therapy is private pay only; I do not accept insurance for couples sessions.

My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I'll ask questions, help you notice patterns, and work with you on changes you can practice in daily life. Your goals, culture, and values help guide our work.

For individuals, I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and approaches that explore how past and present relationships affect the way you see yourself and respond to others. We might practice setting a limit, work through the guilt that follows, or explore why criticism stays with you long after a conversation ends.

For couples, I draw on Level 3 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) principles. We look closely at what happens when you get stuck, including the feelings and needs that are difficult to express. Sessions may include practicing a difficult conversation, repairing after conflict, or identifying steps toward rebuilding trust. We'll revisit your goals and adjust our work together.

Our first session is a chance to understand what brings you to therapy and what you hope will change. I'll ask about your current concerns, important relationships, background, and any previous therapy. You can share at a pace that feels manageable and ask questions about how I work.

Together, we'll begin identifying priorities and discuss a plan for moving forward. For couples, I'll hear each partner's perspective, ask about your relationship history and goals, and explain the assessment process. We'll also discuss whether my approach fits your needs. You do not need to arrive with the perfect words or have everything figured out.