Therapy

Hello! My name is Susana A. Cortés and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. As a therapist specializing in working with adolescents and young adults, I'm passionate about helping young people navigate this unique and transformative period, full of excitement, challenges, and growth. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and together, we can work through any obstacles standing in the way of your happiness and well-being. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationships, or anything else on your mind, I'm here to lend an empathetic ear and offer guidance every step of the way.

My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of the client. I most frequently use person-centered therapy through a strengths-based approach. I believe in creating a warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment where adolescents feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. By highlighting their unique talents, abilities, and resources, I empower them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. My focus is on building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and mutual respect.

As a therapist specializing in working with adolescents and young adults, my primary focus is on the well-being and growth of my clients. Adolescence is a crucial stage of development characterized by significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes. During this period, adolescents are navigating various challenges, including identity formation, peer relationships, academic pressures, and family dynamics.

My client focus revolves around providing a supportive and understanding environment where adolescents feel heard, respected, and validated. Whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, or relationship conflicts, I work collaboratively with them to identify goals and develop strategies for positive change.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used and effective approaches. It helps teens and young adults understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and build practical skills for managing anxiety, depression, stress, and negative thinking patterns. It's especially useful because it is structured and skill-based. Motivational Interviewing (MI) is especially useful for adolescents and young adults who feel ambivalent about change. It's collaborative and nonjudgmental, helping clients explore their own motivations and goals rather than being directed. Attachment-based and family therapy approaches are also powerful, particularly when family conflict, communication issues, or relational trauma are central. These approaches focus on improving relationships and strengthening support systems. Person-centered and strengths-based therapy is often foundational with this population, creating a safe, trusting relationship where identity development, self-esteem, and autonomy can grow.

I strive to be warm, empathetic, and genuine. I understand that adolescents may feel hesitant or guarded when opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so I aim to create a welcoming and non-judgmental atmosphere where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.

I use active listening techniques to ensure that I understand my clients' perspectives fully. My goal is to communicate in a clear and straightforward manner, avoiding complex language that might be confusing or intimidating for adolescents.

Approaching goal setting with clients, especially adolescents and young adults, involves collaboration, empowerment, and a focus on their individual needs and aspirations. Once rapport and trust has been established, I explore the client's concerns, values, and priorities. I ask open-ended questions to understand their current situation, what they hope to achieve through therapy, and any obstacles they may be facing. Most importantly, we collaborate to develop a plan and whenever needed, we adjust the plan to ensure we have a positive experience together.