Catherine Navarrete-Smith, LMFT — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Catherine!

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, and personal growth. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs.

My focus

I work with individuals, couples, and families facing relationship issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and personal growth. Whether you're seeking to strengthen your relationship, improve communication, or work through personal struggles, I provide a supportive space to explore and heal.

My approach

I believe in a collaborative, compassionate, and strengths-based approach to therapy. My goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change. I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to each person, drawing from cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.

My communication style

I strive to be warm, empathetic, and direct in my communication. I create a non-judgmental environment where you feel comfortable expressing yourself while also gently challenging patterns that may be holding you back. My approach balances active listening, insight, and practical guidance.

My journey to mental healthcare

I've always been drawn to understanding people and their relationships. My journey into mental health began with a deep curiosity about human connection and a desire to help others navigate life's challenges. What motivates me most is seeing clients discover their own strength and resilience.

My goals for you

Therapy is a partnership, and I work alongside you to set clear, achievable goals. Through self-exploration, skill-building, and deepening emotional awareness, I help you navigate challenges and make meaningful, lasting changes in your life.

Our first session

Our first session is about getting to know each other. I take the time to understand your concerns, goals, and what brought you to therapy. We'll discuss your history, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve. Most importantly, I ensure you feel heard and comfortable as we begin this journey together.

I identify as...

Female
Asian
Christian

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Mindfulness-Based

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Art Therapy

Attachment-based

Child/Parent Psychotherapy

Compassion Focused

Dialectical (DBT)

Humanistic

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Motivational Interviewing

Play Therapy

Sandplay

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 14 more

Focus populations

BIPOC

Educators

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

LGBTQIA+

Open Relationships/Non-Monogamy

Police/Fire/First Responders

Single Mother

+ 7 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Minors
Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)
Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied

+ 59 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Science (MS) in Counseling/Marriage Family and Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Catherine Navarrete-Smith