Grief counselors and therapists in Laguna Beach, CA

Hello,

I’m Ermelinda, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 10+ years of experience in providing therapy to adults, children, and adolescents. Do you feel stuck, tired, and not being able to function in your daily life? Are you struggling to balance work, relationships, and life? Many times, we experience loss, grief, anxiety, stress, and depression. I look forward to helping you in your journey to healing. Life is hard and sometimes all you need is just a push.

I feel this work is a vocation driven by humility, love, patience, and integrity. I enjoy developing relationships and assisting people on their way to living life to their fullest potential. I believe the world can change one person at a time through mindful, values-based living. In my free time I enjoy spending time outdoors, with my family and my three little furry friends.

I graduated from Fresno Pacific University-Biblical Seminary in 2014 and obtained my license as a LMFT in 2018. My experience has been working with children, adolescents, families (4 years) and adults (11.5 Years). I have 11.5 years' experience with co-occurring disorders to include severe mental illness and trauma. I have utilized but not limited to the following evidence practices and modalities -ACT, Strength-Base, Family psychoeducation, DBT, CBT, and person centered. I am currently expanding my education/training in Internal Family Systems.

Struggling with anxious thoughts or self-doubt? I work with young adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. Together, we’ll build coping skills and create a personalized plan for growth that feels empowering and achievable.

Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I help clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with curiosity and compassion. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and the life you want to create.

I have worked with a variety of clients of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My primary focus has been on individual therapy but enjoy working with couples and families as well. I bring empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness to all of my therapy sessions.

My journey into mental health began with a deep interest in the intersection of human behavior and emotional resilience.

I enjoy working with adolescents and adults going through life transitions and experiencing trauma. My current practice includes individual treatment helping adults with anxiety and depression, self-esteem/confidence, grief, trauma and life transitions! Finding a therapist with whom you connect with is important.

Over the past 14 years, I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community clinics and public school settings. These experiences have shaped my belief that therapy is not a "one-size-fits-all" process, but rather a collaborative partnership built on trust and evidence-based strategies!

I hold a Master of Social Work from California State Long Beach as well as a Bachelor of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University..

Welcome!

As a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), I believe in prioritizing out mental health as a way to live a happy and balance life. Reaching out for help can be one of the hardest things a person can do, great job on taking that step! I’ve been practicing for 10 years, but in the field for 20 plus years. In the last 6 years I have shifted my main focus to adults 18 plus who are struggling with trauma and substance use.

I have 40 years experience in the mental health field in multiple roles, I believe listening and believing in the person is the most important way to practice therapy.

Listen.... Life happens and it's during the tough and difficult times that as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I'm here to offer a safe space of affirmation.... and accountability

I provide clients with tools. discernment, and hope for the future. My sessions are supportive, helping to guide, and encourage you with a caring. compassionate, and non-judgmental approach. When you feel that your train has gotten off track, I will help you get back on track. Christian counseling is also available upon request.