Hi there, I'm Manuel!

At times, life can feel daunting and overwhelming, especially when navigating stress, relationships, trauma, or feeling stuck. I support individuals, couples, and families in finding healing,

My focus

I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating mental health concerns, trauma, relationship challenges, life stressors, and feeling held back from their full potential. My practice is affirming of all backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations.

My approach

My approach is holistic, integrative, and tailored to each client’s unique history, personality, and concerns. I draw from Family Systems, Gottman Method, Attachment Theory, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care to support meaningful growth and healing.

My communication style

My communication style is warm, affirming, collaborative, and grounded. I strive to create a safe, respectful space where clients feel understood, supported, and gently guided as they explore challenges, patterns, and opportunities for growth.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey began in behavioral therapy and expanded into marriage and family therapy through work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My experience at the YMCA, SDUSD, and private practice has shaped my passion for helping people heal and grow.

My goals for you

I help clients identify what is keeping them stuck, understand past and present challenges, and build practical tools for healing and growth. Together, we create goals that reflect your needs and use approaches that support emotional clarity and meaningful change.

Our first session

A first session with me is a safe space to share what brings you to therapy and what you hope to change. We’ll explore your current stressors, history, relationships, and goals, while beginning to identify the best approach to support your healing.

I identify as...

Male
Hispanic or Latinx
Spiritual

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Attachment-based

Gottman Method

Trauma Focused

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Compassion Focused

EMDR

Mindfulness-Based

Motivational Interviewing

+ 8 more

Focus populations

First Gen American/Immigrant Parents

LGBTQIA+

Aviation Professionals

BIPOC

Educators

Gay

Open Relationships/Non-Monogamy

Police/Fire/First Responders

Queer

Racial Justice

Single Mother

+ 11 more

Therapy types

Couples Therapy
Family Therapy
Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Arlo (Cigna)
Ascension-SmartHealth

+ 18 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master in Counseling, Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

In-person sessions

2820 Camino del Rio S Suite 111, San Diego, CA 92108

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Manuel Avila