Jennifer Grijalva

My name is Jennifer Grijalva and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, trauma, or racial and systemic oppression. I use a strength-based and self-empowerment approach. Through this approach, I assist individuals with identifying their own strengths so that they can use those skills to cope with the life stressors they are experiencing in order to live a more fulfilling life.

My approach

The therapeutic approach that I use depends on the person that I am meeting with. However, I often use a systems-based approach to discuss how the person’s environment (i.e. their community, family, work, school, and society) impacts their mental health. I also utilize trauma-informed, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches during sessions.

My focus

For children, I am a good fit if the child is in need of therapy due to experiencing the death of a loved one or a divorce between parents. I have found that, for adolescents, my style of therapy is a good fit if the adolescent is experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, grief, trauma, or life transitions. My style may also be a good match for young adults who are experiencing life stressors, life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief.

My communication style

I would describe my communication style as calm and personable. Typically, sessions are conversational. However, some individuals do prefer to incorporate writing, poetry, art, and music during sessions and that is also how we communicate with one another.

My journey to mental healthcare

I grew up in South Los Angeles and am the daughter of Guatemalan immigrant parents. Growing up, I witnessed a lot of injustices in my community and realized that there is a need for mental health services. Since graduate school, I've had the opportunity to work with many individuals and walk alongside them as they go through their healing journey. Being able to do so, has been such a blessing as I get to witness the immense strength that so many individuals have.

My goals for you

The way I approach goal setting is by asking each individual what they would like to work on during sessions and what changes they would like to see in their lives. I usually begin by forming a connection and getting to know the individual. We then work together on the goals that they set for themselves.

My first session with you

For our first session together, you can expect to talk about what you have been experiencing recently. The first session is meant for us to get to know each other and for me to get an understanding of how you’ve been feeling.