Sandra Estrada, LMFT

¡Hola! I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. I provide therapy in both English and Spanish to individuals seeking to heal from trauma, anxiety, and life’s transitions. My practice is grounded in compassion, cultural understanding, and the belief that healing happens in connection. I specialize in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and adjustment difficulties. My approach combines trauma-informed care, person-centered therapy, and evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

I’ve found that I work best with individuals who are ready to take an honest look at their emotions and patterns, even when that process feels uncomfortable. Many of my clients are high-functioning people who appear “put together” on the outside but feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or anxious internally. Others come to therapy after experiencing trauma or significant life changes that have shaken their sense of identity or safety. Together, we work toward rebuilding confidence, learning coping tools, and moving toward emotional balance and resilience.

My journey to mental health work is deeply personal. As a first-generation Mexican-American, mental health was rarely discussed in my community; seeking therapy was often seen as something only “crazy people” did, or as a sign of weakness. Like many in the Latinx community, I learned early on to keep my struggles private, “calladita te ves mas bonita.” My personal healing experience in my own therapy was transformative. It helped me see that pain can become purpose, and that we all deserve access to care that honors both our cultural background and our humanity. 

My approach is eclectic and relational. I believe therapy should meet you where you are, not force you into a mold. I use a foundation rooted in empathy, respect, and authenticity so that you feel seen and accepted for who you are. 

You may be a good fit for my practice if you’re ready to explore the root causes of your stress, anxiety, or trauma rather than just “managing” symptoms. Many of my clients are seeking a therapist who understands the cultural nuances of being Latinx, bilingual, or bicultural – someone who recognizes that healing can look different when family and cultural values play a central role. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are motivated for change, even if they feel uncertain about where to start. My role is to guide you through that uncertainty with warmth and collaboration.

I understand the courage it takes to reach out for help, especially in communities where mental health still carries stigma. My goal is to challenge those narratives by offering therapy that is accessible, culturally attuned, and empowering. I want clients to know that seeking support is not a weakness – it’s an act of self-respect and resilience. Therapy with me is about progress, not perfection. I would be honored to support you in your therapeutic journey. Together, we can create a space where your voice matters, your experiences are validated, and your healing feels possible.