Monica Cortes Alvarado, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Monica!

Hola! I’m a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a first-gen daughter of immigrants. I bring a warm and empathetic approach that combines understanding with practical tools for daily life. My goal is to help you feel understood, supported and empowered as you work through what has been weighing on you.

My focus

I support people who have experienced trauma, stress, anxiety, and/or depression. I enjoy supporting people who want to take the next step in their lives but feel stuck and unsure of how to do so. Together, we create a supportive space where you can heal at your own pace, strengthen your self-trust, and step into a more aligned version of yourself.

My approach

My approach is collaborative, grounded, and deeply trauma-informed. I combine evidence-based therapy strategies and spiritual practices to support you in healing past wounds, regulating your nervous system, and stepping into a more aligned, empowered life.

My communication style

My communication style is calm, grounded, and compassionate. I’m attentive and intuitive in how I respond, and I provide space to express yourself without judgment while also offering honest insight.

My journey to mental healthcare

My path to becoming a therapist began with childhood experiences that showed me the importance of compassionate support. Inspired by the guidance I once wished for, it led me to becoming a therapist. Today, I feel privileged to support clients through healing and growth by offering empathy, understanding, and a safe space to be heard.

My goals for you

I help clients move toward their goals through a warm, collaborative, and individualized approach. Together, we’ll explore what may be getting in the way, build practical coping skills, notice patterns, and work toward meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. We’ll check in along the way and adjust our approach as your needs evolve.

Our first session

In our first session, I will explain more in depth what to expect during our time together, including my therapeutic style. Following introductions, we go more into specific challenges that brought you to seek support. We will also discuss your goals for therapy, and together, we will develop a plan to work towards for future sessions.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

+ 5 more

Focus populations

BIPOC

First Gen American/Immigrant Parents

+ 2 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Aetna - Medicare Advantage
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 55 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from Arizona State University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Monica Cortes Alvarado