Mariela Cortez, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Mariela!

I'm a bilingual therapist specializing in depression, trauma, anxiety, anger, and grief. I work with adults from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, creating a safe space where you can heal, grow, and thrive. My passion lies in empowering you to reconnect with your strengths and live a fulfilling, meaningful life.

My focus

I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. My approach is culturally sensitive and trauma-informed. I'm especially passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds facing complex intersections of identity, systemic stressors, or intergenerational experiences.

My approach

I help you build self-awareness and develop effective coping skills to manage symptoms and improve well-being. My style is warm and collaborative—I work with you to identify and build on your strengths as we move toward your goals. I believe in the power of connection and healing, and I look forward to supporting you on your journey.

My communication style

My communication style is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental. I create a safe environment where you feel comfortable expressing yourself openly. I take a collaborative approach, working together to explore your experiences and goals while honoring your voice and strengths throughout the therapeutic process.

My journey to mental healthcare

My path to becoming a therapist has been shaped by a deep commitment to helping others feel seen, heard, and supported. Working with individuals from diverse backgrounds has taught me the importance of compassion, cultural humility, and the power of human connection. I feel honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate life's difficulties.

My goals for you

I help you reach your goals by creating a supportive, collaborative relationship where you feel safe and empowered. Together, we clarify what matters most and identify patterns that may be holding you back. By increasing self-awareness, building practical coping skills, and fostering resilience, I support you in making meaningful changes.

Our first session

In our first session, my priority is creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe. We'll get to know each other—I'll ask about your reasons for seeking therapy and what you hope to gain. You're welcome to share at your own pace. This is also a time for you to ask questions and get a feel for how I work.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx

Expertise

Specialties

+ 10 more

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Compassion Focused

Dialectical (DBT)

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 5 more

Focus populations

Body Positivity

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

+ 2 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 51 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master of Social Work in MENTAL HEALTH from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Mariela Cortez