Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Simi Valley, CA covered by Aetna

Hello, my name is Paola Leon and I am a Bilingual Marriage Family Therapist. I am a Latina, first generation female who specializes in Children, Teens and Young adults up to 30 yrs old. I have extensive knowledge and training in working with neurodivergent populations specifically children, teens, and young adults. I am an advocate of the LGBTQIA+, and Latinx community.

I’m a licensed therapist with a Master’s in Counseling with an emphasis in Child and Family Therapy, and I’m certified in Perinatal Mental Health. I work with children, adolescents, and families, and I also support moms navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and the emotional challenges of early parenthood. I have experience helping with anxiety, emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, and school-related concerns, and I especially enjoy working with children and pre-teens using play and creative approaches.

Hi, I’m a therapist who believes you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. My approach is client-centered, meaning we’ll work together to focus on your goals and what matters most to you. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable being open and truly heard. Whether you’re dealing with stress, depression, trauma, grief, anxiety, or life transitions, I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Are you a part of a community, in a relationship, a family, or a line of work that used to feel supportive but now feels costly? Do you feel like you are performing, on guard, or run down as a result? Do you feel unable to change because the stakes are so high? I understand and walk the complicated terrain of change with my clients. Many are men, gay men, and LGBTQ+ people seeking support in affirming their identity, navigating relationships, family systems, or religious environments, and those navigating career, family, and mid life, and cult survivors.

As a former minister turned psychotherapist I've walked through change myself. My practice is grounded in psychological and clinical insight. For some on a spiritual path this enhances therapy. Some are desiring to process religious trauma or limiting aspects of their religious or spiritual background with someone who can understand these environments.

I am a dedicated mental health professional who supports children and adults through life’s challenges. I currently provide individual therapy only and do not offer couples counseling. My background in behavioral health and social services, along with hands-on community experience, has shaped my practical, compassionate, and solution-focused approach.

I have worked with individuals involved in the justice system, people living with serious mental illness, children in foster care, and families navigating behavioral or developmental concerns. My experience includes case management, crisis support, employment readiness, behavioral coaching, and coordinating care with medical providers, mental health facilities, and community programs to ensure consistent, long-term support.

I help clients facing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, behavioral challenges in children and teens, parenting and co-parenting concerns, and reintegration after legal involvement. My approach is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and client-centered. I believe everyone has resilience and the ability to grow with the right support.

My style is warm, honest, and structured. I value accountability while always leading with empathy and respect. I focus on building coping skills, improving communication, setting clear goals, and developing practical strategies that support emotional balance and independence.