

Headway connects Elk Grove residents with Cigna-covered therapists for flexible in-person and virtual care. Average clients save 75% on sessions through insurance benefits. Browse providers with relevant experience and availability within two weeks to find your ideal match.
Hey hey hey, I’m Ariel Wilson Gbenedio, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, transformational speaker, and author dedicated to helping people heal, grow, and step into their power.
I have nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field, working across a wide range of settings including crisis residential treatment, outpatient care, and program development. I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My work is rooted in evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care—blended with a deeply human, compassionate approach.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California and have served in both clinical and leadership roles, including Clinical Director. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and safe enough to do the real work of healing.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, empowering, and honest. I believe healing isn’t about “fixing” you—because you are not broken. It’s about understanding your story, shifting limiting beliefs, and helping you build a life that feels aligned, fulfilling, and authentic. I specialize in working with high-achieving women, individuals struggling with self-worth, trauma recovery, and those feeling stuck in cycles that no longer serve them.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or ready for something more in your life, you don’t have to navigate it alone. My goal is to help you develop the insight, tools, and confidence to create lasting change—and to remind you of the strength that already exists within you.
Welcome—glad you made it here!
I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience in crisis mental health and private practice. I help adults and adolescents work through anxiety, stress, trauma, and relationship challenges. I understand the impact of high-stress roles where you’re expected to stay in control, even when things build up over time. My style is direct, grounded, and focused on what actually works in real life. I provide a space where you can be honest, feel understood, and be challenged in a way that leads to real change.
Most of my clients describe me as nonjudgmental and deeply empathic. I create a warm welcoming space for you to become you. Sometimes that's all some people need to heal.
Reaching out for help can be challenging for many. As psychotherapy aims at positive changes you desire, I am honored to provide a safe place for your self-exploration and reflection in which you can gain your inner peace and change you long for. Being specialized in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence, I can offer some resolution in your trauma work. Trauma can penetrate not only your emotional well-being but also almost every facet of your life.
I have been practicing since 2000. I have worked in many healthcare and non-profit settings both while obtaining my education and in professional roles. I have a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology and have successfully treated many individuals, families and adolescents.



Headway makes it easy to get affordable in-network mental health care with Cigna — from finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, to understanding costs, to booking your first session.