Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Santa Maria, CA covered by Aetna

Hi there, I'm Raquel! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I want to celebrate you for taking the courageous step toward prioritizing your health and well-being. For over 25 years, I have had the honor of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families on their journeys of healing, recovery, and restoration. It is a privilege to support those navigating life’s challenges, and together, create a personalized roadmap to nurture the mind while strengthening resilience to weather life’s storms with greater confidence, ease, and clarity, so you can embrace life with renewed strength and purpose.

I create a safe space for you to describe how you see yourself in the world and to notice patterns that have persisted, and that may hamper you from achieving optimal relationships and completing your goals. I work with a range of ages, from young adults to seniors, and with a multicultural diverse population in California. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and trauma related issues.

As your therapist, I take a collaborative, non-judgmental, experiential approach to psychotherapy. I will join you in creating a deeper understanding of yourself and your life by helping you organize your emotions and attuning to the sensations throughout your body. Through our work, you will gain a wholesome sense of who you are. With safety and connection we will build tolerance to life’s experiences. Allowing you to engage fully with life through the trust that is created within yourself.

I am an experienced mental health professional specializing in counseling and social-emotional support for adolescents and families. I have worked in a telehealth setting for the past 6 years. My work focuses on anxiety, behavioral challenges, and life transitions using evidence-based, client-centered approaches. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients can build skills, gain insight, and grow.

I graduated from UCLA's Social Welfare program and developed a specialty working with adolescents, teens, parents, teachers and school administrators via the LAUSD public school system. Over the course of 15 years, I have developed an expertise in utilizing a trauma-informed lens and attachment theory to address treatment areas such as trauma, depression, parenting, parent-child relationships, behavioral issues and anxiety.

I believe that in order for therapy to be effective, the client has to participate in the process. I am not a magician. I don't have a magic wand. Changing old behaviors and patterns can be difficult and painful but i am willing to be there to support you on your journey to better health.

Taking the courageous step to care for your mental health is the foundation for overcoming life’s challenges. As a skilled and dedicated therapist, I will guide you in unlocking your inner strengths and building the tools you need to create a fulfilling and balanced life. I gained experience by working in outpatient and residential facilities throughout the Los Angeles community, providing individual and group support to those managing co-occurring disorders and family system challenges. I am especially passionate about working with individuals who are managing anxiety and depression, feelings of low self- worth, relationship difficulties, and impulsive behaviors. I received a BS from Boston University, and a MS in Counseling from California State University, Northridge, graduating with honors.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe healing happens through connection, compassion, and understanding. I partner with clients to explore patterns, build coping skills, and develop greater self-awareness in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with their values.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Hunter School of Social Work and have lived and practiced in California for over three decades. My professional background includes extensive work with older adults, individuals experiencing homelessness, and adults living with severe and persistent mental illness. I am known for my patient, compassionate, and attentive approach, and I strive to be fully engaged and present with every client I serve. My goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized support that helps clients feel understood and empowered in their therapeutic journey.

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.