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Vetted

Desiree Gonzalez(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT
California
Anxiety - Couples counseling- Depression-Parenting-Premarital counseling-Divorce & separation-

See Desiree's Details for:

AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Desiree Gonzalez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in helping young adults and adults navigate life's challenges. With a focus on both individual and couples therapy, Desiree is dedicated to assisting clients who grapple with anxiety, depression, and the complexities of their mental health and trauma backgrounds. Her mission is to guide individuals and couples toward healthier coping mechanisms and personal growth to conquer current and future obstacles.

Desiree's therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Through these approaches, clients gain the tools to monitor and cultivate positive, self-affirming thoughts. When working with couples, Desiree implements the Gottman Method, fostering healthy communication strategies that honor each person's needs and emotions. She serves as a compassionate guide, assisting clients on their journey towards achieving their goals.


Message to clients

Desiree Gonzalez is deeply passionate about her work as a therapist, driven by the belief in her clients' resilience and their capacity to navigate life's challenges and create positive change. Her own journey in the field began with a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University of Southern California, with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. This academic foundation, combined with more than a decade of hands-on experience, has shaped her into a therapist who is not only professionally qualified but also personally dedicated to the well-being and growth of her clients.

Desiree's approach to therapy is grounded in empathy and understanding. She values the opportunity to connect with individuals and couples, helping them find better ways to cope with life's complexities. Through her work, she aspires to empower clients to believe in their own inner strength, guiding them on a path toward resilience and positive transformation. Her commitment to personal growth extends beyond her clients, as she constantly seeks to deepen her own understanding of the human experience and the ways in which therapy can foster meaningful change.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 15 years

Restoring Lives Therapy, Founder, Lead Therapist
The Whole Child, Clinical Supervisor
5 Acres, Program Supervisor II
Heartland Community for Behavioral Change, Therapist
Community Family Guidance Center, Therapist

Gottman Institute , Level 3 Trained, 2023
Lyra, Telehealth Training, 2023
Zur Institute, Provision of Mental Health Services via Telehealth: Legal, Ethical & Clinical Considerations, 2023
PESI, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), 2022
PESI, Imago Relationship Therapy, 2022
Zur Institute, Suicide Assessment & Intervention, 2021
PAC/LAC, Motivational Interviewing , 2020
Vanguard University of Southern California, Masters, 2009
Cal State University of Long Beach, Bachelors, 2007

Licensure

California: 51711

Languages

English

Specialties

Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)

Couples counseling - Addressing relationship challenges and life transitions; strengthening communication and feelings of security, desire, connection, and love

Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life

Parenting - Helping parents develop and implement strategies to address challenges that arise throughout childrearing; managing stress and increasing support

Premarital counseling - Providing a safe and neutral environment for couples to explore expectations and prepare for the rewards and challenges of marriage

Divorce & separation - Questioning or feeling unsatisfied in your relationship; contemplation and navigation of separation; addressing issues of power, voice, and communication challenges




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Couples
  • Parents
  • Seniors (65+)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours


Insurance

  • Lyra Health

Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$200 (45min)
  • Couples sessions:$250 (45min)

Additional session information

Out-of-network billing options

This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:

  • Super billing
Payment options
  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
Session frequency

Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.

  • Weekly
  • Every other week
  • Multiple times a week
  • As needed

Book a Free Initial Consultation

The practice will call you for a free 10min phone call to discuss your needs and ensure a match!

This provider has no upcoming call times available.