My name is Sandra Sevilla, LCSW based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, transitional-aged youth, and adults. I specialize in providing compassionate and individualized care for those dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and complex family dynamics.
My approach
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are in your journey of healing and helping guide you in making positive changes. I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based, culturally sensitive nonjudgmental approach. Having a background in evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and family systems approaches. I support my clients to navigate life's challenges and improve their relationships.
My focus
My style and approach are a good fit for adolescents and young adults who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, peer relationship issues, the effects of trauma, difficulties with self-acceptance, and navigating life transitions. I strive to build a strong foundation with my clients and establish a trusting, safe, and comfortable environment where you can freely express yourself.
My communication style
My communication style is calm, enthusiastic, and accommodating. My clients have described me to be direct when needed, kind, and humorous. As your therapist, I am here to listen attentively, provide insightful feedback, and provide unconditional support to help you navigate stressors.
My journey to mental healthcare
My journey to becoming a therapist first began through several years of volunteer work with families and children in marginalized communities. I discovered the difference it makes when you have a strong social support network who can be there to help and remind us, we are not alone. Knowing you have a community that is there for you made all the difference in my own personal journey to achieving important milestones as well. I reflect back on important leaders who made a difference in my life and those experiences are what drive me to do this work.
My goals for you
I approach goal setting by first getting to know you and focusing on building a trusting connection to understand what you are hoping to achieve in therapy. I acknowledge that everyone's journey is different, and we will establish goals that are specific to your current needs. I support keeping track of your progress over time as it is also important to acknowledge your strengths, positive changes, and new skills learned. Therapy is a safe space to explore, express, and seek clarity. Whatever you are feeling and currently experiencing is okay and we will move forward together, one step at a time.
My first session with you
What you can expect from our first session is spending time focusing on establishing a connection in a safe environment so I can get to know you. I value the time in building a strong therapeutic alliance by exploring your personal interests, unique experiences, and current support system. We will have time to explore what you are currently feeling as I ask questions to better understand the challenges you may be facing. Taking the step to seek support is a powerful act of self-care, and I am here to help you discover your strengths and tools to navigate life changes.