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Hello, my name is Gabriela Aguilar and I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master's Degree in Social Work. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma, using different treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to assist clients in their journey toward a happy and fulfilling life.
My approach
My approach begins with building rapport and establishing a safe place where clients can openly talk about their feelings, thoughts, and emotions. I believe once a partnership has been developed and trust is built we can work together to address current challenges. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as my primary approach, and I am trained in several evidence-based practices including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), motivational interviewing, and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP). I also incorporate elements from psychodynamic theory, behavioral therapy, and problem-solving therapy as needed.
My focus
I have experience working with school-aged children, adolescents, and their families dealing with trauma, grief and loss, family conflict, school problems, and interpersonal conflict that lead to emotional distress. I also have experience working with young adults dealing with life transitions, difficulty with setting appropriate boundaries, and stress management. My areas of expertise include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and parenting support.
My communication style
I utilize a collaborative approach in which clients are the experts of their own lives and in my role, I am committed to helping empower and guide them to make decisions. I pride myself on meeting clients where they are at in their therapy journey and tailoring treatment to meet their needs. Through psychoeducation, emotional awareness, and gaining insight into early unresolved/unconscious issues clients can begin to foster positive change to reach their full potential.
