Michelle Castillo, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Michelle!

I create a safe, intentional space for adults to process, heal, and grow. I work with adults who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain. Together, we'll take the time to understand what's going on beneath the surface and create a path forward that feels doable and meaningful.

My focus

I work with adults facing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and life transitions. My ideal clients seek a space to reflect, heal, and grow. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating realistic, meaningful goals together. Treatment with me is intentional—I help clients feel supported, understood, and empowered.

My approach

I support adults navigating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life transitions in a safe, compassionate space. My approach is strength-based—we identify what's working and build on those strengths. I integrate CBT to shift unhelpful thought patterns, mindfulness for emotional awareness, and DBT for practical coping skills.

My communication style

I prioritize open, non-judgmental communication and practice self-reflective, active listening to ensure you feel heard and understood. If you're working through something challenging, you can expect me to remain calm, present, and supportive, creating space for honest expression and meaningful progress.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey as a therapist has been rooted in supporting couples, families, and individuals through meaningful change. I began in a non-profit setting, utilizing family systems and individual therapy to help clients navigate complex relational dynamics. Today, I focus on helping adults move through life's difficult moments with support and insight.

My goals for you

Together, we will identify realistic and achievable goals that align with your values and current needs. I believe healing happens when we give ourselves permission to slow down, reflect, and move with intention. My approach is collaborative and grounded—I meet clients where they are and support them in making meaningful progress at their own pace.

Our first session

In our first session, the focus is on getting to know each other and beginning to build a foundation of trust. We'll talk about what brings you to therapy, what's been on your mind, and what you hope to gain from our work together. I'll also invite you to share what feels supportive for you and what you expect from me as your therapist.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx
Spiritual

Expertise

Specialties

Child Abuse or Neglect

+ 14 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Dialectical (DBT)

Mindfulness-Based

Motivational Interviewing

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 5 more

Focus populations

Educators

LGBTQIA+

Single Mother

+ 3 more

Therapy types

Family Therapy
Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 58 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) in Mental Health from University of Southern California.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Michelle Castillo