Alessandra Ortiz, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Alessandra!

Life can be hard at times, and I am here to help. My goal is to offer a safe, comfortable, and compassionate environment where I will provide therapy for children and teens navigating emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. I help children and teens feel heard, understood, and empowered.

My focus

I share with my clients in the beginning that we are working together, like a team. I am here to help them understand what we will be working on during their course of treatment. Together, we will develop and create the appropriate goals and ensure they receive the support they need to meet them.

My approach

My therapeutic approach is first and foremost using age-appropriate creative approaches such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), and mindfulness techniques to help each child and teen express themselves and develop healthy coping skills.

My communication style

I believe in always providing genuine understanding and care for my clients' emotions and experiences. I practice active listening, a nonjudgmental approach, and one that is calm and grounded. Especially for children and teens, I provide a warm, flexible, and developmentally sensitive approach.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have always had a desire to help others in a meaningful way. I enjoy sitting and listening to others and hearing their personal stories and experiences. In my graduate training, I had the opportunity to work with children, adults, and families who have suffered trauma and abuse.

My goals for you

I work closely with my clients in creating goals and objectives that center around their current needs. I believe this is a collaborative, dynamic process that helps focus the work, track progress, and empower clients.

Our first session

Our first session is all about getting to know each other. My primary goal is to build rapport and trust. For children, especially, it is important to create a safe and warm environment so that they feel comfortable. I like to take things one step at a time and allow space and time for the therapeutic relationship to grow.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx

Expertise

Specialties

Child Abuse or Neglect

+ 12 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Play Therapy

Trauma Focused

Art Therapy

Child/Parent Psychotherapy

Sandplay

+ 6 more

Focus populations

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

+ 1 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults
Minors

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

UPMC Health Plan
Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied

+ 54 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from New York University.

Sessions

Video session

60 minutes

Alessandra Ortiz