Stephanie Gonzalez

I have trained at multiple organizations, including one of the top treatment centers in Southern California. I am also a Pepperdine University and University of La Verne faculty member. My training and experience allow me to assess your symptoms more accurately, normalize thoughts and behaviors you may think carry a stigma, identify patterns that commonly cause anxiety or depression and make the correct treatment recommendations. Having the proper tools and techniques prevents wasted time and helps you find solutions that work

For Align, culture is more than just ethnicity; we also consider age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, financial situation and any other aspect that affects the way you feel and react to your anxiety. I pride myself on working with a diverse team that helps me have an open perspective related to your culture. I emphasize culture when necessary to make sure that we are working on shared goals instead of working against a value you hold near and dear

Relatability is the most essential part of my work with you. You will most likely share things in therapy that you have never shared before. It’s my responsibility to help you feel comfortable opening up so you can heal. Self-judgment, guilt and shame are complicated emotions that almost all of us feel on some level. I provide you with a place where you can let your hair down and truly get comfortable without worrying about your therapist judging you

I do all my therapy online because it gives you and me the ultimate flexibility and convenience. You can connect with me in a private, secure session by using your phone or computer in any space you are comfortable. I also adjust the self-regulation and coping skills we practice so you can use them where you need them, such as at work or in a social place

I offer flexible days/times that are convenient for you because I offer therapy when you need it most. This is why I offer Monday-Friday mornings, afternoons and evenings. This flexibility helps when we need to schedule around specific situations like during a lunch break, after dinner, before difficult conversations or confronting triggering situations

I offer flexibility in scheduling but also fees. Our regular rate is $200 per session, but I have a limited number of slots I offer clients who need a lower price. This flexibility helps us make sure sessions are consistent even if you have to reschedule for a week or need more sessions without adjusting your budget too much

I use CBT to help you understand your thoughts, beliefs, and emotions to empower you to take control of your mental well-being. Most of us probably have thought patterns that hold us back more than they help us. With CBT tools and techniques, I help you practice healthier coping strategies, improve self-esteem and cultivate a positive mindset. I emphasize tools and strategies that we practice in-session and you can incorporate into your daily life to embrace the real you

I use attachment-based therapy to empower you to break free from past struggles and forge a path towards a brighter future. We tap into the transformative power of connection, trust and emotional growth. We uncover the layers that hold you back so you can build healthy relationships that nurture your soul. Be prepared to start making peace with your past so we can help you thrive in the present and embrace a future with hope

I use ACT to help you to embrace who you are, flaws and all. Together, we help you let go of self-judgment and cultivate self-compassion. Then, we define your values, set meaningful goals and take inspired action to lead a fulfilling life. No matter the transitions you are confronting, ACT provides a framework to navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience

I use IFS to help you achieve balance between these parts of yourself by creating limits and boundaries. These skills and techniques we practice allow you to control your thoughts and feelings effectively instead of letting them control you. Together, we tap into the parts of yourself that are aligned with your goals and inspire confidence, not fear and anxiety that limits you

I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy to create strong and lasting connections between you and your partner. Most couples experience feeling stuck at times even though all they want is to feel more love, understanding and communication. Together, we turn moments of misunderstandings into moments of deeper understanding and empathy. Our focus is on increasing your intimacy, respect and affection which lowers the barriers that make you feel stuck