Brenda Pena, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Brenda!

I believe in people’s ability to heal, grow, and find their way forward. Together, we’ll explore challenges without judgment and build clarity, confidence, and a stronger connection to yourself and your life.

My focus

Together, we’ll focus on processing emotions, practical coping skills and create a plan that supports your growth in a way that feels manageable and empowering.

My approach

I take a person-centered, collaborative approach and strive to create a space where you feel supported and affirmed. With a culturally sensitive lens, I welcome your unique experiences and use evidence-based approaches to support your growth and healing.

My communication style

I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can share openly, feel heard, and move at your own pace. We’ll work together to find what feels supportive and helpful for you.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have a genuine passion for human resilience and growth. Through my experiences, I’ve seen how trauma can get in the way of living a meaningful life. I enjoy supporting others as they begin to release what no longer serves them.

My goals for you

We’ll work together to identify goals that feel meaningful to you, knowing they can shift as your needs change. I support you in staying motivated by celebrating progress, adjusting along the way, and focusing on small, steady steps that move you forward.

Our first session

In our first session, you’ll have space to share your story in a way that feels comfortable for you. We will talk about what you’d like to work towards and collaborate on goals that matter to you. From there, we’ll create a plan that feels supportive and doable.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx

Expertise

Specialties

+ 10 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

Dialectical (DBT)

+ 4 more

Focus populations

Body Positivity

Educators

First Gen American/Immigrant Parents

Single Mother

+ 4 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Arlo (Cigna)
Ascension-SmartHealth

+ 18 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from California State University, Bakersfield.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Brenda Pena