Arissa Alvarez, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Arissa!

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker helping you navigate anxiety, stress, and depression. I use evidence-based approaches and mindfulness to support healing and stability. Together we’ll highlight your strengths, explore tough topics with care, and make space for moments of lightness along the way.

My focus

I work with young adults and adults facing life transitions, daily stress, or low moods. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Together we’ll create a supportive space to help you feel heard, build confidence, and move forward with greater ease and a sense of empowerment.

My approach

My approach is collaborative and centered on your goals. I use techniques that best support your needs, including mindfulness and grounding to reduce emotional intensity and build coping skills. I also incorporate CBT to help you challenge unhelpful thoughts and develop more balanced, empowered responses.

My communication style

My communication style is warm, interactive, and straightforward. I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore challenges with honesty, care, and encouragement.

My journey to mental healthcare

My path to becoming a therapist grew from seeing the impact of having someone by your side during life’s challenges. I’m motivated by your growth and will celebrate every step forward. My passion is helping you recognize your strengths and build confidence, while continually learning to provide compassionate care.

My goals for you

Our sessions will be tailored to your specific needs and goals. Together, we’ll identify what matters most and set meaningful, achievable steps. I take a flexible, supportive approach, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical tools to help you make progress in a way that feels manageable and empowering.

Our first session

Our first session focuses on getting to know you, what brings you in, what you hope to gain, and how we can work together. Early sessions may involve more questions as we build rapport and create a tailored plan. My goal is to make therapy supportive, collaborative, and meaningful, while continually growing to provide the best care.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx
Christian

Expertise

Specialties

+ 14 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Mindfulness-Based

Compassion Focused

Motivational Interviewing

Narrative

+ 5 more

Focus populations

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

+ 1 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 54 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Arissa Alvarez