Share via email
Hi folks! I'm Yesenia Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My pronouns are she/her/ella. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from CSUN (Go Matadors!) in 2016. My experience consists primarily of adolescents and young adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and life transitions. My approach is typically using a combination of modalities with the primary being CBT.
My approach
My approach to therapy is utilizing various approaches depending on what your need is. I tend to use a lot of CBT but also incorporate approaches such as humanistic which takes into consideration your views of the world and how that shapes your decisions. Similar to CBT, I also use DBT to help target the negative thinking patterns that have been created by your experiences. Which modality is used can shift as needed.
My focus
Most of my 10+ years of experience has been around youth and young adults who are facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and life transitions. Life has not been easy for anyone these past few years and I am here to tell you, you are not alone. We can work together to get you back to feeling like yourself but with better awareness of your mental state.
My communication style
When working with me you'll find that I am pretty chill. Come as you are, speak as you do. I have been told that it feels as if you are talking to a friend who will listen if that's what you need but will also tell you how it is when it's time to make changes. I'm all about creating a nonjudgemental space because, at the end of the day, you aren't going to open up to someone you don't feel safe to do so.
My journey to mental healthcare
Therapy has been my calling for a long time, even before I really knew about this career. What truly called me to this career was needing someone like myself when I was younger but not knowing what resources were out there. I have worked in behavioral health in many forms throughout my adulthood and enjoyed it. Knowing that I can have an impact on someone's life that can lead to a different trajectory for them is such an honor. I genuinely love this work!
My goals for you
Goal setting is a crucial piece to your treatment so I will always obtain your goals directly from you. I may help with making the goals achievable but the goals are all yours.
My first session with you
The first session is where we get to know each other. I will provide you with important information about me (some background, contact, and expectations) and we will set up our ongoing schedule. During this meeting, I will also gather important information about you such as, what brings you to therapy. One thing I will always make clear during this session, if you do not feel like we are a good match, please do not feel like you have to continue with me. I can handle that. It is important that you feel a connection and if it's not with me, it's all good!
