Deborah Alvarez MA, MS, AMFT

(she/her)

Accepting Clients

Hi, I'm Deb! Creative thinker, lover of nature, and natural-born healer.

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Supervised by Hallie Gnatovich, LMFT #52775

Free Initial Consultation

Request consultation

Free 15-minute call, no obligation.

Services

  • Individual
  • Couples
  • Family

About My Clients

I offer sessions in English and Spanish, with familiarity working with children, adolescents, women, families, couples, neurodivergent individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience with anxiety, panic, trauma (including relationship trauma), chronic illness, and relationship and immigration challenges.

My Background and Approach

My work is rooted in liberation psychology, which emphasizes the importance of dismantling systemic oppression. My approach is grounded in the understanding that cultural and societal forces shape our perception of reality, affecting how we think, feel, and act. I believe humans are natural storytellers who intuitively know what they need to thrive. Curiosity and empathy are central to my approach, and I strive to create a space where you are honored and feel empowered to be the author of your own story. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and have been an Angelino for 9 years. I have a Bachelor's in Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico, a Master of Science in Consumer Psychology from the University of Southern California, and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (with a focus on Latinx communities) from Pepperdine University. In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing, cooking, baking, gardening, yoga, and pilates.

Techniques I Use

Other Techniques

  • Art Therapy
  • Culturally Sensitive Therapy
  • Holistic Therapy
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Somatic Therapy: Body-Based Healing for Emotional Trauma
  • Person-Centered (Rogerian)

Issues I Treat

Specialties

Anxiety Domestic Violence or Intimate Partner Violence Systemic Oppression Therapy

Other Issues

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Body Image Issues
  • Chronic Pain or Illness
  • Codependency
  • Depression
  • Family Conflict
  • Gender Identity Therapy
  • Grief or Loss
  • Historical/ Intergenerational Trauma
  • Immigration/Acculturation
  • LGBTQ-Friendly Therapists
  • Marriage Counseling
  • Parenting
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Racial Identity
  • Relationship Issues
  • Sexual Abuse or Assault
  • Spirituality
  • Women's Issues

Client Focus

Languages
Español

Qualifications

License
MA, MS, AMFT, State of California · #148964
Supervision
Supervised by Hallie Gnatovich, LMFT #52775
Years in practice
3 years

Insurance Plans Accepted

  • Aetna
  • Cigna

I offer online counseling in the following states:

Hours & Availability

New clients welcome
Currently accepting new clients
Telehealth
Available

At A Glance

  • Experience: 3 years of practice
  • Languages: Español
  • Rate: $125 - 150/session

Reach out to Deborah